Episode 117: Human Connection with Author and Mentalist Alexander Beresford

Posted on by Wynne Leon

There is so much about magic that is similar to writing – the timing, the paring down to create suspense, the need to dig deep in order to create a meaningful effect. Not that I make any claim to knowing magic but it’s one of my takeaways from the fascinating podcast conversation Vicki Atkinson and I had with mentalist and author, Alexander Beresford.

Alex writes so poignantly about human connection and insight. We talk about his book Mr. Fenwick and The Door That Stay Closed (Until It Didn’t). It is such a feast for word-lovers and anyone who believes in hope.

We talk about the cross over between writing and magic that he reveals in thoughtful nuggets in his book, The Inward Stage. Alex powers of perception not only fuel his performances as a mind reader and magician but also create rich insights that sparkle in his writing.

Alex tells us about performing for former President Jimmy Carter and his family. And Vicki and I delightfully get to participate in one of his effects. (see clip below)

Alex tells us about the brotherhood of magic and how he connected with another of our favorite guests, Andrew Mayne.

Here is a clip of Alexander performing an effect on Vicki and me during this podcast:

Amazing, right? This is a fantastic episode featuring a deep and insightful author. We know you’ll love it!

Here are some ways you can listen and watch the full episode:

Episode 117 Transcript

Episode 135: This Sea Within with Deborah Brasket – Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode of Sharing the Heart of the Matter, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson talk with novelist Deborah Brasket about her new book, This Sea Within, a sweeping historical novel that blends political intrigue, love,coming-of-age, and spiritual longing. Deborah shares how her world travels, deep research, and personal reflections shaped a story rich with danger, beauty, and purpose. Together, they explore the connection between the sensualand the spiritual, the power of story to illuminate history, and what it means to be called by something greater than yourself. If you love thoughtful conversations about books, creativity, courage, and the deeper currents that move our lives, this episode is for you.Links for this episode:When Things Go Missing, A Novel – Amazon,Bookshop, Barnes & Noble This Sea Within – Pre-order on Amazon Author Website and BlogSubstack NewsletterInstagramFrom the hosts:Vicki’s new book – a ghost story, Slivers. Her book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/Wynne's blog: Surprised by Joy and podcast: The Life of Try
  1. Episode 135: This Sea Within with Deborah Brasket
  2. Episode 134: Perfect with P.J. Gudka
  3. Episode 133: Shadow of the Deceiver with Dr. Wayne Runde
  4. Episode 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec
  5. Episode 131: Attacking the Dragon with Marc Ross

Links for this Episode:

Alexander Beresford’s website: Eyes and Minds

Mr. Alabaster Fenwick and the Door That Stayed Closed (Until it Didn’t) on Amazon

The Inward Stage on Amazon

From the Hosts:

Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com/

21 thoughts on “Episode 117: Human Connection with Author and Mentalist Alexander Beresford”

  5. Ok, first, Alexander wins for the best podcast back drop. 😊 Those lit lanterns are super cool. It was interesting to hear that writing is like time traveling (which, in turn, means magical to me) in that, the author writes someting in the present, and years later, a reader picks the book and feels the presence in their present. I absolutely love that idea of what is carried through. I am intriqued by the idea that his book is for word lovers. Yes! Once again, Wynne and Vicki, you have found a unique guest! I think talking to a mentalist would be crazy fascinating. Thank you!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

      2. Please let me know what you think…I can’t put my finger on it but I have “that feeling” about the story…you…some connection you’ll make. Love ya oodles! 🥰❤️🥰

        Liked by 1 person

  7. Nice chat! The magic was intriguing. “Mr. Alabaster Fenwick and the Door That Stayed Closed (Until It Didn’t)” sounds like a heart-warming story with a different twist. My grandfather was married for a third time when he was 92 and his love story was featured in the local paper. However, they didn’t have any cats. 🙂

    Like

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much, Nancy! Your grandfather’s story sounds intriguing! I bet you’ll love the sweetness in Alexander’s tale about Mr. Fenwick. Truly enchanting. Big hugs to you! 🥰

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  8. Wonderful episode, Vicki and Wynne. You both had a great connection and it made me smile to think about the future of live entertainment and how that can never be replaced by new technologies like AI.

    So much of what makes a good Magic show or live show is the sense of wonder and trust in the audience – more so than showmanship and skill, although that plays a factor too. I can imagine how much that connection with your audience matters in a classroom or library talk setting too, Vicki.

    So many wonderful nuggets in this episode. 💕

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Oof! “Sense of wonder and trust in the audience”. You said that so well, Ab. Agree, agree. Making connections. Thanks so much for tuning in. Talking with Alexander was a total treat and I know you felt it, too. He’s mellow and centered. Super authentic. xoxoxo! 🥰

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

Leave a comment