The Disappearing Pitch: How a Magician Cost Us the Client episode artwork

EPISODE · May 14, 2026 · 6 MIN

The Disappearing Pitch: How a Magician Cost Us the Client

from Embracing Marketing Mistakes · host Prohibition PR

When James Thomlinson decided to “bring some magic” to a high-stakes pitch for InterContinental Hotels Group, he meant it, literally. The plan? A magician disguised as a team member, ready to wow the client with a “reappearing newspaper” trick. The result? Cringe, confusion, and a fast lesson in what not to do when pitching creative ideas. In this hilarious and humbling episode, James shares how a failed attempt at showmanship turned into one of his biggest professional lessons and how he eventually won the client with a smarter, more authentic approach. If you’ve ever pushed creativity a little too far in your marketing, this episode will hit home. Send us Fan MailIs your strategy still right in 2026? Book a free 15-min no obligation discovery call with our host: 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈Subscribe to our newsletter👉 Subscribe to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube Instagram

When James Thomlinson decided to “bring some magic” to a high-stakes pitch for InterContinental Hotels Group, he meant it, literally. The plan? A magician disguised as a team member, ready to wow the client with a “reappearing newspaper” trick. The result? Cringe, confusion, and a fast lesson in what not to do when pitching creative ideas. In this hilarious and humbling episode, James shares how a failed attempt at showmanship turned into one of his biggest professional lessons an...

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This episode is 6 minutes long.

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This episode was published on May 14, 2026.

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When James Thomlinson decided to “bring some magic” to a high-stakes pitch for InterContinental Hotels Group, he meant it, literally. The plan? A magician disguised as a team member, ready to wow the client with a “reappearing newspaper” trick. The...

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