The Magic Word Podcast

Episodes

• 
  995: Richard Cohn - Coney Island Memories 22.10.2026 59m

  The smell of the sea, the noise of the roller coaster, the sounds of laughter, the taste of a nickel hot dog, and the applause from the audiences watching magic shows in Coney Island around the turn of the 20th century. Those are some of the senses you will think about as you listen to this week’s podcast. Richard Cohn takes us way back in time when “Dime Museum Harry” Houdini was still performing there with his brother, Theo (or “Dash”) for 12 cents a week in the late 1880’ and 90’s. There were so many others who came through Coney Island trying to “make it” in showbiz. One of those who “made it” and stuck around New York was the “Coney Island Fakir” Al Flosso, who performed and operated a magic shop there. 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 This week, Richard Cohn makes history come alive as he gives us dates and names of famous (and not to famous) magicians who spent time in Coney Island. He talks about the many rides and museums there, as well. Al Flosso, The Coney Island Fakir, found notoriety in and around New York as a frequent performer at high end shows plus children’s parties. He was also a frequent guest on the Ed Sullivan television show. Details on these and many other stories are in this week’s episode. Coney Island Memories Scott Wells with Richard Cohn Download 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.
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  994: Michael Finney - Finney to the Bone 15.10.2026 1h 8m

  Michael Finney was explicitly voted by his peers as one of the Top 10 Comedy Magicians in the World in the April 2008 edition of MAGIC magazine. You will get no argument from me on that account. Michael is funny and has spread joy and happiness worldwide. Known for his trademark overgrown blond flattop haircut, booming voice, and distinct lack of pretense, Finney masterfully walks the line between a hardened stand-up comic and a top-tier illusionist. He is a magician, comedian, philanthropist, creator, traveler, producer, entrepreneur and overall a generally nice, sensitive family man. He has appeared at nearly all of the major magic conventions and for many years he performed aboard cruise ships, where he could still be today had it not been for COVID shutting down those opportunities. 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 Although not mentioned in our conversation this week, it should be known that Michael is a Past International President of the International Brotherhood of Magicians (I.B.M.) and the creator of “Dry Heat Hot Sauce”, two completely separate endeavors. Michael created the “Dry Heat Classic” which has raised millions of dollars for children's charities, firefighters, and wounded veterans. It was intended as a golf tournament and fund raiser where his friends would play golf then finishing the day by performing on stage. This week, Michael recounts stories about his first magic trick investment, opening and closing his own comedy club in Phoenix, working on cruise ships, his first time (failed ) experience of performing in Las Vegas, getting kidnapped at gun point, the unexpected financial success of his comedy CD, plus many, many other stories, some of which you may have heard but most you have not. Finney to the Bone Scott Wells with Michael Finney Download 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.
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  993: Jordan Jonas, Jordan Jonas, Jordan Jonas 08.10.2026 1h 1m

  Say his name three times and he might appear! Or you can just send him and email to book him. :) He has a very different on-stage character from his off stage personality. I think Jordan Jonas is a perfect guest to feature for this “Month of Boo” because of his unique character. At the young age of 33, he seems to be comfortably settling into his character as he continues to “tweak” the act and find performing venues for his act. This is one of those podcast episodes where I hope to inspire listeners to consider their on-stage persona and develop their character. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize I spoke with Jordan in Dallas, Texas, where he was one of the featured performers at the annual Magistrorum Convention. He has a very unassuming personality and nature in real life though when he dons his make-up, eyeball lens and costume, he takes on a whole different character. Jordan Jonas, Jordan Jonas, Jordan Jonas Scott Wells with Jordan Jonas Download 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.
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  992: Andreas Sebring - You Are Getting Colder 01.10.2026 1h 12m

