If you don't know the name of Jon Racherbaumer, you should either walk away from magic or take some time to explore his influence on our art form. Jon is one of those guys that managed to connect to some of the greatests names in the modern history of magic including Ed Marlo, Eddie Fields, Orson Welles, and Senator Crandall. Given the controversies surrounding Blackpool & FISM 2010, it is also interesting to note that he was at one time blackballed by both the IBM & the SAM. Please join us for Part One of our interview with Jon Racherbaumer and learn more about lesbian bowlers, the "Magic Mafia" and how a good magician becomes controversial.

Direct download: RACHERBAUMER_REDUX.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:42pm EDT

Bob Cassidy is a founding member of the Psychic Entertainers' Association and one of the most colorful and influential creators of modern mentalism. His book, "The Art of Mentalism" was immediately recognized as a classic in the field when it was released and remains at the top of the "must read" book lists of the leading practioners in this area of magic. In this interview, Bob shares his thoughts on the state of modern mentalism and discusses the influence of Ted Annemann and "The Jinx" on the art. Bob is also one of the contributors to the October special supplement to Genii Magazine which celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Jinx.

Direct download: MNW150-BobCassidy-09-21-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:18pm EDT

MNW154:: MARVIN MILLER

In addition to his duties as an executive on the Board of Directors of several multi-national corporations, Marvin Miller has managed to find time to write more than twenty best selling books for children and to make a significant contribution to the art of magic and mentalism. Most recently, Marvin contributed the article "When Ted Went Postal" to Genii Magazine's 75th Anniversary salute to Ted Annemann's the Jinx. Join us on this episode of the Spirit of Magic podcast for a conversation that also touches on Walter Gibson, Dunninger, Himber and modern mentalism.

Direct download: MNW154-MarvinMiller-10-01-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:46pm EDT

Johnny Thompson and Pamela Hayes are best know within the world of magic as The Great Tomsoni & Co.  Johnny is widely recognized as one of the great thinkers in magic today. In spite of that, he and Pam still decided to have some fun chatting with us on This Week in Magic. Pam tells us what it is like working with the Adonis of the Las Vegas Showroon and Johnny shares the experience of tearing off Pam's dress with our resident cougar hunter.  In addition, I was totally surprised to learn that one of Johnny's teachers in High School was an magician that you should all know.  Johnny also channels Dai Vernon for a few great stories!

Direct download: MNW186b-TOMSONI-02-16-2010.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:09pm EDT

MNW337 :: HOWARD HAMBURG

On the 337th episode of the Spirit of Magic Podcast, I am thrilled and honored to welcome Howard Hamburg  to the Magic Newswire family.  Have you ever wanted to spend and hour or so with Dai Vernon,Michael Skinner,  Larry Jennings, Charlie Miller, JC Wagner, Tony Giorgio, Francis Carlyle or any of the legends of magic that preceded this generation? If so, I am more than happy to get you one step closer o that goal by bringing you this interview with Howard.  You are about to hear stories about many of the people that we idolize in magic today from an underground card magician that was an intimate of them all. As we launch this episode, I am also very happy to announce that the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcast has now exceeded Two Million Downloads since we first began tracking such things in March of 2008. Thank you so much for this endorsement of what I do. When I first began recording these conversations, I never imagined where it would take me and I cannot that you, the listeners, enough for the emails, donations and downloads. I more than justifies this small contribution to our art that I make by producing these interviews. Again, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you. 

Direct download: MNW337____HOWARD_HAMBURG.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:36pm EDT

MNW183-MICHAEL FINNEY

My guest on this episode of the "Spirit of Magic" podcast is comedy magician and February 2010 Genii cover-boy Michael Finney. Michael talks about hs unique path to discovering magic as a career and how he developed the personality that works so well for him on stage. Michael also reflects on some of the people that influenced him over the years including Charlie Miller, Dai Vernon, Carl Ballantine, Karrell Fox Johnny Thompson & Billy McComb. If you've ever wondered if a kidnapping could lead to a career in magic, then you'll be very interested in what Michael has to say.

