Essence Podcast with Ben Stimpson

My guest for this final episode of season 03 is the wonderful Devin Hunter. Devin Hunter is the bestselling author of The Witch's Book of Power, The Witch's Book of Spirits, The Witch's Book of Mysteries, the critically acclaimed Modern Witch, and Crystal Magic for the Modern Witch. Initiated into multiple occult orders, Devin is the founder of the Sacred Fires Tradition of Witchcraft and co-founder of the Black Rose Tradition of Witchcraft. He hosts the Modern Witch podcast, recommended by both the AV Club and Glamour, and he's co-owner of Datura Trading Co. Devin is also a novelist under the nom de plume, Darren Sparks., To find out more about his offerings, events and writing visit him at ModernWitch.com/Devin and www.darrensparks.com

My guest today is Troy Kokoszka, author of "Bogowie: Bogowie: A Study of Eastern Europe's Ancient Gods" from Moon Books. T.D. Kokoszka grew up in Texas with a Jewish mother and a Polish-American father. While he was aware of roots going back to Eastern Europe from both families, he found it hard to learn very much about them. He knew that Polish people would whack one another with palm leaves around Easter, and he knew that his great-grandmother purportedly believed in forest spirits known as borowy. However, it wasn't until he was in his teens that he became vaguely aware of an ancient people known as the Slavs who gave rise to the Polish, Ukrainian, Russian, Serbian, Bulgarian, Slovakian, Slovene, and Czech languages. It quickly became clear to him that this was a family of cultures currently under-represented in popular culture, and even in western scholarship. Not simply a regurgitation of scholarship from the Soviet period - and presenting new analyses by using previously neglected resources - Bogowie: A Study of Eastern Europe's Ancient Gods offers one of the most painstaking scholarly reconstructions of Slavic paganism. These new resources include not only an overview of folklore from many different Slavic countries but also comparisons with 'ssetian culture and Mordvin culture, as well as a series of Slavic folktales that Kokoszka analyzes in depth, often making the case that the narratives involved are mythological and shockingly ancient. Readers will recognize many European folktale types and possibly learn to look at these folktales differently after reading this book.

Jhenah Telyndru holds an MA in Celtic Studies from the University of Wales, Trinity St. David, and has a bachelor's degree in archaeology. She is the founder of the Sisterhood of Avalon, an international Celtic women's mysteries organization. Jhenah teaches four-day residential training retreats around North America and the UK, and facilitates pilgrimages to sacred sites in the British Isles and Ireland through Mythic Seeker Tours. She is a frequent presenter and guest speaker at academic conferences, religious symposia, Women's Spirituality gatherings, and Pagan festivals. A priestess in the Avalonian Tradition for over 25 years, Jhenah has been following a Pagan path since 1986. Visit her at www.ynysafallon.com and www.sisterhoodofavalon.org.

Chris Allaun has been studying witchcraft, magick, and paganism since 1992. He is one of the founders and an ordained minister with The Fellowship of the Phoenix. He has been an initiate of Traditional Witchcraft since 2002. He is also a Native American Pipe Carrier and studies that path of the Red Road. He teaches classes and workshops on magick, healing, shamanism, and necromancy. He has been teaching and writing for many years. He is the author of Underworld: Shamanism, Myth, and Magick, Deeper Into The Underworld: Death, Ancestors, and Magical Rites, and Upperworld: Shamanism and Magick of the Celestial Realms. He continues to study and teach the magickal arts to those who seek to balance the three worlds in their own lives. find out more at www.chrisallaun.com

My guest this week is Dorian Manticore. He/they is a creative hailing from Narrm/Kulin Nation lands (Melbourne, Australia). They're an author, poet, LARP creator, artist, disability, and trans rights advocate, and crafter/maker. Dorian has been a practicing pagan and witch for roughly the past 23 years, firstly by solitary practice, then joining the Reclaiming community, becoming involved in numerous events such as the Australian Wiccan Conference, and serving as a committee member for the Pagan Collective of Victoria, a local community not-for-profit organization. They've hosted numerous workshops, talks, and public rituals. They are the founder of the Sovereigns of the Golden Path, affectionately known as the Sun Cult, a Queer-centering emerging magical tradition with roots in animism, ecstatic witchcraft, Reclaiming, chaos magic, and leftist politics. They're a queer, trans, neurospicy nerd, disabled, elder-millennial tragic and cat dad. In his spare time he enjoys dressing like an extra from a post-apocalyptic film, playing video games, and bobbing around in the sea like a cork.

