Sometimes, good things simply fall into your lap. Mark Toland, a Chicago-based mentalist and mind reader, had long been interested in delivering a presentation for TED, a prestigious series of world-wide conferences originally focused on technology, education, and design; now just about any topic or inspirational idea is fair game for these impactful lectures. Magic and magicians have featured in quite a few. Mark tells GeniiOnline how he wound up landing the coveted gig at long last, which gave him a chance to speak about his desire for honesty and sincerity as a performer versus the deception inherent in being a professional mind reader.

For the rest of our interviews with Mark, check out the links here:

Part one: Mark Toland explains how small town life and zero back-up plan made him a pro magician

Part two: Mark Toland defines the ever-evolving Chicago-style magic

Part three: Mark Toland’s theatrical approach to mentalism finds freedom within limitations

Part four: Mark Toland shares why the Magic Penthouse is a treat for performers and audience alike