In today's episode, I talk to world‑renowned magician and illusion creator Blake Vogt, one of the most inventive minds in modern magic. Blake and I dive into his creative process, his groundbreaking visual illusions, and the incredible journey that led him to designing magic for some of the biggest performers on the planet.

Blake Vogt is a leading magic creator known for his original, highly visual illusions. He’s designed magic for David Copperfield, David Blaine, Dynamo, and other top magicians worldwide. His work has appeared in major films like Now You See Me, Now You See Me 2, and Marvel’s Ant‑Man, and you may recognize him from America’s Got Talent, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and The Late Late Show with James Corden. Blake’s style blends engineering, creativity, and playful misdirection, making him one of today’s most influential magicians.

In today's episode, we talk about where he finds inspiration to create illusions no one else performs, his experience creating magic for global superstars, his opinions on the evolution of modern magic and where he sees it heading, and how he's able to see everything in the "Magic Matrix" and turn anything and everything into magic.

Learn more about Blake Vogt at his website blakevogt.com.

Learn more about LD Madera and the podcast by visiting ldmadera.com.

Don't forget to rate and review, and feel free to leave a comment!

In this episode of Improv and Magic, I sit down with the incredible Margot Escott, LCSW — a nationally recognized psychotherapist, educator, and speaker known for her groundbreaking work at the intersection of improvisational theater and mental health. Margot has spent decades teaching clinicians, caregivers, and creative professionals how improv can reduce anxiety, build resilience, and transform the way we communicate.

I’ve admired Margot’s work for years, so getting the chance to talk with her about improv therapy, emotional wellness, creativity, and the power of play was a true gift. We explore how improv helps people reconnect with joy, navigate difficult emotions, and develop stronger relationships both personally and professionally.

If you’re interested in improv for mental health, creative growth, therapeutic techniques, or the science behind laughter and connection, this episode is packed with value. Margot’s warmth, wisdom, and humor make this conversation one of my favorites.

To learn more about Margot Escott's work, visit improv4wellness.com.

Learn more about the podcast and me by visiting ldmadera.com, and don't forget to help the podcast by rating and reviewing!

In today's episode, world-renowned magician, author, and lecturer Joshua Jay joins me for an unforgettable conversation about the art of illusion, creativity, and storytelling.

Known for his appearances on Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Good Morning America, and The Today Show, Joshua shares insights into his journey as a magician, his passion for teaching, and the secrets behind creating magic that resonates with audiences worldwide. He is celebrated for his innovative approach to close-up magic and stage performance. He has performed in over 100 countries, won the World Magic Seminar Championship in 1998, and even holds a Guinness World Record for finding 21 cards in 1 minute. Joshua Jay blends storytelling and sleight of hand to create unforgettable performances.

Tune in to hear Joshua Jay's fascinating journey. Whether you're a magician, performer, or simply a fan of magic, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the craft.

Don't forget to rate and review. Learn more about LD and the podcast by visiting ldmadera.com.

Today's guest is one of my good friends Jarrett White.

Jarrett is a fellow actor, director, instructor, and owner of Just The Funny in Miami. In this episode, Jarrett and I have a one-on-one conversation about his upbringing and what motivated him to be the performer that he is. Jarrett is also a veteran of the US Military, and he openly shares his experience and what he took away from that experience.

Not only will you love Jarrett's truthful and honest stories, you'll love how many times we break out into big laughs with each other.

Remember to like and review, and share the podcast with everyone who might enjoy this.

For more info, visit my website ldmadera.com.

In this episode of Improv and Magic, we spotlight the transformative world of improvisation with guest Jill Eickmann, co-founder and Artistic Director of Leela Improv Theatre. Known for her holistic approach to improv, Jill shares insights on ensemble building, truthful artistic play, and the healing power of performance.

Jill Eickmann is a nationally recognized improvisational theatre artist, director, and educator. She co-founded Leela Improv, a bi-coastal training center and theatre company based in San Francisco and Raleigh. With over 20 years of experience, Jill has designed Leela’s seven-level improv curriculum, rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and joyful play.

Her background includes an MA in Drama Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies, training with renowned institutions such as iO, Annoyance Theatre, and Upright Citizens Brigade, and corporate workshops for companies like Google, YouTube, Facebook, IBM, Visa, and McKinsey & Company.

Beyond teaching, Jill is a performer and drama therapist who integrates improvisation with therapeutic practices, emphasizing connection, creativity, and self-expression.

In this episode, Jill discusses the mission of Leela Improv: truthful, artistic play that blends authenticity with ensemble-driven creativity. She explores how improv fosters community, risk-taking, and resilience, both on stage and in everyday life. Jill shares her journey from studying acting and drama therapy to building one of the most respected improv training centers in the U.S.

