Magician's Workshop

 Dr. Todd interviews Day Mori, a talented magician and performer, who shares his journey into the world of magic, his experiences at the Magic Castle, and his passion for escapology. Day discusses the importance of representation in magic, his recent performances at the Mystify Magic Show, and his aspirations to blend music with magic. He also reflects on his viral success on social media platforms like TikTok and the supportive community he has found there. In this engaging conversation, Day Mori and Dr. Todd explore themes of humanity, vulnerability, and the transformative power of magic. They discuss the importance of connection and acceptance in a world filled with negativity, emphasizing the need for kindness and understanding. Day shares insights from his experiences in escapology and performance, highlighting how magic can bridge gaps between people and foster a sense of community. The conversation concludes with Day's aspirations for the future and his commitment to using his art to inspire others.

6/6/25 • 25:32

Want to perform magic that actually connects? Todd Day breaks it all down. From the Magic Castle to high-end restaurants, Todd shares how he creates moments that matter—and why it's all about the audience. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Todd interviews professional magician Todd Day, who shares his inspiring journey into the world of magic—from his early influences to rediscovering the art as an adult. Todd talks about the rigorous audition process at the legendary Magic Castle, the difference between the California and New York magic scenes, and what it takes to truly succeed as a professional performer. He dives into: ✨ The importance of audience connection over cleverness What it’s really like to perform at The Magic Castle ️ Working the upscale restaurant circuit Customizing tricks for laypeople (not magicians!) ️ Real talk for aspiring pros who want to make magic their career If you're serious about magic—or just fascinated by what it takes to perform at the highest level—this is one you won’t want to miss. Connect with Todd Day: Instagram: https://instagram.com/todddaymagic Facebook: https://facebook.com/todddaymagic Website: https://todddaymagic.com Like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the world of professional magic!    #ToddDay #MagicCastle #ProfessionalMagician #MagicInterview #ToddTheMagicFox #CloseUpMagic #RestaurantMagician #MagicPodcast #MagicianAdvice

5/26/25 • 43:03

In this episode, Justin Purcell, a Chicago-based magician, shares insights into his journey in magic, his unique performance style, and the evolution of the Chicago Magic Lounge. He discusses the importance of improv in his performances, his approach to engaging audiences, and his favorite tricks. The conversation highlights the blend of comedy and magic in Purcell's work, showcasing his commitment to creating memorable experiences for his audience. In this engaging conversation, Justin Purcell shares insights into the world of magic, discussing the essentials of walk-around performances, the challenges and joys of being a professional magician, and the importance of keeping magic fresh and entertaining. He reflects on memorable gigs, offers advice for aspiring magicians, and shares a unique trick that exemplifies his style. The discussion highlights the dedication and creativity involved in the art of magic, making it clear that it is both a passion and a profession.

5/18/25 • 29:01

  Get your Tickets to the "Good Liar" here: https://www.agoodliar.com/ Magi-Whirl 2025: https://ibmring50.org/lecturers/ New Merch! https://dr-todd-shop.fourthwall.com/ In this episode of Magician's Workshop, Dr. Todd interviews Brian Curry, a renowned magician and mentalist known as The Good Liar. They discuss Brian's journey into magic, his influences, and his transition from close-up magic to stage performances. Brian shares insights on developing a unique mentalism act that avoids traditional tropes, the importance of community in magic, and his experiences with the Magi-Whirl festival. The conversation also touches on marketing strategies for magicians and the significance of storytelling in performances. Takeaways -Brian Curry's journey into magic began as a way to connect with others. -The influence of mentors like Al Curlett shaped Brian's approach to magic. -Transitioning from close-up to stage magic requires practice and experience. -Brian's mentalism act focuses on authenticity and avoiding psychic tropes. -The story of Patrick Walms highlights the complexities of the magic community. -Building a career in magic involves both performance and marketing skills. -Magi-Whirl offers a unique blend of public shows and magician lectures. -Networking and word-of-mouth are crucial for success in the magic industry. -Mistakes are part of the learning process for new magicians. -Brian emphasizes the importance of having a backup plan for financial security. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brian Curry and His Journey 03:33 The Magic Duel: A Unique Performance Concept 06:30 The Transition from Close-Up to Stage Magic 09:32 Building a Mentalism Act: Philosophy and Approach 12:38 The Impact of Community and Mentorship in Magic 15:27 Marketing Strategies for Magic Shows 18:33 The Story of Patrick Walms: A Lesson in Life and Magic 21:33 Creating a Public Show: Challenges and Strategies 24:39 Building an Email List and Engaging with Audiences 27:29 The Importance of Loyal Followers in the Magic Community 29:07 Exploring Magic World Festival 35:53 Maximizing Your Convention Experience 40:02 The Art of School Shows 40:18 Rapid Fire Insights

