The Magic Word Podcast

Michael Breggar is a columnist for The Linking Ring journal (the house organ for the I.B.M.) and has written dozens of articles about putting new scripting ideas to old close-up tricks. He has also authored several books that fit his style and are quite cleverly written. For example, “The Expert at the Cod Table” by S.W. Ordfish and “Raiders of the Lost Card” by “Jerseyana” Michael Breggar. These tongue-in-cheek titles give a glimpse into his comical and satirical thinking and writing.Michael has also invented and marketed several magic tricks (mostly with a comedic mental twist) that are part of some professional magician’s repertoires. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize The reason I wanted to talk with my friend on the podcast this week was to let the rest of the magic community into his creative mind with the hopes that listeners will be inspired to think of some of the old tricks that they (we) have been performing for years and consider updating them with clever new scripting. But our conversation quickly becomes quite deep as we talk about the importance of building a strong routine and act using the three legs of building a show. In a world of short attention span, we should consider the importance of how every little thing matters that influences our audience's perception of our magic. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . The Nth Degree and Final Degree by John Guastaferro Sign up with your name and email address for a chance to win a FREE copy of one of these books. First Name Last Name Email Address enter now! Please only submit your name and email address once. You will be automatically entered into the contest for a chance to win one of two books. This is a hard copy of a book published by Vanishing, Inc. but John agreed to pay for foreign shipping, should a winner reside outside the U.S.We respect your privacy. We will only share your email address with the author. Thank you for entering the contest. There will be two winners in this contest. If your name is randomly selected, then you will be notified on how to order your book from John Guastaferro. Good luck!

John Guastaferro has his priorities straight. He thinks of others before himself. From his magic career to his professional life as a director on the board of Hundai’s “Hope on Wheels” philanthropic organization. John has just released the third book in his close-up card magic trilogy “The Final Degree.” In these books, John emphasizes how small degrees of change can make a big difference in the effect on your audience. You can see how he puts his work into action when he performs in the Close-Up Gallery of the Magic Castle. As to his philanthropic activities, John works with this group several months out of the year in helping raise money for cancer research in children. And as if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, he is also an accomplished flamenco-style guitar player. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize John Guastaferro as the executive director for Hyundai Hope On Wheels and Genesis Inspiration Foundation, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Guastaferro is responsible for advancing the missions of both foundations while maintaining current successes, driving program growth, developing diversified revenue streams, and building greater community awareness. As you can imagine, that takes a lot of his time throughout the year and we discuss all that in this week’s episode. John is a regular performer at the Magic Castle and we chat during the first few minutes about what it was like for his first time at working there and how others may overcome their hesitancy of auditioning to perform there. When we recorded this episode, his new book “The Final Degree” was about to be released. It is now available through the publisher, Vanishing, Inc. and other fine magic shops. We also talk a little bit about his passion with the guitar. This flamenco-styiings feature original compositions that can be heard on iTunes and Spotify, among other platforms and I highly recommend listening to it. It is very soothing and relaxing music. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . The Nth Degree and Final Degree by John Guastaferro Sign up with your name and email address for a chance to win a FREE copy of one of these books. First Name Last Name Email Address enter now! Please only submit your name and email address once. You will be automatically entered into the contest for a chance to win one of two books. This is a hard copy of a book published by Vanishing, Inc. but John agreed to pay for foreign shipping, should a winner reside outside the U.S.We respect your privacy. We will only share your email address with the author. Thank you for entering the contest. There will be two winners in this contest. If your name is randomly selected, then you will be notified on how to order your book from John Guastaferro. Good luck!

Dean Carnegie is the host of The Magic Detective podcast. He has blown past 100 episodes and there appears no stopping in sight. His podcast takes deep dives into the lives and worlds of magicians (mostly from yesteryear) and released sporadically as his research unearths something of interest. Beyond his podcast and blogging, he is also an accomplished artist having painted the visages of several magicians from our history. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week Dean tells us how he got involved in producing his podcast and his interest in magic history. He also tells us about his lifelong passion for art and some of the people who inspired his artwork. For more information on the Needles Swallowing trick, but sure to read the blog on this classical effect on Dean’s website by Clicking Here. Whether you are a collector, magic historian, or aficionado of art, you are sure to enjoy this week’s episode. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

The National President of the S.A.M. is often referred to as “Most Illustrious.” This week’s guest, John Midgley, is a Past National President and also a “Most Wonderful Illustrator” creating magic posters and graphic novels. As a magician, he is one of the house magicians at Nashville’s “House of Cards” where he regularly entertains at the card table. Not content with just those vocations/hobbies, John can also play multiple musical instruments. Oh, and his “regular” job during the day is as a Licensed Therapist. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week John talks about how, during the COVID lockdown, he learned to create art using his digital tablet. He likes to create magic posters for many who have not been as well recognized in the magic community with their own original artwork. He also tells us about how he came to perform magic later in life after first pursuing a career as a Licensed Therapist. He talks about balancing his two careers (therapy and magic) with the duties of a father, too. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Once upon a time in a distant place near the Sands and Stardust of our memories was a kingdom below the desert called Caesar’s Magic Empire. Well known magicians performed there among many younger, magicians who became very well known after they honed their craft before thousands of diners and revelers.Yes, this was a real place (but not below ground) that was a premier, immersive dinner-show attraction at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, operating from 1997 to 2002. Many fledgling magicians got their start there, one of whom is our guest in this episode: Jason Bird.Today Jason is a successful magician who specializes in close-up strolling and has recently written the ultimate treatise on the craft called, “Strolling for Dollars.” View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week Jason tells us about how a young teenage boy left home in search of the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip and found himself as regular, strolling magician at the new Caesar’s Magic Empire. For those who never visited the kingdom or even if you did visit, everyone should enjoy a fun trip back through time as we visit the Empire in our minds. Also, Jason and Scott give us some tips and advice for strolling magic (trick selection, marketing, handling audiences, etc.) many of which come from Jason’s new book “Strolling for Dollars.” Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . Watch for our next contest for a chance to win something from one of our upcoming guests.

