Erik Tait’s Penguin podcast has been a weekly highlight for the last five years. A thirty minute interview that didn’t ask the same old questions. A midpoint ad would often feature a product with a discount. Now it’s 75 to 90 minutes of shilling products and rambling conversations with Nick. Nick seems like a good guy but he never seems prepared. Maybe he thinks it’s cute? The few interviews that have been done since the change are still good but not as tight and engaging. In the last six months it seems Erik may have run out of people to talk to. I realize that this is sponsored by one of two major Magic companies but remember less is more.

This has long been my favorite magician podcast. Focused, tight, and interesting. But the change to a longer format has me listening less often. I think Penguin needs to remember that “always leave them wanting more” is sage advice.

Stumbled upon the Penguin pod last week, and have listened to way too many episodes to date (about 40). PROS: - Large array of guests from all areas of magic, from cardsharps to mentalists and beyond - Topics ranging from biography to history to effects to stage management, and even neurodivergence w Cate-asauraus! - The too book / effects section - Erik Tait as a v knowledgeable host unafraid to ask any question - Discount code of a good amount for features Penguin effect - Very danceable theme music CONS - I’d love it if the interview section doubled, Erik could cover more ground and in more depth - I can’t find an MP3 of the theme music to download for my Friday Night Magic Dance Parties In short, Erik’s interviewing talent is as towering as Nick Locapo’s hair, so give it a listen!

This is a weekly listen for me. Erik is improving as a host, but still has a tendency to interject too much of himself into the interview. I sometimes feel he has a need to show his knowledge and it’s irritating. At times the interviewee audio stinks and, frankly, shouldn’t be posted. As an example the recent interview with Magic Balay should have stayed in the can. It sounded like he was yelling at an IPhone across the room. In most cases audio is about attention to detail and, possibly, a small investment. It helps everyone.

This is a fascinating podcast. Mentalism is the performance of magic tricks via the mind - such as mindreading, clairvoyance, etc. This podcast helps mentalists be successful. Very helpful.

I know nothing about magic but I find this podcast to be absolutely fascinating! Such cool information! Erik Tait has such a nice voice to listen to and the way the podcast goes really draws you in! Dare I saw, like magic! I highly recommend this podcast!

The team at Penguin does EVERYTHING right! From superior customer service to all the “extras” they provide. The Penguin Magic Podcast is no exception. Great content, well structured and the producers allow for conversation that on product/content that Penguin Magic does not carry. Very refreshing! The 5 in 5 segments are outstanding and I (after 35 years) find new nuggets of gold. Great show, great job! Highly recommend!

REALLY enjoying The Penguin Magic podcast. Strong content / Well produced. Keep up the good work & THANKS! -Doug Conn

Great podcast Erik. Loved the one with Nick Locapo and favorite trick. You guys should do that every month. Keep up the great work!

It’s like rubbing soft butter right on my ear drums

The first preview was so good, I cannot wait to hear the rest of the story with Schoolcraft!