  Andreas Sebring, from Sweden, is quite a creative person. He developed and markets an engraving technique for the classic “Koran Medallion” that allows the magician to hand out the engraved object. This is one of the many creations that came from his mind. Andreas has recently been here in the U.S. attending a few magic conventions as a dealer and sharing his creations with the community. It was at one of these conventions that I caught up with him to discuss some fascinating things. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize In the first part of our conversation, Andreas talks about the five secrets to creativity from his longer, expanded lecture. But you get a “sneak peek” at the abbreviated version here this week. The second half of our chat goes deep into “cold reading” which is the art of making observations of people you have never met. He talks about palmistry, tarot, and more with some tips on how to learn this art of “reading people.” You Are Getting Colder Scott Wells with Andreas Sebring Download 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.
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  991: John Cerbone - The Eternal Hypnotist 24.09.2026 59m

  John Cerbone is a full time hypnotist. This is the first episode on The Magic Word that has featured someone whose sole occupation and direction is as a hypnotist. There are several magicians who have transitioned to add hypnotism to their repertoire, and others who have been thinking about it. In this episode you will learn from a professional what it’s like to create and be successful at such a vocation. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week, a professional hypnotist shares some stories about how he became a hypnotist and some “behind the scenes” stories about some of his experiences over the last 35 or so years. John has developed a way of “induction” (or putting people to “sleep”) in mere seconds. Most hypnotists I have seen take almost more time to induct their volunteers than it does to actually do the show. He developed the “speed trance” method which is why he calls himself “The Trance Master.” The Eternal Hypnotist Scott Wells and John Cerbone Download 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.
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  990: Tony Clark - Magicians Using AI 17.09.2026 1h 2m

  Technology is advancing faster than we could have imagined. In fact, the current fear is that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is learning and growing on its own without the aid of human intervention. Recent news has reported that some of the creators are advocating a hold on further advancement until we can control this potential monster. In the meantime, there are a multitude of opportunities for AI to be used “for good” as magicians create music for their shows, voice overs, promotional materials, help in scripting, help in developing a stage character, researching show opportunities, and much, much more.This week Tony Clark joins us to give us his perspective as a magic consultant on how AI has been used and could be used by magicians. Let me first give this disclaimer that neither Tony nor Scott Wells are experts in this field. We have some experience and our discussion reflects what we know or have seen or think. The discussion in this week’s episode are the results of our experiences and do not reflect what one should or should not do with this information. To watch our conversation that was recorded over Zoom, please enjoy the YouTube video which includes a bit more content. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Tony Clark is a creative consultant for magicians using live experiences on stage and screen. This week, Tony advocates for live performances rather than depending upon technology and digital help. We discuss the importance and ethics of utilizing AI to build your brand and not just putting your face on the promotional material of other successful magicians. We also discuss how AI can help you as a virtual assistant to weed out and find the right performing venues for you. Tony also emphasizes how performers need to be genuine on stage and in their performances. Specifically, we need to be vulnerable and let our audiences into our lives so they don’t necessarily go home talking about our tricks, but remembering the person who is performing them.  Magicians Using AI Scott Wells and Tony Clark Download 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.
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  989: Jack Hart - Designing the Invisible 10.09.2026 1h 3m

  Jack Hart  is an artist in the truest sense of the word. He has designed illusions to make them more deceptive and toured with Blackstone, Jr. for nearly five years. He worked with Copperfield, Henning, Kalin, and so many more. For many years, Jack worked designing games for the television show, “The Price is Right” plus he currently does missionary work around the world.  View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize We start this week’s chat by going into a bit of detail about Jack’s Christian Missionary work. We then delve into his multi-faceted  career as he tells us about working with Harry Blackstone, Jr. and later traveling with the show. He not only designed some of the artwork on the outside of boxes, but also many of the beautiful  tapestries and backdrops in Harry’s show. For long while Jack worked in Old Chicago along with Buddy Farnan (who was featured in Episode #770) then back to California where he worked for many years on “The Price is Right” with Bob Barker as he helped design some of the games that are played each week. One of the games became popular around the world, even as a “take home” game, called Plinko which is a version of Pachinko. Jack worked in a lot of different arenas and left an invisible stamp on all of his work. Designing the Invisible Scott Wells with Jack Hart Download 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.
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  988: Christopher Hart - Give Him a Hand 27.08.2026 1h 12m

