Apollo Robbins

Apollo Robbins is a unique combination of performer, speaker, and consultant, widely recognized for his expertise in perception and decision-making. He first made national news as the man who pick-pocketed the Secret Service while entertaining a former President.

Robbins's performances include pick-pocketing and sleight-of-hand to demonstrate proximity manipulation, diversion techniques, and attention control. These skills have not only led to several national television appearances but have also cemented his reputation in both corporate and academic speaking engagements. He has been a technical advisor and guest for various television shows, including his entertainment credits on the TNT series "Leverage" and the Warner Brothers movie "Focus" starring Will Smith. Robbins produced and co-hosted "Brain Games" on National Geographic, which was nominated for an Emmy as an Outstanding Informational Series. His contributions to media have been featured in prestigious publications such as Scientific American Mind, Nature Journal of Science, The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Atlantic, National Geographic, and The Wall Street Journal.

Known as “The Gentleman Thief,” Robbins handles his participants in a non-intrusive way, creating a dynamic blend of pick-pocketing, sleight-of-hand, and con games without embarrassing them. His trademark ability to inform his “target” of an impending theft adds an element of charm and surprise, unique to his performances. He also offers interactive workshops like "The Perception Show" and "The CON TEST," which focus on perception and critical thinking through immersive demonstrations.

Robbins’s unusual skills keep him in high demand, traveling globally to perform for an A-list clientele. From high-profile events to celebrity parties, Robbins’s appeal is bolstered by the captivating stories and experiences he leaves behind. His engaging workshops and talks, including his TED talk "The art of misdirection," which is among the top 20 most-viewed TED Talks of all time, continue to educate and entertain audiences around the world on the topics of fraud, scams, and the importance of cognitive awareness.