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Tech illusionists & digital magic duo

Digital Deception

Digital Deception blends illusion with modern technology, transforming smartphones and social media into tools of wonder. Doug McKenzie and Ryan Oakes guide audiences through interactive demonstrations that challenge perception and spark reflection about digital literacy, truth, and how easily reality can be manipulated in our screen-mediated world.

Trusted by The White House, YPO, SalesForce

Digital Deception
Digital Deception

Digital Deception

New York City, United States

Typical fee range

$26k–50k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Book Digital Deception

New York City, United States

Starting from

$26k–50k

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+44 203 835 2929

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Digital Deception's biography

At a glance

  • Created Digital Deception interactive magic show with technology
  • Performed for royalty and featured on CNN Tech
  • Combines illusion with smartphones and digital innovation
Digital Deception is an interactive magic show created by Doug McKenzie and Ryan Oakes that explores the intersection of illusion and modern technology. The production challenges audiences to question reality in an increasingly digital world. Doug has been profiled on CNN Tech, performed for royalty, and created original magic for televised specials. Ryan has performed at The White House, been profiled by Forbes, and appeared in almost every US state. Together, they launched Digital Deception in 2017, combining their expertise in illusion with their passion for technology. Doug and Ryan guide audiences through a series of interactive demonstrations that blur the lines between digital innovation and classic sleight of hand. They incorporate smartphones, social media, and everyday technology into their routines, transforming familiar devices into tools of wonder. The show moves beyond traditional stage magic by inviting participation, making each performance unique. Their approach reveals how easily perception can be manipulated in an age where screens mediate much of human experience. Audiences leave Digital Deception with a renewed sense of curiosity about the technology they use daily. The show sparks conversations about digital literacy and the nature of truth in the information age. Attendees report feeling both entertained and intellectually engaged, experiencing moments of genuine surprise alongside deeper reflection about their relationship with technology. Book Digital Deception to deliver an unforgettable experience that entertains while prompting audiences to think critically about their digital lives.

Digital Deception's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Digital Deception

Book Digital Deception to bring your team an interactive magic experience that blends cutting-edge technology with masterful illusion, sparking genuine wonder while encouraging critical thinking about our digital world. With performances for royalty, The White House, and features on CNN and Forbes, Doug McKenzie and Ryan Oakes deliver a unique show that entertains and engages audiences through smartphone integration and participatory demonstrations that will leave your guests talking long after the event ends.

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Trusted by The White House, YPO, SalesForce

Testimonials

You were amazing and our guests were blown away by your act.

VP External Affairs, Liberty Science Center

Lots of back and forth about ‘how’d they do that’… People had a great time and were blown away with the tricks.

Chapter Board Member, YPO

You guys are seriously incredible. People loved it!

Chief Strategic Planning, UNICEF

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Digital Deception for my next event?

What is Digital Deception's stage presence like?

Doug McKenzie and Ryan Oakes perform a live interactive magic show in which audience members participate directly in routines built around smartphones, social media, and everyday technology. Each performance is structured as a series of demonstrations that blend sleight of hand with digital tools, making the experience variable by audience and prompting reflection on how perception is manipulated through screens.

What topics does Digital Deception specialise in?

Digital Deception is an interactive magic show combining illusion with live technology, smartphone integration, and audience participation to explore digital perception and critical thinking about the digital world. The show was launched in 2017 by Doug McKenzie and Ryan Oakes, whose individual credits include a White House performance, a Forbes profile, a CNN Tech profile, and original magic created for televised specials.

What information do I need to provide to book a speaker?

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Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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Booking a speaker with PepTalk starts with a short brief: your event, audience, date, budget, and format. Send it through getapeptalk.com or hello@getapeptalk.com and you'll get a shortlist within 24 hours. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, fees, travel, and logistics end to end.

I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

Can I book a speaker who isn't listed on the PepTalk website?

Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.