Led deep into the wilds of Wales by dreams and wandering words, Halo has been a practising witch since childhood, and a Dr. of Philosophy since 2022. Their magic has always focused on listening to the spirits of the land, an animistic path which introduced them to the Welsh deities, with an embodied, sensual approach to their craft. Trained in several traditions of Witchcraft, they have taught at many events over the years, developing their own magical path through observing the interconnection between Fae and Human enchantments. Halo has studied and worked with Welsh stories, gods and magic since moving there in 2005. Halo is a devotee of the Faery Queen, a storyteller, a philosopher, artist and the founder of the online school of magic and paganism; The Enchanted Academy (or TEA for short) and The Crimson Coven - a magical, creative collective exploring the divine erotic and sacred nature of pleasure and beauty. They also write on these topics as the kinky witch, Ms Quin. Halo lives in Aberystwyth, UK. find out more at www.haloquin.net

Lee Morgan is a duel British and Australian author, scholar and traditional witch residing on a communal homestead on kunanyi/Mt Wellington in nipaluna/Hobart, where he creates sanctuary for other weirdos, raises books, people, and ideas from the grave. He has had novels and non-fiction published by Moon Books, Three Hands Press, The Witches Almanac and Rebel Satori. Traditional witchcraft and the faerie faith have occupied Lee's attention from an early age and he has held office in his magical community for two decades. Scholarship and creative fiction continue to allow him to speak, in some suggestive way, of things that cannot otherwise be spoken. Having survived an enormous tumour, Lee currently is busy filling the room in his skull with new brains, writing Folk Horror, and queering the world one step at a time. His latest book: “People of the Outside” is currently available from Moon Books. He is also the author of “A Deed Without a Name,” “Standing and Not Falling,” and “The Gusty Deep.” You can find him on social media and patreon at: https://www.leemorganbooks.com/

Bret Bernhoft is a Web Developer, who loves learning; especially when making applications for the global Web. He began his journey in technology with WordPress and Web Analytics. Eventually he'd like to work as an Artificial Intelligence Programmer. Bret has been a practicing pagan for about ten years, and his major interests are in technology and paganism, and their intersections into transhumanism. In this discussion, we discuss Bret's views on magic in the cyber realm, 'meme magic' and the parallels between magic in a cyberverse and other forms of reality. We discuss the ethics and experience of conducting ritual virtually, Bret's examination of early internet discussions, and the role Timothy Leary, Alan Watt and psychedelics have played in his approach.

My guest today is author, Pagan clergy member, former Marine, and an organizer of the annual Between the Worlds conference, the wonderful Irene Glasse! To find out more about Irene go and visit: https://glassewitchcottage.com/

Jake Richards (Dr. Buck) holds his Appalachian heritage close in his blood and bones. His family legacy in Appalachia goes back generations. Jake has practiced Appalachian folk magic for over a decade now, and serves his community as a conjure man, power doctor, and Yarb (herb) doctor. Jake has published three books on the subject (Backwoods Witchcraft: Conjure & Folk Magic from Appalachia, Doctoring the Devil: Notebooks of an Appalachian Conjure Man, and Ossman and Steel's Classic Household Guide to Appalachian Folk Healing), a deck of divination cards (Conjure Cards) as well as contributions to Mat Auryn's Mastering Magick and Llewellyn's Complete Book of North American Folk Magic: A Landscape of Magic, Mystery, and Tradition by Cory Hutcheson; and an article in Witchology Magazine, Samhain issue 2022.

