This week on Discourse in Magic, we’re bringing you a special repost of Jonah Babins’ appearance on the Penguin Magic Podcast, hosted by Erik Tait. Jonah, the long-time host of Discourse in Magic, takes the guest seat and shares insights on the world of magic, business, and podcasting. How Jonah Built Discourse in Magic Jonah shares the journey of …

In this episode, Jonah Babins is joined by corporate magic legend Bill Herz to unpack a career that spans summer camps, corporate boardrooms, and headline features in The Wall Street Journal. From his early days performing with Paul Cummins to founding Magicorp and representing world-class talent, Bill shares the highs, the hustle, and the hilariou…

Gabriel Werlen has taken the world by storm with The Green Neck System, his incredible thoughts and theories on propless mentalism. Nothing feels procedural, and it gives the illusion of real mind-reading. Gabriel shares his creative process, how he converts his work from French to English using AI, and so much more.…

Caroline Ravn works for some of the largest magic corporations in the world, and she shares some of those secrets with you. She also discusses her appearances at TedX and going from the church to the stage. Nick and Erik kick off the show by discussing the Penguin Magic Awards, is Jibrizy Dead, and David Blaine's new show.…

In this episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins sits down with magician, circus performer, and entertainer Leah Orleans to discuss her unique journey in magic, her experiences blending circus arts with illusion, and how she pushes the boundaries of traditional performance. Leah shares insights into how she found her place in the magic world, he…

Erik Casey is a well-known creator and performer who has released monster hit effects Poker Test and POW. Now, he talks about discovering a principle he thought he had invented in a pamphlet from the 30's. An in-depth conversation about parallel creation and how to make your magic your own. The show kicks off with Erik Tait and Nick discussing how …

Felice Ling is a street and stage performer who is one of the prime moving forces behind The Boston Magic Lab. She has put up and coming performers on her stage right along side living legends, and she shares the secrets of how to get your own show started. The Boston Magic Lab - https://www.bostonmagiclab.com/…

Erik Tait gives you a convention report on the very last Winter Carnival of Magic and the very first Mystify Magic Festival. Hear about the shows, the sessions, the Dealer's Room, and the incredible talent assembled for the last of one convention and the first of another. Also now is your opportunity to try and get the Penguin Magic Podcast nominat…

Erik has been on the road with two different magic conventions and technical problems have resulted in a delay of the podcast. We will be back tomorrow with a full brain dump and recap of The Winter Carnival of Magic and The Mystify Magic Festival! Thanks for listening.By Erik Tait

In this solo episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins dives into the world of public shows, sharing his insights on why every magician should consider doing them. He also provides a sneak peek into his upcoming shows across North America and highlights a special event happening at the end of April. Why Do Public Shows? Promo Material: Public sho…

Jonah Babins has hosted the Discourse In Magic podcast for nine years. He has interviewed some of the most prominent names in magic and built a reputation for asking interesting and engaging questions. Latley he has turned his eye to business consulting and is helping magicians around the world dramatically increase their revenues. He stops by the …

In this episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins sits down with Jonathan Levit to discuss his multifaceted career in the entertainment industry, from acting and hosting to creating innovative magic tricks and apps. Jonathan shares his journey, insights, and the magic behind his successful projects, including his Vegas show and The Stranger app. …

Tom Vorjohan is the vice-chair and entertainment director for The Winter Carnival of Magic. This fifty-year-old convention is coming to an end. Tom shares the history, gives insight into what it's like to book a convention, and previews the insane lineup. This convention is going to be legendary, and you have an opportunity to be at the final one! …

Welcome to another insightful episode of Discourse in Magic with your host, Jonah Babins! This week, Jonah shares his journey and lessons learned from running Google ads in his magic business. Unlike tactical episodes, this one dives deep into the mental game and personal experiences that paved the way for success. Perseverance and Mindset Jonah’s …

Nick & Erik discuss the hit effect at Blackpool The Atomic Deck by Craig Petty. They also share the coolest tricks they saw in the dealer's room. It's the annual Blackpool Wrap Up!By Erik Tait

Craig Petty discusses his brand new hardcover book, Absolute Madness. Craig talks to Erik about the process of turning his favorite tricks of all time into a full-on magic book. Nick and Erik kick off the episode by talking about what's on the stand at the Blackpool Magic Convention and giving first-time conventioneers a crash course on surviving t…

In this episode, Jonah sits down with Rachel Wax to discuss her journey from fashion to full-time magic, performing at Speakeasy Magick, and her creative process for developing new routines. Getting Into Magic Rachel’s introduction to magic came from her father, a surgeon with a passion for tricks. At 15, she learned a self-working card trick, spar…

