Circle Talk 4 Witches

What work do BTW covens actually do? What types of coven are there within traditional Wicca, and what's the difference between how members are treated and what is expected? And if coven autonomy is a thing, does that mean there is no crossover between groups and the work they do? We tackle all these questions and more in the first episode of season 4, and - more importantly - we all took part in some uncomfortable role play situations from a coven leadership book from 1998.

In our long-awaited 7th episode of season 3 we address the topic of magical names and personas. Magical names are pervasive in witchcraft communities, and the tradition of taking a new name when embarking on a new practice or new time of life is well known. We discuss why witches sometimes choose new names and how that choice can have an impact on one's craft. 

Episode 6 of season 3 discusses self-actualization in witchcraft. We explore the importance of self-actualization in religious movements and how the “Work” of the craft can be related to this idea. The episode ends with some practices listeners can consider in their own paths to self-actualization.   Mentioned: Her Hidden Children: The Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America (Pagan Studies Series) by Chas S. Clifton Your Dark Side: How to turn your inner negativity into positive energy: Transform Your Inner Negativity into Positive Energy by Vivianne Crowley and Christopher Crowley

Welcome to episode 5 of season 3! In this episode, we talk about getting back to basics and how to build a personal practice. Is a personal practice necessary if we're a member of a coven? What if we're not in a coven - how important is it then? What do we do when we hit a slump, and how can we mitigate getting to that point in the first place?  In this episode, we give advice on what kind of practices a personal practice could include, explore the idea of stagnation within a coven, and mention the word “practice” so many times, that we lost count in the end

In this episode we discuss some Do's and Don'ts for Seekers and Initiates who are visiting covensteads they are unfamiliar with or open rituals. We also discuss etiquette around expectations and the (now oft repeated) 5Cs of effective communication. References: Traditional Wicca: A Seeker's Guide - Thorn Mooney

(CW: mental illness) This episode we tackled a much-requested topic: mental health and the craft. How does one manage mental illness and Wicca? How much should a seeker divulge about mental health when approaching a coven? What about priesthood and coven leaders?

We dug deeper into the topics of healing and hexing - pins, poppets, pleasure and pain - this month: the roles they play (or not) in traditional Wicca, a smattering of history and lore, and some tried and true methods, too! Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on X at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.

Hail, and Welcome, everyone, to Season 3 of Circle Talk 4 Witches - it feels good to be back! We kick off Season 3 by revisiting a core component of Traditional Wicca - Covens. We've touched upon the topic of covens before (Season 1 Episodes 6, 7, and 11), though in this episode, we want to talk more about leading a coven and coven mechanics. We address a bit of “how” to start a coven, a lot of “why” one might start a coven, some of the “yikes!” that comes along with running a coven and how to mitigate them, and touch briefly upon why a sturdy table is staple to the practice of the Wica

We went fast and loose for our season 2 finale, taking turns answering some questions and ponderings sent in by listeners. We had a nice time: starting cults, initiating our beds, discussing the sexiness of elders, and learning the definition of “hot take”.   References: The Power of Ritual by Casper ter Kuile

Happy equinox! This bumper episode is a discussion of initiation: why do we make such a big deal about it, anyway? We also look at the different types of initiation, what you might find or expect, after effects and more. References: Alex Sanders, King of the Witches - June Johns (warning: shenanigans ahead) The Witches' Bible - Janet and Stewart Farrar Traditional Wicca: A Seeker's Guide - Thorn Mooney High Magic's Aid - Gerald Gardner

For our belated August cross-quarter episode we are continuing to explore different ways of doing “magic”. In this episode we discussed various means of creating and implementing your own spells.  There are several external resources referenced, especially an article by Jenya T. Beachy, originally published in the author's patheos blog “Dirt Hearth Witch” in 2015: Making It So: Seven Steps to Effective Spells. Other references include: The Witch's Path: Advancing your Craft at Every Level by Thorn Mooney Website: Astrology.com/tr Six Ways: Approaches & Entries for Practical Magic by Aidan Wachter

We're back! For our return we discuss the ethics of Alexandrian Witchcraft and witchcraft in general. Not only do we take on the question of “The Rule of Three” and “Harm None” but we also discuss subjective and objective ethical questions and whether there are any universal ethical considerations in Alexandrian Witchcraft. The discussion is more interesting than the description, so check it out!