  Christopher Hart has had, and continues to have, an amazing career, or should I say “careers”. Many people, not just magicians, would be satisfied with success in any one of the areas where Chris has exceeded expectations. Many listeners of The Magic Word Podcast know that it was his hand as “Thing” in “The Addams Family” movies. And yet there is a whole generation who have never seen nor heard of “The Addams Family”, the New Yorker comic strip, the TV series let alone the movies. The recent Netflix series “Wednesday” has introduced many to this genre, but Chris wasn’t in that, and I digress.But he has performed in dinner theater with “Triple Espresso” and also singing on network TV, Plus of course he has presented his award winning act around the world with the torn and restored sheet music and the disembodied hand. You may think you know Christopher Hart, but there is so much to know about Christopher that you will be surprised what you learn in this episode. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week’s episode was recorded in Appleton, Wisconsin, while we were at the SAM National convention. Christopher not only performed but also lectured. He had so much material to share, that he never got around to explaining some of the items on his agenda during his lecture. He resolves that by chatting on this week’s episode as he talks about his touches on the torn and restored newspaper and the zombie gimmick. But we start, of course, by chatting about his film career, then his time with dinner theater, overcoming his fear of singing in public, working and touring with David Copperfield, plus serving as President of the Board of Trustees on the Academy of Magical Arts. He shares some great “behind the scenes” stories about all of this which makes this one of my favorite episodes, and I hope yours, too. Give Him a Hand Scott Wells with Christopher Hart Download 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.
• 
  987: Dean Gunnarson - Escaping Reality 20.08.2026 1h 7m

  Multi international award winning escapist, Dean Gunnarson, joins us this week to talk about his dangerous career. He has been called by the media “The World’s Most Daring Escape Artist” and the title fits. Traveling from his home in Canada to lands across China, Dean has conquered it all and accepted challenges much like Harry Houdini, from rope and chain escapes to the Water Torture and Milk Can Escapes, not to mention straitjacket escapes while being suspended hundreds of feet in the air, View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Dean shares with us this week about how James “The Amazing” Randi got him started with an early television special that led to Dean becoming his successor having passed the “Mantle of Escapes” on to Dean. He also shares with us some horror stories when he broke bones, lost a finger, and more. This is an unusual profession and few in the world specialize solely in this art. He does not consider himself a magician, nor does he perform magic at his appearances. Escaping Reality Scott Wells and Dean Gunnarson Download 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.
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  986: Dan Harlan - Cosmic Thinker 13.08.2026 1h 13m

  One of magic’s most creative minds, Dan Harlan, joins us this week. No doubt many of you have his “Card Toon” card trick or have watched him on Penguin Live videos or perhaps on the Tarbell Course of Magic on video. Maybe you once subscribed to The Minotaur which he co-published with Marv Leventhal. His life and career hasn’t all been roses and indeed had many bumps along the way. Currently he hosts MagiCon - The Mystic Tower convention in Raleigh, North Carolina plus he continues to create and perform. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Dan Harlan is quite candid about his successes and shortcomings as he openly shares many stories in this week’s episode. We learn that Dan doesn’t like card tricks and he tells us why. He also reveals a long time secret that Majoke was co-authored by him and Scott Alexander. He talks about the time it took to create and film “Every Trick in the Book” of Tarbell. Dan also tells us about his years with Penguin and other creative projects that hold his attention. Cosmic Thinker Scott Wells with Dan Harlan Download 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.
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  985: MAGIC Live! 2026 - Day Four 06.08.2026 1h 15m

