In 2006, David Sousa took home to Portugal a FISM prize for Manipulation. It was the first time two FISM trophies were awarded to Portuguese magicians (the other was Helder Guimaraes, who won for Close-Up Cards). It helped David secure his position and dream of becoming a full time professional magician. It didn't happen overnight, but was the result of long years and hard work. In this podcast, David talks about his road to success. You can hear the passion in his voice and how committed he was (and is) to be the best.

In our world today with mostly close-up magic ruling the YouTube channels and the lecture circuit, it is refreshing to see a lecture on the art of manipulation and stage deportment, particularly from one who has won top international awards. During October 2014, David traveled around the U.S. for an abbreviated lecture tour of ten cities in early October. While he was in Houston, we sat down to discuss the development of his award winning act.. Though you may not have the opportunity to hear his lecture this time around, you can still learn and enjoy his advice in this week's podcast.

Lecture Testimonials:

"A lot of people might think that since David is a manipulator - world class, but still a manipulator that his lecture won't have anything of interest to them because they don't "Do that".  Well they couldn't be more wrong.  David just lectured in Dallas and it was excellent.  He clearly explained the thinking behind and how to perform his Red Envelope Act.  Not only will you enjoy seeing his creative process, but I heard several of our attendees commenting on how they were going to adapt many of David's techniques to what they do ( and these were not manipulators).

David also taught a few things that are great for close-up artists and kid show performers.  One of his items was so well received that I saw one of our areas full time family entertainers buying 3 of the props so that he would be sure not to lose it or wear it out.  I'm not going to tell you what it was, but I got one too and if you want to find out about it do yourself a favor and attend David's lecture." - Mark Jensen, Past President Texas Association of Magicians, Past President Dallas Magic Clubs (October 5, 2014)

"There are lecturers and there are lecturers; David Sousa definitely gave us his all; a great lecture. His material is original, his explanations clear and concise and best of all, a really nice guy. I think what was most refreshing was his willingness to share in-depth knowledge about how he created his act, etc. Nothing was held back. He opened our eyes to thinking out-side-the-box. An idea that many performers just don't get is that you need to HIDE the technique; many like to show this off....WRONG!..... We had a very large and enthusiastic crowd; David was happy and we were happy. We highly recommend his lecture and his Magic. We can't wait for his next lecture to roll around." - George Robinson, Owner/Operator Viking Magic, Collectors Workshop

David talks in this podcast about competitions and how he started competing that led to FISM. He discusses performance venues along the way, how he "brainstorms" ideas, his creative process, the patience it takes to refine ideas and find what resonates with the audience, the importance of having a silent act that can play around the world to all international audiences, and more.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

With the proliferation of online magic shops, we are seeing the slow demise of the mom and pop, brick and mortar magic shops. I posted a podcast featuring three dealers (which you can hear by Clicking Here)  This podcast shows the other side of the two-headed coin by getting a perspective from some people in key positions with two of the largest online dealers: Penguin Magic and

00:02:29 - Tim Trono was with Murphy's Magic for a dozen years but is now working with Penguin Magic. He talks about how they work together to help brick and mortar shops. In particular, Penguin recognizes that they can't be the sole seller of magic to the world, so they He also talks about their business model and how it differs from some others like Ellusionist and Theory 11. In particular, they try to offer unique products and have a singular look and brand. He also discusses the Penguin lecture series and why it has become so successful. He talks about their growth, bumps along the road, and more.

00:27:33 - Jason Brumbalow, Director – New Product Development with Murphy's Magic Supplies talks about Murphy's role as a jobber which wholesales to retail owners, both online as well as brick and mortar shops. He talks about their model for success and how they have moved with the times. He also discusses market trends, online videos, the proliferation of playing cards, and the pros and cons of online shops versus brick and mortar shops and the future of buying magic.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

October is the month when things go bump in the night. It's also a good time to capitalize on those "bumps". You can create these paranormal experiences at Halloween parties in private homes or public houses like pubs, hotels, and other places that have a "haunted history". In this podcast, Jamie Salinas and Scott Wells share a few ideas on how to create this experience.

Jamie Salinas and I have been performing seances in Houston for the past seven years. We are working on a book but gave a preview at a recent I.B.M. Ring meeting. I turned on the microphone to record the mini-lecture and the Q&A that ensued. Seances are not for everyone, but there is a market for them. To view a calendar of our performances, visit the HoustonSeance website at: http://HoustonSeance.com

ATTENTION LECTURE/CONVENTION ORGANIZERS: Jamie and I can deliver a "double act" lecture with all the information you need to develop, produce, market and perform a seance in your community. The complete lecture includes the all-important information of how to put people in seats. Like any magic show, if you don't have an audience, then "you're just fooling yourself!" You can contact Jamie and Scott by email at: [email protected]

In this podcast, Jamie and I agreed to release "inside" information on how to put together your own seance. We recognize that this is not for every performer. In fact, it is probably only for a very few. But for those who are interested in a "alternate stream of revenue" and the chance to present something different to your clients, especially during the Halloween season, then this mini-lecture includes information you need.

