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The Magic Word The Magic Word

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955: Lizard Man - Side Show Business

As Monty Python would say, "and now for something completely different.” This podcast tries to explore all facets of our jewel we call magic. And one part of our entertainment community has its roots in the side show. Specifically, in the early to mid-1900's magicians were part of the traveling carnivals and performed side show acts using such illusions as the stocks, blade box, and more. But as the magicians went to the legitimate stage, the other side show performers stayed behind as independent nomads. But their business of finding work is just as important as magicians trying to find work. And for “freaks” in today’s world, there are fewer venues (and perhaps audiences) who can “stomach” watching some of their acts. Moreover, freaks have become less shocking as being obesely overweight and covered in tattoos are now common sites at your local WalMart shopping centers.

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This week Lizard Man tells us about why he chose to pursue a life and a lifestyle different from the “norm” and his commitment to getting tattoos and body piercings all over his body. But part of the focus of our conversation is how similar yet different our two crafts are when it comes to marketing. Magicians have a community to help, support, and direct, but the side show community is less giving and supportive.

Side Show Business
Scott Wells with Lizard Man
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Tagged with Lizard Man, Austin Texas, sideshow, freaks, Enigma, tattoo, freak, Hellzapoppin Circus, Jim Rose Circus.

February 19, 2026 by Scott Wells.
  • February 19, 2026
  • Scott Wells
  • Lizard Man
  • Austin Texas
  • sideshow
  • freaks
  • Enigma
  • tattoo
  • freak
  • Hellzapoppin Circus
  • Jim Rose Circus
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The Magic Word The Magic Word

A Podcast for Magicians, About Magicians, Hosted by a Full Time Professional Magician, Scott Wells

This podcast is totally free for everyone to enjoy. This is provided to you out of love and respect for our art of magic. If you enjoy the podcasts and other material on The Magic Word, then your financial support will be greatly appreciated and help offset the monthly hosting service fee as well as the hardware and software to produce this podcast. Just click on the "Donate " button at the top of this page to make a one time donation through PayPal.

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In May 2024, Scott Wells had the distinguished honor of receiving a “Special Fellowship” from the Academy of Magical Arts (The Magic Castle) for the Magic Word Podcast which promotes “not only personal stories of fascinating individuals, but also fellowship amongst our extended family of artists and entertainers everywhere.”

Do you have a comment or suggestion for The Magic Word Podcast? Click on the SpeakPipe logo and leave a short audio message for Scott. It’s fast, easy and fun. Send a “shout out” today and who knows? Your message may be heard on an upcoming podcast!

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Paul Richards - Magic Trends - Magic Dealer, creator, lecturer, producers, and performer, Paul Richards joins us to talk about the current state of conventions, brick & mortar shops, & more. #magictrends #magic #blackpool #magicconventions #m
Magic Collector Expo 2026 - Daily Report Daily reports from the Expo in New Jersey featuring conversations with organizers, talent, speakers, dealers, and more. #newyork #newyorkpubliclibrary #magiccollector #magiccollectorexpo #magicconvention #magi I am so excited to be in the Class of 2026 being awarded with the honor of the Milbourne Christopher award. The ceremony is still months away, but I just couldn't wait to share this announcement. Bill Malone - Bill Malone - Comedy close-up magician, Bill Malone, talks about his career, learning magic, working in bars, trade shows, his health, and his upcoming book. #comedymagic #billmalone #tradeshowmagic #chicagomagic #malonesmagicbar You never know who you'll meet in an elevator. Thanks to Boris for snapping this great selfie at the recent F.F.F.F. close-up convention. Doug Scheer - Scheer Sharing This week Doug Scheer shares advice about school show assemblies from his many decades of experience. #schoolshows #schoolsshowassemblies #magic #magicshows #childrensentertainment #schoolassemblies Dan Stapleton - On Cruise Control After a lifetime of performing magic at Circus World and aboard cruise ships (and even being a cruise director) then a magic demonstrator in Disney World, and a memorable performance on America's Got Talent, Dan Stap Joe Eddie and Betty Fairchild - More Than Fair - After decades of performing at state and county fairs across the country (including a year of residency at the Riviera in Las Vegas), Joe Eddie and Betty Fairchild have retired to Florida where Joe Edd Paul Richards - Magic Trends - Magic Dealer, creator, lecturer, producers, and performer, Paul Richards joins us to talk about the current state of conventions, brick & mortar shops, & more. #magictrends #magic #blackpool #magicconventions #m

The Magic Word Has been recognized by FeedSpot as the # 1 magician podcast in the world. Thank you all for your support and for listening throughout the years.

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The Magic Word Podcast was nominated for TWO categories in the new ONLINE MAGIC competition at the 2025 World Championship of Magic (FISM) in Turin, Italy. One was for the Best Magic Podcaster and the second for the Best Magic Newsletter. You may already listen, but you are missing out on the other half if you haven’t yet subscribed to our weekly podletter!

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