Symbols And Secrets
Symbols and Secrets is a project devoted to the exploration of the magic of meaning, and the meaning of magic through interviews with the world's best magicians & mentalists. Created by Mentalist Jonathan Pritchard. https://www.SymbolsAndSecrets.com Music Credit: Unanswered Questions by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4560-unanswered-questions License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
info_outline
EPISODE 019: Jeff McBride
09/18/2022
EPISODE 019: Jeff McBride
Jeff McBride is the best of the best, and when I originally thought about this podcast & what I wanted it to be, Jeff was the unofficial “patron saint” of Symbols & Secrets. It’s a delight to have him on the show sharing his thoughts on secrets, magic, mystery, and beyond. TIMESTAMPS Jeff McBride Host Introduction Conversation With Jeff Keeping Secrets Magic Everywhere Magic Monkey Vs Meaning Maker Uncomfortable With Power Our Most Powerful Resource In Life Outro CONNECT Mystery School: Jeff’s Site:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/24410904
info_outline
EPISODE 018: Fred Zimmerman
08/26/2022
EPISODE 018: Fred Zimmerman
Fred Zimmerman is a respected Chicago actor who has appeared in National Broadway Touring Companies, Regional & Stock Companies, and in theaters across Chicagoland. He can also be seen on several Hit NBC Series, including Chicago Fire and Chicago PD. When he’s not onstage getting into the heads of his characters, he’s getting inside the heads … of his AUDIENCE at corporate & private events. Fred stops by the podcast to talk about the work that goes into creating his shows & experiences for his audiences. It’s a fantastic look into getting the most out of your character on (and off) stage. CONNECT Website: Facebook:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/24179817
info_outline
EPISODE 017: Scott Adams
08/12/2022
EPISODE 017: Scott Adams
Most people know Scott Adams as the creator of Dilbert; a wildly successful comic strip. Few people know he has a background with magic, hypnosis, personal programming, and more. This is a conversation that really shares a lot of valuable insight for anyone interested in mindset, motivation, magic, or mentalism. Strap in. CONNECT Website: Books: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/24030525
info_outline
EPISODE 016: Alain Nu
07/29/2022
EPISODE 016: Alain Nu
Alain Nu is an absolute legend in the world of Mentalism. He’s had his own series on TV, performed all over the world, a recognized master of a very difficult skill (metal bending), an author, and a lot more. He stops by the show to talk about having ‘out there’ interests & how to convert those into engaging corporate-friendly presentations, how to create new mentalism, and more. This is one you have to listen to! CONNECT Website: Book:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23899134
info_outline
EPISODE 015: William Pack
07/15/2022
EPISODE 015: William Pack
William Pack is a Chicago staple with a foot in the world of cheats, cons, and swindles while firmly planting his other foot into the history of magic + performing. In our conversation he explains why magic has never been a hobby, how he used to cheat a charity, and more. I guarantee you’ll learn a thing or three. CONNECT Website: Libraries: Books On Amazon:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23759042
info_outline
EPISODE 014: Peter Boie
07/01/2022
EPISODE 014: Peter Boie
Peter first became fascinated with magic at the age of eleven when he stumbled across a magic book at his local library. He now travels around the country performing his award winning magic that will defy your reality. Peter’s show is about two things, astonishing magic, and having a good time; and he doesn’t skimp on either. You might recognize him by his trademark orange sneakers, or from the group of people around him freaking out at his magic and having a good time. The title Magician for Non-Believers is about being honest with his audience. Magic isn’t real… but Peter will make you believe it is for the length of his show. Combining original mind blowing magic, and a heavy dose of humor is his secret to success and why it’s made him one of the top booked college acts around the country. CONNECT Website: Instagram: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23609285
info_outline
EPISODE 013: Ryan Plunkett
06/17/2022
EPISODE 013: Ryan Plunkett
Ryan Plunkett is a Chicago-based magician who has been performing for the past two decades. Ryan is a founding ensemble member as well as a regular performer of the Chicago Magic Lounge, a theater dedicated to bringing back the art of Chicago style magic. Ryan is also a highly sought-after magic consultant, magic creator, and lecturer. Ryan has published three books on the art of magic and is a regular performer at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. Ryan’s performance consists of an evening of striking and elegant magic presented in a charming and easy-going style. Ryan specializes in a style of magic that is personal and intimate and demands to be seen close-up. CONNECT Website: Instagram: His Book:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23462198