  ScheduleWednesday, August 6th 24 hours          Bicycle Lounge, St. Charles9:00 a.m.               Information Booth, Kiosk (9:00p)10:00 a.m.             General Sessions, Showroom, (Noon)10:00 a.m.             Focus Sessions (11:00a)11:00 a.m.             The MAGIC Shop, Mardi Gras, (2:00p)11:15 a.m.             Focus Sessions (12:15p)11:30 a.m.             Cafe Live!, Esplanade K/L (2:00p)12:15 p.m.             Lunch Break (2:15p)2:15 p.m.               General Session, Showroom (4:15p)2:15 p.m.               Focus Sessions (3:15p)3:30 p.m.               Focus Sessions (4:30p) Live Tonight!6:00, 9:00 p.m. - Live Onstage!, Showroom10:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. - Farewell Party, Mardi Gras10:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. - Souvenir Program Handout, Mardi Gras View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Time stamps and guest names for this episode:00:00:15 – Jamie Salinas and Scott give a recap of the previous day’s activities, plus a review of some Vegas shows.00:09:53 – host of the Wednesday night General Session, Ben Barnes, talks about his experience at MAGIC Live! 2026 plus the Chicago magic scene (since he is the Entertainment Director of the Chicago Magic Lounge) plus his recent recording for Masters of Illusion television show.00:17:03 – Griffen Barry basically grew up in Dean Dill’s barber shop. The close-up magic experience at MAGIC Live! featured a look back in history at Dean’s shop and what it was like. Griffen gives us a bit more context.00:30:34 – Mark Doetsch, from Chicago, is a regular attendee at MAGIC Live! and we chat about the morning’s General Session.00:40:58 – Lance Rich was the Director for the General Sessions. He tells about some of the acts and what he did to make everyone look good.00:54:03 – We do a wrap-up of MAGIC Live! with the organizer, Stan Allen, who can finally sit down to relax and reflect. MAGIC Live 2026 Day Four Report Scott Wells with Salinas, Barnes, Barry, Doetsch, Rich and Allen Download 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.
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  984: MAGIC Live! 2026 - Day Three 05.08.2026 1h 17m

  ScheduleTuesday, August 4th 24 hours          Bicycle Lounge, St. Charles9:00 a.m.               Information Booth, Kiosk (9:00p)10:00 a.m.             General Sessions, Showroom, (Noon)10:00 a.m.             Focus Sessions (11:00a)11:00 a.m.             The MAGIC Shop, Mardi Gras, (6:00p)11:15 a.m.             Focus Sessions (12:15p)11:30 a.m.             Cafe Live!, Esplanade K/L (2:00p)12:15 p.m.             Lunch Break (2:15p)2:15 p.m.               General Session, Showroom (4:15p)2:15 p.m.               Focus Sessions (3:15p)3:30 p.m.               Focus Sessions (4:30p) Live Tonight!5:45, 7:10, 9:00, 10:20 p.m.  The Close-up Experience, Bienville G6:15, 8:00, 10:00 p.m. In Concert: Dani Daortiz, French Quarter6:00 – 11:00 p.m. Curiosities Exhibit, Dauphine7:00p – Midnight - Bicycle Lounge Cash Bar, St. Charles 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 and guest names for this episode:00:00:14 – Matthew Alexander joins me for breakfast as we break down yesterday’s first full day of activities.00:16:31 – A Magic Castle favorite, Howard Hamburg, joins us to tell us stories about the Castle and his dear friend, Dai Vernon.00:29:22 – Stephen Bargatze talks about the morning’s General Session that was hosted by Pat Hazell that concluded with a panel discussion of several performers who had appeared on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show.00:41:29 – Alex Boyce was one of the presenters in the General Session. Twenty years ago, Lance Burton interviewed Channing Pollock on stage. This year, the young dove worker, Alex, interviewed Lance Burton.00:47:22 – Kyle Purnell is one of the young “up and coming” magicians who recently quit his job to become a full-time magician and creator. He has several clever items on the market and loves creating.00:53:53 – Local close-up magician, Mickey Silver, chatted about the local scene.00:59:35 – Trade show performer, Scott Tokar, and Fair performer (State and County fairs), Frank Thurston, talk about how they enjoy meeting up each year and reconnecting at MAGIC Live!01:07:22 – Genii Editor, Will Houston, talks about his new role as the editor of Genii after having been the editor for the Magic Circular for so many years.01:11:21 – Adam Blumenthal, proprietor of Tannen’s tells us about his shop, the magic shows that are run from there, plus Tannen’s Magic Camp. MAGIC Live 2026 Day Three Report Scott Wells with Alexander, Hamburg, Bargatze, Boyce, Purnell, Silver, Tokar, Thurston, Houstoun, and Blumenthal Download 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.
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  983: MAGIC Live! 2026 - Days One and Two 04.08.2026 1h 12m