In this month's episode we discuss the idea of Traditional Wicca as a “Living Tradition,” one that is continually evolving through time and practices while still remaining true to its core as an Initiatory, ritual-based practice. Our views on this are in contrast to some other Initiates, an expected and welcome consequence of coven autonomy. Room for differences is one of the things that makes Alexandrian Witchcraft so fantastic and vibrant.   References: Witches' Way: Principles, Ritual and Beliefs of Modern Witchcraft - Stewart and Janet Farrar Wicca Covens - Judy Harrow

Join us as we continue our exploration of magic and ritual associated with the sabbats. In this episode we discuss the Great Rite, both symbolic and literal. We consider conventional and stereotypical understandings of this Rite and attempt to explain how the energy of the Great Rite is for everyone and how its meaning goes far beyond the obvious.   Resources: Witch's Bible: A Complete Witch's Handbook Transformative Witchcraft by Jason Mankey High Magic's Aid by Gerald Gardner All Acts of Love & Pleasure: Inclusive Wicca by Yvonne Aburrow Fertility and the Pagan Revival - Jack Chanek

Episode 26 is a continuation of our discussion that started in episode 24. We dive into the idea of a coven “setting” and why that is important, before launching into exploring egregore in Wicca: what is it? Is there more than one egregore? Can egregores be changed? Why do they matter, anyway? To find out, break out the Brasso, slice up the tomato bread, and dig into our newest episode…

Hail, and welcome, everyone, to episode 25 - “Equini” (even though we know it's ‘equinoxes'

In this episode we begin to discuss practices in our circles including effective ritual triggers and skyclad practice. We ran out of time in our discussion so look forward to part two where we'll discuss how different practices impact the coven egregore. 

Circle Talk continues to circle back through the sabbats, this time revisiting Imbolc/Candlemas/Lammas and their associations with rites and practices of purification (ironically along with a lot of very impure language from Gi). Join us for conversations on smoke cleansing, fire cleansing, water cleansing, broom tips, and lots of laughs!  Blessed sabbat!

