Thoughts on FISM

About this episode

Jonah Babins shares his reflections on FISM 2025, discussing standout performances and critiquing the competition structure.

In this solo episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins shares his raw and honest reflections on FISM 2025. From mind-blowing performances to marathon-length competitions, Jonah walks through the highs and lows of the world’s biggest and most prestigious magic convention and competition. Whether you attended or are just curious about how FISM functions, this episode offers a candid inside look. Highlights from the World Stage Jonah opens with praise for the best of the best—performers whose acts left audiences stunned. Standout mentions include Michael Bloke’s clever creativity, the astonishing coding mentalism of Mind to Mind, Billy’s inventive routine, Morton Christensen’s consistent excellence, and the shockingly fresh linking ring act by Juan Klos. But it was quick-change artist Leah Kyle who stole the show with a jaw-dropping act that received standing ovations and, in Jonah’s view, deserved the Grand Prix. The Long Haul of Competition Despite the brilliance at the top, Jonah critiques the structure of FISM’s competition. With hours upon hours of performances—many of which don’t meet the bar—he argues for stricter qualification rounds to cut down the sheer volume…

People in this episode

Host: Jonah Babins

Topics covered

• FISM
• magic performances
• competition critique
• magic convention
• performer highlights

Keywords

• FISM
• magic
• performances
• competition
• Leah Kyle
• Jonah Babins
• magic convention

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