Eric "Efro" Froehlich is a Magic Hall of Famer and poker pro.0:00:48 recent health situation0:09:27 the day of the surgery0:14:58 family reliance0:21:50 after the operation0:27:51 the role of memory - in life and Magic0:32:33 loyalty, obligation and regret minimization0:35:36 has Eric changed after this life-or-death experience?0:41:51 Eric's online persona - "brick-wall defense mechanism"0:53:24 a fateful conversation with Patrick Sullivan1:00:03 looking back - Eric's reputation and legacy1:20:53 what does it take to be great at Magic?1:29:51 key people who helped Eric on his Magic journey1:35:41 current relationship with Magic and WOTC1:49:17 corporate governance - how things work at WOTC1:53:38 Gab Nassif and the evolution of global Magic teams---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Eric "Efro" Froehlich is a Magic Hall of Famer and poker pro. 0:00:48 recent health situation 0:09:27 the day of the surgery 0:14:58 family reliance 0:21:50 after the operation 0:27:51 the role of memory - in life and Magic 0:32:33 loyalty, obligation and regret minimization 0:35:36 has Eric changed after this life-or-death experience? 0:41:51 Eric's online persona - "brick-wall defense mechanism" 0:53:24 a fateful conversation with Patrick Sullivan 1:00:03 looking back - Eric's reputation and legacy 1:20:53 what does it take to be great at Magic? 1:29:51 key people who helped Eric on his Magic journey 1:35:41 current relationship with Magic and WOTC 1:49:17 corporate governance - how things work at WOTC 1:53:38 Gab Nassif and the evolution of global Magic teams --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

Eric "Efro" Froehlich - Life, Magic and Poker

Justine Jones

Justine Jones is an artist and illustrator. She started illustrating Magic cards with her Secret Lair interpretations of iconic cards: Reaper King, Sliver Overlord and The Ur-Dragon.For Magic art-related inquiries, including ordering Justine's artist proofs: Donald.Caltrider@gmail.com0:01:00 moving from Baltimore to Philly0:04:49 Justine and James are both avid runners0:15:23 who is Justine Jones, the artist?0:21:25 doing artist proofs during the pandemic0:29:54 on dabbling in digital art and coloring0:37:21 on being an MTG artist - "the Ur-Dragon IS me"0:48:46 the initial Secret Lair assignment1:00:02 Justine's creative 'arc' and artistic influences1:13:05 Dark Souls and World of Warcraft1:16:55 the Magic community is pretty darn cool1:20:48 Justine interviews James1:27:10 "I can't NOT do art" - on creative motivation1:36:01 creativity involves consistent (and monotonous) output1:40:40 open-ended creativity vs. art commission requests---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Justine Jones is an artist and illustrator. She started illustrating Magic cards with her Secret Lair interpretations of iconic cards: Reaper King, Sliver Overlord and The Ur-Dragon. For Magic art-related inquiries, including ordering Justine's artist proofs: Donald.Caltrider@gmail.com 0:01:00 moving from Baltimore to Philly 0:04:49 Justine and James are both avid runners 0:15:23 who is Justine Jones, the artist? 0:21:25 doing artist proofs during the pandemic 0:29:54 on dabbling in digital art and coloring 0:37:21 on being an MTG artist - "the Ur-Dragon IS me" 0:48:46 the initial Secret Lair assignment 1:00:02 Justine's creative 'arc' and artistic influences 1:13:05 Dark Souls and World of Warcraft 1:16:55 the Magic community is pretty darn cool 1:20:48 Justine interviews James 1:27:10 "I can't NOT do art" - on creative motivation 1:36:01 creativity involves consistent (and monotonous) output 1:40:40 open-ended creativity vs. art commission requests --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

MTG Secret Lair Artist - Justine Jones

Elba is the creator of the Fazendo Nerdice ("Doing Nerdy Stuff") YouTube channel, which specializes in Magic and all kind of wonderful games.0:01:00 YouTube channel origin story0:08:56 psychology in YouTube0:12:07 advice for beginning YouTubers0:19:16 balancing a full-time vs. YouTube career0:27:54 negative vs. positive content? "choose your words"0:36:59 mindset and behavioral changes as a full-time YouTuber0:48:27 avoiding burnout (is very hard)0:54:16 Elba's secret weapon as a creator1:00:29 the process of diversifying into different games1:07:27 content (and life) goals1:25:20 the Brazilian MTG community1:44:22 WOTC, sanctioned events and the LGS eco-system1:59:00 the state of paper Magic in Brazil2:08:24 the story behind the Anson Maddocks interview2:15:17 the 'Olá!' origin story2:22:09 parasocial interactions---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Elba is the creator of the Fazendo Nerdice ("Doing Nerdy Stuff") YouTube channel, which specializes in Magic and all kind of wonderful games. 0:01:00 YouTube channel origin story 0:08:56 psychology in YouTube 0:12:07 advice for beginning YouTubers 0:19:16 balancing a full-time vs. YouTube career 0:27:54 negative vs. positive content? "choose your words" 0:36:59 mindset and behavioral changes as a full-time YouTuber 0:48:27 avoiding burnout (is very hard) 0:54:16 Elba's secret weapon as a creator 1:00:29 the process of diversifying into different games 1:07:27 content (and life) goals 1:25:20 the Brazilian MTG community 1:44:22 WOTC, sanctioned events and the LGS eco-system 1:59:00 the state of paper Magic in Brazil 2:08:24 the story behind the Anson Maddocks interview 2:15:17 the 'Olá!' origin story 2:22:09 parasocial interactions --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