  ScheduleSunday, August 2nd 24 hours          Bicycle Lounge, St. Charles 10:00 a.m.             Registration, Bienville G (10:00p)10:00 a.m.             Photo Badges, Dauphine F (10:00p) Live Tonight!7:30 – 11:00 p.m. -  The Zombie Ball, Esplanade 7:30 – 11:00 p.m. - The MAGIC Shop, Mardi Gras 11:00 – 11:30 p.m. - Grand Prize Giveaway & Costume Awards, Esplanade Monday, August 3rd24 hours           Bicycle Lounge, St. Charles9:00 a.m.               Information Booth, Kiosk (9:00p)10:00 a.m.             General Sessions, Showroom, (Noon)10:00 a.m.             Focus Sessions (11:00a)11:00 a.m.             The MAGIC Shop, Mardi Gras, (6:00p)11:15 a.m.             Focus Sessions (12:15p)11:30 a.m.             Cafe Live!, Esplanade K/L (2:00p)12:15 p.m.             Lunch Break (2:15p)2:15 p.m.               General Session, Showroom (4:15p)2:15 p.m.               Focus Sessions (3:15p)3:30 p.m.               Focus Sessions (4:30p) Live Tonight!6:00, 8:00, 10:15 p.m. - Comedy Live!, Showroom12:30, 5:45, 7:10, 9:00, 10:20 p.m. - The Close-up Experience, Bienville G6:15, 8:00, 10:00 p.m. - In Concert: Dani Daortiz, French Quarter7:00 p.m. – Midnight Bicycle Lounge Cash Bar, St. Charles 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 View fullsize Time stamps and guest names for this episode:00:00:26 – At the Austin airport and preparing to depart on the red-eye for Las Vegas. Join us as we have a cup of coffee and get excited about the upcoming convention.00:05:12 – The first registrants I ran into were Nick and Jason Altieri, brothers from Boston. This was Jason’s first MAGIC Live! convention.00:09:26 – the opening night party had a zombie theme. Everyone was encouraged to dress as a zombie. To Stan Allen’s surprise, many more dressed appropriately than he expected. The first couple we chatted with was Meadow Perry who was dressed as Glenda the Good Witch from “The Wizard of Oz” and Michael Dardant, who was the Wicked Witch. Okay…maybe not everyone kept the “zombie” theme.00:15:53 – Harrison Greenbaum has a whole separate agenda when he visits Las Vegas. Many come and see shows. He comes and performs in the shows as a “one off.” Harrison will also be the host of the Tuesday night comedy show for MAGIC Live!00:21:02 – we get some different convention perspectives over breakfast with Charlie Randall, Bill Flanagan, John McLaughlin, and Bruce Averbook.00:31:50 – one of the dealers, Jeff Scanlan (Impossible Bottle) tells us how the convention is going from the perspective of a dealer. Spoiler alert: it’s going very well.00:35:54 – one of the organizers, Rory Johnson, opens the first morning General Session with an overview of what this year’s convention theme. (BTW, this was an authorized recording even though we were not allowed any video nor audio recording of the convention.)00:40:01 – Jeff Sobell is a regular attendee and tells us why he returns year after year.00:46:29 – Co-producer of Monday Night Magic in New York City, Michael Chaut is always on the prowl looking for talent to book for his show. We chat about the Focus Session we just attended.00:54:42 – My friend from St. Louis, Missouri, Karl Grice, has attended every one of the MAGIC Live! conventions and here he shares why he returns year after year plus some of his favorite highlights from previous years.01:00:28 – From China, Bruce Liu, traveled all the way to the U.S. just to attend this convention then return home immediately afterwards. He tells us what kind of magic he does and what inspires him.01:05:26 – Paul Gertner was one of the people who appeared on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show and was on the panel in the General Session. Paul has some great personal stories about his time on the Tonight Show plus visiting Johnny in his home and teaching him some coin tricks.01:09:31 – We caught up with Chris Kenner late at night as he and David Copperfield were leaving the building. Chis tells us a bit about what he’s working on with Theory 11. MAGIC Live Days 1 and 2 Report Scott Wells with Altieri, Perry, Dardant, Greenbaum, McLaughlin, Averbook, Randall, Flanagan, Scanlan, Johnson, Sobell, Chaut, Grice, Liu, Gertner, and Kenner Download 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.
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  982: Scott Tokar - Keeping His Head Well Above Water 30.07.2026 1h 13m

