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 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec – Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode, hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Gloria Golec about her memoir, South Side Memories. The conversation explores themes of family, immigrant experiences, and the power of storytelling. Gloria shares insights on how her Polish heritage and family dynamics shaped her identity and writing journey. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preserving personal narratives, the emotional connections that come from sharing stories, and provides the inspiration for writing our own stories.TakeawaysThe book is a reflection of the American dream and immigrant experiences.Storytelling helps maintain connections to roots and loved ones.Writing can be a therapeutic process for personal growth.Family dynamics, especially gender roles, play a significant role in shaping identity.Cherished memories can provide clarity and understanding of past relationships.Cultural heritage is often intertwined with food traditions and family gatherings.Teaching experiences can influence one's writing and storytelling approach.Writing a memoir can be an emotional journey that brings past relationships closer.Encouragement to start writing by focusing on one story at a time.Sharing stories can inspire others and create a sense of community.Links for this episode:⁠How To Share Snapshots of the American Dream transcript⁠⁠Gloria Golec's profile on Eckhartz Press⁠South Side Memories on ⁠Eckhartz Press⁠From the hosts:Vicki’s book about resilience and love: ⁠Surviving Sue⁠; Blog: ⁠https://victoriaponders.com/⁠My book about my beloved father: ⁠Finding My Father’s Faith⁠
  1. Episode 132: South Side Memories with Gloria Golec
  2. Episode 131: Attacking the Dragon with Marc Ross
  3. Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones
  4. Episode 129: Wish I Was Here with Ilsa Rey
  5. Episode 128: This is Your Body on Trauma with Meg Bowman

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!

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      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! 🥰❤️🥰

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  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. 🙂

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    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! 🥰

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  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. 💕

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    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! 🥰

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