Stan Allen stops by the show for a rare interview to discuss an event that is happening this year at Magic Live. The convention typically shrouded in secrecy, is for the first time sharing an event that needs you. In this episode, you can find out exactly how you could end up on the stage at Magic Live. Submit Your Show To Magic Live: https://www.m…

In this episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins sits down with magician, science communicator, and viral illusion creator Matt Pritchard. Matt’s unique approach blends his background in physics with a passion for magic, leading to mesmerizing optical illusions and science-based performances that captivate audiences worldwide. How Matt Got Into …

Abby Segal is a rising young star in magic. She has written a hit children's book that is sold at The Magic Castle, lectured and performed at Magifest, and is a featured performer at The Chicago Magic Lounge. She talks creativity, how her visual art influences her magic, and a whole lot more.By Erik Tait

Nick Locapo and Erik Tait preview all the magic Penguin is bringing to Magifest. The lads discuss new effects, exciting new products, and everything that will be in the booth. At the close of the episode Nick & Erik discuss the delicate art of demonstrating magic to magicians at conventions, and give some advice to aspiring magic pitch people.…

Francis Menotti returns to the show to discuss bringing your joy to magic, as well as get deep into the theory and philosophy of magic with Erik. Before the Main Event, Nick and Erik discuss Gabriel Werlen's Penguin Live Lecture, Challenge Coin by R Paul Wilson, and the new Raven Reconfigured effect.…

In this week’s episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins kicks off the new year with an insightful discussion about the January slump—a reality for many magicians—and how to turn it into an opportunity for growth. With the rush of holiday gigs behind us, Jonah explains how January offers a unique chance to focus on improving your magic business. …

Trigg Watson is a new breed of magician. He's on the bleeding edge of combining technology and magic. He has gone viral thanks to his performances on America's Got Talent and Penn & Teller: Fool Us. He discusses not only how he prepared for his time on AGT, but his thoughts and theories on combining classical sleight of hand and modern technology.…

2024 was a year full of crazy releases. Nick Locapo and Erik Tait look back on all the magic that came out this year, and sneak preview some stuff coming in 2025.By Erik Tait

Carisa Hendrix stops by the show to discuss how she came to be the newest co-host of the Penguin Live Holiday Special. She discusses some exclusive behind-the-scenes info and details the challenges in putting the special together. Before that, Nick Locapo and Erik Tait talk about the Holiday Specials of days past, the new tricks they are putting in…

Seth Race is the head of the Workshop at Penguin Magic. He's one of the clever people who works to 3D design new gimmicks, develop new production methods, and maintain the high quality of the products Penguin Magic ships. Seth shares the inside scoop on how the Workshop produces the amazing products at Penguin Magic.…

Join us for a unique twist as Eric Leclerc takes over as host to interview the usual host, Jonah Babins, on his own podcast, Discourse in Magic. This engaging conversation uncovers Jonah’s journey into the world of magic and podcasting, revealing how his love for both has enriched his life. Jonah shares his early experiences with magic, sparked by …

Lady Sarah and Keith Fields stop by the show to discuss changes to the IBM Magic Competition, the largest cash prize for magic in North America. They tell our listeners how they could jump start their careers with this contest. Nick and Erik discuss the new tricks of the week, and how they store their card collections at home.…

Renowned magician and captivating storyteller Taylor Hughes joins us for an insightful exploration of his magical journey. We unravel Taylor’s innovative blend of storytelling and illusion, a unique approach shaped by early influences like the Magic Castle Junior Society. Taylor opens up about crafting acts that not only mesmerize but also resonate…

Julie Eng and Jim Steinmeyer take a break from taking over the publishing of Genii Magazine to discuss with our listeners the future of Genii Magazine after Richard Kaufman's retirement. Nick and Erik start the show with a discussion of the latest tricks and answer listener questions.By Erik Tait

Thanks so much for all your support. We have a surprise announcement and a short holiday message for you. Happy Thanksgiving!By Erik Tait

Benjamin Budzak is one of the geniuses behind Thought Cast and one of the most cutting-edge electronic impression pads. He hops on the show to discuss developing technology in magic, the use of electronics, and a lot more. The highlight of the episode is a brand new trick with an ordinary etch a sketch that makes Erik swear like a sailor because he…

Michael Bloemeke is one of the stand out performers from Magic Texas, and a team member for FISM North America for 2025. His signature act featuring cups and balls and claws has delighted audiences across the continent and now he shares how he came up with this incredible act. Before all of that the show starts with Nick Locapo and Erik Tait giving…

