Ice Cube Trick: Impressive but Risky?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the ice cube trick demonstrated in the Cooking Shows in Action DVD, with participants sharing their experiences and opinions about its effectiveness and presentation during shows. Some express enthusiasm for the trick, while others voice concerns about its perceived gimmickry and the reactions of skeptical audience members.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses admiration for the ice cube trick but feels nervous about using it at shows, considering it a gimmick.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using the ice cube trick successfully at shows, noting the impressive reaction from the audience.
  • Several users mention the importance of demonstrating the temperature of the cookware before introducing the ice cube to enhance the effect.
  • One participant describes using a prep bowl to show how an ice cube melts slower compared to one in a heated pan, which adds to the demonstration's impact.
  • Another participant shares concerns about audience skepticism, particularly from family members, during demonstrations.
  • Some participants discuss the effectiveness of the cookware in melting ice cubes quickly, regardless of the ambient temperature in the room.
  • One participant highlights the importance of being knowledgeable about the cookware to confidently present it during shows.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the effectiveness and appropriateness of the ice cube trick, with some participants supporting its use and others expressing hesitation about its gimmicky nature. No clear consensus emerges on whether it is universally effective or well-received.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from various locations, noting that environmental factors, such as room temperature and air conditioning, can influence the effectiveness of the ice cube demonstration.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on presentation techniques and audience engagement strategies during cooking demonstrations may find this discussion valuable.

babywings76
Gold Member
Messages
7,266
I was really impressed with the ice cube trick they showed on the Cooking Shows in Action DVD. But I'm nervous to actually do that at a show because it feels like a gimmick. What do you guys think? Have any of you tried to see what happens with ice cubes in other pots and pans? I did in my cheap-o Wearever nonstick skillet, and the ice cube melted the same way. :grumpy:
 
Although it might melt the same way, your cheap-o pan (as you put it) will not be as cold, nor will the entire pan be cold. At least that is my experience in doing this in every show. You could also put an ice cube in a Simple Additions, too. The fact that our pans will retain all the cold and retain it so well is more what you are going after vs the fact that it can melt an ice cub really fast! :)
 
I do it at every show.
People are impressed!
Have someone feel the pan before the ice goes in..verify that it's room temperature.
Put the ice in...it starts to melt as I'm talking about how it transfers heat ...stainless steel doesn't transfer heat like hard anodized.
they'll see the ice melting...they are amazed...then ask that same person to feel the sides of the pan...they are ice cold!
I say...
'Since I can't pass a boiling pot of water around...((everyone laughs)) ... the ice in since it has the same affect - the heat from the room is melting the ice...imagine how the heat on the stovetop...it transfers evenly, no hot/cold spots, and quickly, it heat up faster , you don't have to put the burner on high!"

I talk about how easy it is to clean...the LIFETIME guarantee...the soft silicone handle...and how it's designed to go from stovetop to oven...and explain the garlic Pull Apart bread recipe we have.... they all go "oohhh Yum!"

And I explain our St. Cookware has the same affect..since it's Tri-PLy and has the hard anodized sandwiched inside the Stainless steel...but the SS is 500 degree safe and dishwasher safe...and you can do the fond...etc...

Did you do the ice in your PC pan and the Wearever pan at the same time side by side?

Does your Wearever have the teflon that will be peeling off in a year?

Is it oven safe?

Does it have ANY guarantee?

((May be a silly question...but did you have your Wearever on the stovetop or room temperature?))

I'd suggest going online...learn a lot about our cookware...
You have to be sold on what you are selling...and if you do your research I'm confident you'll see how great our cookware is!
 
I do this at every show. I tell them to feel the bottom and the sides as they are the same temp. I also set another ice cube in a prep bowl and have that sit through the rest of the show. At the end of the show, I show them how that ice cube barely even melted by the end of the show and how the one in the pan melted before it even made it around the room.
 
Love the prep bowl trick idea! ...but can I ask...where do you live? 'Cause i'm always hot here...and some hosts don't have the AC on real cool...??
I'm gonna try that at my house right now!
Thanks!
 
ChefNic said:
Love the prep bowl trick idea! ...but can I ask...where do you live? 'Cause i'm always hot here...and some hosts don't have the AC on real cool...??
I'm gonna try that at my house right now!
Thanks!
I'm in the midwest area. It's always hot here in the summer. And trust me, there are a lot of hosts who haven't turned on their air yet! By the way, I always joke with the last person as they hand the pan back that the last person has to drink it. It's pretty funny and gets some strange looks from the last person.
 