info_outline
EPISODE 012: Luis Carreon
06/03/2022
EPISODE 012: Luis Carreon
Luis Carreon is an accomplished and well-respected magician. He won the Harlan Tarbell Close-up Competition Award from the International Brotherhood of Magicians two years in a row. He also took home first place at the Chicago Magic Competition hosted by The Society of American Magicians. With his unique style of humor and wisdom, Luis regularly travels the country teaching other magicians about the art of magic. He is, also, the head demonstrator at Magic Inc., the oldest family-owned magic shop in the country. He has performed his show Bending Minds and Bending Dreams at theaters all around Chicago. Internationally, Luis has been featured on the Univision evening news showcasing his talents. He was honored to be a semi-finalist on Tengo Talento, the Spanish language equivalent of America’s Got Talent. In addition, he is also a frequent performer at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, California. Luis can be seen performing regularly at The Chicago Magic Lounge where he is also one of the founding members. CONNECT Instagram: Facebook: Website:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23319230
info_outline
EPISODE 011: Jamy Ian Swiss
05/20/2022
EPISODE 011: Jamy Ian Swiss
He’s done everything. Late night talk shows, giant keynote stages, huge audiences, small audiences, and everything in between. It hasn’t been a straight path, and he wouldn’t wish it on anyone he cares about. Listen to Jamy Ian Swiss to discover the value of creativity, being earnest, and what it takes to live outside the system. CONNECT
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23185949
info_outline
EPISODE 010: Paige Thompson
05/04/2022
EPISODE 010: Paige Thompson
Paige Thompson emerges as one of the few world-class female magicians. Currently living in Chicago, Paige has become one of the Resident house magicians of the Chicago Magic Lounge. A long time dream was recently fulfilled as she appeared for the first time in the close-up gallery at the internationally acclaimed Magic Castle. Her performances have taken her to the stages of Las Vegas, Branson, New York, Nashville and beyond. Her television credits include America’s Got Talent and Germany’s Das Supertalent working alongside some of the top illusionists in magic. CONNECT Website: Instagram:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/23003342
info_outline
EPISODE 009: Danny Orleans
04/08/2022
EPISODE 009: Danny Orleans
Danny Orleans is an expert. He specializes in merging his client's marketing message with his magic at tradeshows and corporate events. His specialty is delivering captivated traffic to their exhibit booth, enthralled customers at their special events, and delighted staff at their annual dinners. In our conversation we chat about how it all got started, and how he approaches his work. This one is required listening for anyone interested in corporate entertainment. CONNECT Website: Instagram:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/22804127
info_outline
EPISODE 008: Billy Chase Goforth
03/25/2022
EPISODE 008: Billy Chase Goforth
Billy is a film maker, mentalist, and paranormal instigator (and one of my favorite people on the planet). In our conversation we talk about how he got started making films, and why he was brave, bold, or stupid enough to use cutting edge tools that nobody had proven yet. His thinking about character building is required reading for anyone involved in public speaking, performing, or storytelling of any kind. Enjoy. CONNECT Website: IMDB: Instagram: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/22518410
info_outline
EPISODE 007: Joe Diamond
03/11/2022
EPISODE 007: Joe Diamond
Getting your name out there is one of the most difficult parts of being a performer. How do you get the attention of the news & newspapers? How do you get to be the name everyone thinks of when they’re planning a big conference? Joe has you covered. He’s incredible at self promotion without being obnoxious about it. So, if you’re looking to be more visible in your market, this is the episode for you. CONNECT Website: Instagram: Visit the podcast website:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/22426673
info_outline
EPISODE 006: Nick Locapo
02/25/2022
EPISODE 006: Nick Locapo
