What's The Trick?
Ben Hanlin
Paul Zerdin: What happens after you win Amercia’s Got Talent
SummaryIn this episode of What’s The Trick?, host Ben Hannan sits down with world-class ventriloquist Paul Zerdin to discuss his journey from a successful career in the UK to winning America’s Got Talent in 2015. Zerdin reflects on the strategic decisions behind his audition process, explaining how he relied on tried-and-tested material, customized for the show’s unique format, to navigate the high-pressure environment of live television. The conversation delves into the reality of winning a massive talent competition and the subsequent transition to headlining a show in Las Vegas. Zerdin offers candid insights into the logistical and emotional challenges of relocating to the U.S., the intense promotional demands, and the complexities of navigating contracts with entertainment corporations. He discusses the friction that arose when faced with unexpected career shifts, including legal disputes over pay and the realization that his professional goals—specifically, his desire for television projects and touring—did not align with being permanently tethered to a Vegas residency. Through this engaging dialogue, Zerdin illustrates the grit required to maintain a creative vision amidst the unpredictable nature of the global entertainment industry.
Updated Jul 3, 2026
About This Episode
Paul Zerdin shares the truth about winning America's Got Talent, revealing how 25 years of preparation, relentless refinement and calculated risks led to one of the biggest moments of his career. Sharing the reality of Las Vegas and burnout to building world-class performances that work anywhere, this is a conversation about success, creativity and what it really takes to stay at the top.
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/
---
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
---
🎤 FOLLOW PAUL ZERDIN:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@paulzardin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulzerdin
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepaulzerdin
Website: https://paulzerdin.com/
---
How do creative people turn ideas into reality?
Ben Hanlin breaks down the mindset, process, and decisions behind it.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Listen to What's The Trick? in Podtastic
For listeners, not advertisers
Related Podcasts
All podcast names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Podcasts listed on Podtastic are publicly available shows distributed via RSS. Podtastic does not endorse nor is endorsed by any podcast or podcast creator listed in this directory.