Coby Michael is a practitioner of the Poison Path of occult herbalism and a cultivator of entheogenic herbs. He contributes to the Pagan Archives at Valdosta University, writes regularly for The House of Twigs, and maintains a blog, Poisoner's Apothecary, on Patheos Pagan. He is the host of the Botanica Obscura Conference. He teaches classes and online workshops on plant magic, baneful herbs, and traditional witchcraft. He lives in Florida. To find out more about him and his work, visit: thepoisonersapothecary.com

My guest today is someone who needs no introduction, best-selling author and all around witch-nerd, Mat Auryn! Mat Auryn is an influential author and teacher in the fields of occultism and witchcraft, with an audience that extends beyond the United States to an international level. His deep knowledge and experience comes from years of dedicated study, practice, and training in a variety of occult traditions and esoteric orders, often under the guidance of prominent knowledgeable mentors. His award-winning books, "Psychic Witch" and "Mastering Magick," offer practical insight and practices for those interested in psychic and magickal practices. The books draw from a range of traditions like Astrology, Hermeticism, Wicca, Traditional Witchcraft, New Thought, Thelema, Parapsychology, Jungian Analytical Psychology, Neoplatonism, and Alchemy, making them versatile yet still accessible guides for the spiritual speaker. His books have won multiple awards and has been translated into more than 13 languages, widening their impact. Beyond writing, Mat worked many years as a professional psychic and tarot reader in Salem, Massachusetts as well as his own private practice. He also contributes to both specialized and mainstream publications, including a regular column in Witches & Pagans magazine. His work has been featured in Cosmo, O the Oprah Magazine, Newsweek, The New York Times, and also on display at the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft. Mat was the first recipient of "The Most Supportive Witch" award by Witch Way Magazine. Now residing in California's Bay Area, Mat is the co-owner of Datura Trading Co. and Modern Witch University. He continues to share his knowledge and insights through writing, workshops, interviews, social media, and lectures, consistently emphasizing the importance of personal growth and positive change through psychic and magickal empowerment. You can learn more about him @matauryn on social media.

My guest today is Lyndon Bradley-Peters, cohost of the 'Shove It Up Your Awen" podcast with the fabulous Clinty Ourin Burn. Lyndon joins us today to talk about his experience entering the Catholic faith and his spiritual work as a 'Catholic charmer.' Lyndon's background has been varied, from Anglicanism to Wicca, witchcraft and Druidry... he was confirmed Catholic this past Easter. He has a deep love for the mysteries and the folk practices that make Catholicism such a deep and vibrant religion and practice. Lyndon joins me to discuss being a folk Catholic charmer, and the transformation of his previous magical work to charming work within the Catholic worldview, his relationship to God, Saints, Angels and folk Catholic practices. From prayer, to charms and psalms, he doe it all. We discuss his spiritual journey, his thoughts about Pagans or Folkloric practitioners incorporating and reconnecting with Christianity, and To find out more about Lyndon and the 'Shove it Up Your Awen' podcast, visit: www.instagram.com/pilgriminthemyst www.instagram.com/shoveitupyourawen

My guest today is Vini Higginbotham, the author of 'How Witchcraft Saved My Life' and coauthor of 'Thrifty Witchery.' Mostly self-taught, Vini is not initiated in any traditional form or witchcraft practice. He follows his gut in all things magic but spends plenty of time researching to be sure his intuition is informed by wisdom before setting his intentions. It is Vini's goal to empower others the way he wishes he had been empowered in his early years. He has a dedicated practice with the goddess Hekate and lives in the Southeastern US. Find out more at: https://www.vincenthigginbotham.com/ To view the episode, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JS2eivFOVY

