Episodes

  • 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
  • Marco Pusterla: Professional Magician, Historian, and Publisher
    Aug 18 2024

    In the third episode of The Magic Book Podcast, Adrian Tennant interviews Marco Pusterla, a professional magician, historian, and publisher. We explore his journey from Italy to the UK, his passion for collecting magic books, and interest in history. Marco shares insights on founding the quarterly Ye Olde Magic Mag, and organizing The Magic Circle History Day for the past three years. We also discuss Marco's upcoming projects, including what promises to be the definitive biography of Chefalo.


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    50 mins
  • Chris Wasshuber: The Cardsharp and his Book
    Aug 3 2024

    In this episode of The Magic Book Podcast, Adrian Tennant interviews Chris Wasshuber, founder of Lybrary.com. Chris shares his journey into magic, the creation of Lybrary.com, and his groundbreaking research on S.W. Erdnase, author of The Expert at the Card Table. He also discusses his upcoming book on prolific magic inventor Lubor Fiedler. Chris offers unique insights into digital publishing, historical research challenges, and his passion for preserving and advancing magical knowledge.

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Julie Eng, Genii's New Executive Director
    Jul 28 2024

    In the first episode of The Magic Book Podcast, host Adrian Tennant interviews Julie Eng, renowned magicienne and the new Executive Director of Genii magazine. Julie shares her journey growing up in a magical family, her work on major publications preserving magic's rich history, and her vision for Genii's future. She discusses the challenges and joys of magic book publishing, her most cherished magic book, and her passion for advancing the art of magic through community-building and education.

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    56 mins