Direct download: MNW183-MichaelFinney-01-29-2010.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:09pm EDT

MNW115 :: WAYNE HOUCHIN

Wayne Houchin has been creating magic since trying to duplicate the illusions of David Copperfield with cardboard boxes in his family's living room. He went on to stage a straight jacket escape while hanging from a crane in order to promote his first series of shows at the age of sixteen. In 2003, an underground tape of Wayne's original magic was seen by acclaimed mentalist Banachek who immediately recognized Wayne's potential. While consulting for the first season of Criss Angel : Mindfreak, Banachek suggested that Wayne be brough on to assist in the production of several of his original effects. In 2007 Houchin, Jonathan Bayme, Chris Kenner, B.J. Bueno, and Dana Hocking formerd Theory 11, a new online entity devoted to the advancement of the art of magic. Today, Wayne is releasing his latest project, "The Art of Magic" as a DVD or online download. Wayne joins us on the Magic Newswire's Spirit of Magic podcast to discuss his philosophy and thoughts on magic today.

Direct download: MNW115-WayneHouchin-06-11-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:43am EDT

MNW336 :: CHARLIE MILLER

Seconds, bottoms, the pass, Malini, Vernon and so much more. Charlie Miller is one of those name tossed around in the context of modern magic that I feel most f the community knows too little about.  I hope that this conversation with some of his closest friends does something to rectify that.  Our good friend Johnny Thompson is joined by two other legends in magic, Harry Riser and Bob White. 

Direct download: MNW336____CHARLIE_MILLER.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:40pm EDT

MNW335 :: RICHARD TURNER

In July of 2008 I was thrilled to have the chance to record an interview with Richard "The Cheat" Turner. While updating the links to the entire podcast archive, I realized that I had never posted the promised second part of that conversation. Fortunately, I had it in my backup and I am able to rectify that error by posting Part 2 of my Interview with the amazing Richard Turner! Enjoy!

Direct download: MNW335____RICHARD_TURNER_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:30pm EDT

MNW334 :: GAZZO & THE PHANTOM

In this episode of the Magic Newswire's "Sprit of Magic Podcast" I am thrilled to welcome the only pupil of the legendary  Walter Irving Scott known in the magic and gambling communities as The Phantom. Scott is the focus of the book that Gazzo collaborated on with David Britland entitled "Phantoms at the Card Table: Confessions of a cardsharp" . Beyond his career as a street magician, Gazzo is an expert on cons and scams and was Scott's only pupil. He was also the only person with whom Scott entrusted his biography and life's work at card cheating and sleights. 

Direct download: MNW334____GAZZO.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:36pm EDT

MNW333 :: THE MAGIC LIFE
In this episode of the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcats, we talk to two of the featured performers, and the director of the new documentary film "The Magic Life."  "The Magic Life" chronicles the journey of three magician hopefuls: a 17-year-old from Beijing who travels to the U.S. to attend magic school, a 25-year-old trying to make rent by performing on Hollywood Blvd for tips, and a 32-year-old New York University MBA graduate who moves to Los Angeles to perform at the world famous Magic Castle. The film depicts the challenges of following an unconventional career path. Forget about parents, family, or friends who may not understand or support your choices – there’s almost an invisible societal pressure in terms of what types of jobs are acceptable. “The Magic Life” is about those who are willing to risk everything to take the road not normally taken. Sometimes the risk pays off, sometimes it doesn’t.
Direct download: MNW333____THE_MAGIC_LIFE.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:12am EDT

David Blaine joined us by phone on Day Two of his Dive of Death challenge for a quick chat to discuss his mentah and physical state. An obviously exhausted Blaine expressed his appreciation for the fans that been on site to show their support. Blaine's "Dive of Death" culminates on Wednesday Night at 9PM in a special that promises more magic than has been seen in recent shows. He also promises something amazing as the culmination of the endurance feat in Central Park.
(Thanks to Clay Carmouche for the outstanding photo seen here.)
Direct download: MNW52-DavidBlaine-09-23-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:17pm EDT

If you subscribe to the Magic Newswire Podcasts via iTunes or via our RSS feed, then you were the first to receive our latest show featuring Underground Magician, magic creator and magic consultant Daniel Garcia.  As a consultant to David Blaine and a creator of many of the effects so hotly discussed within our art today, Daniel Garcia has a lot to say. What did he think of the final product after seeing the recent David Blaine "Dive of Death" special in which he was so intimately involved? What is his opinion on the major online magic retailers? What inspires his creative process? All this an more in our interview with Danny Garcia on the Magic Newswire's 60th episode!