There are no "tricks" taught during this particular lecture but more of the marketing fundamentals of how to produce a seance, how to find a location, what to charge, determining your character (i.e. psychic, medium, magician, ghost hunter, etc.), high tech vs. low tech, plus some suggestions on where to find some effects to present (i.e. Outlaw Effects and Lebanon Circle Magick Co.)

If you are interested in receiving a copy of our lecture notes (upon which our book will be based) then please visit The Magic Word Shop to order your copy via instant 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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

Order Banachek's "Psychokinetic Touches" (and more) through the Magic Inspirations store by clicking the banner above.

Purveyors of Jack the Ripper "From Hell" and Titanic's "White Star" among so many other creepy effects.

Outlaw Effects, makers of the "Luna" book test and other bizarre effects.

A great effect for parlor or stage by Jamie Salinas. An unbelievable miracle at a bargain price of $19.95!

I always love this time of year when Steve Bryant posts his Halloween issue. If you're not a regular reader, then this is the month to surf over and see what's on Steve's mind.

Noel Britten is from, well Great Britain, so it should be an easy name to remember! Noe is the co-founder and host of "Bizarre Bath" which is a walking tour in the tourist community of Bath, England. He has also been a staple of the comedy club circuit in the U.K. as well as a noted street performer. He is currently the talent booker for the MacMillan's International Magic Convention and long time compere of this convention.

I have known Noel for quite some time, but I was unaware of his humanitarian efforts until I recorded this podcast. He was always interested in natural history and orangutangs and during a performance in Hong Kong, he and his wife dropped down to Indonesia to see the animals in their natural habitat and, well, one thing led to another.

We recorded this podcast in September during which time Noel and his wife were in Ketapang, Indonesia where they spend six months each year working with orphaned orangutans as part of the Animal Rescue Projects sponsored by the International Animal Rescue Foundation.

In this podcast, Noel begins with a discussion of his passion, International Animal Rescue and what he is doing at the orphaned orangutang sanctuary helping other volunteers. As a result seeing the plight of these animals, Noel has been finding less and less humor in the world which has dramatically affected his outlook on the world such that he no longer performs as a comedy magician.

At time stamp 00:13:00 Noel discusses the walking tour he conducts in Bath, England, called "Bizarre Bath" and how it was started and how others might replicate his efforts. He also talks about the rise and fall of comedy clubs in the U.K. like in the U.S. plus performing street magic. He gives us some good suggestions on how to get a crowd and getting people to put money in the hat. Noel has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and talks about the  difficulty of working those shows and drawing crowds.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

Click the banner above to visit the International Animal Rescue website for more information and how you can donate to the cause. Please consider a donation to this organization if you can.

While traveling to Ft. Worth for the 2014 Texas Association of Magicians annual convention, my wife drove the car while Charlie Randall and I sat in the back seat and chatted about the creation of H&R Magic Books which grew into one of the world's leading magic book sellers. Please forgive some of the ambient road noise you hear in the background during this interview. But you should get the feeling as if you were riding along with us as you sat in the front seat and listened to our chat.

Richard Hatch & Charlie Randall - 2006

Charlie talks about the beginnings of H&R Magic Books, its evolution, and how you might consider starting your own business. Today, Richard and Charlie have sold the business to Marshall Peterson and they have taken a back seat as Marshall moves the business forward. Charlie now occasionally helps out behind the booth at magic conventions but he mainly focuses on publishing new books.

In this interview, he also talks about publishing books and what he looks for when people submit material for his consideration for publishing. Charlie also talks about brick and mortar magic shops, the evolution of videos to DVD's, and more.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

Second installment of "Meals with Magicians" featuring a dining experience with Banachek...well, not so much of "dining" as it was an "eating" experience at one of Houston's premiere burger chains, Southwells.

Kevin James has been called many things, performer, creator, manufacturer, world traveler, author, lecturer, producer and all around great guy. But what he's perhaps best known for is his moniker he has been tagged with for The Illusionists world tour: Inventor.

Certainly Kevin has had his share of inventing original, commercial tricks he has released like "Living Hand", "Floating Rose", "Snow" and "Bowl-A-Rama", among many others. He has won the "Parlour Magician of the Year" from the Academy of Magical Arts and competed in the second season of "America's Got Talent" (sic) where he advanced to the semi-finals. Kevin was also on CBS TV on "World's Greatest Magicians at the Magic Castle". He had a three year run in Paris' Crazy Horse, a multi-year contracts in Las Vegas with the Riviera in "Splash" and at the Greek Isles Casino "The World's Greatest Magic Show".