5/11/25 • 38:47

Dr. Todd interviews The Amazing Bibik, a seasoned (mostly with oregano) magician with over 40 years of experience. They discuss Bibik's journey into magic, the importance of comedy in performances, and the unique magic scene in Chicago. Bibik shares insights on performing in restaurants, the challenges of hypnosis, and the significance of connecting with audiences through names. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks and finding one's voice in the world of magic, making this a valuable discussion for aspiring magicians and fans alike.   Takeaways The Amazing Bibik has over 40 years of experience in magic.He blends comedy and magic to create unforgettable performances.His journey into magic began at a young age, inspired by a school magician.Performing in bars and restaurants requires a unique approach to engage audiences.Chicago has a rich history of magic and is known for its vibrant magic scene.The importance of helping assistants on stage was emphasized by a mentor.Comedy is essential in magic to keep audiences entertained.Hypnosis shows require a different skill set compared to traditional magic shows.Building a personal style in magic is a journey that takes time.Learning names and connecting with the audience enhances the magic experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Amazing Bibik02:37 The Early Days of Magic05:33 The Journey into Professional Magic08:20 The Chicago Magic Scene11:35 Performing in Restaurants and Bars14:30 The Role of Audience Engagement17:29 Becoming the House Magician at Chicago Magic Lounge20:27 The Unique Chicago Magic Experience23:25 Adapting to the Bar Environment28:10 The Art of Performance and Adaptability32:32 The Dynamics of Hypnosis Shows37:29 Comedy in Magic: The Essential Ingredient41:38 Memorizing Names: The Bibik Method43:25 The Bar Magic Experience46:25 The Surprising Simplicity of Magic49:32 Finding Your Voice in Magic50:22 Imagining a Life Without Magic52:36 Advice for Aspiring Magicians53:16 Favorite Magic Books and Influences55:30 Final Thoughts and Advice

5/4/25 • 53:52

Holy Smokes! This one is a doozy. Jonah drops bombs of advice for every level of magician! In this episode of Magician's Workshop, Dr. Todd interviews Jonah Babins, a prominent magician and podcaster, who shares his journey into the world of magic, the evolution of his career, and insights from his experiences. They discuss the importance of community in magic, the challenges of balancing multiple roles, and the structure and benefits of Jonah's coaching program, the Mastermind. Jonah emphasizes the significance of building proof in one's craft and offers valuable advice for aspiring magicians. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication required to succeed in the magic industry,along with the importance of continuous learning and growth. Full episode in video available on www.youtube.com/@themwpodcast Jonah's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscourseinMagic  Jonah's Website: https://www.torontomagiccompany.com/ 

4/27/25 • 65:03

This is an interview for the record books; this guest is an absolute legend. Whether new to magic or a seasoned pro, this interview has insights for everyone at every level. Dr. Todd speaks with celebrated magician Benjamin Barnes about his journey in the world of magic. They discuss Barnes' early inspirations, the importance of community, and the role of mentorship in his development as a performer. The conversation delves into the creation of the Chicago Magic Lounge, the significance of teamwork in magic, and the evolution of performance styles. Barnes shares insights on handling mistakes on stage, the value of magic books, and offers advice for aspiring magicians. The episode highlights the magic community's rich history and the importance of engaging with audiences.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Magic and Community01:16 Guest introduction03:03 Early Memories and Career Path in Magic06:12 The Chicago Magic Scene and Early Performances09:27 Creating Chicago Magic: A Journey of Growth12:19 The Role of Teamwork in Magic15:08 Mentorship and Learning from Eugene Berger18:17 The Chicago Magic Lounge: A New Era21:30 The Role of an Entertainment Director24:17 Selecting Performers for the Lounge27:16 Guest Experience at the Magic Lounge30:17 Old Techniques in Modern Magic34:56 The Importance of Books in Magic36:26 Handling Mistakes on Stage42:10 Advice for Aspiring Magicians49:00 Pursuing Your Dreams

