Magicians Only - with Steve Valentine

Steve Valentine
  • 5.0 (17)
  • COMEDY INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Magicians Only: Welcome to the M.O.! Are you a magician? Should you be listening to this..? Welcome to your secret backstage pass into the wild, weird, and wonderful world of Hollywood and magic, where we pull back the curtain and trigger the trapdoor on the magicians craft, the secrets, the drama, and the insanity of showbiz. Hosted by none other than Steve Valentine, showbiz veteran, TV star (Crossing Jordan, Teen Beach, Estate of Panic, I’m In The Band), and world-traveling, multi-award-winning magician. Steve dishes jaw-dropping stories from his TV, film, magical (and often ridiculous) life, breaks down magic products, interviews legendary magicians (and sworn enemies), actor pals (and sworn enemies), celebrates the past masters and occasionally roasts the world of magic—because someone has to. Part memoir, part industry exposé, and part comedic therapy session. Yet what makes Magicians Only truly stand out is its unfiltered exploration of magic’s darker underbelly—the rivalries, the rumors, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Warning: Magicians Only is not for the weak, sensitive, or humor-impaired. Magicians Only, shattering illusions daily…

  1. 1D AGO

    Magicians Only - Ep 36 - The First Tour - Pt 2

    Magicians Only - Ep 36  -  The First Tour - Pt 2   You can WATCH this episode on YouTube   https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   Or listen on any fave platforms    Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   Magicians Only is brought to you by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com   For a LIMITED time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a MONTHLY subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very, very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!     Summary   In this episode of Magicians Only, Steve Valentine shares his experiences and insights from touring with the Illusionists. He discusses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, the need for originality in performances, and the dynamics of working with other magicians. Steve emphasizes the significance of flexibility in live shows, engaging with the audience, and creating memorable moments. He also provides practical tips for traveling magicians and highlights the value of connecting with audiences both on and off stage, including the role of media exposure in promoting shows.     Takeaways   Always be positive, even when faced with a potential shit show. Work hard to be original, work hard to take the stock lines out. It's not a competition, we're working with each other. You have to have that flexibility within the rigid format of your show. You must go through that properly with the crew member. You want them to feel welcome, they're not just going to be a prop. Every sharp left turn you take will keep your audiences riveted. People love magic on the whole. Get your social media moments out of it. People love magic.     Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Magic and Optimism 02:50 Lessons from the Road: Touring Insights 03:43 The Importance of Originality in Performance 09:36 Navigating Group Dynamics on Tour 10:44 Flexibility and Adaptability in Live Shows 15:34 Audience Engagement and Participation 19:54 The Art of Timing and Pacing in Performance 20:24 Handling Challenging Audience Situations 25:35 Creating Memorable Moments in Magic 30:25 Travel Tips for Magicians 34:06 Connecting with the Audience and Media 40:05 Final Thoughts on Touring and Magic       You can WATCH this episode on YouTube   https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   Or listen on any fave platforms    Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   Magicians Only is brought to you by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com   For a LIMITED time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a MONTHLY subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very, very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!   #StoryTime #CrazyNights  #publicspeaking #magiconthego #magiclub #magicschool #magiciansonly #eventmagician #professionalmagician #magicshows #illusionists #mindreading #magicianslife #magicallife #artofmagic #magicisreal #corporateentertainment #magicisreal #magiclife #mentalist #magictime #magicians #magictricks #liveevents #magicshow #instamagic #liveentertainment #stevevalentine