When in Las Vegas, most magicians plan to see shows by other magicians like Mike Hammer, Mac King, David Copperfield, and others. But there are other attractions not to be missed whilst visiting Sin City. One major attraction (in terms of both scope and physical size) is the Neon Museum. Just a few blocks from the downtown Fremont Street Experience lies one of the best kept secrets of the city. As casinos, hotels, motels, coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants turn out their lights for their last time, the glitz lives on at this outdoor museum. It is a feast for the eyes whether you go during the day or night. Both deliver extraordinary visual awe as you view the past to see some of these iconic signs that don’t just live in history but now reside in their own “boneyard.” This week, Johann Rucker, one of the museum’s curators tells us about the history of the museum and, perhaps why it is of historical importance to magicians. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Among the many signs and lights in the museum lies the statue of Siegfried and Roy. When the Mirage was torn down along with the Secret Garden, that left the statue of the legendary duo standing alone on the Strip. To preserve it from seeing the wrecking ball or local dump (or going in someone’s private museum), the Neon Museum decided to preserve and display it in their outdoor exhibit. Though it has no neon lights adorning or shining on it, it stands now preserved among the rest of the historical landmarks as Siegfried and Roy take their spot in history for the world to see and remember how they changed the face of Las Vegas forever. The official unveiling of the statue is expected to take place on April 25, 2026. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

As Monty Python would say, "and now for something completely different.” This podcast tries to explore all facets of our jewel we call magic. And one part of our entertainment community has its roots in the side show. Specifically, in the early to mid-1900's magicians were part of the traveling carnivals and performed side show acts using such illusions as the stocks, blade box, and more. But as the magicians went to the legitimate stage, the other side show performers stayed behind as independent nomads. But their business of finding work is just as important as magicians trying to find work. And for “freaks” in today’s world, there are fewer venues (and perhaps audiences) who can “stomach” watching some of their acts. Moreover, freaks have become less shocking as being obesely overweight and covered in tattoos are now common sites at your local WalMart shopping centers. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week Lizard Man tells us about why he chose to pursue a life and a lifestyle different from the “norm” and his commitment to getting tattoos and body piercings all over his body. But part of the focus of our conversation is how similar yet different our two crafts are when it comes to marketing. Magicians have a community to help, support, and direct, but the side show community is less giving and supportive. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Jay Alexander is a mentalist who operates and performs at the San Francisco Magic Theater. More than just a mentalist, Jay performs across the country and even entertains as half-time entertainment at major sporting events. He has been a resident of San Fran since 1986 and has seen it go through a lot of changes, including Earthquake McGoon’s where a trove of Carter posters was unearthed. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Jay has a lot of great advice for performers and mentalists in this episode. Having an expansive background in mentalism, he has “cracked the code” to make mentalism seen, heard, and entertaining in the loud environment of basketball stadiums. He shares ideas with us this week along with stories about his theater and Earthquake McGoon’s. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Depending upon how you look at it, time passes either slow or fast. It was nearly 50 years ago that we began learning magic in a whole new way: video. Prior to that, most magic was learned through books, magazines, lectures, or through an apprenticeship that was passed on from one magician to another. In some ways it seems that our evolution moved slowly from video tape to where we are today with digital images.In the late 1970’s, Bob Yorburg, went into the studios and recorded a two volume VHS set where he taught close-up magic. It wasn’t long after that before others ran through the door. I was one of those who watched that video set over and over and learned many of my early routines from Bob. He transitioned from one character to another before he found his true passion, refurbishing old magic props, carving Punch and Judy dolls, and working on band organs. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week Bob Yorburg tells us about how he came to produce those first video tapes, plus his work as the first Burger King in New York. He apparently worked in many other commercials besides the hamburger giant and he has some great stories. As mentioned, his passion is now carving carousel animals, carousel band organs, Punch and Judy dolls, and is respected and awarded in that field. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Brian Brushwood has been on my radar for the podcast almost since i first began 15 years ago. Since he lives in the Austin area, I always felt I would have time to chat and feature him on an episode. As we approach 1,000 episodes, I'm beginning to shift some guests from the back burner to the front. My son Nick, interned with Brian when he was in the thick of the college circuit in the early 2000’s. That was the genesis of many of the future endeavors taken on by Brian like Scam School, Modern Rogue, and even the World’s Greatest Con which define Brian’s current trajectory.Brian has been and continues to be a trailblazer in our magic community having begun his his own magic career in 1993. He has since garnered the support and admiration of some of magic’s biggest names including Jeff McBride, and Teller, one half of the Penn and Teller duo, and even David Copperfield.Since beginning his career in magic, Brushwood has authored six books, including Cheats, Cons, Swindles & Tricks: 57 Ways to Scam a Free Drink; Pack the House: The Ultimate, Ever-Growing Guide to Increasing Attendance to YOUR Campus Events(co-authored with C.J. Johnson); and the Professionals Guide to Fire Eating.Brushwood has made several TV and radio appearances, including appearances on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Roseanne Show, E! Entertainment Television’s Talk Soup, the WB’s Steve Harveys Big Time, Tech TVs Unscrewed with Martin Sargent, CMTs Most Wanted Live, BBCs The Paul Coyte Show, Westwood One’s “Don and Mike Show,” ABC-TV’s “The Debra Duncan Show, “The Shannon Burke Show” on KJFK-FM, Dudley and Bob” on KLBJ-FM, “The Morning Zoo” on KASE-FM, as well as news affiliates for ABC, FOX, CBS and Time-Warner. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Brian Brushwood is a magician, podcaster, author, lecturer and comedian. Brushwood is known for the series Scam School, a show where he teaches the audience entertaining tricks at bars so they can "scam" a free drink from their friends. In addition to Scam School, Brushwood hosts Hacking the System on National Geographic Channel and also hosts the podcasts Weird Things, Cordkillers, and Night Attack. Brushwood has been a regular guest on This Week in Tech and previously hosted Game On! with Veronica Belmont on TWiT.Among the many suggestions and links for you to follow, I heartily suggest you follow The World’s Greatest Con by Clicking Here. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Joel Bauer stands tall in the legendary hall of trade show performers and motivational speakers. More than an entertainer, Joel provides information to potential clients through his unique and boisterous approach of commanding attention at trade shows making him a fusion of both entertainment and information making him that ultimate “infotainer.” Love him or hate him, there is no denying his financial success that he has derived from the industry and from teaching others how to find success, too. He spoke at MAGIC Live among so many other places and he offers these gifts to you!Video Sampling From Dozens Of My Television Appearances: https://vimeo.com/infotainer/review/27267707/c9ca88fa42 Watch Five Minute Of Proof From My Past On Trade Show Floors: https://vimeo.com/infotainer/review/126403524/1378c5a9db You may truly enjoy this NEVER released footage of me lecturing on my Trade Show process and success for over two decades at a MagicLive Magic Convention: https://vimeo.com/infotainer/review/136051637/7e3669c48f If you want to cut to the most significant 100 minutes revealing precisely how I CREATED the CROWDS, CONVEYED COMPANIES CUSTOM MESSAGES, AND COLLECTED RECORD LEAD GENERATION – Watch This Edited Section: https://vimeo.com/infotainer/review/142451020/4f20e464b8 View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Here is one of his books for free download that will teach you both magic and business at the same time! My best selling book: https://we.tl/5t3SF9SVfE His Best Selling Book On The Business Of Magic (Electronic Download): Hustle, Hustle – The Business Of Magic https://we.tl/DAg3jcHEtIClick Here to a link to “It Takes Guts Dammit” by Paul Diamond. It is a short booklet, but full of real gold, including audio. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