ChefNic said:
Love the prep bowl trick idea! ...but can I ask...where do you live? 'Cause i'm always hot here...and some hosts don't have the AC on real cool...??
I'm gonna try that at my house right now!
Thanks!


I'm in North Carolina (Asheville) and have done the ice cube (one in Simple Additions, one in small saute' pan) and it still works great even if the house is warm. The cookware melts it faster.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
Don't get me wrong...I LOVE the cookware. Definitely love the quality. I don't have any reservations in recommending it for all those other things you mentioned.

For the ice cube thing... I used my cheap skillet at room temp, straight from the drawer just like the 8-in saute pan. Yes, they melted the same way, same amount of time. But I get what you are saying about the cold transfer being all over the saute pan. My cheap skillet was cold, but not all over (But I thought maybe because it's so much larger...) I just am worried about sceptics in the crowd. My sister is a killjoy. At my kick-off show I was showing them the microplane adj. grater and how much I love how easy and well it works and how fluffy the parmesan grates in it, etc. She interrupts and says, "I just use my box grater, why don't you just use that!" UGG! And she did that for a few other things. My other sister was there, she sells Mary Kay so she knows how I feel, she says to me "There's one in every crowd" Too bad it was our sister! :)

Got off topic there... :)
 
You'll have people like that at every show! I just talk about the great benefits of the cookware and have never had anyone second guess me (out loud at least). Don't worry about it too much!
 
babywings76 said:
Don't get me wrong...I LOVE the cookware. Definitely love the quality. I don't have any reservations in recommending it for all those other things you mentioned.

For the ice cube thing... I used my cheap skillet at room temp, straight from the drawer just like the 8-in saute pan. Yes, they melted the same way, same amount of time. But I get what you are saying about the cold transfer being all over the saute pan. My cheap skillet was cold, but not all over (But I thought maybe because it's so much larger...) I just am worried about sceptics in the crowd. My sister is a killjoy. At my kick-off show I was showing them the microplane adj. grater and how much I love how easy and well it works and how fluffy the parmesan grates in it, etc. She interrupts and says, "I just use my box grater, why don't you just use that!" UGG! And she did that for a few other things. My other sister was there, she sells Mary Kay so she knows how I feel, she says to me "There's one in every crowd" Too bad it was our sister! :)

Got off topic there... :)

Because with your box cutter you cannot lay it flat in your drawer. You don't have a safety cover and they are usually very large!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
That's right!!! :) I'll have to remember to say that next time!

I did mention after she said that, "One thing that is nice about this one is that you can choose to open it flat and grate right into your bowl (which is easier than a box grater because you can rest it on the bowl) or you can stand it up traditionally." She did seem to notice how nice and sharp ours is.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ice Cube Trick in direct sales?

The Ice Cube Trick is a demonstration often used in direct sales, particularly in kitchenware parties like Pampered Chef, where a host showcases the effectiveness of a product by using ice cubes to illustrate its features. This can involve showing how quickly a product can melt ice or how it can maintain temperature, which can impress potential customers.

Why is the Ice Cube Trick considered impressive?

The Ice Cube Trick is considered impressive because it provides a visual and tangible demonstration of a product's capabilities. It captures the audience's attention and creates a memorable experience, making it easier for potential customers to understand the benefits of the product being sold.

What are the risks associated with the Ice Cube Trick?

One of the main risks of the Ice Cube Trick is that it may not always produce the desired results. If the demonstration fails or does not go as planned, it can lead to embarrassment for the presenter and may negatively impact the audience's perception of the product. Additionally, if not handled properly, it could result in spills or damage to the demonstration area.

How can I mitigate the risks when performing the Ice Cube Trick?

To mitigate risks, it's important to practice the demonstration beforehand to ensure smooth execution. Use a controlled environment where spills can be easily managed, and have towels or mats ready to clean up any accidents. Additionally, prepare for potential failures by having backup demonstrations or alternative talking points to keep the audience engaged.

Is the Ice Cube Trick suitable for all audiences?

While the Ice Cube Trick can be engaging, it may not be suitable for all audiences. Consider the demographic and preferences of your audience; some may prefer more straightforward presentations without gimmicks. Tailoring your approach to the audience's interests can help ensure a positive reception and increase the likelihood of sales.

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