    43 min

  2. SEP 8

    Magicians Only - Ep 35 - The First Tour - Pt 1

    Magicians Only - Ep 35  -  The First Tour - Pt 1 Definitely some wild time capsule stuff happening here!   Magicians Only is brought to you by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com   For a LIMITED time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a MONTHLY subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very, very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!   Summary In this time capsule of an episode of Magicians Only, it's 2020 and Steve Valentine is not only in lockdown, but creates a video diary reflecting on his experiences during The Illusionists tour of 2019, Sharing insights on teamwork, performance structure, and audience engagement. Steve discusses the importance of adapting routines for different audiences, the vital role of the crew in live performances, and YOUR relationship to them, and the lessons learned from both magic and horse training. The conversation emphasizes the significance of collaboration and the collective effort required to create a successful show.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Magicians Only 02:24 Reflections on the Illusionists Tour 05:47 The Team Dynamic in Magic 12:43 Crafting the Show: Material and Timing 18:54 Engaging with the Audience 25:59 The Importance of Teamwork 32:34 Lessons Learned from the Tour You can WATCH this episode on YouTube   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0RkPnsScyg&list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   Or listen on all fave platforms    Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   Magicians Only is brought to you by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com For a LIMITED time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a MONTHLY subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very, very soon. The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!   #StoryTime #CrazyNights  #publicspeaking #magiconthego #magiclub #magicschool #magiciansonly #eventmagician #professionalmagician #magicshows #illusionists #mindreading #magicianslife #magicallife #artofmagic #magicisreal #corporateentertainment #magicisreal #magiclife #mentalist #magictime #magicians #magictricks #liveevents #magicshow #instamagic #liveentertainment #stevevalentine

    40 min

  3. SEP 1

    Magicians Only - Ep 34 - The Real - no BS - Secrets Of Cruise Magic - Pt 3

    Magicians Only -  Ep 34 -  Secrets of Cruise Ship Magic   Pt 3    You can WATCH this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/E24Yrmq9zWo?si=7SmGQKwEP8FZTeFi   Or listen on any fave platforms    Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   Magicians Only is brought to you by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com   For a LIMITED time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a MONTHLY subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very, very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!     Summary   In this episode, the conversation delves into the intricacies of performing magic on cruise ships, exploring the realities, challenges, and politics involved. The speakers share personal anecdotes and insights on the importance of cabin quality, audience demographics, and the role of cruise directors. They also discuss the evolution of cruise entertainment and the necessity of adapting to changing environments while maintaining mental health and performance quality.     Takeaways   Cruise ship magic offers valuable lessons for all performers. Understanding the politics of cruise ship work is crucial. Cabin quality can significantly impact a performer's experience. The demographic of the audience affects performance style. Cruise directors can influence the material and performance. Feedback from cruise directors can be both helpful and intrusive. Maintaining mental health is essential while performing at sea. Fresh and original material is key to success on cruise ships. Navigating the crew and passenger dynamics is important. Cruise performances can be rewarding despite the challenges.       Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Cruise Ship Magic 03:39 The Reality of Performing on Cruise Ships 09:45 Navigating Cruise Ship Politics 15:04 The Importance of Cabin Quality 20:49 The Changing Landscape of Cruise Entertainment 26:45 Understanding Audience Demographics 32:40 The Role of Cruise Directors 37:23 Handling Feedback and Notes 41:39 Final Thoughts on Cruise Ship Performances