There are those few in our craft of magic that are well-known, but few who are as universally respected as Jeff McBride. Founder of the Magic & Mystery School in Las Vegas, Jeff has transcended to the pinnacle of our industry. Having been awarded nearly every conceivable trophy and accolade in the magic community, Jeff continues to build and personally contribute to the coterie. Jeff continues to perform and teach around the world and he has embraced technology to supplement his methods of sharing magic, too. Jeff’s magic pedagogy reflects modern methods of sharing with our community in recognition that we all learn at different levels and speeds. This week he talks about how he doesn’t create new acts or routines for his students, but rather shapes and directs the students’ existing skills that leads to an improved show that is uniquely their own. Jeff also discusses the creation of his “Wonderground” performance venue in Las Vegas that encourages magicians to flex their creative muscles. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . Jeff McBride talked extensively about the importance of storytelling. So, it is appropriate that we recognize the recent passing of a master story teller who has shared more with the magic community than most know, including Tannen’s Magic Camp, where young magicians learned the importance of a good story in strengthening their magic. Hiawatha Johnson was a magician, writer, editor, musician, singer, dancer, choreographer, actor, director, composer, teacher, professor, historian, designer and playwright. He will be sorely missed by the community. Aloha, my friend.

“If I can make it there, I can make it anywhere,” sang Frank Sinatra in “New York, New York.” Rachel Wax traveled from Chicago to follow her dream of making it in the fashion industry. Though she did well and enjoyed her work, her true passion was with magic. She was influenced by “The Magnets” who encouraged her to pursue her magic dream. Soon thereafter Rachel began working at “SpeakEasy Magik” and the “Slipper Room” and other venues around the city as well as for corporate and private affairs. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize We begin our conversation with the beginning of what brought Rachel to New York City: fashion. Please stick with us, even though the first portion of this week’s podcast isn’t about magic, but rather the garment district and fashion in NYC. We then ease into our chat about Rachel and her magic that was influenced by her father (a professional magician in Chicago) plus her performance on Penn & Teller Fool Us and the many other venues where she makes a mark with her brand of magic. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

While at the 2025 Abbott’s Get Together, we chatted with several magicians. A while back we chatted with Craig Diamond and last week we released the one with Antony Gerard and this week we talk with Derek Hughes. That is a subtle hint for just another reason why you should attend magic conventions…all the great talent that comes and shares their time and talents. Derek has performed his magic on MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, the CW’s Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and the Ellen Degeneres Show. He’s a consulting producer on TRUtv’s hit magic series, The Carbonaro Effect and was a finalist on season 10 of NBC’s America’s Got Talent [sic]. His back story was much about his health as a child and the importance of his children to his life. He regularly performs in nightclubs across the U.S. and has been nominated for several categories at the Magic Castle over the years. He is also a published author of a children’s book! View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week, Derek talks about his experience with AGT and the invaluable advice he received from Jim Steinmeyer. We also discuss the difference between a magician who does comedy versus a comedian who does magic. Derek tells us about the children’s book he wrote (available through Amazon on the link below) before he even had children. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . Humpty Dumpty Lived Near a Wall By Hughes, Derek Buy on Amazon Hail and Farewell to those in our magic community who left us this past year. In 2025 we suffered the loss of many friends who have passed away, but whom are not forgotten. Although the list below is not exhaustive, it does reflect the names of many well-known (and some lesser known) magicians, spouses, assistants and magic aficionados who passed on in 2025. This year’s list is much less than the number reported last year (12 this year v.s. 17 in 2024.) Some may not be as well-known to you, but they were my personal friends (hey, it is my blog!). If you are unfamiliar with any of these names, then it would behoove you to do a little online search of what these people have contributed to our craft. If you have someone you think was overlooked, then please post the name in the comments below on this blog.Those whose names are highlighted with a “hot link” were featured or interviewed here on The Magic Word Podcast. It was not my original intent when I began this journey to chronicle the voices before they left us, but I am so thankful that I did sit down with many of these friends for lively, and sometimes intimate, conversations. You can click on their name to revisit and listen to their voices again. Ian AdairRoger NicotJack GreenburgGordon MillerMercer HelmsDavid SolomonGinny AronsonDirk “Mr. D” SpenceMicky BlashfieldConnie “Paprika” LeavertonCurtis KamPeter Studebaker