Tune in to hear Jill Eickmann’s inspiring perspective on improvisation as both an art form and a tool for personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about improv, theatre, or creative collaboration.

Find out more about Jill at jilleickmann.com, and follow Leela Improv Theater at leela-nc.com.

Don't forget to like and review! For more information on LD Madera and how you can sponsor an episode of Improv and Magic, visit ldmadera.com.

It's the Season Six Premiere of Improv and Magic!

Today, we have an exclusive conversation with the quick-witted actor and writer Jonathan Mangum. He's built a career spanning TV, film, and live comedy, including appearances on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, The Wayne Brady Show, and Drew Carey's Improv-A-Ganza. Jonathan is also known as the announcer on CBS's Let's Make a Deal with Wayne Brady.

In this interview, Jonathan Mangum shares his journey to the stage and his creative process as a performer and writer. Whether you know him from improv, television, or live tours, Jonathan Mangum's story is one of humor, persistence, and creative passion.

For more information about LD, visit ldmadera.com.

Want to sponsor an episode? Reach out and find out how you can get your business/organization promoted on the show.

Don't forget to subscribe, and feel free to leave a review!

In today's season finale episode, I have an exclusive interview with world-renowned mentalist Banachek, a master of deception and psychological illusions.

With decades of experience in magic and skepticism, Banachek has worked with magic's greatest legends like Penn & Teller, Criss Angel, and James Randi, revolutionizing the art of magic and mentalism. In this interview, Banachek shares some of his insights into the techniques, psychology, and craft behind his mind-blowing performances, and also shares his experience in helping people understand the truth about psychics.

Learn more about Banachek at his website, banachek.com.

And visit my new website ldmadera.com, and don't forget to rate and review!

Today, I have the honor of sitting down with the legend himself Jamy Ian Swiss, a master of sleight-of-hand, a celebrated author, and a respected historian of magic.

Jamy Ian Swiss has mesmerized audiences across the globe, from the prestigious Magic Castle in Hollywood to the Smithsonian Institution. Known for his razor-sharp technique and thought-provoking insights, he has contributed to numerous books, including Shattering Illusions and Preserving Mystery. His expertise extends beyond performance—he’s a passionate advocate for skepticism and critical thinking, making him a fascinating figure in both the magic and intellectual communities.

In this exclusive interview, we’ll explore his journey, his philosophy on deception, and the secrets behind his legendary performances. Whether you’re a magician, an improv enthusiast, or simply someone who loves the art of astonishment, this episode promises to be an unforgettable deep dive into the world of magic.

To learn more about Jamy Ian Swiss, you can visit his website jamyianswiss.com.

Feel free to rate and review, and feel free to visit my brand new website ldmadera.com.

It's the Second Anniversary of Improv and Magic!

To celebrate, I sit down with my guest Josephine Lee, one of the world's leading female illusionists.

Known for her mesmerizing stage presence and groundbreaking illusions, Josephine has taken the magic world by storm, performing in theaters, on television, and at high-profile events across the globe. Josephine first gained international recognition as a stage assistant to Dutch magician Hans Klok, before stepping into the spotlight as a solo performer. Her appearances on Britain’s Got Talent, The Next Great Magician, and Penn & Teller: Fool Us showcased her innovative approach to magic, earning her widespread acclaim. In 2018, she was honored with the prestigious Mandrake d'Or, an award celebrating excellence in illusion artistry.

In this exclusive interview, Josephine shares insights into her journey from assistant to headliner, the challenges of breaking barriers in the magic industry, and the secrets behind her most astonishing illusions. She also discusses the evolution of magic in modern entertainment and what it takes to captivate audiences worldwide.

To learn more about Josephine Lee, visit her website at josephinelee.co.uk.

And be sure to visit my brand new website, ldmadera.com to learn more about yours truly! Don't forget to rate and review and share with your friends!

In today's episode of Improv and Magic, I welcome the multi-talented Josh Tariff.

Josh, an alum of iO West, has honed his craft as a dynamic improviser, hosting iconic shows like the competitive "CageMatch" in Los Angeles. Beyond the stage, he’s a celebrated voice in the professional wrestling scene, known for his work as a commentator under the name Christian Rosenberg and host on AfterBuzzTV, where his insights have reached millions of fans worldwide.

In this episode, Josh shares his journey from mastering the art of unscripted comedy to becoming a sought-after personality in the wrestling world. You'll hear how his improv skills enhance his wrestling commentary and how he uses storytelling to captivate audiences in both arenas. This episode is a must-listen for fans of creativity and performance.

You can find more information on Josh by visiting his website candidcoach.com.

Show the podcast some love by leaving a rate and review!