Brazil's Biggest MTG YouTuber - Fazendo Nerdice

Jake Browne

Jake Browne is a Magic player, creative and the founder of the world's first chowder and Jagermeister festival.---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Jake Browne is a Magic player, creative and the founder of the world's first chowder and Jagermeister festival. --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

Jake Browne - Magic Player, Comedian, Entrepreneur

The Scrybabies are East Coast content creators Tori of the Vast and Lua Stardust.0:01:20 how Lua and Tori met - cosmic connection0:08:32 MTG creator community for female and non-binary folks0:11:35 the competitive lens in content creation0:15:35 kitchen-table Magic recordings0:21:48 Lua and Tori's top horror, retro, and anime picks0:28:40 working together as a Scrybabies unit0:33:57 advice on how to collaborate as creators0:45:00 indomitable will &amp; work ethic0:53:03 variety vs. specialization0:56:27 scratching one's own itch vs. being results-oriented1:03:25 long-term Scrybabies goals1:09:41 dream guests1:19:11 being an introverted extrovert / lean into the cringe---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

The Scrybabies are East Coast content creators Tori of the Vast and Lua Stardust. 0:01:20 how Lua and Tori met - cosmic connection 0:08:32 MTG creator community for female and non-binary folks 0:11:35 the competitive lens in content creation 0:15:35 kitchen-table Magic recordings 0:21:48 Lua and Tori's top horror, retro, and anime picks 0:28:40 working together as a Scrybabies unit 0:33:57 advice on how to collaborate as creators 0:45:00 indomitable will &amp; work ethic 0:53:03 variety vs. specialization 0:56:27 scratching one's own itch vs. being results-oriented 1:03:25 long-term Scrybabies goals 1:09:41 dream guests 1:19:11 being an introverted extrovert / lean into the cringe --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

Queens of MTG Content - Scrybabies (Tori of the Vast, Lua Stardust)

Will Hall is an MTG streamer and caster.0:01:30 the Ukraine stream happened by accident0:09:36 legal drama with Will's 24/7 Ukraine stream0:16:28 wanting to give to others - where does that come from?0:23:10 on injustice and stopping robberies0:27:18 how Will became a Royal Marine0:39:09 the YouTube grind - what works, what doesn't0:52:58 Will's caster origin story1:00:35 life goals1:10:23 grinding content - "consistency is the key"1:15:07 James's Humans of Magic grind1:21:26 Will's advice for James1:29:36 Will's casting "low"1:35:09 does Will have imposter syndrome?---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Will Hall is an MTG streamer and caster. 0:01:30 the Ukraine stream happened by accident 0:09:36 legal drama with Will's 24/7 Ukraine stream 0:16:28 wanting to give to others - where does that come from? 0:23:10 on injustice and stopping robberies 0:27:18 how Will became a Royal Marine 0:39:09 the YouTube grind - what works, what doesn't 0:52:58 Will's caster origin story 1:00:35 life goals 1:10:23 grinding content - "consistency is the key" 1:15:07 James's Humans of Magic grind 1:21:26 Will's advice for James 1:29:36 Will's casting "low" 1:35:09 does Will have imposter syndrome? --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

