What's The Trick?
Ben Hanlin
Derren Brown: The Psychology Behind Extraordinary Performers
SummaryIn this episode of What’s The Trick?, host Ben Hannan sits down with renowned mentalist and illusionist Derren Brown to peel back the curtain on his creative process and the psychology behind his legendary stage performances. Brown discusses the unique development of his live shows, explaining that he often begins with a vague thematic concept—or even just a poster design—before working with a small, collaborative team to shape the material. The conversation offers a fascinating look at how Brown balances structured planning with the fluidity required to refine a show during a long tour. He explains that even after hundreds of performances, he continues to make adjustments based on audience reactions, often utilizing a subtle code system to communicate with his crew backstage. Brown also dives into the nuances of his craft, describing the hypnotic techniques used to induce suggestibility in volunteers and the importance of creating a genuine, human experience rather than focusing solely on the mechanics of a trick. By following his curiosity rather than repeating past successes, Brown reveals how he maintains a fresh, evolving perspective on his work.
Updated Jun 27, 2026
About This Episode
In this episode of "What’s The Trick?", Ben Hanlin sits down with Derren Brown to explore how to create a psychological hypnosis show.
If you want to develop your performing skills, this episode breaks down what actually works.
This episode is for:
- Creatives (writers, performers, content creators)
- Business owners and entrepreneurs
- Speakers and presenters
- Anyone looking to improve communication and idea generation
About Ben Hanlin:
Ben is a magician, presenter, and keynote speaker who helps companies create engagement, connection, and memorable experiences. He hosts corporate events and interviews world-class creatives on this podcast.
About the podcast:
"What’s The Trick?" explores how creative people think, create, and turn ideas into reality.
Topics covered include creativity, communication, storytelling, content creation, performance, and building creative careers.
🎧 Listen / Watch:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BenHanlin
Apple Podcasts: https://linktr.ee/benhanlin
Spotify: https://linktr.ee/benhanlin
📩 Work with Ben:
https://www.benhanlin.com/
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FOLLOW BEN:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM0oXTRP-zWlJ_IiNykTLag
Instagram: http://instagram.com/benhanlin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benhanlin
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benhanlin
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🎤 FOLLOW DERREN BROWN:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialDerrenBrown
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derrenbrown/
Website: https://derrenbrown.co.uk/
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What is this episode about?
This episode explains how how to create the best live performance.
How do creative people turn ideas into reality?
Ben Hanlin breaks down the mindset, process, and decisions behind it.
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