Direct download: MNW60-DannyGarcia-10-02-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:45pm EDT

MNW97 :: GAY BLACKSTONE

As the Executive Producer of the television series Masters of Illusion, the wife of renowned performer Harry Blackston Jr. and former President of the Aacademy of Magical Arts at the Magic Castle, Gay Blackstone knows her way around the world of magic. Gay joins us on this episode of the "Spirit of Magic" podcast to talk about working wither her famous husband, celebrity magicians such as Orson Welles and Neil Patrick Harris, the challenges that she's faced in putting together a thirteeen episode series for television and about shows that reveal the secrets of our craft.

Direct download: MNW97-GayBlackstone-03-13-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:40pm EDT

MNW44 :: MAX MAVEN

Maven joins us again on the Magic Newswire to discuss his personal history in the art of magic, further experiences with Dai Vernon and other legendary figures from the worl of magic,  his recovery from the Celebraca-Hangover and his upcoming appearance at SEAM 2008 in Atlanta beginning on August 21st.

Direct download: MNW44-MaxMaven-08-19-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:20pm EDT

MNW46 :: STEVE COHEN

The "Millionaires' Magician" joins us on the Magic Newswire after appearing on the cover of current issue of Genii Magazine. Performing in the Duke and Duchess of Windsor's Royal Suiteat the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, Steve Cohen presents an intimate evening of magical entertainment in the tradition of such legendary performers as Max MaliniJohann Nepomuk Hofzinser and Robert Houdin. Join us on the Magic Newswire for our interview with Chamber Magic's Steve Cohen!

Direct download: MNW46-SteveCohen-09-08-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm EDT

MNW49 :: EUGENE BURGER

Philosopher and Magician Eugene Burger is considered one of the great teachers of the magical arts. He has written fifteen best-selling books for the trade, starred in eight instructional videos, and lectured extensively to magicians' groups in over a dozen countries. His writings have been translated into several languages. Eugene’s deep understanding of the psychology and philosophy behind magic have won him international accolades, cover stories in conjuring magazines, and four awards from the famed Magic Castle in Hollywood. Montrose Pictures has recently released a documentary film with Eugene as the subject titled "A Magical Vision."  We are very pleased to welcome Eugene Burger to the Magic Newswire! (Note:: Please accept our apologies for the poor sound quality of Eugene's side of the conversation.)

Direct download: MNW49-EugeneBurger-09-17-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:05pm EDT

MNW33 :: JAMY IAN SWISS

The New Yorker recently connected with an individual that they identify as "the most feared intellectual in the world of magic," Jamy Ian Swiss. Read "The Real Work" abstract from the New Yorker HERE. In the second part of his interview on MagicNewswire.com, Jamy mentions a controversial article that he published in Antimony #9 entitled "In Search of Street Magic." READ IT HERE Then listen to our conversation with Jamy.

Direct download: MNW33-JamyIanSwiss2-07-08-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:47pm EDT

MNW32 :: JAMY IAN SWISS

The New Yorker recently connected with an individual that they identify as "the most feared intellectual in the world of magic," Jamy Ian Swiss. Read "The Real Work" abstract from the New Yorker HERE. In the second part of his interview on MagicNewswire.com, Jamy mentions a controversial article that he published in Antimony #9 entitled "In Search of Street Magic."READ IT HERE Then listen to our conversation with Jamy.

Direct download: MNW32-JamyIanSwiss1-07-07-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:43pm EDT

MNW35 :: TODD ROBBINS 2

Todd Robbins a.k.a. "The Coney Island Wonder Worker" joins us on the Magic Newswire's Spirit of Magic podcast for a chat about his experiences at the Magic Castle, why side shows are important and magic in general.

Direct download: MNW35-ToddRobbins2-07-10-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:38pm EDT

Todd Robbins a.k.a. "The Coney Island Wonder Worker" joins us on the Magic Newswire's Spirit of Magic podcast for a chat about his experiences at the Magic Castle, why side shows are important and magic in general.

Direct download: MNW34-ToddRobbins1-07-09-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:32pm EDT

Richard "The Cheat" Turner is a member of the Magic Castle Hall of Fame, a winner of the Golden Lion Award and a man that both Dai Vernon and Charlie Miller respected for his ability to "get the money." What most people that see him perform do not know is that Richard is blind. Join us on this episode of The Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcast for a conversation with on of the top card manipulators alive today, Richard "the Cheat" Turner.