The Accidental MTG Content Creator - Will Hall

Anna Margaret

Anna Margaret is a scientist, cosplayer, and content creator.0:00:45 setting boundaries and people-pleasing0:04:06 from Disney party princess to content creator0:08:48 on being bubbly and happy0:11:41 science - and talent - runs in the family0:22:56 postgraduate aspirations and forks in the road0:28:44 misconceptions about content creation0:33:51 people in Magic are awesome / representation in Magic0:35:57 the initial creator "spark"0:43:23 the cosplay mindset0:52:10 internet virality and negative feedback loops0:58:02 focusing too hard on "content" numbers1:00:11 Anna Margaret's content goals1:11:47 Star Trek fandom (impromptu Star Trek podcast ALERT)1:35:45 what you want as a creator vs. what your audience wants---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Anna Margaret is a scientist, cosplayer, and content creator. 0:00:45 setting boundaries and people-pleasing 0:04:06 from Disney party princess to content creator 0:08:48 on being bubbly and happy 0:11:41 science - and talent - runs in the family 0:22:56 postgraduate aspirations and forks in the road 0:28:44 misconceptions about content creation 0:33:51 people in Magic are awesome / representation in Magic 0:35:57 the initial creator "spark" 0:43:23 the cosplay mindset 0:52:10 internet virality and negative feedback loops 0:58:02 focusing too hard on "content" numbers 1:00:11 Anna Margaret's content goals 1:11:47 Star Trek fandom (impromptu Star Trek podcast ALERT) 1:35:45 what you want as a creator vs. what your audience wants --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

Finding Your "Why" - MTG Creator Anna Margaret

Sean Brown

Sean Brown is a designer, musician and writer from Australia.0:00:40 Sean's Australian-Filipino roots0:08:33 spirituality vs. personal responsibility0:14:02 current relationship with Magic0:29:51 exploring a new career direction0:40:01 "the progress is the point"0:48:42 Sean's current career - the good, bad, ugly0:56:52 James's current relationship with the Legacy format1:00:38 on journaling and trying new things1:05:08 Sean's music career and current artistic influences1:11:23 today's music discovery process - is the mystique gone?1:16:29 an alternative to "basic" content consumption - intentional curation1:21:26 new AI technologies - ChatGPT and Midjourney - what does it mean for us?---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Sean Brown is a designer, musician and writer from Australia. 0:00:40 Sean's Australian-Filipino roots 0:08:33 spirituality vs. personal responsibility 0:14:02 current relationship with Magic 0:29:51 exploring a new career direction 0:40:01 "the progress is the point" 0:48:42 Sean's current career - the good, bad, ugly 0:56:52 James's current relationship with the Legacy format 1:00:38 on journaling and trying new things 1:05:08 Sean's music career and current artistic influences 1:11:23 today's music discovery process - is the mystique gone? 1:16:29 an alternative to "basic" content consumption - intentional curation 1:21:26 new AI technologies - ChatGPT and Midjourney - what does it mean for us? --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

MTG Creator Turned Designer - Sean Brown

Lexi McQueen

Lexi McQueen is a performer, world builder and dungeon master. She is known for her creative work in the Tabletop RPG space.0:01:25 selfish vs. selfless Saturdays0:06:01 growing up as a black Christian0:10:56 how Lexi's parents influenced her0:18:42 Lexi's current spiritual beliefs0:20:49 optimizing for the self // this anime gets DEEP0:26:12 hinge-points (forks in the road)0:34:47 college0:40:34 on coming out0:56:00 religion as a community-builder1:02:49 complicit participation in communities and platforms1:12:06 why Lexi chose to be a TTRPG creator1:17:03 commoditizing ourselves // internet sensory overload1:25:43 why James is a creator1:27:20 "taking back storytelling for myself"1:31:17 how Lexi became a storyteller1:43:38 subverting expectations as a Dungeon Master1:50:40 leading a playgroup or campaign1:56:54 being a queer black woman in the TTRPG space---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Lexi McQueen is a performer, world builder and dungeon master. She is known for her creative work in the Tabletop RPG space. 0:01:25 selfish vs. selfless Saturdays 0:06:01 growing up as a black Christian 0:10:56 how Lexi's parents influenced her 0:18:42 Lexi's current spiritual beliefs 0:20:49 optimizing for the self // this anime gets DEEP 0:26:12 hinge-points (forks in the road) 0:34:47 college 0:40:34 on coming out 0:56:00 religion as a community-builder 1:02:49 complicit participation in communities and platforms 1:12:06 why Lexi chose to be a TTRPG creator 1:17:03 commoditizing ourselves // internet sensory overload 1:25:43 why James is a creator 1:27:20 "taking back storytelling for myself" 1:31:17 how Lexi became a storyteller 1:43:38 subverting expectations as a Dungeon Master 1:50:40 leading a playgroup or campaign 1:56:54 being a queer black woman in the TTRPG space --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