Over the years, many of you have become acquainted with Antony “Tony” Gerard, and some of us have been lucky enough to call him a friend. He is a fascinating gentleman who defies labels because of he is a polymath who enjoys many disciplines outside of magic, such as archeology, martial arts, creating remote control things for Hollywood, and more. He has written over a dozen books and lectured all over the world, runs his own magic shop in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and is often seen as a magic dealer at conventions where he sells his own creations. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week’s conversation could have gone in so many directions, each of which would have been an interesting trail filled with stories and wisdom. But we tried to encompass as many of Tony’s interests into about a one hour conversation, which (for those of you who know Tony is hard to do) and focus on the variety of his interests and his background from The Netherlands. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

While at this year’s Magic At The Beach convention in Myrtle Beach, SC, one of the magicians who performed was my friend Trigg Watson. Trigg has performed on America’s Got Talent [sic], Penn & Teller Fool Us, Masters of Illusion, just to mention a few of the television shows where he has appeared. He prefers performing in theaters where he has access to a large stage, a stage crew, and a strong Wi-Fi. He is best known for his avant garde performances employing high tech that is on the leading edge. He finds ways to present new technology in an entertaining way that looks like real magic. Throughout the ages, magicians have been in the forefront of using “modern” technology in their magic acts, but it is getting increasingly more difficult in today’s world with our rapid communication. Everyone is getting “up to speed” much faster than in earlier times. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week Trigg Watson shares his philosophy behind his act and how he keeps up with modern trends. He also discusses social trends and how media and magic has (and will) change. He always seems to keep his magic “fresh” meaning that he has to keep on the leading edge of technology before the rest of his audience has gotten there. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Everyone who listens to this podcast no doubt has some degree of love and respect for the art of magic. Starting from that common point, we all go off in our divergent ways and follow the paths that give us joy and often success along the way. This week we chat with three disparate magicians who share that passion for magic but have, indeed, found totally different ways of getting to their “end game.”Bizzaro is a creative magician who performs mostly in Las Vegas but also builds unusual props for other magicians and consults on Escape Rooms across the country. Cody Fisher is a corporate magician who performs as an after dinner speaker and does strolling magic as well as his share of trade shows and he even gets out on cruise ships to perform. And Joan DuKore is getting started with her career performing for corporate banquets and aboard cruise ships, too. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize While attending this year’s Magic at the Beach convention, my intent was to have three separate episodes, each featuring one of these dynamic performers because of their differences from one another. But as it happened and came together, their time and mine grew “tight” and they preferred to be in the room together to record this episode. That is, except for Joan DuKore. I intended to get her aside later in the convention to record a separate podcast, but as the three of the rest of us were recording, she passed by the room where we were sitting and came in to join us. It was quite fortuitous and serendipitous that made for a delightful, fun and funny conversation, each talking about their unique areas of expertise in magic. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

SaturdayEvent                                         Time           Chad Long                            11:00 – 12: 00Shimpei                                 12:30 – 1:30Lunch                                      1:30 – 3:00Gabriel Gascon                      3:00 – 4:00Dani DaOrtiz                           5:00 – 6:00Dinner                                     6:00 – 8:15Saturday Show                       8:15 – 10:15 View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize I will post time stamps after I’ve gotten some sleep. Come back later…much later. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Thursday Event                               Time                Joseph Daniels        6:00 pm – 7:00pmNewcomer                8:00pm – 8:45pmRobin Deville            9:30pm – 10:30pm FridayEvent                               Time             Boris Wild                    11:00 – 12:00Eric Chien                     1:00 – 2:00Lunch                            2:00 – 3:30Javi Benitez                   3:30 – 4:30Insights                          5:15 – 6:45Dinner                            6:45 – 8:15Friday Night Show        8:15 – 9:45Pizza Party                     10:00 UntilDani Workshop             10:00ish View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize I will post time stamps after I’ve gotten some sleep. Come back later…much later. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

One of the favorite parts of each year’s Magic At The Beach convention in Myrtle Beach, SC, is when the stars take to the stage and share some of their embarrassing, funny and tragic stories from their days on the road. If you have performed long enough and in enough different venues around the world, you will eventually have things go wrong during your travel, your show, during your preparation or tear down, or somewhere along the road. This week we feature some of those people who were highlighted as talent for the 2025 convention and agreed to share some of their stories and even a few about other performers they know/knew. View fullsize Join Charles Bach as he introduces a few of the performers this week that include Dana Daniels, Cody Fisher, Bizarro, Nick Lewin, Howard Blackwell, Joan DuKore, and Jeki Yoo as they share some of their recollections with TSA, working aboard cruise ships, performing at the Magic Castle, and much more. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Craig Diamond has been performing magic on cruise ships since the 1970’s. That is nearly 50 years at sea as he has visited ports across the world and both sides of the equator. Because of his busy career, he has not been regularly seen at magic conventions nor even featured on magazine covers…until now. His energy is infectious and he has a great memory for hundreds of stories. You may have never seen nor met Craig Diamond, but all of that is going to change this week as you hear his many stories. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Craig relates many stories from the sea including some advice he received from Marvyn “Mr. Electric” Roy. This week Craig shares many of his adventures from his globetrotting experiences. It is a delightful chat that you will learn from and enjoy. This episode moves along quite rapidly because of the fun we had. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

It’s National Magic Week, as designated by the Society of American Magicians. It also means it’s that time of the year to chat with the Houdini expert, John Cox. He has been blogging daily for years about all things Houdini. So, on the eve of the 99th anniversary of Houdini’s death, it seems appropriate to check in with John to see what’s new with Houdini. During our chat, he surprises us with several revelations that I didn’t know, and perhaps might be new to you, too. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize John’s biggest and his proudest accomplishment over this past year has been the publication of his book, “Escaping Obscurity” available from Mike Caveney’s “Magic Words” website. He talks about this book in our chat this week, plus he also reveals that the ending to the Tony Curtis movie of “Houdini” did not end with him dying in the water torture cell! This and other revelations are discussed in this week’s episode. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . Thank everyone who entered the contest. We could only have one winner each week, but anyone who is genuinely interested in procuring a deck, you should visit their website at https://houdinicards.com while supplies are available. Although this book is long out of print, I do have a source who can probably hook you up with a copy. Please contact Kent Cummiins at [email protected] and ask if he has an extra, shrink-wrapped copy to sell you.

