Episodes

  • Charles Greene III on Ionia: Magician Princess Secrets Unlocked
    Feb 19 2025

    In this episode of The Magic Book Podcast, professional magician, historian, and author Charles Greene III discusses his journey from corporate magic to becoming an authority on vintage magic posters and Friedländer lithography. He shares insights from his decade-long research into the subject of his book, "Ionia: Magician Princess Secrets Unlocked." Charles also discusses two upcoming biographies and how his investigations have uncovered connections between magic history and early Hollywood.

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    58 mins
  • Judge Gary Brown: Inventive Magician, Historian, and Author
    Jan 10 2025

    In this episode of The Magic Book Podcast, United States district judge and accomplished magician Gary Brown discusses his journey from "accidental biographer" to respected magic historian. He shares insights on writing "The Coney Island Fakir," researching Henry Slade, and authoring innovative books "Wandcraft" and "The Inventive Magician's Handbook." Gary offers perspective on the challenges of magic history research and previews new revelations about Alexander to be published in Gibecière.

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    54 mins
  • Philip David Treece: CollectingMagicBooks.com
    Dec 21 2024

    Magic historian and bookseller Philip David Treece discusses founding CollectingMagicBooks.com, publishing works on iconic London magic shop Ellisdons, and preserving magic's printed heritage. He shares insights from his conservation background, approach to curating rare books, and publishing projects including "The Collected Writings of John Nevill Maskelyne." Philip offers valuable advice for magic book collectors and reveals how his experience as a customer shapes his bookselling philosophy.

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    47 mins
  • Margaret B. Steele: The Great Boomsky
    Nov 17 2024

    Historian Margaret B. Steele discusses her groundbreaking book "The Great Boomsky" on The Magic Book Podcast, uncovering previously untold stories of African American performers in Alexander and Adelaide Herrmann's magic shows during the segregation era. Margaret shares insights from her research, the transformation she experienced as a writer, and the discovery of Isaac Willis's legacy in Nova Scotia. Margaret also discusses her publishing company, Floating Lady Publishing, and 3 new projects.

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    50 mins
  • Lance Rich: Neon Dreams - The Story of Las Vegas Magic
    Nov 2 2024

    Lance Rich, a magician, writer, and historian, shares his journey in the world of magic, focusing on his acclaimed book, "Neon Dreams: The Story of Las Vegas Magic." He discusses how he chronicled the rich history of magic in Las Vegas, highlighting notable figures including Gloria Dea, the first magician to perform on the Las Vegas Strip. Lance reflects on the impact of nostalgia as a gateway to understanding magic's history and emphasizes the importance of accessible storytelling. Through his insights, Lance inspires aspiring magic historians and writers to find their passion and create engaging narratives that resonate with a wider audience.

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    50 mins
  • Harrison Greenbaum: You Are All Terrible!
    Oct 12 2024

    In this episode of The Magic Book Podcast, stand-up comedian and magician Harrison Greenbaum discusses his career from Tannen's Magic Camp to headlining Mad Apple in Las Vegas and starring in his off-Broadway show, What Just Happened? He shares insights on writing You Are All Terrible, emphasizing originality, and reflects on his own creative process, blending comedy and magic. Harrison reveals his most treasured magic books and previews new projects, including a one-hour comedy special.

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    51 mins
  • Craig Beytien on Petite Magia: Crafty Plans for the Tabletop Wizard
    Sep 14 2024

    In the fifth episode of The Magic Book Podcast, Adrian Tennant interviews Craig Beytien, a seasoned magician, craftsman, and author. Craig discusses what led him to write the upcoming book Petite Magia: Crafty Plans for the Tabletop Wizard, which features 29 magic effects. Reflecting on his innovative approach to miniaturizing classic illusions, Craig discusses how Eric C. Lewis and Paul Osborne influenced his work, and emphasizes the enduring value of physical magic books in our digital age.

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    44 mins
  • John Gaspard: The Eli Marks Mysteries
    Aug 31 2024

    In this episode of The Magic Book Podcast, Adrian Tennant interviews John Gaspard, author of nine Eli Marks Mysteries. John explains his research and writing process, including his collaborations with magicians. John also discusses the creation of Eli Marks, balancing magic content for both magicians and general readers, and his popular podcast, "Behind the Page." John shares his experiences with the magic community, and offers advice for aspiring authors interested in magic-themed fiction.

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    52 mins