My guest today is fellow therapist, Ash McKernan, author of "Wyrdcraft: Healing Through the Mysteries of the Fates." Matthew Ash McKernan, LMFT, is a licensed psychotherapist, ecotherapist, bard, naturalist, and wyrdworker. He has degrees in anthropology and counseling psychology and loves to spend time at the crossroads where psyche, nature, magic, and healing intersect. You can visit his website at www.WyrdWildWeb.com To see the video version, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKa9TwdCIYw

My guest this week is Storm Faerywolf, prolific member of the queer magical community. Storm Faerywolf is a published author, experienced teacher, visionary poet, and professional warlock. He is a regular contributor to Modern Witch and is a founding teacher of Black Rose, an online school of modern folkloric witchcraft. He has written several books, including Betwixt and Between, Forbidden Mysteries of Faery Witchcraft, and The Stars Within the Earth (Mystic Dream Press, 2003). For more, visit his website at faerywolf.com. He joins me for an epic double episode... I hope you'll join our chat for a listen! To view the video click here: https://youtu.be/THEdAXtPHjQ To listen to the audio, click here:

Albert Björn Shiell grew up in the shade of the South Downs of Sussex, England. He spent his days there walking ancient chalk hills, full of burial mounds and folklore. Trading it all in 2017 for cold and seemingly desolate Iceland, Albert picked up his life and moved North. He now lives in downtown Reykjavík, writing and researching, translating old Icelandic books. He spends his days walking the land around him, learning and conversing with the many plant and land spirits of Iceland. Focusing now on an animistic framework of Nordic magic combined with the Sussex cunning of his homeland, Albert aims to deliver practical folkloric magic inspired by both his homes. He is a podcaster, and author of "Icelandic Plant Magic" out through Crossed Crow Books. Find him on social media @Sussex_Pellar

Madame Pamita is a teacher, candle maker, spellcaster, tarot reader, and a Ukrainian diaspora witch. She is the owner of an online spiritual apothecary called Madame Pamita's Parlour of Wonders. She is the host of a YouTube video series, Candle Magic Class and the weekly Magic Q&A Tea Party. She is the proprietor of Madame Pamita's Parlour of Wonders. To find out more, please visit: https://www.parlourofwonders.com

My guest today is Nathan Hall (@moonlithedge), author of "The Path of the Moonlit Hedge: Discovering the Magick of Animistic Witchcraft" out through @llewellynbooksNathan joins me to discuss the book, his animistic worldview, his community activities, and what it was like to relocate from the Midwest to Florida.To find out more about Nathan, go visit: www.moonlithedge.comTo view the video episode visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeCyjHKCHqM&t=31sAudio can be found: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PVyTZcEsf8ILmcl6zdAuT

Welcome to the first episode of my Fall series "Essence Podcast" Into the Woods" in which I speak with Folkloric and Tradititional practitioners and witches. My first guest is the lovely Byron Ballard. Byron is a western NC native, teacher, folklorist, and writer. She has served as a featured speaker and teacher at several festivals and conferences, including the Sacred Space Conference, Pagan Spirit Gathering, Starwood, Hexfest and many others. She serves as senior priestess and co-founder of Mother Grove Goddess Temple and the Coalition of Earth Religions/CERES, both in Asheville, NC. She podcasts about Appalachian folkways on "Wyrd Mountain Gals." Her essays are featured in several anthologies and she writes a regular column for SageWoman Magazine. Find her online at www.myvillagewitch.com. ---------------- LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT: www.youtube.com/@BenStimpsonAuthor FB: www.facebook.com/BenStimpsonAuthor WS: www.benstimpson.com

My guest this week is my friend Gareth Blacthorne, queer Virginian occult artist, political activist, and traditional witch. I first came across Gareth online through mutuals and he shared his artwork with me... I knew I had to have him on! -------------------------- LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT: www.youtube.com/@BenStimpsonAuthor FB: www.facebook.com/BenStimpsonAuthor WS: www.benstimpson.com