    52 min

  4. AUG 25

    Magicians Only - Ep 33 - The Shenanigans Debrief

    Magicians Only - Ep - The Shenanigans Debrief   You can WATCH this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   Magicians Only is sponsored by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com   For a limited time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a monthly subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!     Summary   In this episode, Steve Valentine takes listeners on a journey through the Magic and Shenanigans Festival, a unique event that combines magic and comedy. He shares behind-the-scenes insights into the organization, the diverse lineup of performers, and the lessons learned from the festival's success and challenges. The conversation also includes a humorous story from Phil’s past as a clown, highlighting the unpredictable nature of live performance.       Chapters   00:00 The Adventure Begins: Magic and Shenanigans Festival 02:24 Behind the Scenes: Organizing the Festival 04:43 The Venue Experience: Setting Up for Success 07:51 The Performers: A Diverse Lineup 10:09 The Audience Engagement: Creating Memorable Experiences 12:33 The After Party: Magic and Camaraderie 14:54 The Debrief: Reflecting on Success 17:28 The Future: Plans for Next Year 20:29 The Unique Blend: Magic and Comedy 23:18 The Final Thoughts: Lessons Learned 31:26 The Importance of Follow-Up in Entertainment 32:18 Creating a Safe Space for Performers 34:26 The Birth of Magic and Shenanigans Festival 35:37 Learning from Experience: Adjustments and Improvements 37:28 Casting the Right Performers for Success 38:50 Audience Experience: The Joy of Performance 40:29 Setting Age Restrictions for Audience Engagement 42:16 Navigating Challenges with Audience Dynamics 45:01 Budgeting for Performers: A New Perspective 49:09 Future Plans for Magic and Shenanigans 51:29 Reflecting on Early Career Experiences 56:38 Lessons Learned from Adversity 01:05:10 Non-Aggressive Conflict Resolution in Performance     Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4Z0vSwNryYeNbMlaVGsxpb?si=1d7a5e92d1344611   And Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   And YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE!How did Hobson do it?   #persuasion #leadership #publicspeaking #magiconthego #magiclub #magicschool #magiciansonly #eventmagician #professionalmagician #magicshows #illusionists #magiciansofinstagram #mindreading #magicianslife #lifeismagic #mindreader #magicallife #artofmagic #magicisreal #familyentertainment #corporateentertainment #magicisreal #magiclife #mentalist #magictime #magicians #magictricks #liveevents #magicshow #instamagic #liveentertainment #stevevalentine          Magicians Only is sponsored by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com   For a limited time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a monthly subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!

    1h 13m

  5. AUG 18

    Magicians Only - Ep 32 - Hobson & Mr. Electric

    Magicians Only  - Ep - Hobson & Mr. Electric    You can WATCH this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   Magicians Only is sponsored by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com    For a limited time you can sign up to Magic On The Go on a monthly subscription! But do it now as we go back to Annual only very very soon.   The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!   Summary   A recent trip to La Quinta California to appear at Marvyn’s Magic Theatre enable a fabulous tour and interview with world class comedy magician, Jeff Hobson!   In this episode Jeff and I take you on a journey through the world of magic, focusing on the legacy of Marvyn Roy and the unique atmosphere of Marvyn’s Magic Theatre. We explores Hobson's experiences in the magic industry, from his early club days to touring with the very first ‘The Illusionists’ cast, to how he ended up owning his own magic theatre in Palm Springs.   We chat about the challenges of performing, and the importance of audience engagement. With hilarious anecdotes and insights into the art of magic, and maybe just a little gossip…     Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Jeff Hobson and Marvin Roy's Magic Theatre 02:36 Exploring Marvin Roy's Legacy and Influence 05:26 The Journey of Opening Marvin's Magic Theatre 08:34 Design and Features of the Theatre 11:11 The Magic Experience at Marvin's Theatre 13:42 The Illusion of Magic and Unique Performances 19:33 The Unexpected Theater Ownership 20:36 Navigating Responsibilities of Theater Management 21:29 Exploring Expansion Opportunities 22:40 The Art of Performing Magic on Stage 23:48 Behind the Scenes of Show Business 24:50 Memorable Audience Interactions 28:57 The Evolution of Magic Performances 32:57 Handling Hecklers and Audience Disruptions 37:17 Unforgettable Moments in Performance 39:31 Reflections on a Magical Career     Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4Z0vSwNryYeNbMlaVGsxpb?si=1d7a5e92d1344611    And Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   And YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn     Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE!