In this podcast, I caught up with Kevin before his tech rehearsal for his performance at the 2014 Texas Association of Magicians convention in Ft. Worth, Texas. We sat in the quiet theatre before the construction and hub-bub started and talked about The Illusionists world tour, his creations and his process for creating and his association with Gaeton Bloom, his experience on "America's Got Talent" (sic) and advice for others considering an audition. He also talked about some of his performances around the world and his early upbringing and association with the Long Beach Mystics.

This is a very insightful and thorough look at Kevin's magical world and career. Join us as we look through the eyeglasses of Kevin James.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

Can't get enough magic podcasts? Why eat alone? Enjoy these irregular podcasts as I take my microphone along and record conversations over lunch, dinner or drinks. It's raw, unedited, something different and fun! Enjoy "Meals with Magicians".

As a belated update on the events on Day Three (now that my hands are better following carpal tunnel surgery), Dana Daniels delivered his "first ever" lecture for magicians at a magic convention. It was well done and covered a lot of interesting territory with "Finding the Funny", a lecture on how to find humor to put into your act. It was interspersed with anecdotes about his magical career. The afternoon had additional lectures that were well attended (and received) by Davd Chandler, Roland Sarlot and Susan Eyeds, and Master Payne. The close-up competition was featured as part of the afternoon activities, too. Before the school busses departed to whisk us away to the final night show, Master Payne presented a hilarious PowerPoint Presentation followed by the Contest Awards. A highlight of the evening gala show was Kevin James full 45 minute stage show complete with his full crew.

Time stamps for this podcast:

00:02:34 - Dana Daniels talks about comedy

00:14:39 - Davie Rangel talks about his presentation for the close-up competition and why people should compete. This chat was conducted before the presentation off awards during which we learned that he won for senior close-up.

00:26:40 - T.A.O.M. Contest and Award Chairman, Bob Emory talks about the importance of contests and how it helps one's growth in the craft.

00:34:10 Past President of the T.A.O.M., Bill Irwin gives us a wrap of the convention from his perspective.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

This is a wrap of the 2014 convention with little to do (actually the only scheduled activity for the day) was the lecture by Diamond Jim Tyler, author of "Pocket Full of Miracles" and the "Bamboozlers" series/ He had a good attendance of nearly 150 people despite the fact that most of the registrants were checking out of the hotel and hitting the road. It was their loss because Diamond Jim delivered a thoroughly entertaining and instructive lecture full of commercial ideas and tricks.

Time stamps for this podcast:

00:02:34 - 2015 T.A.O.M. President, Trixie Bond, talks about the unique theme of next year's T.A.O.M. convention. You can get more details at: http://taom.org/2015/

00:13:25 - Former Entertainment Diector for Houston's Magic Island, Scott Hollingsworth, talks about some history of the Magic Island and his assessment of its future.

00:29:19 Steve Bedwell hasn't performed or lectured at a magic convention in over a dozen years. It's great to see him back and in top form. Visit his website to join his free newsletter at http://SteveBedwellMagic.com

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.

Register now and save!

Today began the first full day of the TAOM Convention chock full of lectures and competition. A pass through the dealers' room proved an experience. With only a dozen dealers in attendance, no one should complain about being too much competition; however, since the dealers were put in a large room, it engulfed the tiny town and made the place seem empty most of the time. Let me just say that there was plenty of standing room in front of any one dealer at any one time.

The morning saw the stage contestants competing with the afternoon having the professional close-up show featuring Steve Bedwell, Master Payne, Dave Chandler and some others who were not listed on the program. The lectures were outstanding and given by Max Howard, Sonny Fontana, Kevin James and Steve Bedwell Throughout the convention at irregular times, miniature illusions were on display that was apparently thrown in at the last minute as there is no recognition in the schedule of who owned or presented the collection.

The evening show featured other acts that were not in the program. Apparently the show order and talent was also thrown together after the program went to bed. Having said that, the show was enjoyable with lots of variety. I wish I could remember, but this recap is being typed in long after the convention was over and my hand had time to heal enough to allow me to be back at the keyboard.

Time stamps for this podcast;:

00:02:03 - Master Payne gives a PowerPoint presentation to the Order of Willard breakfast group

00:20:38 - Master Payne chats with Scott

00:30:42 - Arthur Moses, world renown Houdini collector, talks about the recent Houdini auction by Potter & Potter in Chicago

00:46:56 - Max Howard talks about what's mos important in our art...theatre. He also discusses the creation of Gus Rich, the War Magician.

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. (please note: this RSS Feed subscription system may not work with Android systems). Remember, you can download it through iTunes. See the preview page by Clicking Here.