My guest today is best-selling author Kristoffer Hughes, head of the Anglesey Druid Order; author, a Mount Haemus Scholar, drag performer, and former member of Her Majesty's Coroner. We discuss the relationship between death, drag, and druidry; relationship to landscape; and his upcoming Yuletide Tarot.To learn more about Kristoffer and their work, go to: https://www.angleseydruidorder.co.uk/kristofferTo view the episode, please click here: https://youtu.be/2qQfixM_Bnw Audio version can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PVyTZcEsf8ILmcl6zdAuT...--------------------------LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials:IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthorYT: www.youtube.com/@BenStimpsonAuthor FB: Ben Stimpson - AuthorWS: www.benstimpson.com

My guest today is folklorist and author Brandon Weston. Brandon's work focusses primarily on the Ozark region of the south-mid United States. They own and operate Ozark Healing Traditions, an online collective of articles, lectures, and workshops focusing on the Ozark Mountain region. As a practicing folk healer, their work with clients includes everything from spiritual cleanses to house blessings. Their books include Ozark Folk Magic, Ozark Mountain Spell Book, and Granny Thornapple's Book of Charms. Visit them at OzarkHealing.com ------------------------------------ LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT:    / @benstimpsonauthor   FB: Ben Stimpson - Author WS: www.benstimpson.com

Brett Hollyhead is a traditional witch based in Wrecsam, North Wales. Immersed in the culture and landscape of Shropshire and the Borders, Brett has spoken across the United Kingdom and Internationally. Brett's written work can be seen in various magazines, as well as content on his social media pages. He is a member of the Welsh language coven, Sarffes Goch, with previous Essence podcast guests Moss and Mhara. Brett previously presented a talk at the Salem Festival of Folklore and Witchcraft, which will be available as a recording until the end of the 2023. To find out more about Brett, visit his social media under the name "The Witch of Salopia" https://www.instagram.com/witch_of_salopia ------------------------------------- LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT: www.youtube.com/padukawellness FB: Ben Stimpson - Author WS: www.benstimpson.com

My guest today is Ash William Mills, author and museum founder. Ash is the author of "The Black Book of Isobel Gowdie" and we talk about his relationship to his spirit guide, Isobel; Scottish witchcraft; the sometimes precarious relationship between academia and folk practice; and his favourite items he's collected or been donated for his museum. Find Ash at: https://www.facebook.com/museumofmfw or https://www.museummfw.com/ ------------------- LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT: www.youtube.com/@BenStimpsonAuthor FB: Ben Stimpson - Author WS: www.benstimpson.com

Michel Valim is a spiritual practitioner hailing from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Michel is a Bruxo/Witch, Sacerdote/Priest of Aphrodite and Dionysus, Priest of the Religion of Antinous. He is a reiki practitioner and works as an integrative therapist and diviner of witch runes. On today's show we talk about Michel's spiritual journey, the relationship between Aphrodite/Dionysus/Antinous in his life, and his work at community building in the queer pagan community in Brazil. To connect with Michel, please check out his socials: FB: https://www.facebook.com/mickyvalim IG:  @ValimMichel  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG128dn7W-S3D_zZAcAwK9g ---------------------------------------------------------- LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT: @BenStimpsonAuthor FB: www.facebook.com/benstimpsonauthor WS: www.benstimpson.com

My guest today is Chris Lyon, founder of Mystai and host of "Into the Couldron." Chris is a trained archeologist, having completed his Bachelors at UCL in London, a long time occultist with particular interests in the Greek Magical Papyri and Hermetic traditions. We talk about his journey, his archeological background, and his interest in building community. To find out more about Chris and follow his socials, visit www.mystai.co.uk Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

