#405: Penn Jillette on Magic, Losing 100+ Pounds, and Weaponizing Kindness

Jan 9, 2020

In this engaging conversation, magician and author Penn Jillette shares insights from his remarkable journey of losing over 100 pounds, which inspired his bestselling book 'Presto.' He reflects on the importance of kindness in a divisive world and discusses how critical thinking influences the art of magic. Penn's experiences with journaling reveal its transformative power, and he highlights his unique relationship with the late Richard Feynman. With humor and depth, Jillette emphasizes the significance of understanding one's mind-body connection.

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ANECDOTE

Kreskin Influence

Penn Jillette's life changed after seeing a mentalist, Kreskin, on TV.
He felt scammed after learning the trick was fake, affecting his academic performance.

INSIGHT

Randi's Impact

Meeting James Randi and Teller showed Penn that magic could be moral and intellectual.
Randi's openness and guidance shaped Penn's career path as a magician and skeptic.

ANECDOTE

Randi's Skepticism

James Randi, a magician turned skeptic, exposed parapsychology and paranormal claims as non-existent.
He highlighted the need for magicians in scientific tests due to scientists' unfamiliarity with deception.

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Presto

Marilynne K. Roach

In this children's book, Presto, a plucky terrier, escapes from the drudgery of being a turnspit dog in an inn. He embarks on adventures through 18th-century London, encountering various characters such as pickpockets, forgers, innkeepers, actors, puppeteers, and other dogs. The story highlights qualities like fortitude, imagination, loyalty, and affection as Presto navigates the dangers and wonders of the city.

The artist's way

a spiritual path to higher creativity

Ada Arbós Bo

Julia Cameron

This book presents a comprehensive method for artists to recover their creativity from various blocks such as limiting beliefs, fear, self-sabotage, and other inhibiting forces. It is designed to help individuals discover and develop their artistic potential, whether as writers, painters, poets, or musicians. The book emphasizes the connection between creativity and spirituality, providing step-by-step exercises to nurture creative expression as a consistent part of daily life.

Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!

Adventures of a Curious Character

Edward Hutchings

Richard Feynman

Ralph Leighton

This book is an edited collection of reminiscences by Richard Feynman, based on recorded audio conversations he had with his friend and drumming partner Ralph Leighton. It covers a variety of instances in Feynman's life, including his work on the Manhattan Project, his critique of the science education system in Brazil, and his various hobbies such as safe-cracking, painting, and playing the bongo drums. The book also includes his famous 'Cargo Cult Science' lecture, where he cautions against the superficial appearance of scientific investigation without a self-critical attitude. Feynman's stories are lighthearted yet insightful, reflecting his high intelligence, curiosity, and humor.

Flim-flam!

Dominique Le Brun

James Randi

In *Flim-Flam*, James Randi critiques a wide range of paranormal and pseudoscientific claims, including psychic phenomena, UFOs, and supernatural beliefs. He uses his expertise as a magician to expose the methods behind these deceptions and emphasizes the importance of scientific skepticism. The book is known for its clear and often humorous approach to debunking false claims.

God, No!

Penn Jillette

Penn Jillette's book, 'God, No!', is a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and philosophical musings on atheism. It includes his version of the Ten Commandments and explores themes of morality, skepticism, and personal freedom. The book is as much a biography as it is a treatise on atheism, offering insights into Jillette's life and worldview.