MTG & TTRPG Storyteller - Lexi McQueen

Michael "Cliffy" Clifford is a Magic player and full-time poker professional.0:01:45 who is Cliffy - his Magic origin story0:09:54 Cliffy and James's shared love of the Legacy format0:13:25 how to learn (and improve at) Storm Combo in Legacy0:21:35 Lurrus the Storm Combo GOAT! and other super-broken cards0:24:20 dropping out of college to pursue full-time poker0:34:54 poker level-ups - game selection and immersive study0:41:14 working as a casino money-counter0:52:02 worlds collide - rational vs. irrational gamblers1:00:06 online vs. paper Magic - are they the same game?1:05:58 on exploitative gameplay and "action" tells - in poker and Magic1:13:23 game theory optimal in poker - what is it?1:22:38 can a bot "beat" poker?1:29:30 poker cheating accusations - Mike Postle, Garrett vs. Robbi---Show notes: humansofmagic.com/Patreon: patreon.com/humansofmagic

Michael "Cliffy" Clifford is a Magic player and full-time poker professional. 0:01:45 who is Cliffy - his Magic origin story 0:09:54 Cliffy and James's shared love of the Legacy format 0:13:25 how to learn (and improve at) Storm Combo in Legacy 0:21:35 Lurrus the Storm Combo GOAT! and other super-broken cards 0:24:20 dropping out of college to pursue full-time poker 0:34:54 poker level-ups - game selection and immersive study 0:41:14 working as a casino money-counter 0:52:02 worlds collide - rational vs. irrational gamblers 1:00:06 online vs. paper Magic - are they the same game? 1:05:58 on exploitative gameplay and "action" tells - in poker and Magic 1:13:23 game theory optimal in poker - what is it? 1:22:38 can a bot "beat" poker? 1:29:30 poker cheating accusations - Mike Postle, Garrett vs. Robbi --- Show notes: <a href="http://humansofmagic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com/</a> Patreon: <a href="http://patreon.com/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patreon.com/humansofmagic</a>

MTG Player To Poker Pro - How He Did It - Michael "Cliffy" Clifford

The personal side of Magic: The Gathering. https://linktr.ee/humansofmagic

Oh well. I love learning about the small handful of people who have made MTG such a huge part of their lives, particularly those who have taken the risk and the workload in earn a living off of MTG. Streaming, designing, podcasting, pro touring. Whatever. It&#39;s neat.

I thought this was about tribal human EDH!??!

I came to this podcast looking for English content on the experience of playing Legacy in China. Sure, I get a little of that here and there during the casts but the guest interviews on their personal experience is far better than I was expecting. 

I’m still not caught up to the current episodes but everything I’ve heard so far is very relevant. I wish that I had found this podcast earlier in my competitive play and recommend it for anyone who wants to play and be successful in sanctioned magic tournaments. Listen to the people that have been there before, decks don’t matter forever, your approach to the game and life does.

Truly Eternal Content

The personal side of Magic: The Gathering. <a href="https://linktr.ee/humansofmagic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://linktr.ee/humansofmagic</a>

Humans of Magic

Ally Warfield

Ally Warfield is an MTG streamer and Rivals League member. Her notable tournament finishes include a Grand Prix Top 4, MCVII Top 16, and MagicFest Online Top 8.For show notes, please visit humansofmagic.com.Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

Ally Warfield is an MTG streamer and Rivals League member. Her notable tournament finishes include a Grand Prix Top 4, MCVII Top 16, and MagicFest Online Top 8. For show notes, please visit <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

#070 - Ally Warfield

Bryan Gottlieb

"I love Magic so much, I want it to be presented for what I know that it is -- and that's the best game on the planet."I broke my recording hiatus after REALLY getting into the GAM Podcast, one of the finest competitive Magic podcasts around. Bryan Gottlieb co-hosts the show and is a poker-player-turned-bartender-turned-lawyer. So when the opportunity to interview Bryan came up, I knew that I had to go for it.Here is our full conversation, in which we discuss:- Bryan's childhood- The art of content creation- Career and life choices- Helping others in unorthodox ways- Why Magic is the greatest game ever- ...and much, much more!Enjoy!--Bryan Gottlieb -- @BryanGoGAM Podcast - @TheGAMPodcast

"I love Magic so much, I want it to be presented for what I know that it is -- and that's the best game on the planet." I broke my recording hiatus after REALLY getting into the GAM Podcast, one of the finest competitive Magic podcasts around. Bryan Gottlieb co-hosts the show and is a poker-player-turned-bartender-turned-lawyer. So when the opportunity to interview Bryan came up, I knew that I had to go for it. Here is our full conversation, in which we discuss: - Bryan's childhood - The art of content creation - Career and life choices - Helping others in unorthodox ways - Why Magic is the greatest game ever - ...and much, much more! Enjoy! -- Bryan Gottlieb -- @BryanGo GAM Podcast - @TheGAMPodcast

#034 - Bryan Gottlieb of GAM Podcast on his mission, life choices, and the road less traveled

Tom Dwan

Christian Calcano

"Humans of Magic" interviews Christian Calcano, esteemed Gold Level Pro and Pro Tour Amonkhet Top 8 finalist. We go into Christian's backstory and how he feels about the game today.Please share this podcast with your friends! We have a lot of great content planned for this year -- subscribe now to make sure you don't miss any episodes.