Direct download: MNW36-RichardTurner-07-21-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:07pm EDT

MNW72 :: CHRIS CAPEHART

Chris Capehart, featured on the cover of the December 2008 issue of Genii Magazine, talks with us about starting out as a street performer on Broadway in New York City. From his days competing with Jeff Sheridan to hanging out at the Governor Cafeteria with Slydini, Dia Vernon, Derek Dingle and David Roth, Chris's story is very unique among those shared with us as a part of our "Spirit of Magic" podcast. Chris is a regular headliner at the famous Monday Night Magic in New York City as well as at the Magic Castle. Many have dubbed Chris "The Ring Master" for his unique handling of the linking rings which was published in volume 13 of "Stars of Magic."

Direct download: MNW72-ChrisCapehart-12-02-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:38am EDT

My guest on this episode of the "Spirit of Magic" Podcast is none other than Techno Magician Marco Tempest. Marco believes that the magician’s role is to be the one who makes dreams real first, before technology can get there…and so Tempest is always out there exploring new frontiers, one step ahead of the rest of us. It’s hard to tell if he’s on a fool’s journey…or that of a true visionary. Perhaps it’s a bit of both.  In this conversation, Marco and I explore the connections between magic and technology as well as what motivates him to explore new frontiers.

Direct download: MNW149-MarcoTempest-09-18-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:37pm EDT

Paul Daniels, arguably the best known magician in the UK is our guest on this episode of the "Spirit of Magic" podcast. Paul has been performing magic since he was eleven years old. He starred in his own television series "Its Magic" for more than sixteen years and was awarded Golden Rose of Montreux Award at the International TV Festival in Switzerland in 1985. In 1983, paul became the first magician from outside the US to be named "Magician of the Year" by the Academy of Magical Arts. Paul still tours with his magic show, and recently presented a intimate show focused on  the ‘Magic of Max Malini’.

Direct download: MNW109-PaulDaniels-05-07-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:32pm EDT

Several previous guests from the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcast re-join us to talk about their contributions to the Genii 75h Anniversary Special Edition of the Jinx. Our guests on this episode include Mac King, Max Maven, Mike Caveney, Jonathan Levit and Eugene Burger. We talk to each of these performers about their contributions to the Jinx special edition and about how Anneman and the Jinx impacted their growth as practitioners in the art of magic and mentalism.

Direct download: MNW152-Jinx-09-26-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:56pm EDT

Magic Magazine's March coverboy is "a man of the streets, a busker bringing magic to the people. He’s a videographer, bringing DVDs to magicians. He’s Kozmo, a man of the moment." Kozmo joins me on this episode of the Spirit of Magic podcast to explore what it means to be a street magician in an environment when everyone markets their products as if they were designed specifically for his customers. How has "Street Magic" changed since the appearance of David Blaine? Who are really the top street magicians performing today and do we know their names? All these questions and more are answered when I talk to the one and only Kozmo!

Direct download: MNW186-Kozmo-02-11-2010.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:31pm EDT

Mike Caveney calls in from the world headquarters of Magic Words to join us for a chat on this episode of the Magic Newswire "Spirit of Magic" podcast. Mike began his career working at Owen's Magic Supreme, as a member of the Long Islan Mystics, turning coins for Johnson Products and performing at the Magic Castle. Not too shabby for a guy just turning 21 at the time. Mike talks with us about what made the Mystics different from most magic clubs, the importance of innovation and creativity in an act and shares the evolution of his signature effects. In addition, we learn a bit more about his role in the Left Handed League, the Bubonic Players and Wenii Magazine.

Direct download: MNW87-MikeCaveney2-01-30-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:52am EDT

Mike Caveney calls in from the world headquarters of Magic Words to join us for a chat on this episode of the Magic Newswire "Spirit of Magic" podcast. Mike began his career working at Owen's Magic Supreme, as a member of the Long Islan Mystics, turning coins for Johnson Products and performing at the Magic Castle. Not too shabby for a guy just turning 21 at the time. Mike talks with us about what made the Mystics different from most magic clubs, the importance of innovation and creativity in an act and shares the evolution of his signature effects. In addition, we learn a bit more about his role in the Left Handed League, the Bubonic Players and Wenii Magazine.

Direct download: MNW85-MikeCaveney-01-27-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:44am EDT

Award-winning magician and world-renowned sleight of hand artist, Eric DeCamps joins us on the Magic Newswire "Spirit of Magic" Podcast before appearing as a featured performer at the SAM's 100th anniversary Salute to Magic!  Eric has been performing for more than 30 years and was voted Magician of the Year by The Society of American Magicians. He is the second person in the 107 year history of the organization to receive the prestigious Gold Medal of Excellence for Close Up Magic. Join Eric and me to discuss his background in the craft and his upcoming appearance at the SAM's anniversary show.

