Nashville Magician Learns How to Deal with Bullies

If only that little kid knew what was coming... and how strong he’d have to become.

I got into magic when I was ten years old, out of necessity. I was bullied pretty bad, almost every day. I was geeky looking, very short, and not athletic, but I could talk my way out of almost anything, or so I thought.

One day Joe, the bully, shoved me to the ground and said, “Show me a card trick or I’m going to kick your butt.” From that moment on, I learned how to take a hit. That moment was the beginning of two lifelong lessons. One, how to communicate. Two, how to turn pain into power. Maybe that is why I later became a Hollywood stuntman for more than thirty years.

All through grade school and into high school, it was a constant challenge. I wasn’t a fighter, so I decided to become a bodybuilder. I figured if I could puff up and look intimidating, it might take the edge off. Eventually, I worked as a bouncer in bars, where I learned how to stop fights with words instead of fists. Not bad for a geeky kid who learned to look the part and use his voice to stay safe.

I learned that confidence can be built, one rep at a time.

Then came the Army. I was athletic, not in the sports sense, but I had awareness and timing that kept me out of trouble. For the first time, I felt like I fit in.

The Army taught me awareness, discipline, and how to stand tall.

Sadly, I was medically discharged, but that opened the door to another dream: working in the motion picture business as a stunt performer.

Thirty years as a Hollywood stuntman taught me how to take hits... on camera and in life.

Both magic and stunts became my calling. They gave me confidence, purpose, and a platform to connect with others. I am so grateful to do what I was born to do. Perform.

My life is a “get to,” not a “have to.”

Today I perform to connect, to inspire, and to remind others to never give up.

Bullying is never okay. And it comes in many forms. Being ghosted is a form of bullying. So is being told you are no good, that you will never amount to anything, or hearing someone say, “Quit the magic business and get a real job.” Sometimes it comes from people who are envious or insecure.

My point is simple. Never quit. Never give up on your dreams. You may discover that you were born to do something that changes your life and the lives of others in ways you never imagined.

About Jeff Bornstein

Jeff Bornstein is a Nashville-based magician, mentalist, and former Hollywood stuntman. Through his shows and storytelling, he inspires audiences to believe in connection, courage, and the power of never giving up.