  For many years, Scott Tokar has been helping clients at industrial shows across the country and indeed, across the globe. He structures trade show programs to engage, educate and entertain and sending the corporate message to everyone who passes by his booth. He co-authored Special F-X with Harrison Carroll that teaches magicians how to engage with hospitalized patients using magic. He also dabbles in photography and enjoys taking stills of friends. Scott also owns a booking agency for trade show magicians. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This is a link to Amazon where you can see what equipment that Scott Tokar uses for his trade show work. This week Scott gives us some tips and advice on booking trade shows and on the importance of networking. If you are a hobbyist photographer, he also give us some tips on the kind of camera he uses. During our discussion, Scott mentioned the compact sound equipment he carries. Here is a link to seeing what he uses: https://tinyurl.com/Trade-Show-Sound-Equipment Keeping His Head Well Above Water Scott Wells with Scott Tokar Download 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.
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  981: Tobias Beckwith - Managing Expectations 23.07.2026 1h 1m

  Tobias Beckwith used to manage Jeff McBride and Marco Tempest, just to name a couple “names” in our magic community. He has worked on Broadway with some of the most iconic plays such as “Oh, Calcutta” and “The Fantastiks” among others. He was one of the early staff teachers at the McBride Mystery School as it was formed and of course, was close friends with Eugene Burger, among others. Tobias has authored several books on production and direction and are well worth you inspection. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This week, Tobias shares some stories about the formation of the Mystery School, plus working behind the scenes of many of the great magic shows over the past few decades. He discusses the differences between being an agent and a manager, and why magicians should consider getting one. Managing Expectations Scott Wells with Tobias Beckwith Download 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.
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  980: Alan Bursky - Pulling No Punches 16.07.2026 1h 5m

  In 1973 Alan Bursky burst on the comedy scene in a big was when he was just 17 and being the youngest comedian to ever perform on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show. He was also involved in booking entertainment in the early days of the Magic Island. But long before that when he was growing up in New York, he developed a friendship with David Kotke aka David Copperfield. Later while on the comedy circuit, he befriended Freddie Prinze who starred in “Chico and the Man” television series. He was a roommate with Freddie for a while. He also booked Steve Martin and Rodney Dangerfield, among many other notable comedians. Now he is preparing for going back out to sea doing comedy on cruise ships. 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, Alan and Scott Wells chat in a room at the Magic Hotel in Hollywood, next to the Magic Castle. Throughout our chat, Alan kept looking/scrolling through his phone as he looked for old photos to back up many of the stories he shares in this episode (which are posted here on the website.) Among the stories, he tells us about attending Hugh Hefner’s parties in the Playboy mansion, he also shares some inside stories from the Magic Castle and gives us a personal glimpse of David Copperfield’s personal life. Pulling No Punches Scott Wells with Alan Bursky Download 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.
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  979: Just Alan - Finding Real Magic 09.07.2026 1h 10m

  Just Alan owned a magic shop near Woodstock, New York, for over 40 years. During that time he worked on his Zen archery, meditation, and relaxation. His search for real magic in his early years took him to India where he followed his heart and the stars as he was led to understand what is important in life. Also during the past several years, he studied with Jeff McBride, he entered magic contests, and he recently wrote a book, “Just Alan Not Just Magic.” View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize In our conversation this week, Just Alan, talks about how he came to open a magic shop and why it was located in upstate New York. He also talks about developing his relationship with Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger. He continues by telling the inspiration behind his “Three Treasures” presentation of Professor’s Nightmare. Towards the end of our conversation, Just Alan shares how he traveled to India and found real magic. Finding Real Magic Scott Wells with Just Alan Download 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.
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  978: S.A.M. National Convention 2026 - Day Five 05.07.2026 1h 19m