Welcome to our second episode of season 2! In this episode we finally talk about books!... Well, actually we've been doing that all along, haven't we?  In any event, this is an attempt at giving a more organized list. We discuss recommended reading lists for Seekers, our coven members, and from what we're enjoying now. Before you listen you may want to be ready to make a list for your library or favorite bookstore! List of books we mentioned: On Alexandrian Wicca and/or Alex Sanders A Coin for the Ferryman by Jimahl di Fiosa A Witches' Bible: The Complete Witches' Handbook by Janet & Stewart Farrar Eight Sabbats for Witches by Janet & Stewart Farrar King of the Witches: The World of Alex Sanders - by June Johns What Witches Do by Janet & Stewart Farrar   On BTW High Magic's Aid - Gerald Gardner Principles of Wicca - Vivianne Crowley Traditional Wicca: A Seeker's Guide - Thorn Mooney Wicca for Beginners: Fundamentals of Philosophy & Practice - Thea Sabin Wicca. The Old Religion in the New Millennnium by Vivianne Crowley   On History Blood and Mistletoe: The History of the Druids in Britain by Ronald Hutton  Circle of Fire - David Rankine & Sorita D'Este Fifty Years Of Wicca by Frederic Lamond In Search of the New Forest Coven - Philip Heselton Wicca Magickal Beginnings: A Study of the Possible Origins of the Rituals and Practices Found in this Modern Tradition of Pagan Witchcraft and Magick - David Rankine & Sorita D'Este Trials of the Moon: Reopening the Case for Historical Witchcraft. A critique of Ronald Hutton's The Triumph of the Moon: A History of Modern Pagan Witchcraft by Ben Whitmore The Triumph of the Moon: A History of Modern Pagan Witchcraft by Ronald Hutton    On Coven Work Coven Craft by Amber K A Teaching Handbook for Wiccans and Pagans: Practical Guidance for Sharing Your Path by Thea Sabin   Wicca Covens by Judy Harrow   On Life & Supporting Others As the Last Leaf Falls - Kristoffer Hughes Do I Have to Wear Black - Mortellus Pagan Book of Living and Dying by Starhawk   Skills & New Practices Crafting a Daily Practice: Revised - T. Thorn Coyle Keys to Perception by Ivo Dominguez Jr. Consorting with Spirits Your Guide to Working with Invisible Allies - Jason Miller Lifting the Veil: A Witches' Guide to Trance-Prophesy, Drawing Down the Moon, and Ecstatic Ritual by Janet Farrar and Gavin Bone Magical Power For Beginners: How to Raise & Send Energy for Spells That Work by Deborah Lipp Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom: A Tarot Journey to Self-Awareness by Rachel Pollack  Tarot for Real Life: Use the Cards to Find Answers to Everyday Questions by Jack Chanek The Poison Path Herbal: Baneful Herbs, Medicinal Nightshades, and Ritual Entheogens - Coby Michael Trance-Portation: Learning to Navigate the Inner World by Diana L. Paxson   Qabalah (The) Mystical Qabalah by Dion Fortune Qabalah for Wiccans: Ceremonial Magic on the Pagan Path by Jack Chanek    On Ritual Practices Elements of Ritual - Deb Lipp All Acts of Love and Pleasure: Inclusive Wicca by Yvonne Aburrow  Inner Mysteries: Progressive Witchcraft and Connection to the Divine by Janet Farrar and Gavin Bone  The Witch Compass: Working with the Winds in Traditional Witchcraft by Ian Chambers and Griffin Ced   Other Loki and Sigyn: Lessons on Chaos, Laughter & Loyalty from the Norse Gods by Lea Svendsen Merry Meet Again: Lessons, Life & Love on the Path of a Wiccan High Priestess – by Deborah Lipp  The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff Wicca for Beginners by Thea Sabin   Fiction Hogfather by Terry Pratchett Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah Mass Market Paperback by Richard Bach The Orphan's Tales: In the Night Garden by Catherynne M. Valente The Saxon tales by Bernard Cornwell The Tiffany Aching discworld books by Terry Pratchett The Witches discworld books by Terry Pratchett   Library Apps Libby App Hoopla App

Happy solstice (whichever one you happen to be celebrating!) and welcome, everyone, to Season 2 of Circle Talk for Witches. After our hiatus, we bring you our first sabbat special of the season: Solstice Magic - Trance Induction.   Last season these specials focussed on what we do for the sabbats in the northern and southern hemispheres. For season two, we want to focus on different types and ways of magic.    The bad news? The audio for this one is a little choppy due to a bad connection somewhere that we didn't notice at the time. The good news, though, is that our NEXT episode - and the first full episode for this season - is sounding much better already, with the gods of the internet smiling on us once more.   Happy Solstice from all of us!   References, Notes, and Links: Gardner, G (1954). Witchcraft Today.

And so the Wheel has spun full circle! Welcome to our last episode of Season 1, folks! For the next turn of the Wheel, we're concentrating on magic and witchcraft that can be performed around each of the Sabbats. For this episode, we concentrate on Samhain (with a smidge of Bel-tân (and all the other spellings of that Sabbat

A listener request episode, episode 19 brings you a discussion about tools of witchcraft. We talk about the stabby-boys, the pokey-boys, the swingy-boys, and everything else! How do we all pronounce the tool that begins with an ‘A'? What's the difference between a censer and a thurible? And are all wands made equal? Do you need all the tools at the same time, or even at all to practise effective magic and witchcraft? Grab a cuppa, a glass of wine, or whatever your favourite tipple is, and take a listen to Episode 19 - Tools. References, Notes, and Links: Deborah Lipp's The Elements of Ritual: Air, Fire, Water and Earth in the Wiccan Circle Raymond Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft (commonly called ‘Uncle Bucky's Big Blue) Jason Mankey's The Witch's Athame - The Craft, Lore, and Magick of Ritual Blades Doreen Valiente's Witchcraft for Tomorrow Seeking Witchcraft's episode on Crafting your Wand