    46 min

  6. AUG 11

    Magicians Only - Ep 31 - A Story Well Told With Marsha Shandur - PT 2

    Magicians Only is sponsored by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com  The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!   Keywords   magic, storytelling, performance, Glastonbury Festival, FISM, techniques, audience engagement, emotional connection, magic tricks, storytelling techniques     Takeaways   Suspension in magic transcends language and engages audiences. Glastonbury Festival showcases diverse performances beyond music. Effective organization is key to successful events. FISM is a prestigious platform for magicians to showcase their skills. Storytelling enhances the impact of magic performances. Techniques from acting can improve magic presentations. Creating emotional connections with the audience is crucial. Using personal stories can make performances relatable. Leaving breadcrumbs in storytelling keeps the audience engaged. Building rapport with the audience enhances their experience.     Summary   In this episode of Magicians Only, Steve Valentine explores the fascinating world of magic, focusing on the concept of suspension and its ability to transcend language. He shares his experiences at the Glastonbury Festival, highlighting the importance of organization in performances. The conversation shifts to FISM, the prestigious magic competition, and the significance of storytelling in enhancing magic performances. Steve discusses techniques for effective storytelling, the emotional connections that can be built with audiences, and the power of personal anecdotes in creating engaging performances. The episode concludes with insights on how storytelling can elevate the art of magic and the importance of making audiences feel smart and connected.     Titles   The Art of Magic and Storytelling Suspensions: The Magic Beyond Gravity     Sound bites   "What if it didn't?" "The organization is mind-blowing." "Make them feel smart."     Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Magic and Suspension 02:16 Experiences at Glastonbury Festival 04:59 Magic Shows and Lectures in England 09:23 FISM Italy 2025 and the Power of Storytelling 11:55 Applying Story Techniques to Magic Routines 23:13 The Art of Storytelling in Magic 26:45 Emotional Setup and Audience Connection 30:00 The Power of Deception in Performance 36:04 Crafting a Compelling Narrative 40:03 The Importance of Emotional Connection 45:03 Final Thoughts and Resources     Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4Z0vSwNryYeNbMlaVGsxpb?si=1d7a5e92d1344611    And Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   And YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   MARSHA’S LINKS: http://www.yesyesmarsha.com/press   http://www.yesyesmarsha.com/magiciansonly   Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE!

    47 min

  7. AUG 1

    Magicians Only - Ep 30 - Same As It Ever Was...

    CHANGING UP THE ORDER!   NOTE: Part Two of the Marsha Shandur interview on A STORY WELL TOLD, will be next week August 11th :)   This episode - among other things -  I drop some thoughts of the past, president and future of magic :) I announce the addition of limited time MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION possibilities to Magic On The Go - and why I'm doing that. As well as discussing the consulting side of my business, for select clients, wanting to work on how to connect with an audience, their magic, their shows or anyone wishing to be better speakers in general.  I have limited time and space, so if interested write the team at https://stevevalentine.squarespace.com/booksteve   This week is another time travel episode, thanks to the work of cultural anthropologist Henry Mayhew we meet a London street performer as he tells us all about his life in 1840... and see what, if anything, has changed.   Magicians Only is sponsored by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com    Wanna be amazing? Join the greatest online magic school in the world, giving you over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!     Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4Z0vSwNryYeNbMlaVGsxpb?si=1d7a5e92d1344611    And Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714   And YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn     Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE!   NOTES: Keywords magic, performance, connection, consultation, street magic, history, creativity, entertainment, Glastonbury Festival, Magic Circle Summary In this episode, Steve Valentine reflects on his recent travels and experiences in the world of magic, emphasizing the importance of connection with the audience, the evolution of magic education, and the historical context of street magic. He discusses his consultations with magicians and performers, offering insights into the craft and the necessity of engaging with the audience. The episode also delves into the life of a historical street magician, providing a captivating look at the art of performance and the hustle required to succeed in the field. Takeaways Magic is evolving with incredibly creative people. Connecting with the audience is essential for performance. Magic on the Go is now a monthly subscription service. Private consultations can help magicians improve their shows. Historical perspectives on street magic offer valuable insights. Street performers had to hustle to survive and succeed. The importance of knowing your audience in magic. Techniques from acting can enhance magic performances. The art of magic involves both performance and financial acumen. Understanding the history of magic enriches current practices. Titles The Future of Magic: A Positive Outlook Connecting with Your Audience: The Key to Performance Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reflections on Magic 02:53 The Importance of Connection in Performance 05:49 Consultation and Guidance for Magicians 08:32 Exploring Historical Perspectives on Street Magic 11:16 Insights from a Street Performer in the 1840s 26:13 Lessons from the Past: Street Magic Today