Magician, creator, video editor, and the face on many Penguin Magic videos. Nick stops by the show to talk about his start at a tourist-focused magic shop, his approach to building a show, and more. CONNECT Website: Instagram: SUPPORT Visit our website for details about how you can listen to full conversations, behind-the-scenes video, early access, and more. h
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/22232351
info_outline
EPISODE 005: Jack Grapes
02/11/2022
EPISODE 005: Jack Grapes
Our guest this week is a script doctor to Hollywood screenwriters, poet, author, and much (MUCH) more. This was a conversation that I intended for a different podcast, but you can tell right away why I saved it for this show. It's also about 3x longer than other shows. I figured, you needed to hear it. Connect His Website: His Books:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/22096949
info_outline
EPISODE 004: Birthday Show
01/28/2022
EPISODE 004: Birthday Show
Today is Jonathan's birthday, so he's taking it easy. That means he shares a story from the vault. Enjoy! CONNECT Sign up for the email list to be the first to know about news: https://www.symbolsandsecrets.com
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/21925403
info_outline
EPISODE 003: Michael Kent
01/14/2022
EPISODE 003: Michael Kent
Michael Kent is one of the busiest college-industry performers. In a style reminiscent of a late-night talk show, Michael invites the audience to laugh with him at the absurdity of a modern-day magician. He combines his sarcastic sense of humor with mind-blowing magic in a way that seems to let the audience “in on the joke.” This style has made Michael one of the college market’s top comedy-magicians, earning him loyal fans around the country in the process. As he tours college campuses all over the country, Michael’s audiences are experiencing what its like when a stand up comic performs (and occasionally pokes fun at) the art of magic. CONNECT WEBSITE: FACEBOOK: MIC WORKSHOP:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/21765518
info_outline
EPISODE 002: Nate Staniforth
12/31/2021
EPISODE 002: Nate Staniforth
Nate Staniforth is a magician. He is one of the deepest thinkers in the field and if you've never heard about him, your world is about to get a lot bigger. He is the author of and you can follow him on Instagram: . CONNECT WITH THE SHOW Website: Facebook:
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/21633710
info_outline
EPISODE 001: James Randi
12/06/2021
EPISODE 001: James Randi
Millions of people knew James Randi as a tireless champion for reason and fierce debunker of paranormal claims. I knew him as a friend. I'd like to think this whole podcast (and my career) is made possible by his incredible guidance, mentorship, and heart. This is my story of a giant in our world. If you'd like to subscribe, follow us on social, or support the show then please head to https://www.SymbolsAndSecrets.com. Episode Music: Unanswered Questions by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4560-unanswered-questions License: MAhuWJaKM7IVmNY9qZn5
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/21384098
info_outline
An Introduction To "Symbols & Secrets" by Mentalist Jonathan Pritchard
11/24/2021
An Introduction To "Symbols & Secrets" by Mentalist Jonathan Pritchard
Whether they're ancient, modern, sacred, or profane. . . symbols carry with them the same secret: magic is meaning made real through the power of imagination. We create systems, rituals, ceremonies, shows, and tricks in search of this fleeting experience of meaning. Whether we do it with awareness or not, we are all in search of that connection to the moment. To others. To ourselves. That's what it's all about, right? We're desperate for at least one person to see us as we really are. And what a delightful irony of the universe that we become "honest liars," as my dear friend James Randi was fond of saying, in order to share truth with people if only for a moment; it's worth the years of effort and practice. Hi there, I'm mentalist Jonathan Pritchard. For the past 20 years I've been fortunate enough to travel the world, perform on the biggest stages, and be brought in for giant opportunities with companies that are household names. Everything I've ever wanted has been made possible through my love of sharing mystery with the world. Along the way I've also gotten to know, and be friends with, the smartest, kindest, most innovative, creative, thoughtful people in our industry. Symbols and Secrets is an exploration of meaning, magic, and mystery through the minds of the world's best magicians, mentalists, and thinkers. If that sounds interesting to you, then you're going to love this project. I expect it to start as a podcast, grow into a community, and transform into a whole movement. Welcome to the place where it all begins. Welcome . . . to Symbols and Secrets.
/episode/index/show/symbolsandsecrets/id/21277247