Join us for the last “sabbat special” where we talk about personal practices and break down the astronomical & cultural backgrounds of the sabbats. Learn about why we don't talk about “Mabonology” or “Ostaraology”, and about Josie's plan to advocate for an “Easter Croc”.    Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   References, Notes, and Links: Alexis Nikole Nelson, the “Black Forager” on TikTok Meet me on the Equinox by Death Cab for Cutie Ivakhiv, Adrian J. “Thoughts on An Equinox.” Immanence, UVM Blogs,  Sept. 21, 2021 Seeking Witchcraft Podcast; Season 3, Episode 5: Why “Mabon” is a Lie

As the Heads say in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, “It's going to be a bumpy ride!” In this episode, we continue with the theme of Wicca as a Mystery Tradition and discuss polarity; what it is, what it isn't, and how it can be worked with in an Initiatory Wican framework. How do the gods view polarity (hint: they don't), how do non-cisgendered Wicans handle polarity, does gender come into it, and can polarity ever be adapted (hint: it can). How does polarity work with same-sex initiation and same-gender initiation? Is that even allowed in Initiatory Wicca? And why does the Kybalion suck? Listen to us ramble, rant, and rave during this jam-packed episode!   Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   References, Notes, and Links:   Opening quote: The Inner Mysteries: Progressive Witchcraft and Connection to the Divine by Janet Farrar and Gavin Bone   Yvonne Aburrow's YouTube page with lots of excellent videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/YvonneAburrow    Alexandrian Seekers and Initiates page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/278933458939644    Garderian Seekers and Initiates page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/387696041331452/  Closing quote: Ralph Waldo Emerson, Compensation

And the Wheel turns, once again to Lughnasadh and Imbolc. Welcome to Episode 16: Brasso and Bread. Take a listen to find out what Lughnasadh and Imbolc mean to each of the presenters, who John Barleycorn is, and what types of practices happen at each of these cross-quarter festivals. Bonus content for a mini-lesson in Cymraeg, Gaeilge, and etymology (yes, we geek out in this episode). Why does Brasso feature so strongly in our podcasts? Where does bread come into it? And what's the connection between these two sabbats? Take a listen to Episode 16: Brasso and Bread to find out!

Summary: After you've listened to this episode, you'll be an initiate of the Wicca… jokes (please don't recule us :P)! In this two-part episode, we discuss Wicca as a Mystery Tradition and what we mean by that phrase. What is Wicca as a Mystery Tradition based on? What Sekrets™ are we hiding (they're as good as those damned bees keeping that sweet, sweet nectar)? Who is Initiatory Wicca open to (hint: it's everyone)? Can the Mysteries be read about from a book? How did our early Wiccan Elders view Wicca as a Mystery Tradition? How does polarity fit in? Grab a cuppa, a glass of wine, a beer, or your favourite cocktail and let us fill your ears with our four sweet accents in this, Episode 015: Wicca as a Mystery Tradition (Part 1) (obviously don't be drinking and driving - this includes you, iced-coffee drinkers!) - it's a jam-packed episode! A word of warning: skip to minute 4 for the good stuff, unless you want to listen to us discuss Peter's white legs (and we all know you want to!) and how to keep cool in hot weather (tips courtesy of our favourite southerners). Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   References, Notes, and Links: Jack Chanek's Video on Fertility and the Pagan Revival  Valiente, D (2018). Witchcraft for Tomorrow. Robert Hale. pp.127-128 (Amazon link) Sanders, M (2008). Fire Child: The Life and Magic of Maxine Sanders 'Witch Queen'. Oxford: Mandrake. p.113 and p.191 (out of print as of 2022) Heselton, P (2020). In Search of the New Forest Coven. Fenix Flames Publishing Ltd. (Bookshop link) Sanders, A (1989). The Alex Sanders Lectures (out of print in 2022, though being republished by Rose Ankh Publishing soon) Gardner, G (1954). Witchcraft Today. (Bookshop link)

