John E. McLaughlin was deputy director and acting director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2000 to 2004, capping a 32-year career in intelligence. He is a highly-accomplished magician, performer, and speaker, focusing on foreign affairs and the application of magic principles to intelligence, business, and leadership. Mr. McLaughlin currently teaches at the Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies.

John was inspired to take up magic when as a child he saw a film about Houdini. He has since performed in Washington, Aspen, Colorado, and at locations around the world, during meetings with presidents, prime ministers, and kings during his government career. For the last 35 years he has presented shows every October at the Waterford Fair in Virginia.

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