While attending the recent Magistrorum Conference in Dallas, I was surprised to see and hear from a variety of entertainers I had never met, seen, nor (in most cases) even heard of before. It was refreshing to see such robust and exciting talent. One such person who made an impression on me was Susan Gerbic. A long time skeptic (and regular contributor to the Skeptical Inquirer), Susan has been dispelling myths about psychics, spiritualists, and others who “suck the life and money” out of unsuspecting “believers.” Her late partner, Mark Edwards coined the term “Grief Vampires” for those who prey on the grief of others and promise the hope of talking with their dead loved ones from beyond the grave…for the right price.Susan busts psychics much like Houdini did in his day which was part of his three pronged act in his later years: magic, escapes, and spiritualism exposes. She does it using today’s social media and speaker platforms across the country. Not only does she have a rich background in the skeptic community, she is also known for her contributions to Wikipedia. In 2010, Gerbic founded "Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia" (GSoW), a group of editors who create and edit Wikipedia articles that reflect scientific skepticism. Among her many awards, she has received the "James Randi Award for Skepticism in the Public Interest" at The Amaz!ng Meeting 2013. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Having never met nor knowing anything about Susan Gerbic before we sat down to chat, we talked first about our common interests and friends in the community, like Banachek and the Amazing Randi. We quickly connected then I turned on the microphones and the results are obvious in our warm conversation as I seek to explore more about what Susan does. Since this is the “Month of Boo,” I felt it appropriate to celebrate the life of Houdini and his work on busting spiritualism by introducing you to this dynamic woman who is following in those big footsteps. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . The winner for Week #3 was Ken Wheeler, Jr. Congratulations, Ken. A Houdini Legacy Deck of cards will be awarded to a different winner each week in October so you have ONE more chances to win. These beautiful cards were designed by the Past National President and artist, John Midgley. If you are interested in learning more about these cards and the cause, then please visit their website at https://houdinicards.com Register now to save on registration. Click on the graphic above for more information.

Marc DeSouza is a name that should be familiar to most listeners of The Magic Word Podcast. Marc has provided “color” at the past few FISM conferences as well as a few other subsequent magic conventions. But no doubt you know him best for his vast knowledge in magic, his collection, his path to become the National President of the S.A.M., and (most recently) as the builder of the House of Magic in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This episode is a symphony for the ears as Marc walks us from room to room and even outside of the new House of Magic. You can visualize his words as he describes the rooms and the historical artifacts throughout this new magic venue. This episode was recorded in late June, before the National S.A.M. convention in Nashville. Since that time, the House of Magic has come together, boxes have been unpacked, and the official grand opening is set for November 2, 2025. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . The winner for Week #3 was Mina Barden. Congratulations, Mina. A Houdini Legacy Deck of cards will be awarded to a different winner each week in October so you have two more chances to win. These beautiful cards were designed by the Past National President and artist, John Midgley. If you are interested in learning more about these cards and the cause, then please visit their website at https://houdinicards.com

Jim Cunningham is the voice behind the Eli Marks Mystery Series, penned by John Gaspard. For many seasons, he was affiliated with both the Minneapolis Twins (baseball) and the Minneapolis Wild (hockey) teams. But his real passion is for all things spooky. Many years ago, he called on the Master, Eugene Burger, to help him develop a seance which he still does to this day. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize In this episode Jim talks about what it’s like to be a sports announcer personality and how he gets jobs as a book reader for Audible.com books. He shares a very interesting story about how he met and got to work closely with Eugene Burger. Jim also tells about his affinity for all things that go bump in the night. This is a perfect episode for this Month of Boo. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . The winner for Week #2 was Michael Skowronski. Congratulations, Michael. A Houdini Legacy Deck of cards will be awarded to a different winner each week in October. These beautiful cards were designed by the Past National President and artist, John Midgley. If you are interested in learning more about these cards and the cause, then please visit their website at https://houdinicards.com

Tony Hassini is well into his 80’s and has earned a time to look back at his illustrious career and all that he has done for entertainment. In the 1970’s he developed “The Magic of Burger King” which was a nationwide campaign coupling their advertising with real life characters. But before that, in 1968, Tony formed the International Magicians Society (IMS) which developed into the world’s largest magic organization that today presents the Merlin Award to deserving magicians around the world at special, high class award ceremonies. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This conversation was recorded using Zoom prior to the annual Merlin Awards banquet that typically takes place in Las Vegas on the night following MAGIC Live! We first talk about Tony’s involvement with creating and developing the Marvelous Magical Burger King ad campaign in the 1970’s. During that time, he met Ray Croc, founder of McDonald’s, who gave him some good advice. But before the campaign was adopted, Tony created the IMS which, according to the Guinness World Book of Records, is the largest magic organization in the world. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . The winner for Week #1 was Nicolas Nardi. Congratulations, Nicolas. A Houdini Legacy Deck of cards will be awarded to a different winner each week in October. These beautiful cards were designed by the Past National President and artist, John Midgley. If you are interested in learning more about these cards and the cause, then please visit their website at https://houdinicards.com Join us in New York this Halloween for this seminal event. I plan to be in attendance and will host one of the panel discussions. For more information, please https://newyorkmagicconference.com/