Solstice blessings from all of us at Circle Talk! What's happening out in space to cause the solstices? What's happening down here on earth, ritually, spiritually and physically? Whether you're getting ready to sing out the light in the Northern Hemisphere, or cosying up for winter in the Southern Hemisphere, we've got you covered for all things solstice. Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmailcom. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast. References, Notes, and Links: The Seeking Witchcraft podcast's episode on magical voice George Winston's album, Winter into Spring Pagan Magic of the Northern Tradition by Nigel Pennick

What role does sex play within Initiatory Wica? What about the Sabbat orgy with the Devil? Do we need protection (pun intended)? How do we achieve altered states of consciousness, and can they be achieved alone? And what's expected of Seekers and neophytes? Grab a cuppa, wine, gin, water, or your favourite tipple and join us as we discuss all things sex, drugs, and rock ‘n' roll! How could we *not* cover these topics for our 13th episode ;)   Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmailcom. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   References, Notes, and Links: Opening quote about incense: Sanders, A (1989). The Alex Sanders Lectures: Working Tools and the Thirteen Treasures. p25. Amazon link.   Psychoactivity and Frankincense: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2493463/   Coby Michael's The Poison Herbal Path (Amazon link). Coby's website can also be found here.   Information about Kyphi can be found here and the recipe that Peter followed can be found here.   Jason Mankey's The Horned God of the Witches can be found here.   Netflix's Archive 81 with the breathing.

To quote Battlestar Galactica (2003), “All of this has happened before, and all of this will happen again.” We're halfway through turning the Wheel and so the Northern and Southern Hemispheres are swapping topics. Sure there's a bit of review but we also manage to wander into new and weird territory, including a reference to fetishes! (but not those kinds of fetishes!).   Yes we know we've referenced the Wickerman before… and we probably will again.  Wickerman (1973) - Maypole Song Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.

We've spent plenty of time talking about the importance of autonomy, but how does that fit into the hierarchical structure of a BTW coven? In this episode we discuss the different roles that exist in most (if not all) Wiccan covens, the definition of “elder”, and our experiences with the dedicant or neophyte degree. We also talk about other positions or functions in the coven and begin to brainstorm what kind of roles a 21st-century coven might want to include. Share your ideas for new coven “jobs” on our Facebook page!

‘Don't Call Me Mabon' meets ‘Don't Call Me Ostara' during this episode as we discuss the spring and autumn equinoxes. What is an equinox, and what is their significance in Wica? Why don't they have cool Pagan names like the others? And how do we celebrate these transitional festivals? Sit back, relax, and come take a listen to find out! Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by emailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast. References: Eddie Izzard on Easter

“He must be a King, as there's no s**t on him,” said Monty Python, but this is not true of all “Kings”, as we find out in this episode of Circle Talk, where we discuss leaders in Initiatory Wica, kings and queens (or lack thereof), what happens with Big Names in Wica, autonomy and sovereignty, who the famous "King of the Witches" was, how does all of this relate to the Degree System, what's one of the rules that we'll include in the Grand Council (hint: it involves pineapples), and much more. Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast. References and Links: The Inner Mysteries: Progressive Witchcraft and Connection to the Divine, by Janet Farrar and Gavin Bone (Amazon link) King of the Witches: The World of Alex Sanders, by June Johns A Coin for the Ferryman: The Death and Life of Alex Sanders, by Jimahl di Fiosa (Amazon link) Report on the Ancestry of Alex Sanders 1926-1988, from AlexandrianWitchcraft.org Was Alex initiated by his grandmother? Remarks on the recent ancestry report of Alex Sanders, by Simone Kotva from AlexandrianWitchcraft.org Closing thought link from a blog from Maxine Sander's blog, Maxine Sanders: Reminiscences and Realisations from the Talk I gave at ‘A Day for Doreen Valiente' — Conway Hall, London, 2009   AVPN - The True Neapolitan Pizza Association