Direct download: MNW111-EricDeCamps-05-15-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:41am EDT

Harry Lorayne has appeared numerous times on every national television talk show in the United States as well as on innumerable programs throughout the world. He has had feature articles written about him and his work in most major publications and newspapers including, but not limited to, Fortune, US News & World Report,  Reader’s Digest, Cosmopolitan, Ladies Home Journal, Christian Science Monitor, Gentleman’s Quarterly, Nations Business. He has even been called "The Yoda of Memory Training" by Time magazine. As if that were not enough, Harry Lorayne was named as one of the 100 most influential magicians of the century in 1999 by Magic Magazine. Join us on this edition of the Magic Newswire for our conversation with magician Harry Lorayne. Lorayne wrote and published the magazine Apocalypse for twenty years (later republished in books). His latest book for magicians is Lorayne: The Classic Collection, an updated collection of his first four magic books of the 1960s, and recently he completed Mathematical Wizardry—magic with numbers.

Direct download: MNW39-HarryLorayne2-07-29-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:45pm EDT

Harry Lorayne has appeared numerous times on every national television talk show in the United States as well as on innumerable programs throughout the world. He has had feature articles written about him and his work in most major publications and newspapers including, but not limited to, Fortune, US News & World Report,  Reader’s Digest, Cosmopolitan, Ladies Home Journal, Christian Science Monitor, Gentleman’s Quarterly, Nations Business. He has even been called "The Yoda of Memory Training" by Time magazine. As if that were not enough, Harry Lorayne was named as one of the 100 most influential magicians of the century in 1999 by Magic Magazine. Join us on this edition of the Magic Newswire for our conversation with magician Harry Lorayne. Lorayne wrote and published the magazine Apocalypse for twenty years (later republished in books). His latest book for magicians is Lorayne: The Classic Collection, an updated collection of his first four magic books of the 1960s, and recently he completed Mathematical Wizardry—magic with numbers.

Direct download: MNW38-HarryLoryne-07-27-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:30pm EDT

If you don't know the name of Jon Racherbaumer, you should either walk away from magic or take  some time to explore his influence on our art form. Jon is one of those guys that managed to connect to some of the greatests names in the modern history of magic including Ed Marlo, Eddie Fields, Orson Welles, and Senator Crandall.  Given the controversies surrounding Blackpool & FISM 2010, it is also interesting to note that he was at one time blackballed by both the IBM & the SAM.  Please join us for Part One of our interview with Jon Racherbaumer and learn more about lesbian bowlers, the "Magic Mafia" and how a good magician becomes controversial.

Direct download: MNW140-Racherbaumer-08-30-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:53pm EDT

In Part Two of my interview with the legendary Jon Racherbaumer, we explore the many influenences on Jon and his passion for magic. Marlo, Vernon, Cardini, Slydini, Chan Canasta, Channing Pollock, Tommy Wonder, John Scarne and more all enter into the conversation. In addition, we discuss 75th anniversary edition of the Jinx that he and Harry Anderson have put together for the October issue of Genii Magazine.

Direct download: MNW141-Racherbaumer2-09-01-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45pm EDT

The Amazing Randi joins us on this episode of the "Spirit of Magic" podcast before appearing as a featured performer at the upcoming 100th Anniversary Salute to Magic show in New York City. Randi began his career as a mentalist and magician before becoming known as a scientific sceptic challenging those who claim to have paranormal abilities. He gained fame in this field after an ongoing feud between himself and Uri Gellar in the mid to late 1970's.  Randi himself rejects the title of "debunker" preferring instead to be seen as an investigator in the field of pseudo-science and is the author of many books on the subjects of the paranormal, skepticism and the history of conjuring. Randi talks with me about his career in these varied fields and about his motivation as a paranormal skeptic.

Direct download: MNW110-JamesRandi-05-12-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:36pm EDT

Widely credited as the man who was the first magician to mainstream magic on television, Mr. Mark Wilson is our guest on ths edition of the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcast. This is the first of a multi-part interview that we'll be producing with Mark's help exploring his career, thoughts, ideas an philosophies as they relate to magic, both on television and on stage.

Direct download: MNW90-MarkWilson-02-09-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:26pm EDT

If you were to describe the worst audience for a comedy magic show, would it beat the one that Mac King found himself facing?  If you have a line that you put into your act only to get a laugh, what would you do if it came true? Mac King shares his adventures on the comedy magic stage with us on this episode of the Magic Newswire Spirit of Magic podcast and we discuss all of these scenarios and more. We even learn that Teller is a far better heckler than I will ever be.. no surprise there though.

