Magical Thinking

Episode 31: Simon Coronel (Fool Us, Winner of FISM’s most original close-up act in 2012) sits down with Elliott for an extended conversation involving many different aspects about magic. Simon has a wealth of experience performing in different venues, from close up to stage, and even in burlesque. He shares how he developed each of these acts and why he prefers performing the way he does. Also, as someone who became interested in magic relatively later than most magicians, he has interesting stories and advice about how he was able to shift into a career as a full time magician. Enjoy!

This Thanksgiving, Elliott talks about things and people for which and whom he's thankful.

Episode 30: Elliott sits down with master street performer Tom Frank to have a lovely discussion about his life in magic. Even though Tom is a wonderful performer, he has remained an underground secret which makes this episode a special treat. Tom shares particularly useful advice for young magicians considering careers in magic, and cups and balls fans will love the ending of the podcast. Also, every magician should listen to his one man crusade to “Pass the deck.” Enjoy!

Episode 29: Elliott sits down with his friends Ryan Stock and AmberLynn Walker, the Comedy Daredevil team to talk magic, comedy, performance, misogyny, AGT, and vomit (which Elliott did not have a chance to drink). These guys are fascinating, amazing entertainers with a rich background in the variety arts. Enjoy!

Episode 28: Elliott sits down with Mac King, one of few universally praised comedy magicians. While he has been a well respected Vegas headliner for years, on this show, he tells stories from back when the act was evolving on the road. Mac has a lot of funny stories, and he shares a lot of lessons with Elliott that he has learned over the years about developing a good act.

Episode 27: Elliott heads over to Jason England’s house to discuss how Jason got interested in sleight of hand card magic, and how that evolved into his interests in cheating techniques, impromptu magic, lock picking, and even computer security. Jason is one of the most knowledgeable magicians alive today, and if you only know him from his Foundations series, Sub Rosa, or his other gambling affiliations, you may be surprised by what he shares in this conversation. There's also some fun conversation about his voracious sweet tooth and his diving experiences in Japan. Enjoy!

Episode 26: Nick Diffatte sits down with Elliott in Las Vegas, NV where Nick is currently performing at Hooters Casino-Hotel. This is one of Elliott's favorite episodes so far, as Nick has a strong point of view and is absolutely hilarious. You may not know Nick yet, but you should. Enjoy!

Episode 25: Paul Gertner, has a lifetime of stories to share in this shorter-than-usual episode. The conversation includes stories about meeting Dai Vernon and performing with Eddie Fechter, as well as, how he involves technology in his magic and his recent successful appearance on Penn & Teller's Fool US. Enjoy!

Episode 24: Elliott sits down for a conversation with legendary bar magician Doc Eason. Doc is known for his time as a bar magician at the Tower Comedy and Magic Bar, where he perfected and popularized his versions of tricks such as Card Under Drink and Anniversary Waltz. On the show, Doc tells stories from his introduction to magic, his time at the bar, and teaching his son magic, and more! Enjoy!

Episode 23: Elliott sits down with his dear friend, Jordan Gold. Jordan is a craft cocktail connoisseur, puzzle enthusiast, musician, and a phenomenal magician. Jordan is a great guest with hilarious stories and excellent tips on scoring free drinks! Enjoy!

Episode 22: Elliot sits down with card magician and the author of Confident Deceptions, Jason Ladanye. Jason shares insights into how to present gambling material, making consistent character choices, and storytelling in magic. Enjoy!

Episode 21: Mike Pisciotta, the Academy of Magical Arts' Close-Up Magician of the Year and resident magician of the World Famous Magic Castle sits down with Elliott to discuss magic, philosophy, performance, how to structure an act, comedy, and so much more! Such a fun and funny episode. Enjoy!

Episode 20: Homer Liwag takes some time out of his incredibly busy schedule making magic with and for David Copperfield to speak with Elliott about his life and his passions! Homer's attention to detail is incredible, and he completely dives into whatever his pursuit may be. There are great stories, wonderful magic talk, many funny moments, and more. Enjoy!

Episode 19: Mike Elizalde, President of Spectral Motion and magician of both stage and screen sits down with Elliott to discuss magic, artistic pursuits, life, the importance of a mentor and more! Mike is a wonderfully generous guy, and we're so glad he was able to take a bit of time to enlighten us on the wonders of Movie Making Magic, as well as his own magical process. Enjoy!

Episode 18: Jeremy Griffith, an all around wonderful human being sits down with Elliott to discuss life, magic, literature, philosophy, and more! Elliott and Jeremy are close friends, so this one is especially easy, funny, and deep. Enjoy!

Episode 17: Chad Long, genius card man and beloved friend, sits down to chat about magic, creativity, and life. Chad's quick wit and breadth of performing experience make this an especially insightful episode. Enjoy!

Episode 16: Elliott sits down with Daniel Prado for an amazing discussion of life, magic, travel, music, and more. Daniel is a wonderful guy, and his depth of knowledge on such a wide range of subjects makes this a really great episode. Enjoy!

Episode 15: Pipo Villanueva, a Spanish magician known for elegant sleight of hand and beautiful magic, spent some time with Elliott talking about magic, music, performance, magic theory, and more! He is best known for his release, Magic for the Shortsighted, available on ArtofMagic.com. Enjoy!

Episode 14: Dr. Will Houstoun sits down with Elliott to discuss magic and its beautiful history. Will has a doctorate in magical history, focusing on Professor Hoffmann and the enormous impact he made upon magic instruction and literature. Will and Elliott also discuss magic's definition, popular culture's perception of magic, HalfHalfMan.com, Breathe Magic (Breatheahr.org) and much more. Enjoy!

Episode 13: Justin Willman joins Elliott to talk about magic, comedy, and life. Justin is a truly gifted performer with experience in many different facets of entertainment, and he's got some great wisdom and stories to share.