The festivals of Lambs and Loaves, or is it Beer and Cheese? In this episode, we talk about the Lammas, or Lughnasadh, and Imbolc and what we all do for these holidays. Are they both harvest festivals? Why are there reptiles? How even do you pronounce *that* name? Is it the start or end of winter? What can you carry around in your fanny pack? And what's our new Sabbat name for Samhain? Find out in this Sabbat Special episode, also with a special treat of Peter singing.    Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   Damh the Bard's ‘Lughnasadh': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Qwdx1iUaXw    Gavin Webber (the Australian cheese guy): https://youtube.com/c/GavinWebber How to make Mustard & Dark Ale Cheese   Beer Cheese Dip Recipe from Spend with Pennies Scene from The Wicker Man (1973) “It's much too dangerous to jump through the fire with your clothes on!”

In this episode, we discussed some of the culture around asking for initiation rather than assuming one can join a coven, what is a “proper person” and what is “properly prepared”, ways to find a coven, how to approach a coven, how to meet with coven leaders and what to expect from those meetings, outer court practices, and when does initiation happen. James also led us through a discussion of Red Flag warning signs that Seekers should be on the lookout for. And, to the surprise of no one, we “outed” ourselves as being on the progressive end of the spectrum. Liking what you're hearing so far? Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast. Opening Quote: 'Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.' - Gustav Mahler (perhaps paraphrasing Thomas More) James' preferred textbook on fundamentalism in religion: Almond, Gabriel A., et al. Strong Religion: The Rise of Fundamentalisms around the World. University of Chicago Press, 2006.  Cult Warning Signs Additional Resources for Seekers: Mooney, Thorn. Traditional Wicca: A Seeker's Guide. Llewellyn Publications, 2018.  Alexandrian Wicca Seekers and Initiates (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/278933458939644/   Gardnerian Wicca Seekers and Initiates (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/gardnerianseekers/  British Traditional Wicca (Discord): https://discord.gg/rrXEJHA  Mandragora Magika (not vouched): https://mandragoramagika.com/  Seeking Witchcraft's ‘Covens: Where to find them, what to ask them, & what to know!' is available here: https://bit.ly/33XAkPf Monty Python Quote “These questions three…”: Clip

In this episode, we talk about covens, what they are, what they're not, how to go about joining a coven, and everything else in between. Do they practise “skyclad” (“naked”)? Do they follow a set of beliefs, and are they dogmatic? Is Wica a cult? What if there aren't any covens in my area? Will covens seek me out? Find out, in this, episode six.   Liking what you're hearing so far? Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   Fun references: Eddie Izzard on the Church of England: https://youtu.be/PVH0gZO5lq0?t=277   Practical Magic https://youtu.be/cfkAw6a05F0   Mhara Starling's ‘Welsh Witchcraft' is available from Llewellyn Publications (https://www.llewellyn.com/product.php?ean=9780738770918) in January 2022 from all major book-outlets.   Seeking Witchcraft's 'Naked Under The Moon' is available here: https://bit.ly/3z3fMQL    Seeking Witchcraft's 'LGBTQ Witchcraft, Skyclad Practice, Sexuality in the Craft, and New Seeker Advice' is available here: https://bit.ly/3Jh2PYh    Lili Wilkinson's YouTube series ‘Let's Talk About Sects' is available here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOqo12t7wtxQveeX9LFRl5ys2VwRQrhk5

In this episode, we discuss the Winter and Summer Solstices, and how each of your hosts celebrate the Sabbat happening in their hemisphere at the moment. Why is light such a big deal at both solstices? Why do the solstices fall on specific dates? How can you beat (literally!) the darkness? And why do we discuss a terrifying Welsh horse?   As always, please get in touch if you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion; we'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Remember to like and follow us, including letting others know if you're enjoying the podcast.   For reference and research, the gods mentioned during the podcast were Sol, Sol Invictus, Lleu Llaw Gyffes, and Arianrhod.   Here's a link to a YouTube video about Y Fari Lwyd (Uh Vary Loyd) from BBC Cymru: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_xFo6Hifzk    The Romans and 25 December link (Twitter thread by Dr. Andrew Henry): https://twitter.com/andrewmarkhenry/status/1465979583384195076    James' ‘Memories of the Oak and Holly King: Winter Solstice Story!': https://witchingpath.blogspot.com/2012/12/memories-of-oak-and-holly-king-winter.html    Tim Minchin song mentioned by Josie, ‘White Wine in the Sun' on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCNvZqpa-7Q  Julia Phillips' ‘The Witches of Oz': https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/864677.The_Witches_Of_Oz