My guest this week is award winning and best selling author Nicholas Pearson. Among the foremost experts on crystals, author and teacher Nicholas Pearson combines his extensive background in mineral science with a love of healing, spirituality, and folklore to illustrate the healing properties of gemstones. As an avid Reiki practitioner and shihan (師範, “instructor”), Nicholas is also passionate about understanding the roots of the system of Reiki. An international speaker, Nicholas' has taught in both North America and Europe, and recently returned from a teaching trip to the United Kingdom where he is an instructor at the College of Psychic Studies which is based in South Kensington in London. He has been featured on numerous podcasts and radio shows, and currently collaborates with Devin Hunter “Getting Stoned with Devin and Nicholas” To connect with Nicholas please go and like/follow his socials: https://linktr.ee/theluminouspearl Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

My guest today is Mhara Starling. Mhara is a witch, published author, lecturer and good luck troll officienado who resides in the English city of Chester, and who originally comes from Ynys Mon (Anglesey, North Wales). Mhara has been featured on the BBC, S4C and has been a presenter at various conferences and events throughout the United Kingdom. In this episode we talk about what life has been like since her book came out, the changing relationship to Wales and the Borders, and what founding the Gyffes Goch coven has been like. To find out more about Mhara and her work, visit her facebook page here which has links with her other social media: https://www.facebook.com/MharaStarling/ ------------------------------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

Craig Spencer is a Lancashire-born Anglo-Italian witch who practices Traditional Lancashire Witchcraft. His academic background earned him a Bachelor of Science degree with honours from the University of Salford and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Central Lancashire. He is an integrated therapist and Reiki teacher. In his downtime he enjoys reading, learning new languages (currently Mandarin “ni hao!”), and has a love for all things comedy and horror. He is the author of "Witchcraft Unchained: Exploring the Histiry and Traditions of British Craft" out now through Crossed Crow Books. Other works by Craig Spencer include Aradia: A Modern Guide to Charles Godfrey Leland's Gospel of the Witches published by Llewellyn Worldwide. To connect with Craig, please see the following socials: Instagram @WitchcraftUnchained Twitter @CraigSpencer90. ----------------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

My guest this week is my friend Houngan James (Dyekidon Bon Houngan Daginen Menfo). James is a Nova Scotia based Houngan asogwe of the religion of Haitian Vodou. He undertook kanzo in 2017 in the lineage of La Fraicheur Belle Fleur Guinen just north of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Apart from his day job, James runs the website Lwa and Order, and engages in teaching and attending events across North America. In this episode we talk about hiw journey from punk kid building a shrine to Legba in the days of ICQ, to houngan having just married the lwas Freda, Dantor and La Sirene. To see more of James' work, please visit his website: https://lwaandorder.com/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

I am joined tonight by Matthew Venus, (He/Them) who is the proprietor of the Salem area shop Spiritus Atcanum, and alongside Jacqui Allouise (The Couldron Black) is the co-founder of the Salem Witchcraft and Folklore Festival. Venus describes themself as an Artist, Folk Magician, Rogue Occultist, Folkloric Witch, Social Deviant, and Beard Curator. We discuss Matthews' evolution in spirituality, their thoughts on personal practice, queer peoples connection to witchcraft, and the story of how the folklore festival came to be. To find out more about Matthew and Spiritus Arcanum, and the folklore festival visit the following: www.salemwitchfest.com & spiritusarcanum.com ------------------------------------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

Lee Harrington is an internationally known sexuality, relationships, and personal authenticity educator. Having taught in all 50 states and across 7 countries, he brings a combination of playful engagement and thoughtful academic dialogue to a broad audience. An award-winning author and editor on human gender, sexual, and sacred experience, his books include “Traversing Gender: Understanding Transgender Journeys,” “Sacred Kink: The Eightfold Paths of BDSM and Beyond,” and “Shibari You Can Use: Japanese Rope Bondage and Erotic Macramé,” among many other titles. He has been blogging online since 1998, and been teaching worldwide since 2001. You can check out Lee's adventures, as well as his regular podcast, tour schedule, free essays, videos, and more, over at http://www.PassionAndSoul.com. Their newest book “Become Your Own Beloved: A Guide to Delighting in Self-Connection” is now currently available. To connect with Lee, please visit his socials: www.passionandsoul.com IG: @passionandsoul FB: https://www.facebook.com/lee.harringon Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