4/20/25 • 47:06

Don't forget to Follow/Subscribe.  Video version on www.youtube.com/@themwpodcast This magician is truly one-of-a-kind! We sit down with Lindsey Noel to uncover how she made the leap from designing costumes for the screen to dazzling audiences as a standout magician. They dive into the power of character, the art of scripting, and why what you wear on stage matters just as much as what you say. Lindsey opens up about connecting with audiences, staying authentic, and what every new magician really needs to know. Plus, there's a magical detour into the world of Dungeons & Dragons! This episode is a celebration of creativity, performance, and the idea that magic is truly for everyone. Takeaways -Lindsey Noel loves going to the dentist, showcasing her unique personality.-Magic is for everyone, not just magicians.-Having a background in costume design gives magicians an edge in performance.-Costuming is crucial in creating a character for magic acts.-Transitioning from film to magic can enhance a performer's skill set.-Crafting original performances is key to standing out in magic.-Scripting helps structure magic acts, but improvisation is also essential.-Audience interactions can lead to memorable moments in performances.-New magicians should focus on developing their unique style rather than following trends.-Dungeons and Dragons can be a fun and creative outlet for performers.   Chapters 00:00 The Dentist Dilemma: A Love Story00:00 The Magic of Family Traditions01:16 The Art of Performance: Crafting a Magical Experience03:45 From Film to Magic: A Journey of Creativity06:35 Costume Design: The Unsung Hero of Performance09:48 The Evolution of Magic: From Virtual to Live Shows12:45 The Importance of Emceeing: Setting the Stage for Success20:52 Sources of Inspiration25:22 Crafting Unique Presentations31:23 The Art of Scripting Magic39:02 Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Magic43:04 The Gluten-Free Struggle43:28 Scripting vs. Improvisation in Performance44:26 Advice for New Magicians45:15 Costuming Choices for Magicians47:19 Memorable Audience Interactions50:34 Coincidences and Magic52:25 Dungeons & Dragons and Character Creation    

4/13/25 • 58:22

Follow and Share New Episodes Weekly All Hail the King! Bill Herz explores the fascinating world of magic, particularly in the corporate sector. Bill shares his journey as a corporate magician, the evolution of magic in business, and the importance of audience engagement. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of performing for corporate audiences, the art of teaching magic to executives, and memorable experiences that highlight the magic community's camaraderie. Bill also shares insights on the significance of pranks in magic, the value of books for learning, and the essence of magic in keeping the wonder alive for audiences. Takeaways -Magic is for everyone, not just magicians.-The magic community is welcoming and supportive.-Corporate events require a different approach to magic.-Teaching magic can enhance communication skills in business.-Pranks are a fun and integral part of the magic community.-Books allow magicians to develop their own style and character.-Understanding your audience is key to a successful performance.-Magic can humanize executives and break down barriers.-The essence of magic is to entertain and inspire wonder.-Networking within the magic community leads to lifelong friendships. Chapters 00:00 The Accessibility of Magic Heroes01:08 The Journey into Magic03:43 The Magic Community and Its Support06:49 Transitioning to Professional Magic08:54 The Birth of Magic Corp12:04 Corporate Magic: A Unique Niche14:58 Building a Roster of Talent17:45 Understanding Corporate Audiences20:33 The Importance of Connection in Magic27:55 The Art of Corporate Entertainment30:16 Magic as a Tool for CEOs35:01 Memorable Experiences with High-Profile Clients40:05 Performing for Legends: A Night to Remember48:49 The Prankster Magician54:17 Books and the Magic of Learning  