In this episode, we talk about the practice of vouching and how it works in the Alexandrian Witchcraft and wider British Traditional Wica (BTW) community, including what exactly a vouch is, how it's obtained, and what it means when a vouch is refused. What's the difference between a vouch, being confirmed, being recommended, and being properly prepared? Find out in this, episode four. Liking what you're hearing so far? Do you have a topic that you'd like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We'd love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on Twitter at @Circle4Witches. Seekers and Initiates who are looking for a vouch can use the following groups: Alexandrian Wicca Seekers and Initiates (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/278933458939644/  Gardnerian Wicca Seekers and Initiates (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/gardnerianseekers/ British Traditional Wicca (Discord): https://discord.gg/rrXEJHA 

In this episode we explore our personal and outer court practices around Samhain (and Beltane!), including dumb suppers, ritual dramas, and bonfires. And we ask the ever important question: WWASD? (Answer: grab a pint)   As always we'd love to hear from you! Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).   References *At some point we discussed the use of the phrase “Hail the Traveler!” in some online communities in response to news of a death. A kind listener sent us this reference to a poem by Quetta Garrison-Madsen that is one possible origin https://theinspiredfuneral.com/readings/2019/8/2/hail-the-traveler  *Gi briefly named a book: Mortellus. (2021). Do I have to wear black. Llewellyn.

An episode about oaths and oath taking, and why they are so important in Alexandrian practice: what does 'oathbound' even mean? Is there a difference between holding things as oathbound and straight up gatekeeping?   As always we'd love to hear from you! Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).   References: Intro quote from: Farrar, J., Farrar, S., Farrar, J., & Farrar, J. (1996). A witches' bible: The complete witches' handbook. Phoenix Pub.    On the Irish Triad: “Three things from which never to be moved: one's oaths; one's Gods; and the truth.” from Wright, J.F. 1995 A COMPILATION OF TRIADS: The Traditional Laws, Customs, and Wisdoms of The Pre-Christian Celtic People Of What Is Now Known As Scotland, Wales, And Ireland. Volume 1 More information at https://www.egreenway.com/druids/triadswright1995.htm   Snape's Unbreakable Vow: “Well, you can't break an Unbreakable Vow...." "I'd worked that much out for myself, funnily enough. What happens if you break it, then?" "You die," said Ron simply.  ― J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince   Quote on Witch's Vows from Catherynne M. Valente: “You see, the future is a kind of stew, a soup, a vichyssoise of the present and the past. That's how you get the future: You mix up everything you did today with everything you did yesterday and all the days before and everything everyone you ever met did and anyone they ever met, too. And salt and lizard and pearl and umbrellas and typewriters and a lot of other things I'm not at liberty to tell you, because I took vows, and a witch's vows have teeth. Magic is funny like that. It's not a linear thinker. The point is if you mash it all up together and you have a big enough pot and you're very good at witchcraft, you can wind up with a cauldron full of tomorrow.” ― Catherynne M. Valente, The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making Gi mentioned this The Birdcage scene

In this not-really-a-minisode we attempt to define and explain various terms and definitions tossed around in the online BTW community including “Witchcraft”, “BTW”, “Trad”, “Lineage”, and more!    As always we'd love to hear from you! Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).   References “Practice begets Belief” from Prothero, S. (2011). God is not one: The eight rival religions that run the world. HarperCollins.

In this minisode we make our first attempt at recording and briefly introduce ourselves, our backgrounds, and the purpose of this podcast.   As always please email any Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).