Wayne Alan’s Washington D.C. experience ranges from working at the magic shop that sold magic tricks to President George H. W. Bush to magic performances in front of audiences in homeless shelters, parties at the homes of prominent Washington politicians, and several national TV appearances. He has consulted for David Copperfield and Criss Angel. He was one of the pioneers in the trade show magic field working alongside Eddie Tullock, Mike Rogers, and Dick Ryan, among others. In 1982 he was presented with a Gold Medal at F.I.S.M. in the category of Grand Illusion. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize There is so much to cover in Wayne Alan’s life that we could have talked for much longer. But this conversation gives you a good overview, along with some great stories, about this professional magician who, in his early 70’s, is far from hanging up his top hat and wand. This is the last week for this contest. If you missed out on entering the contest or you did enter but didn’t win but would like to have a copy, you can order one by sending him an email at [email protected] Throughout the month of October, we will run a contest to give away a deck of Houdini Playing Cards designed by Past National President, John Midgley. This deck was designed to help raise money for the Houdini Memorial Restoration Fund intended to help repair the Houdini gravesite. Although this contest is open to all, postage will only be paid for winners residing within the U.S. Foreign postage will apply to winners outside the U.S. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Saturday September 20, 2025 Dealer room----------------------9:00 am - 10:00 am Melody the Magnificent-------10:15 am - 10:45 am Doug Gorman----------------------11:00 am - 11:30 am Lunch--------------------------------11:30 am - 12:30 pm Dealer room-----------------------12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Jeff McBride-----------------------1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Remy Connor------------------------2:45 pm - 3:30 pm Dealer room-----------------------3:30 pm - 500 pm Dinner-------------------------------5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Crispy Knight----------------------6:00 pm - 6:45 pm Traveler Award--------------------6:45 pm - 7:00 pmAri Rose-----------------------------7:15 pm - 7:45 pmRocco Kult-------------------------8:00 pm - 8:30 pm Jeff McBride Master Class-----9:00 pm - 12:00 am View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps for this episode (they will eventually be posted when I have gotten some sleep): Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Thursday September 18, 2025vendor & stage set-up ------------8:00 amThe Guide Presenting Opening Ceremonies --------------2:30 pm - 3:00 pm Dealer room--------------------------3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Susan Gerbic-------------------------5:00 pm - 6:00 pmRichard Green------------------------6:15 pm - 7:00 pmRolando Santos----------------------7:15 pm - 8:00 pm Paul Draper-------------------------8:15 pm - 9:00 pmTerry Tyson's Séance Master Class----------------9:00 pm - 12:00 am​Friday September 19, 2025 Dealer room-------------------------9:00 am - 10:30 amBruce Chadwick--------------------10:30 am - 11:15 am Daniel Gastellum-------------------11:30 am - 12:00 pm Lunch----------------------------------12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Dealer room-------------------------1:00 pm - 2:30 pm John Gilmore------------------------2:30 pm - 3:00 pm Jeff McBride-------------------------3:15 pm - 3:45 pm Andreas Sebring--------------------4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Dinner----------------------------------5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Dealer Room-------------------------6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Jordan Jonas-------------------------7:00 pm - 7:30 pm Mysterion------------------------------7:45 pm - 8:30 pm Terry Tyson's Séance Master Class----------------9:00 pm - 12:00 am View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps for this episode (they will eventually be posted when I have gotten some sleep): Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Saturday, September 13th9:30 am - 10:30 am Lecture: Gustavo Raley11:00 am - Noon Lecture: Ed Ellis11:00 am - 6:00 pm Dealers Room OpenNoon - 1:00 pm - LUNCH and talk shop with Trigg Watson at Dave & Buster's (15% off meal with badge)1:00 pm - 2:00 pm - Lecture:  Howard Blackwell2:30 pm - 3:30 pm - Lecture: Lance Rich4:00 pm - 6:00 pm - LAST CHANCE IN DEALERS ROOM!6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - DINNER BREAK7:00 pm - Wonders Theatre | House Opens7:30 pm - Champions of Illusion Gala Show at Wonders Theatre - Trigg Watson, Ellie & Jeki Yoo, Howard Blackwell, Lance Rich,  Bizzaro, Gustavo Raley, Charles Bach10:00 pm - Farewell Party at Wonders Theatre11:00 pm - 12:30 am - After Hours in Lounge on balcony  View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time stamps for this episode:00:00:17 - Tom Bohacek was a competitor in yesterday’s contest. He is also a regular attendee at this convention and tells us why it’s the only one he attends.00:13:47 - Following a lecture featuring an expert on cardistry, Ed Ellis, we chat with Vlad. He has developed an interesting character as a Vampire who also does magic. He tells us about his new book that explores how others can find their own stage persona, too. He offers us a book that will be gifted as a prize during this October.00:24:45 - Mentalism creator and author, Bob Solari, shares some stories about why he feels that this convention is better than hundreds of others he has attended.00:32:17 - Local magician, Dale Rabon, always attends this convention and in fact, only attends this convention.00:37:59 - Joan DuKore is one of the performers who performed in the close-up “Masters of Sleight of Hand” as well as last night’s gala stage show. She hails from Las Vegas but seems to be working everywhere but there as she traipses across the country.00:55:15 - Michael Healey helps us wrap up this convention with an overview of all the fun we had at this convention.01:01:02 - Chip Romero joins Michael and Scott as tells us that this is his favorite convention. He also gives us an exclusive as he shares a secret: he will be going to see Doug Henning’s widow, Debbie Henning, and buying all of items from her private possessions. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Friday, September 12th8:30 am - Registration Opens, Wonders Theatre Box Office9:00 am - Open Mic Magic Competition - One Trick, Five Minutes10:00 am - 6:00 pm Dealers Room Open10:30 am - 11:30 am - Lecture:  Jeki Yoo11:30 am - 12:30 am - Lecture: Nick Lewin12:30 pm - 1:30 pm - LUNCH BREAK1:30 pm - 2:30 pm - Lecture:  Bizzaro3:00 pm - 4:00pm -  Lecture:  David Sandy4:30 pm - 5:30 pm - Lecture: Cody Fisher4:00 pm - 6:00 pm - Dealers Room Open6:00 pm - 7:00pm - DINNER BREAK7:00 pm - Wonders Theatre | House Opens7:30 pm - Comedy Magic Cabaret Show - Nick Lewin, Dana Daniels, Bizzaro, Cody Fisher, Joan DuKore9:00 pm - 10:00 pm - “Tales from the Road” with the stars of magic10:00 pm - 12:00 am - After Hours in Lounge on balcony View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time stamps for this episode:00:00:17 - Marv Leventhal and Mark Fitzgerald talk about yesterday afternoon and last night’s convention activities (dinner, lecture and the show).00:07:13 - One of the long time south coast magicians, Mr. G, joins us to talk about this convention and why he is attending this year. We talk a bit about some of the events of the morning.00:14:45 - Dana Daniels will be one of the performers on the evening bill. He has been performing at a lot of magic club venues and from here plans to go perform at Kerry Pollock’s club in Hilton Head, South Carolina.00:29:22 - the Black Houdini talks about performing the upside down straight jacket hanging by one leg. He will be featured next year in Appleton, Wisconsin, at the annual S.A.M. convention.00:37:35 - Mike Noonan and Austin Seay discuss this convention plus TRICS in Charlotte, NC, that’s coming in November. 00:44:42 - Jamison Scott was one of the performers today and this is his first convention. Not just his first Magic At The Beach, but his first convention as he has only been doing magic for about a year. He brings joys and excitement to the podcast. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Thursday, September 11thNoon - 3:00pm  - Dealers Room Early Open2:00 pm - Registration Opens, Wonders Theatre Box Office3:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Dealers Sneak Preview Show (ten minutes per dealer)4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Dealers Room Open4:30 pm - 5:30 pm - Lecture: Eric Jones5:30 pm - 7:00 pm - DINNER Served By Magic At The Beach7:00 pm - Wonders Theatre | House Opens7:30 pm - Masters of Sleight of Hand show - Eric Jones, Jeki Yoo, Ed Ellis, Joan DuKore View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Timestamps for this episode:00:00:17 - Scott Wells in Nashville for a layover between Austin and Myrtle Beach talking about upcoming convention.00:03:41 - Charles Bach, organizer of Magic At The Beach, talks about preparations over this year to bring together this awesome line-up of talent to this convention00:13:47 - Dave Tanner, magic shop owner, talks about part of helping to organize this event plus a little about his shop which is right around the corner from the Charles Bach Wonders Theatre00:20:23 - Anthony Gerard is a dealer at this convention for his first year. But he has been active across the country for the past year having attended/lectured and/or been a dealer at 18 conventions. 00:27:01 - Michael Lair is a dealer again this year who sells unique magic that is of his own creation.00:33:00 - Bill Wells, Past International President of the I.B.M. knows a thing or three about organizing conventions. Bill shares some thoughts on why he loves this convention.00:36:35 - Howard Blackwell has been running the Holy City Magic Theatre in Charleston, South Carolina, and is performing and lecturing at this convention.00:44:48 - Lance Rich will be presenting a lecture on Magic in Las Vegas during this Saturday’s events. He wrote the book on the history of magic in Las Vegas, “Neon Dreams.” Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Fielding West has been a fixture of the Las Vegas comedy scene for over 50 years. But time has taken its toll and he now suffers from Emphysema, a form of COPD. But despite having to be strapped with an oxygen tank 24/7, Fielding has found a way to keep on his path of teaching people how to speak better on stage plus being part of the “Lance Burton and Friends” tour. He has even incorporated a way to make his audiences laugh with him at his malady. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Fielding is like the Everyready bunny that just keeps going, and going, and going. He continues to make people laugh with his antics on stage and has even just been recognized by the International Magicians Society (IMS) with yet another Merlin Award. This episode was recorded in May 2025 and long before he knew he was going to be receiving this award. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here . Enter for a Chance to Win a Copy of Castle Notes: Thoughts on the "Why" as well as the "How" by Steve Friedberg Enter with your name and email address. Hard copies will be shipped within the U.S. compliments of the author. PDF copies will go to those winners who reside outside the U.S. First Name Last Name Email Address Enter Today We respect your privacy. Your email will only be shared with the author. Thank you for entering the contest. If your name is randomly selected, then an email will be sent to you requesting your physical address where the book should be sent. Good luck!