4/6/25 • 59:19

Hello Listeners!  We have a treat today!  The super cool Paige Thompson joins us today! Paige Thompson is a world-class magician known for her captivating performances and unique style. They explore Paige's journey into the world of magic, her experiences as a female magician, and her role as a resident magician at the Chicago Magic Lounge. The discussion also explores the challenges and triumphs of being a magician, the importance of community support, and the rise of wedding magic in the United States. Paige shares her insights on performance, preparation, and the significance of the Mystify Magic Festival, which showcases female magicians. This episode is a celebration of magic as an art form accessible to everyone. takeaways Magic is for everyone, not just magicians. Paige became a full-time magician about 10 years ago. Her first magic kit sparked a lifelong passion for magic. Learning from other magicians is crucial for growth. Friendship and support in the magic community are invaluable. Transitioning from Branson to Chicago opened new opportunities. Chicago has a rich history of close-up magic. Being a resident magician provides stability and opportunities. Wedding magic is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. Preparation is key to a successful performance   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Magic Podcast01:50 Meet Paige Thompson: A Rising Star in Magic02:49 The Early Days: First Memories of Magic05:08 Becoming a Professional Magician08:23 Learning from the Best: Assisting Other Magicians09:38 Friendship with Dan Sperry: A Heartwarming Story15:06 Transitioning from Branson to Chicago19:23 Chicago Style Magic: What Makes It Unique?20:20 Life as a Resident Magician at Chicago Magic Lounge23:07 The Rise of Wedding Magic in the U.S.23:53 The Dynamics of Performing in Restaurants27:57 Finding and Creating Magic Material28:25 The Mystify Magic Festival: A Groundbreaking Event35:02 The Role of an Entertainment Director44:00 Advice for Aspiring Magicians49:35 Overcoming Performance Challenges

3/30/25 • 51:42

Hello Magical People! This week, we have the pleasure of talking to the charming and talented Matthew Teague. He shares his journey through the world of magic, from his early inspirations and memories to his professional career. He discusses the importance of community, authenticity, and continuous learning in the craft of magic. Teague reflects on his experiences performing in various settings, the challenges he faced, and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. His insights into the magic community and the evolution of his performance style provide a unique perspective on the art of magic. Takeaways Matthew Teague blends classic sleight of hand with modern ideas. AI tools can enhance creativity and inspiration in magic. The magic community is small and tight-knit, fostering collaboration. Reconnecting with fellow magicians can reignite passion and creativity. Wisconsin's magic scene is growing and becoming a hotspot. Early memories of magic often shape a magician's journey. Finding mentors is crucial for growth in the magic field. Performing in various settings helps develop stage presence. Authenticity in performance is key to connecting with the audience. Building relationships with the audience enhances the magic experience. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of a Magician01:54 The Magic Scene in Wisconsin04:47 Early Memories and Influences in Magic07:36 The Path to Professional Magic10:18 The Importance of Community and Mentorship13:02 Developing Skills and Stage Presence15:52 The Transition to California and New Opportunities18:41 Building a Career in Magic21:42 The Role of Comfort and Authenticity in Performance32:29 The Art of Performance: Mastering Magic36:03 Theatrical Techniques: Learning from the Masters38:07 Building Tension: The Power of Deliberate Movement39:08 Innovative Techniques: The Lap as a Stage40:22 The Evolution of Magic on Television41:34 Dressing for Success: The Magician's Wardrobe44:51 Creating Connections: The Importance of Audience Engagement45:30 Advice to My Younger Self: Trust and Gratitude46:36 Memorable Moments: The Unexpected in Live Shows49:41 The Influence of David Blaine: A Masterclass in Mystery

3/23/25 • 55:32

Hello Magical Friends!   This week, Dr. Todd interviews magician Chris Wheel, who shares his journey into the world of magic, the intersection of psychology and performance, and the evolution of his shows to cater to family audiences. Chris discusses the importance of storytelling in magic, the role of technology, and the vibrant magic community in New York. He also provides insights into creating magic products and the significance of personal connection in performances. takeaways Chris Wheel has been performing magic since 2007. His grandmother introduced him to magic at a young age. Psychology plays a significant role in his magic performances. He focuses on creating family-friendly magic shows. Chris emphasizes the importance of storytelling in magic. He believes in the journey of creating magic rather than just the tricks themselves. Magic can be a tool for building rapport, especially with children. He has created several magic products available through various platforms. Chris discusses the importance of adapting magic for different audiences. He encourages magicians to think about the 'why' behind their performan