    32 min

  8. JUL 28

    Magicians Only - Ep 29 - A Story Well Told With Marsha Shandur - PT 1

    Magicians Only is sponsored by the fabulous MagicOnTheGo.com  The greatest online magic school in the world, over 900 videos in your pocket teaching you how to be amazing, anytime, anywhere!   Takeaways Storytelling is essential for engaging audiences. A one-person show requires a strong narrative. Emotion in storytelling helps create connection. Details in storytelling should evoke sensory experiences. The brain responds differently to stories than to facts. Vulnerability in storytelling fosters empathy and connection. Relatable moments enhance audience engagement. Tension and release are key elements in storytelling. Crafting action scenes makes stories more vivid. Information gaps can draw audiences in.   Summary In this episode, Steve Valentine explores the art of storytelling in performance, particularly in one-person shows. He discusses the importance of engaging narratives, emotional connection, and the neurological impact of storytelling on audiences. Guest Marsha Shandur shares her expertise on crafting compelling stories, emphasizing the significance of sensory details, vulnerability, and relatability. The conversation delves into techniques for creating action scenes, managing tension and release, and understanding the role of information gaps in captivating storytelling. Overall, the episode highlights how effective storytelling can enhance audience connection and create memorable performances.   Titles The Magic of Storytelling Crafting a One-Person Show   Sound bites "You have to hook people in." "Emotion shows us what the stakes are." "Finding relatable moments is key."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Magic and Storytelling 01:03 The Essence of a One-Person Show 02:50 Meet Marsha Shandor: Storytelling Expert 05:22 The Importance of Storytelling in Performance 08:11 Neurology of Storytelling and Audience Connection 09:32 Crafting Engaging Stories: The Role of Detail 11:51 Creating Movies in Listeners' Minds 16:18 The Power of Emotion in Storytelling 20:00 Information Gaps and Audience Engagement 22:24 Empathy and Vulnerability in Storytelling 25:00 Finding Relatable Moments in Stories 28:12 Tension and Release in Storytelling 30:07 The Heart of Storytelling: Humor and Vulnerability 32:42 Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode     Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4Z0vSwNryYeNbMlaVGsxpb?si=1d7a5e92d1344611  And Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magicians-only/id1789643714 And YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLORZO6ouYcW12JM9_aMGgJH-Q6Xc2mHvn   MARSHA’S LINKS: http://www.yesyesmarsha.com/press   http://www.yesyesmarsha.com/magiciansonly   Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE!

    36 min
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5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Magicians Only: Welcome to the M.O.! Are you a magician? Should you be listening to this..? Welcome to your secret backstage pass into the wild, weird, and wonderful world of Hollywood and magic, where we pull back the curtain and trigger the trapdoor on the magicians craft, the secrets, the drama, and the insanity of showbiz. Hosted by none other than Steve Valentine, showbiz veteran, TV star (Crossing Jordan, Teen Beach, Estate of Panic, I’m In The Band), and world-traveling, multi-award-winning magician. Steve dishes jaw-dropping stories from his TV, film, magical (and often ridiculous) life, breaks down magic products, interviews legendary magicians (and sworn enemies), actor pals (and sworn enemies), celebrates the past masters and occasionally roasts the world of magic—because someone has to. Part memoir, part industry exposé, and part comedic therapy session. Yet what makes Magicians Only truly stand out is its unfiltered exploration of magic’s darker underbelly—the rivalries, the rumors, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Warning: Magicians Only is not for the weak, sensitive, or humor-impaired. Magicians Only, shattering illusions daily…

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