In a world where perception often overshadows truth, the art of authenticity becomes both a challenge and a necessity. Fred Lee, an award-winning magician, hypnotist, and “meta thinking” expert, blends entertainment with education to help people understand how their minds shape reality. Through a background in psychology, military service, and stage performance, Fred shows that critical thinking, integrity, and curiosity can unlock limitless possibilities—not through illusion, but through clarity of thought.
At a time when we’re overwhelmed by information, distraction, and social influence, Fred reminds us that learning how to think about our thinking may be the most powerful skill of all.
Summary
Fred Lee is a former U.S. Army officer turned magician, hypnotist, and speaker who specializes in “meta thinking,” a practical approach derived from the concept of metacognition—thinking about thinking. Drawing from his experience in psychological operations, stage magic, and leadership, Fred helps audiences challenge assumptions, improve decision-making, and broaden their perspectives.
In this episode, he talks with Mitchell Levy about authenticity, integrity, and the importance of developing awareness in both personal and professional life. He discusses how magic taught him to value transparency and honesty, why the “mind-body connection” is real, and how authority bias shapes behavior. Fred’s approach bridges psychology, performance, and philosophy, offering a unique path to self-awareness and growth.
Quotes
“I like to be simple and direct. The biggest thing I’ve noticed with magic is that when people rely on effects or tricks, it kills the authenticity. I’d rather show people the real art behind it.”
“Meta thinking takes the blinders off your face—it helps you see the bigger picture and create win-win scenarios in life and work.”
“Integrity and authenticity go hand in hand. I don’t need to rely on tricks or illusions to connect with people. What I deliver is honest and real.”
“The mind-body connection isn’t just a hippie concept. Pain is subjective, and your brain can change how you experience reality.”
“Good men do exist. Consent, respect, and doing the right thing matter—in life and in business.”
Takeaways
* Authenticity builds credibility. In any field—magic, leadership, or business—authenticity earns trust. When you deliver exactly what you promise, people remember the experience, not the illusion.
* Meta thinking is a tool for clarity. It’s about stepping back from your situation to see the bigger picture, helping you identify habits, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
* Pain and focus are mental phenomena. The brain can amplify or reduce discomfort depending on mindset. Awareness of this connection can improve both performance and well-being.
* Integrity prevents “gray areas.” Fred avoids questionable situations in both entertainment and business by always prioritizing respect, transparency, and consent.
* Authority bias controls more than we think. People often obey perceived authority figures without self-reflection. Fred encourages detaching ego from external influence and trusting your own reasoning.
* Coachability comes from curiosity. Staying teachable, willing to learn, and open to new ideas leads to growth. Every experience is a potential lesson if you approach it with curiosity.
Timeline
[00:00] Introduction – Fred Lee, meta thinking expert, magician, and former army officer [00:04] How the pandemic impacted his business and the move from live to virtual shows [00:06] The importance of authenticity and integrity in magic and business [00:08] Defining meta thinking – “taking the blinders off” and seeing the bigger picture [00:10] How meta thinking improves problem-solving and daily decision-making [00:14] The mind-body connection and why pain is subjective [00:18] How Fred separates hypnosis from therapy and avoids ethical gray areas [00:21] Standing firm on values and consent in entertainment and media [00:25] How curiosity and willingness to learn make a person truly coachable [00:28] Authority bias – why people follow authority without question [00:30] Final thoughts – focusing inward, detaching from ego, and thinking critically
Conclusion
Fred Lee shows that true mastery of the mind begins with awareness. Whether on stage performing illusions or teaching cognitive techniques, his mission is to empower people to see beyond surface appearances. Through meta thinking, we can better understand how we learn, react, and grow—and by pairing that with integrity and curiosity, we can live with greater authenticity.
In a world full of distraction and misinformation, Fred reminds us that thinking clearly and acting truthfully are not just intellectual skills—they’re acts of courage.
Links / Resources
Website: https://fredleemind.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fredleemind
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FredLeeMind
Credibility Nation
Website: https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