3/16/25 • 67:37

Hey Magical People, Today, Dana Herz shares her journey in the world of magic and mentalism, discussing the importance of audience interaction, the role of magic in corporate events, and the evolution of magic in the digital age. She emphasizes the significance of character development in performances and offers valuable advice for aspiring magicians, highlighting the need for personality and connection over technical skill alone. Dana also reflects on her experiences creating engaging virtual magic shows and the future of magic as a form of entertainment. Takeaways -Dana Herz emphasizes the importance of personality in magic.-Audience interaction is crucial for a successful performance.-Magic can be a powerful tool for corporate events.-Cold reading demonstrates the shared human experience.-Dana's journey in magic has been shaped by her upbringing in a show business family.-Creating engaging virtual magic experiences can enhance audience connection.-Character development is key for long-term success in magic.-The future of magic lies in demonstrating humanity and connection.-Aspiring magicians should not be discouraged by traditional norms.-Mixing simple tricks with complex ones can help find your unique voice.    

3/9/25 • 53:15

Hello Magical People!  It was an amazing time talking to Ben Train, who is a real pro mentalist with the bonafides to prove it. He shares his journey through the world of magic, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and the evolution of his craft from card magic to stand-up mentalism. He discusses his early experiences with magic, influential literature, and the impact of family on his career choices. Ben also provides valuable insights into navigating the corporate magic scene, determining one's worth as a performer, and effective lead generation strategies. His advice for aspiring magicians highlights the necessity of practice, audience engagement, and the significance of a strong show structure.

3/2/25 • 43:42

Hey Magic People!  He may not be a household name, but this Magician has an incredible story! Jeff Corn shares his journey through the world of magic, from his early experiences with sleight of hand to his professional performances in Las Vegas and beyond. He discusses the importance of understanding magic history, particularly the influence of legendary magicians like Johnny Thompson. Jeff also reflects on his experiences performing at the Magic Castle and his aspirations for future projects, emphasizing the joy and community found within the magic world. Don't forget to leave us a review! It makes a huge difference! Show Takeaways Jeff's first exposure to sleight of hand was through a video called Impossible Card Magic. He learned a lot from lifelong performers at a magic shop in Albuquerque. Jeff's journey took him from Albuquerque to Las Vegas, where he performed for tourists. The pandemic shifted Jeff's focus, leading him to move back east. Understanding the history of magic is crucial for both hobbyists and professionals. Johnny Thompson is considered one of the most important magicians of the last 50 years. Performing at the Magic Castle was a significant milestone for Jeff. Jeff uses color-coded Post-it notes to organize his magic routines. He believes that magic is an intimate experience that doesn't always translate well to video. Jeff is excited about future projects and the potential for growth in the Jacksonville magic scene.  

2/23/25 • 69:56

In this episode, renowned magician Andy Gladwin takes us on a journey through his multifaceted career. As a co-founder of Vanishing Inc, one of the largest magic retailers, Andy delves into the company’s origins and mission to improve the art of magic. He shares insights into his personal life as a busy magician and father, reflects on his early influences and transition from computer programming to professional magic, and discusses his experiences performing at prestigious events and on shows like Penn & Teller: Fool Us. Andy also talks about his favorite card tricks, the importance of proper crediting in magic, and the creation and evolution of Vanishing Inc, including its masterclass and live events. Throughout, listeners get a unique glimpse into the dedication, collaboration, and passion that fuel Andy’s contributions to the magic community.

2/16/25 • 49:31

In this bonus minisode, Dr. Todd shares his experience of receiving a standing ovation at his first magic show. He reveals the five key strategies that contributed to his success: pre-show engagement, structuring the show for maximum effect, focusing on quality over quantity, developing a narrative, and connecting with the audience. From performing simple card tricks beforehand to building a cohesive story and practicing tricks until perfection, Dr. Todd explains how these elements made his performance memorable and engaging.

