That picture is not me. Hard to believe I know. Going back to the early days of Google search it always bugged me when I’d Google my own blog and the first name on the list was ThePhilFactorMagic.com. It wasn’t every time. Sometimes I was at the top of the Google list and other times it was him. For a while I was irked, but I got over it and decided to bring our impressive forces together to break the internet. I emailed the other Phil Factor and asked him to be a guest on my blog for it’s 20th anniversary.
Me: You are a professional magician with decades of experience and success. How did you first develop an interest in magic as a career?
The Magical Phil Factor: As most Magicians it started when I was young. My Grandfather showed me a classic trick called “nickels to dimes”. He gave me the trick and a magic book for my birthday. Needless to say my Mother suffered through my attempts at performing magic tricks for her. Some good and some terribly bad. After seeing my first ever live performance by a magician in my early twenties I got seriously hooked. At that point I dove into learning and performing as much as I could. After months of non-stop practice, I ventured out and began busking for my own experience and growth as a performer. Here I am 27 years later still doing what I love.
Me: Did you consider or work in other jobs before “Magician” became your full-time title?
The Magical Phil Factor: Yes, I served a four year tour of duty in the United States Air Force from 1989-1993 during Desert Storm and Desert Shield campaigns. When I got out of the military, I worked for Coca Cola my entire career while maintaining a side hustle performing magic at corporate, private and public events. Last year I finally decided to leave my job with Coca Cola and pursue Magic full time as my only income.
Me: First off, thank you for your years of military service. Secondly, you worked at Coca-Cola? Lol, I worked for Pepsi for four years in college. That’s an interesting synchronicity. Apparently all Phil Factors like carbonated beverages. So, tell me, what makes your magic show different?
The Magical Phil Factor: I believe what makes my magic different is my 50/50 approach. I try to be entertaining and funny just as much as presenting mind blowing sleight of hand magic. People seem to respond well and really enjoy it as entertainment. Rather than feeling tricked or fooled they can laugh and also be amazed. I want them to walk away saying “That was a fantastic and entertaining show!” Not, “How did he do that trick?” I would much rather give people a lifelong, joyful memory of that time they experienced The Phil Factor!
Me: That’s exactly how I approached dating in my 20’s!
Me: So what’s your best trick?
The Magical Phil Factor: I don’t know if it is my “best” trick. That’s subjective to each audience that bears witness, but it is one of my favorites that I am proud of and perform often. I call it “Dixie Chick”. I created this routine with heavy inspiration from one of my good friends and fellow magician Doug Brewer. Any magic performances that are my own creations are my favorite and suit my personality best. It feels more authentic and translates to an audience in a genuine way.
Me: Who is your favorite magician?
The Magical Phil Factor: Without question, my favorite magician is David Williamson! He is a comedic genius who performs diabolical magic. Combining his chaotic, insane comedy antics with incredible magic leaves people breathless. He was my introduction to learning magic from a professional magician and heavily influenced my choice of material and how I perform it. He truly is one of a kind and the reason I fell in love with magic. He’s an incredible gift to the world of magic.
Me: Thanks Phil, I really appreciate you sharing your magic with my readers. I occasionally get to So-Cal, so the next time I go, I’ll look you up and see your show. Feel free to pull me into one of your tricks!
Thanks for reading! Have a magical day! ~ Phil
