Hypnotist Paul Ramsay: Hypnosis with Technology, Integrity, and Impact
When most people think of stage hypnosis, they often envision cheesy antics, slapstick suggestions, and the same old routines repeated over and over. But hypnotist Paul Ramsay—a leading voice in American stage hypnosis—is on a mission to change that perception.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Paul for a brilliant conversation where we dived into his journey, his groundbreaking show Mind Games, and how he’s using technology and authenticity to redefine what stage hypnosis can be.
From Teacher to Hypnotist: An Unexpected Journey
Unlike many performers who are “bitten by the bug” after a single hypnotic encounter, Paul’s path to stage hypnosis was a slow burn.
“I saw hypnosis seven times before I ever considered doing it myself,” he laughs.
Initially working as a high school English teacher, Paul was introduced to hypnosis more seriously through a friend who offered to teach him. After practicing on students for stress relief and seeing the immediate benefits, Paul had a revelation:
“I realised I could entertain and help people at the same time. That was the moment everything clicked.”
In 2004, he quit his day job and dove headfirst into a full-time hypnosis career.
Mind Games: The Interactive Hypnosis Experience
One of the standout elements of Paul’s career is his innovative show, Mind Games. Rather than sticking to the traditional stage format, Paul flipped the model:
- Volunteers are hypnotized while still in the audience
- The audience votes in real-time using mobile devices or clickers to choose which routines the hypnotized subjects experience
This creates an immersive, high-tech, interactive format where no two shows are ever the same.
“Each new generation is more tech-savvy than the last. I wanted to give them a way to engage with hypnosis in a way that feels modern and participatory.”
The result? A unique show that not only entertains but also educates and demystifies the hypnotic experience—earning Paul multiple showcases, packed calendars, and rave reviews.
🇬🇧 UK vs. 🇺🇸 US: The Cultural Divide in Hypnosis
Paul notes the stark contrast between how stage hypnosis is treated in the U.S. versus the U.K. While America embraces hypnosis at high school events, college orientations, and fundraisers, British hypnotists often face outdated licensing restrictions and cultural skepticism.
“In the U.S., kids get exposed to stage hypnosis as young as 14. It’s seen as fun and engaging—not dangerous or taboo.”
His perspective is refreshing and a reminder that exposure and education are key to changing public perception.
Entertainment Without the Cheap Laughs
A core part of Paul’s message—and one that resonated deeply during the interview—is his belief that hypnosis doesn’t need to be crude or exploitative to be funny.
“Slapstick is cheap. It gets laughs, but at someone else’s expense. I want people to have a great experience on stage—not walk away feeling humiliated.”
That philosophy is what makes Paul’s work so powerful: it blends compassion, comedy, and consciousness into one unforgettable experience.
What’s Next: Wellness, Collaboration, and Going Beyond the Stage
Like many performers, Paul took a hit during the pandemic—but instead of pausing, he pivoted.
He’s now building an online wellness platform that focuses on collaborative, expert-driven hypnotherapy for a wide range of issues. Instead of being a “hypnotist for everything,” Paul’s model will connect people with the right hypnotist for their needs—whether it’s smoking cessation, performance anxiety, or confidence.
“The hypnosis world doesn’t need more solo experts—it needs unity and focus. Let’s work together to make a real impact.”
He’s also mentoring other hypnotists on building better businesses, strengthening their branding, and using modern tools like livestreaming to reach wider audiences.
Paul Ramsay’s Must-Read Books for Hypnotists
As with every guest, I asked Paul for his top book recommendations—and he didn’t disappoint:
- The New Encyclopedia of Stage Hypnotism – Ormond McGill
A foundational reference (though, as Paul admits, some parts have aged). - Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill
A timeless personal development classic that Paul reads every single year.
Paul Ramsay isn’t just a stage hypnotist—he’s a performer, an educator, an innovator, and a powerful advocate for ethical entertainment. His work stands as a shining example of what hypnosis can be when it’s treated with respect, curiosity, and creativity.
Whether you’re a hypnotist, a performer, or someone who’s just curious about the subconscious mind, Paul Ramsay’s approach will inspire you to think deeper, perform better, and maybe even change lives—one suggestion at a time.
🎥 YouTube: Paul Ramsay Hypnosis
💬 Follow Paul on social for daily livestreams and behind-the-scenes content.
Book suggestions:
The New Encyclopedia of Stage hypnotism https://amzn.to/3cDji7L
Think and Grow Rich! https://amzn.to/2BInPsV
The magic of thinking BIG https://amzn.to/2Mxc4Yg
Paul Ramsay & Grant Saunders talk funny hypnosis bits
more funny bits
