#679: Simon Coronel, World Champion of Magic — Quitting the Day Job, The Delights of the Magic Castle, Finding Glitches in Reality, Learning How to Use Your Own Brain, and Worshiping at the Altar of Wonder | Science vs

Intro

In this episode of the “Science vs” podcast, host Wendy Zukerman interviews Simon Coronel, a world champion magician and illusionist. They discuss Simon’s journey to becoming a successful magician, his experiences at the Magic Castle, and his insights into the world of magic. Simon also shares his thoughts on productivity hacks, the importance of curiosity, and the impact of neurodiversity on his career. Join Wendy as she delves into the fascinating world of magic with Simon Coronel.

Main Takeaways

Simon Coronel’s Journey to Becoming a Magician

• Simon Coronel is a world-class magician and illusionist who has won numerous international awards.
• Simon’s journey to becoming a successful magician involved juggling a full-time job in management consulting while pursuing his passion for magic on the side.
• Simon’s appearance on the hit TV show Pen and Teller Fool Us and his crowning as the World Champion of Magic in 2022 at FISM, the Olympics of Magic, are some of his notable achievements.

The Magic Castle: A Hub for Magicians

• The Magic Castle is a unique nighttime country club for magicians to network and socialize, as well as a public entertainment venue for presenting magic to the general public.
• Magicians at the Magic Castle are more like special effects designers and performers, rather than traditional wizards or sorcerers.
• The Magic Castle has a genuine, profound part of magic history as an art, a craft, and a venue.

The Delights and Challenges of Learning Magic

• Learning magic at 18 helped Simon develop his curiosity for many subjects and how to learn.
• Simon finds it easier to focus and be productive in airport gates and other waiting areas due to fewer distractions.
• Understanding neurodivergence can help children who feel like they don’t fit in.

Simon Coronel’s Productivity Hacks

• Simon’s productivity hack involves arriving early to appointments and using the extra time to work or relax, leading to low stress and reliable punctuality.
• Simon’s policy of radical early-ness is a strategic way to combat his weakness of being historically late and unreliable.
• Having stability and a backup plan can allow for creative freedom without compromising one’s craft.

The Fascinating World of Magic Competitions

• Magicians compete in the FISM magic competition, with eight different categories: three subcategories of close-up magic, five subcategories of stage magic.
• The competition awards first, second, and third prizes in each category, with the option to award an overall winner.
• Winning a magic competition can be a gratifying and rewarding experience, helping to overcome imposter syndrome and gain recognition in the magic community.

Summary

Simon Coronel’s Journey to Becoming a Magician

Simon Coronel’s journey to becoming a world-class magician involved balancing a full-time job in management consulting with his passion for magic. Despite the challenges, Simon’s dedication and talent led to notable achievements, including winning the World Champion of Magic title at FISM. His appearances on popular TV shows like Pen and Teller Fool Us further solidified his reputation as a skilled magician.

The Magic Castle: A Hub for Magicians

The Magic Castle is a renowned nighttime country club and public entertainment venue for magicians. It has a rich history and serves as a gathering place for magicians to network, socialize, and showcase their skills. The Magic Castle’s unique atmosphere and talented performers make it a must-visit destination for magic enthusiasts.

The Delights and Challenges of Learning Magic

Learning magic at a young age helped Simon develop his curiosity and passion for various subjects. He also discovered that neurodivergence can play a role in shaping one’s learning experiences. Simon’s ability to focus and be productive in waiting areas, such as airport gates, highlights the importance of finding conducive environments for deep work.

Simon Coronel’s Productivity Hacks

Simon’s productivity hack of arriving early to appointments not only helps him combat his tendency to be late but also allows him to utilize the extra time for work or relaxation. This approach reduces stress and enhances his punctuality. Additionally, having stability and a backup plan in his career enables Simon to pursue his creative endeavors without compromising his craft.

The Fascinating World of Magic Competitions

Magic competitions, such as the FISM magic competition, provide a platform for magicians to showcase their skills and compete for prestigious awards. Winning a magic competition can boost a magician’s confidence, help overcome imposter syndrome, and gain recognition within the magic community. These competitions also serve as a catalyst for innovation and creativity in the field of magic.

Conclusion

Simon Coronel’s journey as a magician is a testament to the dedication, passion, and talent required to excel in the world of magic. From his early experiences learning magic to his achievements as a world champion, Simon’s story offers valuable insights into the art and craft of magic. The Magic Castle, with its rich history and vibrant community, serves as a hub for magicians to connect and showcase their skills. Simon’s productivity hacks and lessons learned from magic competitions provide valuable takeaways for anyone pursuing their passion. Overall, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the fascinating world of magic through the eyes of Simon Coronel.