"Humans of Magic" interviews Christian Calcano, esteemed Gold Level Pro and Pro Tour Amonkhet Top 8 finalist. We go into Christian's backstory and how he feels about the game today. Please share this podcast with your friends! We have a lot of great content planned for this year -- subscribe now to make sure you don't miss any episodes.

#026 - Christian Calcano on his Pro Tour Top 8, NYC Magic, and shooting hoops with...Tom Dwan?!?

Reid Duke

Reid Duke is an MTG Hall of Famer and member of the Magic Pro League.For show notes, please visit humansofmagic.com.Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

Reid Duke is an MTG Hall of Famer and member of the Magic Pro League. For show notes, please visit <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

#069 - Reid Duke

Emma Handy

Emma Handy joins the “Humans of Magic” podcast for a no-holds-barred interview.Emma talks openly about being in the public spotlight as a transgender woman, her darkest and brightest moments, key friendships, the Magic grind, and more.Don’t miss this conversation with one of the essential voices in Magic today.WARNING: this podcast contains adult language and topics related to self-harm, suicide, depression, and taking illegal substances. Listener beware.To support the podcast please visit: www.patreon.com/jameshsu

Emma Handy joins the “Humans of Magic” podcast for a no-holds-barred interview. Emma talks openly about being in the public spotlight as a transgender woman, her darkest and brightest moments, key friendships, the Magic grind, and more. Don’t miss this conversation with one of the essential voices in Magic today. WARNING: this podcast contains adult language and topics related to self-harm, suicide, depression, and taking illegal substances. Listener beware. To support the podcast please visit: <a href="http://www.patreon.com/jameshsu" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/jameshsu</a>

#039 - Emma Handy unleashed: the no-holds-barred interview. (Part 1 of 2)

Crim Nguyen, a.k.a. The Asian Avenger, is a streamer, content creator, and musician.Special announcement to our listeners &amp; fans: new book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today!Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

Crim Nguyen, a.k.a. The Asian Avenger, is a streamer, content creator, and musician. Special announcement to our listeners &amp; fans: new book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today! Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

#058 - The Asian Avenger on his long & winding road

Andrea Mengucci

Andrea Mengucci is a member of the MPL, Mythic Invitational champion, content creator, and major advocate for the Legacy format.New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today!Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

Andrea Mengucci is a member of the MPL, Mythic Invitational champion, content creator, and major advocate for the Legacy format. New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today! Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

#061 - Andrea Mengucci: a Magical life

Riley Knight

Riley Knight is an Australian writer, commentator, teacher and history buff. He is the co-host of “Arena Boys” and creator of “Half-Arsed History: A Very Serious History Podcast.”Special announcement to our listeners &amp; fans: new book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today!Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

Riley Knight is an Australian writer, commentator, teacher and history buff. He is the co-host of “Arena Boys” and creator of “Half-Arsed History: A Very Serious History Podcast.” Special announcement to our listeners &amp; fans: new book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today! Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

#057 - Riley Knight on worldly travels, higher learning & the biggest moment of his life

Kai Sawatari

We are back with the first 2017 episode of “Humans of Magic”! Our first guest of the year is Kai Sawatari.Kai is half-German, half-Japanese, all amazing. He’s a serious Legacy player with 4th and 17th place finishes at Grand Prix events.This podcast was hilarious. We talk about:- How Kai’s father would let him win at games!- Getting destroyed by a Goblin Charbelcher deck when he was 12 years old!- Irrational confidence!- Bromance!- Japanese culture and the crazy smiley guy!- The biggest mistake Kai ever made as a competitive player! (spoiler: it involves sleeving up Terminus)Too many exclamation marks, for sure. Hope you enjoy the listen!

We are back with the first 2017 episode of “Humans of Magic”! Our first guest of the year is Kai Sawatari. Kai is half-German, half-Japanese, all amazing. He’s a serious Legacy player with 4th and 17th place finishes at Grand Prix events. This podcast was hilarious. We talk about: - How Kai’s father would let him win at games! - Getting destroyed by a Goblin Charbelcher deck when he was 12 years old! - Irrational confidence! - Bromance! - Japanese culture and the crazy smiley guy! - The biggest mistake Kai ever made as a competitive player! (spoiler: it involves sleeving up Terminus) Too many exclamation marks, for sure. Hope you enjoy the listen!

#025 - Kai Sawatari on growing up multicultural, irrational confidence, and Japanese Magic!