2/14/25 • 04:37

Hello Magical Friends! In this episode, Dr. Todd and Brandon explore the multifaceted world of magic, discussing its power to inspire, connect, and teach valuable life lessons. Brandon shares his journey from a young magic enthusiast to a professional speaker, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and the 'impossibility mindset' in both magic and life. They delve into the role of overconfidence in decision-making, the significance of building connections through performance, and how magic can serve as a tool for personal and professional growth. The discussion highlights the accessibility of magic and its potential to enhance everyday experiences, making it a valuable skill for anyone.   Takeaways Magic is a powerful tool for inspiration and connection.The journey into magic often starts with a moment of awe.Storytelling enhances the impact of magic performances.Overconfidence can lead to poor decision-making.Magic can be used to teach important life lessons.Building relationships is key to engaging an audience.The 'certainty pocket' helps in decision-making.Magic can improve daily life and work experiences.Finding your 'why' is crucial for performing magic.Magic is a universal language that transcends borders.  

2/9/25 • 39:02

Hello, my Magical People! In this excellent episode,  Leah Orleans shares her multifaceted journey as a circus performer, entertainment marketer, and the driving force behind the Mystify Magic Festival. She discusses her passion for creating interactive experiences, the importance of diversity in magic, and the innovative approaches implemented in the festival. Leah emphasizes the significance of community and connection in the entertainment industry while addressing the challenges of organizing such a large-scale event. The conversation provides insights into the festival's structure, goals, and the exciting opportunities it presents for attendees. Takeaways -Leah Orleans is a full-time circus performer and entertainment marketer.-Creating engaging experiences for audiences is a key part of Leah's work.-Diversity in magic is essential for inspiring future generations.-The Mystify Magic Festival aims to attract new attendees to magic conventions.-Leah emphasizes the importance of community and connection in the entertainment industry.-The festival will feature a variety of events and sessions tailored to different interests.-Innovative technology will enhance the festival experience for attendees.-Challenges in organizing the festival include managing a large team and logistics.-Leah's journey reflects the importance of mentorship and support in the arts.-The festival is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all participants.  

2/2/25 • 42:55

Rachel Wax shares her journey from a career in fashion to becoming a full-time magician. She discusses her early experiences with magic, the challenges of transitioning careers, and the unique environment of Speakeasy Magic. Rachel also delves into the importance of audience interaction, character development in performances, and the significance of community within the magic world. The conversation culminates in an exciting preview of the upcoming Mystify Magic Festival, aimed at creating a safe space for everyone regardless of orientation, gender, or race.

1/27/25 • 30:05

Full Video can be found on www.youtube.com/@themwpodcast Dr. Todd interviews Brielle, a professional magician who shares her unique journey from studying psychology and German to becoming a magician. Brielle discusses her experiences on the show 'Fool Us', the importance of connection in magic, and her involvement in community healing through magic. She offers insights into the challenges of performing in restaurants, mentalism's role, and magic's popularity in Chicago. The conversation highlights the emotional aspects of magic and the joy it brings to both performers and audiences.   key takeaways Brielle's journey from psychology to magic showcases the importance of following one's passion. Education played a significant role in shaping Brielle's career as a magician. The experience of performing on 'Fool Us' was both terrifying and rewarding for Brielle. Magic serves as a powerful tool for connection and healing in communities. Brielle emphasizes the importance of reading the room and understanding audience dynamics. Restaurant magic requires a unique approach to engage diners without disrupting their experience. Mentalism allows Brielle to utilize her psychology background in her performances. Brielle's love for close-up magic stems from its focus on personal connection with the audience. The Healing Appalachia event highlights the role of magic in supporting recovery and community. Brielle's story inspires aspiring magicians to embrace their unique paths and experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background01:32 Education Journey and Fulbright Experience04:19 Transition to Magic and Early Influences06:59 Developing a Magic Career09:58 The Impact of 'Fool Us' on Career12:59 Magic as a Connection and Performance15:59 The Reality of Magic and Audience Expectations18:58 Reflections on Fame and Personal Growth25:18 The Magic of Festivals and Performances28:14 Exploring the World of Close-Up Magic32:38 Tips for Restaurant Magic36:52 The Role of Psychology in Magic43:48 Healing Appalachia: Magic for a Cause46:21 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors47:48 intro sound final.mp4

