Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast
Episode 565: "The Entertainer" (feat. Steve Crawford)
Release Date: June 30, 2025

In Episode 565 of Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast, hosts Matt McCusker and Shane Gillis sit down with the multifaceted entertainer Steve Crawford. Steve, known for his diverse talents as an actor, magician, hypnotist, and daredevil stuntman, shares an array of captivating stories from his illustrious 40-year career in entertainment.

1. Introduction and Early Inspirations [00:00 - 02:00]

The episode kicks off with Matt introducing Steve Crawford, highlighting his numerous roles and accomplishments. Steve reminisces about his childhood fascination with magic, inspired by the movie Houdini starring Tony Curtis. This early passion set the foundation for his diverse career in entertainment.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [01:01]: "I was a kid, I had a childhood hobby of magic... something affected me differently than it did the others, and it grabbed me."

2. Journey into Stunts and State Fairs [02:00 - 07:45]

Steve delves into how he transitioned from magic to performing daring stunts at state fairs and festivals. For over three decades, he thrilled audiences with acts like being locked upside down in a water torture cell and escaping from roller coaster tracks. He describes the adrenaline and meticulous planning required for each performance, emphasizing the blend of showmanship and genuine risk involved.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [06:28]: "One of those was locked upside down in the water torture cell that Houdini inspired... hanging from burning ropes."

3. Personal Experiences and Dangerous Stunts [07:45 - 19:12]

Steve shares harrowing accounts of close calls during his performances. From breaking ribs during a stunt to suffering severe injuries like a concussion and a broken hip from miscalculations during an air show escape, his stories underscore the physical toll of his craft. He recounts a particularly terrifying incident where a malfunction during a stunt led to multiple injuries, highlighting the fine line between spectacle and danger.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [36:01]: "I had a world record... escaping from handcuffs in 1.47 seconds."

4. Comedy Clubs and Hypnosis Acts [19:12 - 26:50]

Expanding his repertoire, Steve ventured into comedy clubs in the 1980s, blending magic with humor. He recounts developing acts that included pickpocketing demonstrations and clinical hypnosis, where he would perform mind-reading tricks. This period also led him to become a certified clinical hypnotist, though he maintained strict professionalism by never crossing personal boundaries with his assistants.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [19:56]: "Most of us have an internal clock in the subconscious mind. You tell yourself, I need to wake up at a certain time as you fall asleep."

5. Security Testing and Legal Troubles [26:50 - 34:12]

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Steve's foray into security testing, where he leveraged his lock-picking and escape skills to breach airport security. His methods, which included using everyday items like windshield wipers and glasses stems to bypass security measures, eventually led to legal repercussions. Steve details his interactions with law enforcement, the resulting restrictions on his career, and the ethical dilemmas of sharing such sensitive information publicly.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [32:15]: "If we show the public what's going on, they'll change it."

6. Physical Toll and Career Shift [34:12 - 52:08]

The relentless nature of Steve's career in stunts took a severe physical toll, culminating in multiple injuries and a hip replacement. He reflects on the challenges of maintaining such a demanding profession and the eventual shift towards acting, a long-held passion that allowed him to continue performing without the same level of physical risk.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [51:16]: "The body's changing. Time to go to become an actor."

7. Appearance on "World's Worst Cooks" [52:08 - 56:35]

In a lighter segment, Steve talks about his stint on the reality show World's Worst Cooks. Despite his lack of culinary prowess, the experience provided him with memorable moments and highlighted his comedic side. He expresses admiration for his co-star, Chef Ann, who recently passed away, underscoring the camaraderie formed during the show.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [54:14]: "When I was single, I would throw everything... But now I marry a girl that was a great cook, and she doesn't allow me in the kitchen at all."

8. Live Magic Demonstration [56:35 - 61:53]

Towards the end of the episode, Steve engages in a live magic demonstration, showcasing his skills in rope manipulation and illusion. This interactive segment not only entertains but also provides listeners with a glimpse into the technical precision required for his craft. Despite the humorous attempts to reveal secrets, Steve maintains the mystique surrounding his magic tricks.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [60:22]: "You did it. You did it."

9. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts [61:53 - End]

The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks exchanged between Matt and Steve. Steve reflects on his diverse career, the lessons learned from both successes and failures, and the unwavering passion that drives his continuous pursuit of entertainment excellence.

Notable Quote:
Steve Crawford [65:44]: "I lie a lot, you know? Right? But you know it's a trick."

Key Takeaways:

• Versatility in Entertainment: Steve Crawford exemplifies the blend of magic, comedy, and daredevil stunts, demonstrating the breadth of skills required to sustain a long-term career in entertainment.

• Risk and Reward: His stories underscore the inherent risks in performing dangerous stunts, highlighting the physical and emotional toll they can take.

• Ethical Boundaries: Steve emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism, especially when interacting with assistants and leveraging his skills outside performances.

• Adaptability: Faced with physical injuries and changing industry landscapes, Steve's ability to pivot towards acting showcases the necessity of adaptability in the entertainment industry.

• Legacy and Impact: Through his long career and willingness to share his experiences, Steve provides valuable insights into the world of live performances, security testing, and the personal sacrifices made by entertainers.

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the life of a seasoned entertainer, blending thrilling anecdotes with reflective insights. Whether you're a fan of magic, stunts, or the dynamics of show business, Steve Crawford's stories provide both entertainment and a deeper understanding of the dedication required to excel in multiple facets of the entertainment world.