Direct download: MNW94-MacKing-02-24-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:02pm EDT

We celebrate our 100th episode of the MagicNewswire.com 's Spirit of Magic podcast with  Master Magician Lance Burton. Lance is one of the top performers in Las Vegas with a $27 Million doallr venue built just for him at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino. In July of 1980, barely three months after his 20th birthday, he became the first person to win magic's most coveted "Gold Medal Award for Excellence" from the International Brotherhood of Magicians and received magic's highest accolade two years later when he won the Grand Prix at the Federation International Society de Magic (F.I.S.M.) in Lausanne, Switzerland making him a "World Champion Magician." This made Lance both the first American to receive this honor as well as the first American performer to do so. Johnny Carson called Lance's performance on his show the "Best 12 minutes in magic." Who was Fletcher the Flamboyant? How did he inspire Lance? Lance joins us to discuss these and many other questions related to his career and the many influences that have helped to shape his magic.

Direct download: MNW100-LanceBurton-03-20-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:58pm EDT

Johnny "The Great Tomsoni" Thompson is our guest on this episode of the Magic Newswire's Spirit of Magic Podcast. Johnny is much more than an extremely well respected performer and one of the funniest magicians performing today. He is also a much sought after magic consultant and has worked for such performers as Lance Burton, Penn & Teller and Criss Angel. In addition to talking about his career, Johnny talks about other performers including Herb Zarrow, Jay Marshall, Marshal Brodein, Francis Carlyle, Paul le Paul, Paul Rosini, Joe Bergen, Cardini, Channing Pollock, Carl Balentine, Al Koran, Dai Vernon and Charlie Miller.

Direct download: MNW91-JohnnyThompson-02-14-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:45pm EDT

Beginning at 8:30 am EST on Monday Morning, David Blaine will be hoisted feet first above Central Park's Wollman Rink where he will hang upside down for sixty hours. The end of this endurance stunt, the subject of which has been hinted at but not revealed, will be the finale of his latest ABC special "Dive of Death" which will air at 9PM EST on ABC. I was invited to participate in a teleconference with David today during which he and his medical consultant discussed the challenges and dangers to David as he attempts this feat. David also discussed the experience of filming this special, his inspirations and the challenges that he will face over the course of the next week. Join us now on the Magic Newswire for our conversation with David Blaine!

Direct download: MNW50-DavidBlaine-09-18-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:36pm EDT

"International Man of Mystery" David Berglas is my guest on this episode of the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcast.  In his 2009 Enigma show brochure, Derren Brown describes David Berglas as "One of our greatest living magical performers" and thanks him "-for his constant inspiration and generosity. Each show is indebted to his artistry and astonishing body of work. Thank you David".  Known  within the magic community for his many creations, Berglas is best known for the effect named for him which allows for the prediction of Any Card at Any Number."  David was the first elected President of London's Magic Circle and has had the opportunity to perform for England's Royal Family, Winston Churchill and Paul Getty.

Direct download: MNW159-DavidBerglas-10-13-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:27pm EDT

Barrie Richardson may be one of magic's most soft spoken thinkers, but he has contributed a great deal to the art of magic an mentalism. With the 1990 release of "Theater of the Mind," Barrie became instantly synonymous with great mentalism. The release of his second book "Act II" continued his legacy. Barrie joins me on the Magic Newswire "Spirit of Magic" podcast to talk about his influences in magic including Ted Annemann whose JINX magazine will be celebrated in the October issue of Genii Magazine.

Direct download: MNW143-BarrieRichardson-09-10-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:55pm EDT

MNW #82 :: BILL KALUSH

Bill "The Triggerman" Kalush joins us on this episode of the Magic Newswire podcast. Bill founded the Conjuring Arts Research Center in 2003 which has on its' board several significant figures as David Blaine, Steve Cuiffo, Mike Caveney, and Philip Varrichio. Kaulush has been a close friend and associate of David Blaine since they first met in the early 1990's and has consulted with David on almost every television special that he has produced. Bill appeared on "David Blaine : Dive of Death" when he pulled the trigger on the rifle used in Blaine's bullet catch. In addition, Bill was the co-author of the bestselling biography "The Secret Life of Houdini : America's First Super Hero."

