Reg Blackwood - Instant Inductions
Stage hypnosis is a fascinating art form that blends entertainment and psychology, captivating audiences around the world. Getting Started with Instant Inductions with Reg Blackwood
Trish Pellen: Reg, how did you get started in instant inductions? Many therapists, including myself, find the topic quite intimidating. What was your path?
Reg Blackwood: Stage hypnosis is the short answer. I began my career as a comedian in the early 90s, but I quickly sought something more challenging and intriguing. That's when I turned to hypnosis. My goal was to perform on stage rather than in a clinical setting, so I focused on mastering splashy instant inductions that would captivate audiences and look impressive.
Trish Pellen: How did your background in comedy influence your hypnosis career?
Reg Blackwood: Performing as a comedian, especially in challenging environments like construction sites in Birmingham, toughened me up. It also honed my improvisation skills, which are invaluable in hypnosis. I also dabbled in magic and mentalism, which naturally led me to hypnosis. Instant inductions, which are quick and visually appealing, were particularly fascinating to me.
Trish Pellen: Stage hypnosis seems like the polar opposite of clinical hypnosis. How did you build the confidence to perform on stage?
Reg Blackwood: It took time and a lot of practice. Just like in a clinic, where you work with clients regularly, I had to repeatedly practice my techniques. In clinical settings, if a client isn't easily dropping into a trance, you might use a slower, more methodical approach. On stage, it's about making an immediate impact. Charles Tibbetts referred to it as the "fatigue of the nervous system," but I think of it more as an engaging performance.
Trish Pellen: Do you believe being funny is essential for a stage hypnotist?
Reg Blackwood: While humor helps, being entertaining is key. Audiences are often intrigued by the science and mystery of hypnosis, but injecting humor and being engaging keeps them captivated. My experience in stand-up comedy taught me to be present and responsive, which is crucial in hypnosis as well.
Trish Pellen: You've mentioned you started in England and moved to New Zealand. How did this transition impact your career?
Reg Blackwood: I moved to New Zealand in 2000, and that's when I began focusing seriously on hypnosis. New Zealand's small, tight-knit communities offered a unique environment for practicing and performing. Unlike international performers who might use smaller gigs as practice for bigger shows, I aimed for repeat bookings and long-term relationships with my audience.
Trish Pellen: You pioneered street hypnosis in New Zealand. How did that come about?
Reg Blackwood: In Christchurch, where I live, there's an international buskers festival. I thought of combining my hypnosis skills with busking. After some research, I realized no one else was doing it, which presented a unique opportunity. I started performing street hypnosis, filmed the sessions, and uploaded them to YouTube. The response was incredible, leading to further opportunities and even teaching others.
Trish Pellen: You're presenting at a conference soon. What can attendees expect to learn from your session?
Reg Blackwood: Attendees will learn the foundational skills for performing popular instant inductions and how to develop their own techniques quickly. Many people rely on scripts for inductions, but it's crucial to understand the principles and adapt intuitively. Hypnosis is about reading the client or audience, knowing when to push forward or pull back, and recognizing that every interaction is a form of suggestion.
What’s included in registration?
For IN PERSON
- 2 FULL Days of Learning and Growing - Get to know & network with speakers/professionals in the industry
- A loot bag that includes ALL Speaker printouts and information for you to enjoy
- FOOD! SO MUCH FOOD! All day tea/coffee/water, + morning tea, afternoon tea and buffet lunch each day
- Replays to enjoy the content again till Nov 1st, 2025
- Print outs off all speaker giveaways and itinerary
- Free 12 month listing on findahypnotherapist.directory
- 10 Points granted by The Australian Society of Clinical Hypnotherapists and Clinical Hypnosis Australia (Certificate Supplied on Request)
- The speakers secret (the info will be inside your loot bag .... shhhhhh! it's a secret :)
- Take photos at the photo booth and browse the exhibits for training, equipment and bonus’s