#040 - Emma Handy unleashed: the no-holds-barred interview. (Part 2 of 2)

Ari Lax

“Humans of Magic” presents: Ari Lax. Ari is the Pro Tour Khans of Tarkir Champion, member of Team Massdrop, and writer for Starcitygames.com.Here is our full conversation, in which we discuss:- The process of preparing for Pro Tours: before, during, and after- Similarities between preparing for the Pro Tour vs. job interviews- Leveling up as a player- Balance: finding it, or lack thereof- How to have good debates or conversations with people- Advice for new tournament players...and much, much more!Enjoy!--Ari Lax -- @armlx

“Humans of Magic” presents: Ari Lax. Ari is the Pro Tour Khans of Tarkir Champion, member of Team Massdrop, and writer for <a href="http://Starcitygames.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Starcitygames.com</a>. Here is our full conversation, in which we discuss: - The process of preparing for Pro Tours: before, during, and after - Similarities between preparing for the Pro Tour vs. job interviews - Leveling up as a player - Balance: finding it, or lack thereof - How to have good debates or conversations with people - Advice for new tournament players ...and much, much more! Enjoy! -- Ari Lax -- @armlx

#036 - Ari Lax on preparing for the Pro Tour, Magic-life balance, and having a sustainable process

Lucas Berthoud

Lucas Esper Berthoud is a lawyer, professional Magic player and Pro Tour Aether Revolt champion. He is based in São Paulo, Brazil.New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get more details at humansofmagic.com.Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

Lucas Esper Berthoud is a lawyer, professional Magic player and Pro Tour Aether Revolt champion. He is based in São Paulo, Brazil. New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get more details at <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

#062 - Lucas Berthoud speaks his mind on the state of Magic esports

Noah Walker

This week, I want to share a conversation that I had with 21-year old wunderkind Noah Walker. Noah is a Magic player, competitor, basketball enthusiast, and...camp counselor?!?In fact, the conversation started off quite slowly. Noah was not quite sure what to make of some stranger asking him questions over Skype.But once we started talking about his passion for helping kids, and how he is giving back to the same summer camp that he has attended since he was eight years old...EVERYTHING CHANGED.We ended up having quite a good talk about everything. Family. Growing up in Massachusetts. Facing defeat and picking yourself back up. The Boston Celtics. The importance of possessing the proper mindset, especially in the heat of competition.I certainly knew very little about Noah at the beginning of our conversation. But I walked away from our chat extremely impressed. And to think that Noah is only 21 years old -- that is pure awesome!That is why I am excited to share this recording with you, as part of the "Humans of Magic" series.Intro music from https://www.bensound.com

This week, I want to share a conversation that I had with 21-year old wunderkind Noah Walker. Noah is a Magic player, competitor, basketball enthusiast, and...camp counselor?!? In fact, the conversation started off quite slowly. Noah was not quite sure what to make of some stranger asking him questions over Skype. But once we started talking about his passion for helping kids, and how he is giving back to the same summer camp that he has attended since he was eight years old... EVERYTHING CHANGED. We ended up having quite a good talk about everything. Family. Growing up in Massachusetts. Facing defeat and picking yourself back up. The Boston Celtics. The importance of possessing the proper mindset, especially in the heat of competition. I certainly knew very little about Noah at the beginning of our conversation. But I walked away from our chat extremely impressed. And to think that Noah is only 21 years old -- that is pure awesome! That is why I am excited to share this recording with you, as part of the "Humans of Magic" series. Intro music from <a href="https://www.bensound.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.bensound.com</a>

#029 - Noah Walker is the wisest 21 year old around. On family, passions, and the competitive fire!

Matt Sperling

Matt Sperling is a content creator, member of the Rivals league and 2019 Mythic Championship finalist. His YouTube channel is called "Magic: The Gathering for Advanced Players."New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available. Details at humansofmagic.com.Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

Matt Sperling is a content creator, member of the Rivals league and 2019 Mythic Championship finalist. His YouTube channel is called "Magic: The Gathering for Advanced Players." New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available. Details at <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

#067 - Matt Sperling: Magic's premier contrarian and humorist

Julian Knab

Julian Knab, a.k.a. ItsJulian, is the creator of the Legacy Premier League and host of the Everyday Eternal podcast. Find all his projects at itsjulian.com.Special announcement: new book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today!Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

Julian Knab, a.k.a. ItsJulian, is the creator of the Legacy Premier League and host of the Everyday Eternal podcast. Find all his projects at <a href="http://itsjulian.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">itsjulian.com</a>. Special announcement: new book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get your copy today! Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