Direct download: MNW82-BillKalush-01-21-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:22pm EDT

Harry "The Hat" Anderson is back with us on the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic" podcast to talk about the 75th Anniversary tribute to the Jinx which will accompany the October issue of Genii Magazine.  Ted Annemann was one of magic's most influential writers and editors. In 1934 he began publishing the Jinx Magazine with the last of  151 issues being released on December 15th, 1941, just before Annemann committed suicide.  Ted was best known for his work in the field of mentalism and many of his methods and routines are still used by performers today. Harry talks about Annemann and how he was influenced by this legendary figure as well as the reason that he feels that the Jinx is still such an important part of our history.

Direct download: MNW142-HarryAnderson-09-03-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:48pm EDT

Harry "The Hat" Anderson joins us on this edition of the Magic Newswire prior to an upcoming appearance at the SEAM conventionin Atlanta. He is best known by many  for playing the role of Judge Harry Stone on the television series Night Court. In addition to eight appearances on Saturday Night Live between 1981 and 1985, Anderson had a recurring guest role as con man "Harry the Hat" on Cheers. Harry has toured extensively as a magician and continues to present his evening show "Wise Guy" which was originally developed for his theater in New Orleans. 

Direct download: MNW41-HarryAnderson2-08-12-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:09pm EDT

Harry "The Hat" Anderson joins us on this edition of the Magic Newswire prior to an upcoming appearance at the SEAM conventionin Atlanta. He is best known by many  for playing the role of Judge Harry Stone on the television series Night Court. In addition to eight appearances on Saturday Night Live between 1981 and 1985, Anderson had a recurring guest role as con man "Harry the Hat" on Cheers. Harry has toured extensively as a magician and continues to present his evening show "Wise Guy" which was originally developed for his theater in New Orleans. 

Direct download: MNW40-HarryAnderson-08-11-2008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm EDT

Eric Eswin first discovered magic at the knee of an uncle showing him a coin trick. Today he is the International President of Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques (International Federation of Magic Societies or FISM) which now consists of 82 clubs, both national and international, as well as national Federations which represent over 50,000 Magicians from 44 countries. Having just returned from the most recent World Championship of Magic in Beijing, Eric joins us on the "Spirit of Magic" podcast to talk about his vision for the future of the organization and some of the controversies related to the next convention in 2012.

Direct download: MNW139-EricEswin-08-25-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:47pm EDT

Paul Diamond may not be a household name in the world of magic today, but everyone that I speak to from Johnny Thompson, to Mac King & Lance Burton, etc... all know Mr. Humble. I was lucky enough to get my first exposure to magic through Paul's shop when I was ten years old. As it turns out, Paul was also a favorite performer of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. Over the years, he's been a featured entertainer for celebrity events hosted by Celine Dion, Elton John, Milton Burle and others. In addition, Paul had such legends as Slydini and Charlie Miller live with him in his Florida home. Rediscover "Mr. Humble," Mr. Paul Diamond on this episode of the Magic Newswire's "Spirit of Magic Podcast."

Direct download: MNW105-PaulDiamond-04-13-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:36pm EDT

I recently received an amazing email from Bill Smith offering to share a previously unheard interview with Harry Blackstone Jr. Obviously, I was flattered and thrilled that I could share this with our listeners. According to the information shared by Bill, this interview was recorded by a local radio station in Texas, but was never broadcast. Fortunately, Bill was able to obtain the master and we now have the digital copy that we are sharing here today. Thanks again to Bill who has said that he will welcome any emails inquiring about this chat.

Direct download: MNW333_____BLACKSTONE_JR.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:39am EDT

What you are about to hear is a previously unheard interview with Harry Blackstone Jr. and is brought to you through the efforts of Bill Smith.  Here is what Bill had to say about the recording when he sent it my way:

I had the fortune, in 1983, to see Harry Blackstone Jr. perform for a department store grand opening. I wanted to meet him afterwards, but someone told me he'd be doing a radio interview right after the show, but would be happy to meet me after that. So i waited {of course!}, & out he came, & we had a nice long chat. But i also noticed the call letters of the local radio station on the shoulder strap cassette recorder the radio person had, & later, i called the station to ask when the interview would be aired. The gentleman said they decided it wouldn't be aired after all, as it didn't fit into the current schedule or something, but then asked if i'd like a copy. Well, he didn't have to twist MY arm! LOL! I called later to thank him, after receiving it in the mail, & asked about the possibility of buying the original. He told me that the original had already been re-recorded over, so basically, now i had the "master"! Unfortunately, my tape machine ate my copy he sent, but not before i had put it onto cd {THANK GOD!!}

It is a WONDERFUL interview, with Harry doing 99% of the talking. It runs about 15 minutes if i remember right, & starts off with him talking about how his dad got started, became famous, & leads silk smooth into how his dad helped him get going, & him becoming famous. 