1/19/25 • 48:04

Video version on www.youtube.com/@themwpodcast In this episode, Erik Casey, a professional magician and creator, shares his journey from a young hobbyist to a recognized figure in the magic community. He discusses the creation and evolution of his signature trick, Poker Test, and its mega successful sequel, Poker Test 2.0. Erik emphasizes the importance of originality in magic while acknowledging the influence of other magicians. He also talks about his future projects, including a new trick and a book, and his aspirations to perform on Penn and Teller's Fool Us. The conversation highlights Erik's passion for magic, creativity, and community involvement, particularly in the upcoming Mystified Magic Festival. Takeaways Erik Casey began practicing magic at the age of eight. He emphasizes the importance of acting and presentation in magic. Poker Test was inspired by gambling demonstrations and evolved over time. Collaboration with other magicians has been crucial to Erik's success. The transition from Poker Test to Poker Test 2.0 involved learning from past experiences. Erik believes in encouraging magicians to create their own gimmicks. He values originality in magic and strives to inspire others. The Mystified Magic Festival is a significant upcoming event for Erik. Erik's book, Casey's Notes, is set to release soon with unique content. He aims to perform on Penn and Teller's Fool Us, focusing on entertaining magic. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Equipment Talk00:00 Cooking and Sous Vide Enthusiasm00:00 Magic and Dentistry Connection00:00 The Podcast Concept and Audience Engagement00:00 Eric Casey's Background and Achievements01:37 The Power of AI in Magic Introductions03:17 The Journey of Poker Test: From Concept to Creation04:08 Collaborative Magic: The Role of Mentorship16:36 Navigating Success and Challenges in Magic Creation32:31 Originality vs. Adaptation in Magic Performance36:57 The Art of Oil and Water46:50 The Journey into Magic52:40 The Transition from Law to Magic56:19 Creating for Penn and Teller01:05:02 The Passion of Magicians01:05:02 Hobbies Beyond Magic01:07:41 Craftsmanship in Magic01:08:38 Innovations in Magic Products01:08:49 Upcoming Projects and Events01:10:53 The Future of Magic and Community01:13:22 Personal Reflections and Aspirations01:22:03 intro sound final.mp4  

1/12/25 • 83:07

In this engaging conversation, magician Carisa Hendrix shares her journey from an introverted child to a celebrated performer known for her character Lucy Darling. She discusses her early inspirations, the challenges she faced, and her record-breaking fire-eating feat. Carisa reflects on the evolution of her performance style, the importance of character work, and how her experiences shaped her artistic voice. She also delves into the current zeitgeist of entertainment, exploring themes of meta-modernity and the significance of connecting with audiences through relatable art. As she looks to the future, Carisa expresses excitement about her upcoming projects and the continued growth of her character.

1/6/25 • 73:39

In this previously unpublished clip, Erik Tait discusses the creative process behind his unique magic routine featuring Nick the Duck. He shares insights into how he transformed a simple wooden duck into a memorable character that engages audiences through humor and storytelling. The discussion highlights the importance of status play in performance and how the backstory of the duck enhances audience connection and participation.

1/1/25 • 05:56

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Todd interviews Eric Tate, an award-winning magician and comedian, who shares his journey into the world of magic, his experiences performing at various venues, and the impact of television on his career. Eric discusses his role at Penguin Magic, the process of creating and producing magic products, and the importance of teaching magic effectively. He also highlights memorable moments from Penguin Live and shares exciting upcoming projects, including a new book and a unique magic effect.

12/28/24 • 62:14

In this premiere of The Magician’s Workshop, meet Dr. Todd—a dentist by trade, magician by passion—as he shares his personal journey into the world of magic. From discovering his first magic set as a child to mastering sleight-of-hand tricks that transformed his professional and personal life, Dr. Todd explores how magic has been a constant source of wonder, creativity, and connection. Hear about the mentors, moments, and experiences that shaped his magical path, and learn why he’s on a mission to interview magicians who perform, create, and teach this incredible artform. Whether you’re a seasoned magician or just curious about magic, this episode sets the stage for an enchanting journey into the stories and secrets behind the tricks. Join us, because magic is for everyone—and the real magic is you.

12/24/24 • 10:11