My Guest today is Eron Mazza. Eron (they/them) is a witch, activist, and podcaster. They are a dedicant of the Anderson Feri tradition, and hosts “The Witching Hour with Eron Mazza” a mindgarden media podcast in association with ‘Screw You Todd' productions. In this episode, we talk about Eron's activism, spiritual progression, the Anderson Feri tradition, and their journey as a podcaster. To listen to Eron's interview of me, please visit: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh... To connect with Eron, please visit his socials: www.eronmazza.com IG: @the_witching_hour_eron_mazza FB: https://www.facebook.com/witchinghourwitheron Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

Moss Matthey is an author, Pagan and cult survivor from North Wales, UK. Having mixed German/Welsh heritage, Moss is currently working on their debut work out through Llewellyn. He is currently completing a BA Psychology at Chester University, and comes on to the show to discuss his spiritual journey out of a fundamentalist cult, his connection to Paganism and folkloric craft, and the insights he has formed along the way. Moss will be a speaker alongside myself and others at the 2023 Salem Witchcraft and Folklore Festival happening ONLINE at: https://www.salemwitchfest.com/ To connect with Moss, please visit his socials: www.mossmatthey.com IG: @magic_of_the_moss FB: Moss Matthey - Author TT: www.tiktok.com/@mossmatthey -------------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

My guest today is Enfys J. Book. Enfys J. Book is a nonbinary, bisexual clergy member within the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel, and the High Priest of the Fellowship of the Ancient White Stag coven near Washington, DC. Enfys has been studying Qabala since 2012 and teaching classes on magickal practice since 2015, including presenting at the Sacred Space Conference. Their debut work: “Queer Qabala: Nonbinary, Genderfluid, Omnisexual Mysticism & Magick” is currently available wherever books are sold. You can check out Enfys' work at www.majoraqueerna.com they run a podcast called "4 Queck Q's Book Talk with Enfys" Enfys' Socials are: www.majoraqueerna.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/majorarqueerna IG: www.instagram.com/enfysbook

My guest today is ayurvedic consultant and spiritual practitioner, Avi Lago, of Glasgow, Scotland. ------------------------------------------------ Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

I sit down with prolific author Morgan Daimler to discuss their publishing journey, what it's like to write both fiction and non-fiction, and a little theoretical ponderings at the end. Morgan Daimler is a witch who has been a polytheist since the early '90′s. Following a path inspired by the Irish Fairy Faith blended with neopagan witchcraft, they teach classes on Irish myth and magical practices, fairies, and related subjects in the United States and internationally. Morgan has written dozens of books on subjects relating to Irish traditions, Norse traditions, and fantasy novel series. ------------------------------------------------------- LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to keep up with the Essence Summer Series Podcast. Join us on our other socials: IG: www.instagram.com/benstimpsonauthor YT: www.youtube.com/benstimpsonauthor FB: Ben Stimpson - Author WS: www.benstimpson.com ---- Morgan's socials: www.facebook.com/Morgandaimler www.instagram.com/morgandaimler www.twitter.com/MorganDaimler To check out Morgan's non-fiction books, check out: www.johnhuntpublishing.com/moon-books/authors/morgan-daimler -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

Ariana Serpentine is a multi-traditional witch, polytheist, and animist. She describes herself as a theology & history nerd, they are trans & queer, and is a Mercurial Girl. Ariana has worked in political trans activism, raising awareness for the needs of her community within Pagan and other circles. They are the author of “Sacred Gender: Create Trans and NonBinary Spiritual Connections” published by Llewellyn Worldwide. Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...

My guest today is pagan author Morgan Daimler, whose work focusses on Irish fairy lore and urban fantasy.

My guest today is Jade Pichette, queer activist, Heathen gythia, and educator.