  ScheduleSATURDAY, JULY 4, 2026TBD - YOUTH ACADEMY9:00 AM - 1:00 PM REGISTRATION OPEN - 2027 CONVENTION10:00 AM- 2:00 PM HOUDINI COLLECTION DISPLAY - Adjacent to Dealer RoomRare Houdini artifacts provided by various collectors and museums10:00 AM- 2:00 PM DEALERS ROOM OPEN9:00 AM THE S.A.M. AWARDS & RECOGNITION SHOWContest winner awards, recognitions and installation ceremony10:30 AM LECTURE - John Shyrock2:00 PM SPEAKEASY CLOSE-UP SHOWFeaturing Shawn Farquhar, Boris Wild, Daniel Garcia, Dale Penn, Alyx Hilshey4:30 PM PRESIDENTS RECEPTIONCash Bar5:30 PM HOUDINI BANQUET (Extra Pay Event)7:00 PM THE JONATHAN NEAL SHOW 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 View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize I will give you the time stamps of who spoke when after I get some sleep. SAM 2026 Convention Report Day Five Scott Wells with Heckenberger, Bellucci, Hart, Shryock, Blood, Dietrich, Boldt, McDonald, and DeSouza Download 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.
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  977: S.A.M. National Convention 2026 - Day Four 04.07.2026 1h 18m

  ScheduleFRIDAY, JULY 3, 2026TBD - YOUTH ACADEMY10:00 AM- 2:00 PM HOUDINI HISTORICAL CENTER @ MUSEUM at the CASTLEFree admission for convention attendees12:00 AM- 5:00 PM HOUDINI COLLECTION DISPLAY - Adjacent to Dealer RoomRare Houdini artifacts provided by various collectors and museums12:00 PM- 5:00 PM DEALERS ROOM OPEN9:00 AM S.A.M. NATIONAL COUNCIL MEETING11:00 AM LECTURE - BORIS WILD2:00 PM LECTURE JONATHAN NEAL3:45 PM LECTURE - DANIEL GARCIA7:00 PM MAGIC OPERA SHOWFeaturing Mike Caveney, Shawn Farquhar, Christopher Hart, Puck, John Shyrock10:00 PM CREATIVE COACHING PANEL & SHOWCASE - Hosted by Bruce Kalver View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize I will give you the time stamps of who spoke when after I get some sleep. SAM 2026 Convention Daily Report - Day Four Scott Wells with Crabtree, McBride, Cox, Gunnerson, Dillies, Wild, DeSouza, Garcia, and Anderson Download 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.
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  976: S.A.M. National Convention 2026 - Day Three 03.07.2026 57m

  ScheduleTHURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026TBD - YOUTH ACADEMY11:00 PM- 4:00 PM HOUDINI HISTORICAL CENTER @ MUSEUM at the CASTLEFree Admission All Day for Convention Attendees12:00 AM- 5:00 PM HOUDINI COLLECTION DISPLAY - Adjacent to Dealer RoomRare Houdini artifacts provided by various collectors and museums12:00 PM- 5:00 PM DEALERS ROOM OPEN9:30 AM WORLD RECORD CHAIN ESCAPE @ Houdini PlazaJoin 300 magicians attempting a world-record escape. Siberian chains and training isincluded10:30 AM UPSIDE-DOWN STRAIGHT JACKET ESCAPE @ Houdini PlazaFeaturing Houdini II11:00 AM STAGE CONTEST BRIEFING / TECH REHEARSAL11:00 AM LIFE MEMBERS ONLY LUNCH (Extra Pay Event)Trolley to brewery & metamorphisis sculpture2:30 PM CLOSE-UP CONTEST & PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD4:30 PM HOUDINI FAMILY INTERVIEW, PHOTO's and AUTOGRAPH SESSION7:30 PM STAGE CONTEST & PEOPLES CHOICE AWARD9:30 PM MIKE CAVENEY INTERVIEWS HOUDINI HISTORIAN JOHN COX 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 I will give you the time stamps of who spoke when after I get some sleep. SAM 2026 Convention Day Three Report Scott Wells with Harlans, Weidhass, Spence, Houdini II, Miller, Hilshey, and DeSouza Download 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.