Friday, August 29, 20254:00 PM TAOM Board Meeting6:00 PM Dinner Buffet8:00 PM Dealer Exhibition 12:00 AM Midnight MadnessSaturday, August 30,20258:00 AM Breakfast9:30 AM Lecture11:00 AM Lecture12:30 PM Lunch2:00 PM Lecture4:00 PM lecture6:30 PM TAOM General Meeting and Memoriam7:00 PM Picnic BBQ Dinner Buffet8:00 PM A Night of Prestidigitation9:30 PM TAOM 2026 Convention and Swearing in of New TAOM Officers10:00 PM Midnight Madness View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps for this episode: 00:00:17 – announcement of winners from recent contest for the book “Practicing the Art of Magic” who were: Gary Weimer, Gary Freidrich, George Reis, Nicholas Nardi, Alison Homburger, and Greg Youngs.00:02:46 – Kent Cummins joins me in the car drive to Dallas for the convention as we talk about our expectations and Kent’s experiences of past conventions.00:16:37 – Eric Hogue is the President of this year’s event and he tells us what to expect and some of the challenges he has had over the past year in planning this.00:25:54 – Clark May, owner of the Rabbit in Hat magic shop in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. This is his first T.A.O.M. convention and he tells us why it’s taken so long to get here.00:37:11 – From South Africa, Trevor Duffy joins us to talk about his nationwide lecture tour. He is a dealer at this convention.00:47:02 – a brief overview of what happened so far, then we talk with John Carter who is an avid magic collector and was one of the people to helped Chip Romero put together the Doug Henning exhibit at MAGIC Live! He tells us about that experience.00:54:38 – more updates on what the morning brought us. Scott Hollingsworth, Entertainment Director of Houston’s Magic Island, who brings us up to date on the October 1st opening of the Magic Island.01:03:14 – Gene Protas will be the T.A.O.M. President for 2026 who already has the talent planned and everything else you need to know like hotel, registration, and more.01:08:37 – Now Past President, Eric Hogue and Scott wraps up the convention as Eric tells us how he felt the day went for him. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Stitcher by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here..If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here

