All Episodes

August 24, 2025 71 mins

Why do we believe in the impossible? In this episode of The Magician’s Workshop, Dr. Todd sits down with magician, historian, and psychologist Professor Peter Lamont to uncover the fascinating connection between magic, the mind, and critical thinking.

Discover how magicians influence perception, the psychology behind belief systems, and why understanding how we think can be even more magical than the tricks themselves. Peter also reveals the ethical challenges magicians face, the surprising history of classic illusions, and how critical thinking can change the way we see the world—on stage and off.

Peter Lamont is known for his groundbreaking research on the history and psychology of magic, as well as his insights into why humans are drawn to mystery and wonder.

✨ In this episode you’ll learn: The hidden psychology magicians use to shape audience perception Why critical thinking is vital in magic and everyday life The ethics of deception in entertainment How belief systems shape the way we experience magic

Subscribe for more interviews with magicians, creators, and thinkers from around the world.

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Cardiac Cowboys

Cardiac Cowboys

The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.