In this episode of Discourse in Magic, I explore the art of crafting the perfect artist rider for your magic performances. I break down the essentials of what a rider is and why it is crucial for your event’s success. We’ll go over the key elements you should include, from sound and lighting to stage setup and seating arrangements, ensuring that ev…

Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented Dustin Tavella, winner of the 2021 season of America’s Got Talent, who shares his inspiring journey from a young magician dressed as a clown to a celebrated performer captivating audiences worldwide. Dustin recounts how his passion for magic began with a simple magic kit and a special trick gifted…

Michael Dardant is one of the most decorated magicians in North America. With 32 championship awards and 8 international titles he is an award winning magician and performer. He also hosts the Something Up Your Sleave Podcast for the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Michael's best skill is that he is a talented improviser with years of exper…

Today we’re unpacking the secrets of creating a successful lead machine for your magic business. Many magicians believe generating leads is the key to success, but there’s so much more to it. In this episode, we explore three essential systems that will ensure your business not only flourishes but also thrives year after year. We’ll discuss how to …

The second half of our incredible coin magic summit featuring the best coin magicians in the world concludes an incredible conversation. This podcast features: Avi Yap, Chris Korn, Danny Cheng, Danny Goldsmith, Jeremiah Zuo, Kainoa Harbottle, Eric Jones, Mr. Tango, Michael Rubenstein, and our guest of honor Curtis Kam.…

Get ready to be amazed by the world of grand illusions with our extraordinary guest, Reza Borchardt, as we explore his magical journey from a passionate young enthusiast to a leading illusionist in Branson, Missouri. Reza takes us behind the curtain, sharing how his early exposure to magic through TV shows and the generous mentorship of magicians l…

Penguin Magic hosts the first coin magic summit podcast with some of the best coin magicians on the planet. A discussion of where coin magic came from, where it is now, and where it's going featuring Avi Yap, Chris Korn, Danny Cheng, Danny Goldsmith, Jeremiah Zuo, Kainoa Harbottle, Eric Jones, Mr. Tango, Michael Rubenstein, and our guest of honor C…

Kent Axell joins the show to discuss his new residency at The Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas. He also guides us into a fascinating discussion of disclaimers for mentalists. Nick Locapo returns from the road to discuss his show, hillarious happenings on the road, and all the new products that are fit to dish.…

Transform your magic career by distinguishing between the flashy allure of marketing and the powerhouse of sales. Join me as I unravel the myth that appearing on big shows like Fool Us or America’s Got Talent is the golden ticket to success. Instead, discover how the real breakthroughs lie in mastering sales tactics such as SEO, ads, and strategic …

Aaron Fisher and Adam Grace stop by the show to discuss how they have formed one of the most exciting and dynamic magic communities online. They discuss how teaching has made them better performers and how to perfect your practice. Conjurer's Community: https://conjuror.community/By Erik Tait

Magician and comedian Mike Hammer takes center stage, unveiling the secrets behind his 13-year run on the Las Vegas strip. From his humble beginnings with a simple magic kit in Chicago to captivating audiences in the entertainment capital of the world, Mike’s story is as magical as his performances. With humor and heart, he opens up about the chall…

Leah Orleans jumps back on the show for the official announcement of the Mystify Magic Festival coming in 2025. A full lineup of performers and lecturers is announced, as is the panels, and dealer's room. Information on registration and th exciting new ideas this festival has are revealed for the very first time. https://mystifymagicfestival.com/…

Tori Noquez has been featured on Penn & Teller: Fool Us, in the New York Times, and at The Magic Castle. She is a rising star in the magic scene, as well as a talented educator and performer. In this interview, she discusses how her research into advanced mathematics allows her to become a more creative magician. The show starts with Nick Locapo an…

Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your holiday bookings this year! Prepare to transform your magic business with our latest episode of Discourse in Magic, where Jonah Babins, guides you through the essential tactics to capitalize on the peak holiday season. Discover why October and early November are the golden months for gig inquiries, and learn …

Matt Donnelly is a writer, comedian, improvisor, and magician known as The Mind Noodler. He has been a writer for Penn & Teller: Fool Us since the first American season and helped to craft one of the most influential television shows in magic. He sat down for an expansive interview about his transition from comedian to magician and his rapid rise t…

Join us for an exciting episode of Discourse in Magic as we welcome back Ben Train to discuss the launch of our latest project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our motivations behind creating this unique deck, our shared love for playing cards, and our desire to contribute something special to the magic community. We also touch on the practic…