Magician's Workshop

✨ In this episode of The Magician’s Workshop, Dr. Todd sits down with world-renowned magician Alexandra Duvivier to explore her incredible journey through the art of magic. From growing up as the daughter of legendary magician Dominique Duvivier, to winning the prestigious Mandrake d’Or, to fooling Penn & Teller, Alexandra shares the lessons, challenges, and philosophies that have shaped her career. Topics we cover include: Alexandra’s path from childhood inspiration to professional magician The importance of storytelling and curiosity in magic Her experience fooling Penn & Teller on Fool Us What winning the Mandrake d’Or meant to her career The responsibility magicians have in creating meaningful experiences Whether you’re a magician, a fan of live performance, or simply curious about the power of wonder, this conversation offers deep insights and inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with the world’s top magicians. Like the video if you enjoyed the episode. Check out our merch to support the show #AlexandraDuvivier #PennAndTellerFoolUs #MagiciansWorkshopPodcast Thumbnail picture of Alexandra Duvivier by Adeline Galland

Why do we believe in the impossible? In this episode of The Magician’s Workshop, Dr. Todd sits down with magician, historian, and psychologist Professor Peter Lamont to uncover the fascinating connection between magic, the mind, and critical thinking. Discover how magicians influence perception, the psychology behind belief systems, and why understanding how we think can be even more magical than the tricks themselves. Peter also reveals the ethical challenges magicians face, the surprising history of classic illusions, and how critical thinking can change the way we see the world—on stage and off. Peter Lamont is known for his groundbreaking research on the history and psychology of magic, as well as his insights into why humans are drawn to mystery and wonder. ✨ In this episode you’ll learn: The hidden psychology magicians use to shape audience perception Why critical thinking is vital in magic and everyday life The ethics of deception in entertainment How belief systems shape the way we experience magic Subscribe for more interviews with magicians, creators, and thinkers from around the world.

In this episode of The Magician’s Workshop, Max Davidson shares his inspiring journey from discovering magic as a kid to becoming a professional magician in New York City. Max opens up about the competitive nature of the industry, the value of mentorship, and how producing stand-up magic shows helped shape his career. He also dives into how memory techniques influence his performance, the challenge of juggling multiple passions, and what he sees for the future of magic. Whether you're a fellow magician or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with insight, heart, and a little bit of sleight-of-hand.

What’s it really like to be a magician in Las Vegas? In this episode of The Magician’s Workshop, Dr. Todd sits down with Chris Hanna, a resident Vegas magician, to pull back the curtain on the reality of performing in the entertainment capital of the world. Chris shares his incredible journey , what it’s like to perform for celebrities, the importance of networking, and how to stand out in one of the most competitive magic environments on Earth. This conversation is packed with personal stories, career advice, and real talk every aspiring magician needs to hear. ️ REP THE MAGIC! Check out official Magician’s Workshop merch here: https://magiciansworkshop-shop.fourthwall.com/ SUBSCRIBE for weekly interviews with working magicians, behind-the-scenes insights, and tips to level up your magic Like, comment, and share to help spread the magic! Takeaways Chris Hanna is a full-time magician based in Las Vegas. He transitioned from dentistry to magic, performing for VIPs and celebrities. Networking is crucial in the magic industry, especially in Las Vegas. Presentation and appearance significantly impact a magician's success. Chris emphasizes the importance of being relatable and approachable. He shares experiences performing for celebrities like Tom Brady and Justin Timberlake. Magic is still popular, but the landscape is competitive and corporate. Building relationships with clients can lead to repeat business. Chris advises aspiring magicians to focus on their unique style and presentation. He believes in the power of free performances to build a reputation. #LasVegasMagic #ChrisHanna #MagiciansWorkshop #StreetMagic #MagicPodcast #MagicianLife #DrTodd #SleightOfHand #CelebrityMagician

In this episode of Magician’s Workshop, Dr. Todd sits down with professional magician Ben Nemzer to explore his incredible journey from a young magic enthusiast to a performer at world-class venues like the Magic Castle. ✨ Ben shares how attending magic camp sparked his passion, what it was like apprenticing under legendary magician Steve Cohen, and how he overcame imposter syndrome while finding his voice in magic. From the power of classic tricks like the Invisible Deck to the importance of building real audience connections, Ben’s insights are both inspiring and practical for magicians and creatives alike. Subscribe for more interviews with top magicians Like the video if you love magic Comment your favorite takeaway from Ben’s story! Connect with Ben Nemzer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennemzer/ Website: https://www.bennemzer.com/ ️ Hosted by Dr. Todd — dentist by day, magician by night. #BenNemzer #MagiciansWorkshop #MagicCastle #InvisibleDeck #SteveCohen #MagicInterview #ProfessionalMagician #MagicCommunity

 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.

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

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.

  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

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

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/ 

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

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    

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  

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

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

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

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.    

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.

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.