I know i could SELL copies of this, but i also know that as soon as i did, it would be all over the net for free anyway, so i'd rather use it to give back to this great art, & also to thank you for the great job you are doing preserving the knowledge of all those greats of magic through your podcasts.

Direct download: MNW_333____BLACKSTONE_JR_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:43pm EDT

Tony Curtis is our guest on this episode of the Magic Newswire "Spirit of Magic" podcast. Tony studied with George L Boston before starring in the 1953 film Houdini. Tony's enthusiasm for magic continued far beyond his role in the film. He was a frequent  participant  at  the  AMA's annual award banquets. In fact, he presented Cardini with the Masters Fellowship, the Academy of Magical Arts highest honor.  In spite of the fact that the film portrayed  a highly fictionalized account of Houdini's career, many still consider it to be one of the best "Houdini Films" yet to be made

Direct download: MNW89-TonyCurtis-02-05-2009.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:14am EDT

RICHARD HATCH :: MNW331

EARDNASE

Was he Milton Franklin Andrews, Wilbur Edgerton Sanders, E.S. Andrews, L'Homme Masque, or S.W. Erdnase? The search for the author of one of the most seminal works on the card manipulation is among the most hotly debated topics in the world of conjuring research. On this episode of the "Spirit of Magic" podcast, I am joined by guest co-host Jason England and special guest Richard Hatch. Richard is widely recognized for his research on the topic of Erdnase and the book "Expert at the Card Table." If you regularly perform close-up magic with cards, then you are certain to have been influenced by this book whether or not you are aware of it. We may just scratch the surface of this fascinating topic in this episode, but it is a fascinating and educational conversation that you need to hear.

Direct download: RICHARD_HATCH____MNW_331.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:44pm EDT

Magic Castle librarian Bill Goodwin joins me on this edition of this podcast to tell us a bit about what has been happening at the Magic Castle since the fire and to talk about his friend Larry Jennings. Larry is widely recognized as one of Dai Vernon's greatest students and is known for developing some of the most difficult, yet rewarding effects with a deck of cards. On January 28th, Potter & Potter Auctions will be curating the sale of Jennings collection which contains Erdnasia, Vernon Memorbilia, books and much, much more.

Direct download: MNW_329____BILL_GOODWIN.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:12pm EDT

Well, it is finally here. The 2011 wrap-up show for the Spirit of Magic & The Magic Newswire. Because of various and sundry technical issues, I wasn't sure that this show would ever see the light of day. It may be 30 days late, but I am still happy to present this chat with Johnny Thompson, John Calvert, Marco Tempest Paul Gertner, David Kaye, Richard Hatch, Jim Steinmeyer, Chase Goforth, Scott Wells, Cameron Ramsay and many others all gathering to ring in the Year of the Dragon. From everyone involved in the Magic Newswire and these podcasts, I wish you a prosperous and happy new year! 

Direct download: MNW_330____THE_DRAGON.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:48am EDT

Magic Castle librarian Bill Goodwin joins me on this edition of this podcast to tell us a bit about what has been happening at the Magic Castle since the fire and to talk about his friend Larry Jennings.  Larry is widely recognized as one of Dai Vernon's greatest students and is known for developing some of the most difficult, yet rewarding effects with a deck of cards.  On January 28th, Potter & Potter Auctions will be curating the sale of Jennings collection which contains Erdnasia, Vernon Memorbilia, books and much, much more.

Direct download: themagicnewswire-309422-01-23-2012_pshow_474393.mp3
Category: Podcast -- posted at: 2:27pm EDT

My guest on this episode of the Magic Newswire's Spirit of Magic podcast is Magic Castle regular Rob Zabrecky. Rob began not as a magician but as a musician as a part of the 90's indie band Possum Dixon. Discovering magic after an unexpected visit to a magic shop while on tour, Rob became addicted to magic and mentalism. Rob is now a frequent performer in the Parlor of Prestidigitation and was a long time host of the AMA's "Who's Hoo" interview series.

Direct download: MNW_327____ROB_ZABRECKY.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:33pm EDT

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