Larry Kahlow carries on the tradition of owning and managing a brick and mortar magic shop. And the Eagle Magic Shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is not just a magic shop. It is the oldest, longest running magic shop still operating in the United States. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Larry shares the history of the Eagle Magic Shop from it’s founding by Collins Rice Pentz to its current owner, Larry. Along the way there have been many known, well-known and unknown magicians who have darkened their doors including the famous escape artist himself, Harry Houdini. Larry shares stories passed down to him along with his own stories that now live through him. If you are interested in magic history and particularly the “life of a brick-and-mortar magic shop,” then you will love this episode. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

Mark Phillips has transitioned quite nicely from active trade show worker to full time parlor show performer. Mark has long been an “in demand” trade show worker entertaining at corporate functions and attracting large crowds for his trade show clients. But over the past few years, Mark has stayed closer to his Washington, D.C. home where he regularly performs “The Magic Duel” featuring him with another magician. Currently he is working with Meadow Perry. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize In the first part of this week’s episode, Mark tells us about the evolution of developing “The Magic Duel” and the people who have worked with him over the past few years. He explains the premise and perhaps inspires you, the listener, to consider having your own theater show with another magician. The second part of our conversation holds some really good advice and tips on booking trade shows today. The way companies book trade show magicians has radically changed with the evolution of cell phones and the internet. Sometimes it’s difficult to get through all the noise to reach the right client who books trade shows. But there are pluses and minuses on how to use social media to get booked. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here .

View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps for this episode: 00:00:14 – Kelvin Chun and Ron Ishimaro, from Hawaii, regularly attend MAGIC Live! and tell us why they enjoy this event.00:06:30 – Master Payne has been a presenter at many MAGIC Live! events and regularly performs at the Moisture Festival (Renaissance Festival) in the northwest. He tells us what he enjoyed most about this year’s event.00:19:22 – Bill Smith, from Magic Ventures, was the builder of the sets for the close-up and E.T.C. show and has always been intimately involved with MAGIC Live! He also tells us about his favorite magic convention, Abbott’s Get Together and why he always attends.00:26:50 – as the evening show is about to begin, we chat with Charlie Randall, from H&R Magic Books, and Bill Flanagan, who tells us about their perception of this convention and some of the break-out shows.00:40:09 – We wrap up the convention with Stan Allen, organizer of MAGIC Live! who tells us some the challenges and victories and surprises that made this event unique. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Stitcher by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here..If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here

View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps for this episode:00:00:20 – an update of last night’s late night activities as we chat with Matt Alexander, a Friend of the Magic Word, who talked a bit about the newest addition to the convention, the Experimental Theatrical Experience (E.T.C.)00:10:30 – Chris and Ryan Zubrick, illusionists from St. Petersburg, Florida, who talk about their experience in Las Vegas and the shows they’ve seen and some of their upcoming plans for their theater this year.00:17:17 – Nancy Henniing, Doug Henning’s sister from Canada, tells us some stories about growing up with Doug as she is three years younger than Doug.00:31:46 – Wayne Alan, owner of the North Historic Theatre in Virginia, was a friend of Doug Henning and he tells us some stories about Doug.00:40:42 – Lanny Kibbey helped put together Chip Romero’s gallery of Doug Henning memorabilia. He tells us about what it took to put all of this together. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Stitcher by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here..If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here

View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps for this episode:00:00:19 – Join Scott as he patiently waits in the Chicago airport to depart for Las Vegas and MAGIC Live!00:06:06 - at the Orleans Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas for the opening night party, we first chat with my friend, Ian Rowland from England, as we share our excitement about being in Las Vegas and preparing for this convention. We chat also a bit about Carrot Top.00:12:36 – James Dimmare is dressed as a pirate from Treasure Island at the dress up party. He will be hosting some of the Focus Sessions.00:15:53 – MP Fisher and Robb Fisher (a Friend of the Magic Word) are dressed for evening as Rocky Balboa and Indiana Jones. They often attend MAGIC Live! and listen to the podcast during their commutes.00:21:08 – Rob Tarry and Josh G. from Austin talk about the overwhelming experience of attending their first MAGIC Live!00:26:01 – Comedy magician, John Archer, from England, is a frequent attendee at this event and is always a delightful guest.00:30:36 – Julie Eng is the Executive Director of Genii and tells us what new looks the magazine has and how Jim Steinmeyer has brought his vision to the editorial staff, too.00:36:16 – From the Magic Land of Allakazam, Greg Wilson, brings us up to date on the video digitization and some stories from the historical archives.00:40:21 – from the stage of the first day in the first session, Stan Allen welcomes the registrants to this year’s MAGIC Live!00:42:22 – Scott DeYoung and Alex Rogers met at this convention many years ago and became friends. They reunite each year at this event.00:53:00 – Mark Mason, magician extraordinaire, lost a roller case of props and hopes that someone who is attending this convention and possibly saw something that will help him recover the contents.00:55:48 – Michael Chaut, co-producer of Monday Night Magic, talks about the first day of activities here. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Stitcher by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here..If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2ND 2025 9:30AM REGISTRATION OPENS at the Abbott Plant 10:00AM ABBOTT'S DEALERS ROOM OPENS (Requires Registration) 11:00AM LECTURE Marc DeSouza (Requires Registration) 1:00PM LECTURE Artem Shchukin (Requires Registration) 1:00PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic Showroom Theatre $5 3:00PM LECTURE Lance Burton & Friends (Requires Registration) 3:30PM MAGIC SHOW at Abbott's Magic Showroom Theatre $5 6:00PM-7:45PM DINNER (on your own) 7:45PM PRESHOW LIVE ORGAN MUSIC - by John Sturk 8:00PM GET-TOGETHER STAGE SHOW - Saturday Night Gala Show     Featuring Greg Frewin & Alexandra, Dan Sperry, John Shyrock     Requires Registration or Tickets 10:00PM ABBOTT'S DEALERS ROOM RE-OPENS (Requires Registration) 10:30PM ABBOTT'S PERFORMER AWARDS (Requires Registration) View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time Stamps: These will be posted after I have gotten some sleep. Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Stitcher by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here..If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here