The Magic Word Podcast

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 Kent@kentcummins.com 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 wow@stevefriedbergmagic.com 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.