#059 - Julian Knab on creating the Legacy Premier League & the future of esports

Jarvis Yu

Jarvis Yu is back. He was my first guest on the show, and I am excited to have him back. In this two-part series, I sit down with Jarvis for an in-depth conversation.Part 1 is Jarvis’ year in review. Jarvis opens up about his accomplishments, goals, and insights for the coming year. He is also brutally honest about where he needs to improve in order to reach the next level. As Jarvis plays on the Pro Tour and is a regular on Team Massdrop East, you may find his observations helpful to your own player development.Part 2 (THIS EPISODE) is a Legacy Lands mini-primer straight from the master himself. As one of the most accomplished Lands players on the planet—two Grand Prix Top 8 finishes, including 1 win, and a Top 16 finish—Jarvis is uniquely qualified to speak on this subject. We cover deck basics, matchups, card choices, and more. Definitely give this episode a listen if you want to unlock the intricacies of the deck.For maximum Jarvis, make sure you listen to both parts. I hope that you enjoy listening to this double-header series as much as I enjoyed recording it.Subscribe to “Humans of Magic” on iTunes today. And if you like what you hear, leave a review on iTunes to support the cause. And tell a friend, too :)Read full text transcripts of “Humans” audio interviews here: www.humansofmagic.com

Jarvis Yu is back. He was my first guest on the show, and I am excited to have him back. In this two-part series, I sit down with Jarvis for an in-depth conversation. Part 1 is Jarvis’ year in review. Jarvis opens up about his accomplishments, goals, and insights for the coming year. He is also brutally honest about where he needs to improve in order to reach the next level. As Jarvis plays on the Pro Tour and is a regular on Team Massdrop East, you may find his observations helpful to your own player development. Part 2 (THIS EPISODE) is a Legacy Lands mini-primer straight from the master himself. As one of the most accomplished Lands players on the planet—two Grand Prix Top 8 finishes, including 1 win, and a Top 16 finish—Jarvis is uniquely qualified to speak on this subject. We cover deck basics, matchups, card choices, and more. Definitely give this episode a listen if you want to unlock the intricacies of the deck. For maximum Jarvis, make sure you listen to both parts. I hope that you enjoy listening to this double-header series as much as I enjoyed recording it. Subscribe to “Humans of Magic” on iTunes today. And if you like what you hear, leave a review on iTunes to support the cause. And tell a friend, too :) Read full text transcripts of “Humans” audio interviews here: <a href="http://www.humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.humansofmagic.com</a>

#032 – The Jarvis Yu double-header special. [Part 2] Legacy Lands mini-primer + Q&A!

Zac Hill

Zac Hill is the co-founder and COO of The Future Project. He is a former lead game designer at Wizards R&amp;D and a Pro Tour veteran with a Top 8 finish at PT Honolulu '09.New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get more details at humansofmagic.com.Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

Zac Hill is the co-founder and COO of The Future Project. He is a former lead game designer at Wizards R&amp;D and a Pro Tour veteran with a Top 8 finish at PT Honolulu '09. New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get more details at <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

#064 - Zac Hill on the state of Magic design & The Future Project

Jim Davis

Jim Davis is a professional Magic player, content creator and winner of the 2015 SCG Tour Players Championship. Find Jim on Twitch, Twitter and YouTube: "JimDavisMTG"James's YouTube channel: "Past in James" -- https://bit.ly/38XRDfLJames's book: “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” -- humansofmagic.comMusic in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

Jim Davis is a professional Magic player, content creator and winner of the 2015 SCG Tour Players Championship. Find Jim on Twitch, Twitter and YouTube: "JimDavisMTG" James's YouTube channel: "Past in James" -- <a href="https://bit.ly/38XRDfL" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/38XRDfL</a> James's book: “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” -- <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a> Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound

#068 - Jim Davis on life, competition & balance

Dan Signorini

I am excited to share this conversation with Dan Signorini, a.k.a. Nitewolf9 on MTGTheSource. Dan and David Gearhart created the “Team America” deck, which started off as an elaborate joke and has evolved into the BUG / Grixis Delver decks of today. Chance are, if you have ever played or played against a Delver deck, you have been influenced by Dan’s deck building choices.Dan is a long-standing member of the North Virginia Legacy community, which includes players such as Alix Hatfield, Jesse Hatfield, Anwar Ahmed, David Gearhart, David Price, Damon Whitby, and many others. Together, the group has developed influential decks such as Canadian Threshold, Solidarity, Dredge, Zoo, and (of course!) Team America. Dan was also one of Bob Huang’s early mentors. Bob has, in turn, popularized the de facto Grixis Delver build that we know so well today. It is no exaggeration to say that Dan and his group have been instrumental to the development of the Legacy format, and “Type 1.5” before that.Furthermore, Dan has had a strong influence on *me*. When I started playing competitive Magic almost ten years ago, he was the person I learned from. Dan was the one to offer me advice on how to play the “Team America” deck and matchup tips. I would not be creating content today, or playing Magic at all, without his kindness and support.For these reasons, this episode is very special to me. In true “Humans of Magic” fashion, the discussion touches on everything Dan cares about – family, community, music, martial arts, competitive mindset, and more. Dan speaks openly about a wide variety of topics, and I hope that you enjoy listening to it.Time stamps:[03:17] Introduction[09:28] Eternal Weekend[13:58] Dan’s day job[16:57] Childhood and family background[29:33] Dan’s best friend in high school[33:20] Learning martial arts[39:48] Diffusing conflict[44:08] Being curious about life[46:02] First Magic experience[48:18] The North Virginia Magic crew[54:52] On being open-minded[56:30] From Suicide Black to Team America[1:05:00] Curio Cavern[1:07:26] Thoughts on the current Legacy format [1:13:03] The ban of Sensei’s Divining Top – correct?[1:16:25] Ban Deathrite Shaman?[1:18:56] Ban Delver of Secrets?[1:21:21] More thoughts on Legacy[1:29:37] On playing well in high-level competition[1:32:50] How Dan has helped other players develop[1:34:35] What Dan’s learned from the community[1:36:14] Goals[1:37:05] Things Dan would tell himself, if he could go back five years[1:39:22] On happiness[1:41:26] Things that piss Dan off[1:46:22] Tips for new competitive players

I am excited to share this conversation with Dan Signorini, a.k.a. Nitewolf9 on MTGTheSource. Dan and David Gearhart created the “Team America” deck, which started off as an elaborate joke and has evolved into the BUG / Grixis Delver decks of today. Chance are, if you have ever played or played against a Delver deck, you have been influenced by Dan’s deck building choices. Dan is a long-standing member of the North Virginia Legacy community, which includes players such as Alix Hatfield, Jesse Hatfield, Anwar Ahmed, David Gearhart, David Price, Damon Whitby, and many others. Together, the group has developed influential decks such as Canadian Threshold, Solidarity, Dredge, Zoo, and (of course!) Team America. Dan was also one of Bob Huang’s early mentors. Bob has, in turn, popularized the de facto Grixis Delver build that we know so well today. It is no exaggeration to say that Dan and his group have been instrumental to the development of the Legacy format, and “Type 1.5” before that. Furthermore, Dan has had a strong influence on *me*. When I started playing competitive Magic almost ten years ago, he was the person I learned from. Dan was the one to offer me advice on how to play the “Team America” deck and matchup tips. I would not be creating content today, or playing Magic at all, without his kindness and support. For these reasons, this episode is very special to me. In true “Humans of Magic” fashion, the discussion touches on everything Dan cares about – family, community, music, martial arts, competitive mindset, and more. Dan speaks openly about a wide variety of topics, and I hope that you enjoy listening to it. Time stamps: [03:17] Introduction [09:28] Eternal Weekend [13:58] Dan’s day job [16:57] Childhood and family background [29:33] Dan’s best friend in high school [33:20] Learning martial arts [39:48] Diffusing conflict [44:08] Being curious about life [46:02] First Magic experience [48:18] The North Virginia Magic crew [54:52] On being open-minded [56:30] From Suicide Black to Team America [1:05:00] Curio Cavern [1:07:26] Thoughts on the current Legacy format [1:13:03] The ban of Sensei’s Divining Top – correct? [1:16:25] Ban Deathrite Shaman? [1:18:56] Ban Delver of Secrets? [1:21:21] More thoughts on Legacy [1:29:37] On playing well in high-level competition [1:32:50] How Dan has helped other players develop [1:34:35] What Dan’s learned from the community [1:36:14] Goals [1:37:05] Things Dan would tell himself, if he could go back five years [1:39:22] On happiness [1:41:26] Things that piss Dan off [1:46:22] Tips for new competitive players

#033 – Dan Signorini talks "Team America," North Virginia Magic, and the current state of Legacy!

Here is the "Ask Me Anything" episode, in which I answer YOUR submitted questions. Find the question list at humansofmagic.com.New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get more details at humansofmagic.com.Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

Here is the "Ask Me Anything" episode, in which I answer YOUR submitted questions. Find the question list at <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. New book “Humans of Magic: Interviews with the Game's Greatest Minds” is now available on Amazon. Get more details at <a href="http://humansofmagic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humansofmagic.com</a>. Music in this episode is brought to you by @kuplasound.

#063 - "Ask Me Anything" episode

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Best Episodes: Interesting Stories & Things

The best podcast episodes on non-current politics. Covering topics such as universal basic income, democracy, poverty & justice and more. For anyone interested in learning more about politics that affect that world, not just now, but in the longer term. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!