My guest today is author, television personality, Witch, and fellow Welshperson... Mhara Starling! Mhara is the author of the forthcoming "Welsh Witchcraft: A Guide to the Spirits, Lore, and Magic of Wales" by Llewellyn. At the taping of this interview, Mhara was unable to announce or speak about the book, but as of a week ago the book is now available for pre-order and comes out in February. Mhara speaks about what it was like growing up in North Wales, her reclaiming of her Welsh identity through witchcraft, her connection to the landscape, and what it was like to step into the place of writer. To find out more about Mhara and her work, visit her facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/MharaStarling/ --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...

Originally posted: 3 Jun 2021 On today's episode I am very pleased to have a very special person in my life come onto the show. I spoke with my mentor, clinical supervisor, and friend Tiffany Lazic earlier about her journey into spiritual psychotherapy, the importance of seeing through story to essence, on building a heart centred space for others, and what lessons she learned along the way. Tiffany is a spiritual psychotherapist, writer, teacher, and joy enthusiast. Founder of the Hive And Grove Centre for Holistic Wellness located in Kitchener, Ontario. To find out more about Tiffany and her work, please visit: www.hiveandgrove.com --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License

This special episode is a collaboration between Ben and the TransCanadaProject.  My guests today are Cary and Kelly, organizers of the TransCanadaProject, a storytelling collection project going coast to coast collecting the stories of members of the Trans community.  Cary and Kelly both speak about their own coming out processes, the project, and what they have learned so far.  Find out more at:  https://transcanadaproject.ca/  --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness  Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence.   ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self.  Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained.   ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...

My guest today is El Conquistador, a music artist who has been taking the Orisha world by storm with his music videos devoted to the spirits of the Afro-Cuban religion Lukumi. El Conquistador joins me for an intimate discussion on his spirituality, art, ambitions, and what motivates him to create in honour of the Orishas. To find out more about El Conquistador, please see his youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2pkYjqfjQieKtlrmmgghDw --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...​

My guest today is Pax Gray: podcaster, educator, spiritual seeker, and community facilitator from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA. Pax runs the New Moon Hearthcraft podcast, is an educator, a spiritual seeker, an initiate of Kaula Tantra, a former Trappist monk, and practitioner of the occult arts. Pax joins me to speak about his life and the role social justice has played in his spiritual life. To find out more about New Moon Hearthcraft with Pax, please see his facebook page and links to the podcast: https://www.facebook.com/NMHPax/ --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...​

My guest today is Damh the Bard, Pendragon of the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids; host of Druidcast; and musician based in Brighton, UK. Damh comes onto the show to discuss his spiritual and professional journeys and how they have culminated in his work as Pendragon of one of the largest Druid Orders in the world. Damh speaks candidly about the evolution of his music, his role as a storyteller, and the intimacy of his masterpiece work: The Branches of Y Mabinogi series. To find out more about Damh the Bard, please see his website: www.paganmusic.co.uk ---- ----- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...​

My guest today is psychotherapist and professional storyteller Brian Walsh, a personal friend and colleague of mine who joins me to discuss the impact of story on his professional and spiritual life, his journey to claim story for himself, and how he uses story in his work with clients. To find out more about Brian, please see her website: http://www.brianwalsh.ca/ --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...​

My guest today is psychotherapist Carrie Lee, a personal friend and colleague of mine who joins me to discuss her life in the corporate world, her journey to a private psychotherapy practice, the interweaving of spirituality into her work, and the lessons she has come across along the way. To find out more about Carrie, please see her website: https://soulsigma.ca/ --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...​

My guest today is UK based spiritual practitioner Clint Ourin Burn, organizer of The Goddess Grove, a Northampton area seed group for the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids. Clint is a member of OBOD; Ár nDraíocht Féin: A Druid Fellowship (ADF). Clint joins us today to talk about stepping into the role of teacher, service, memorial and ancestor work in the age of Covid. To learn more about Clint and to watch his offerings, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/thegoddessgrovies Apologies for the less than best quality of sound in the intro, my main microphone I use is no longer with us. --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...

My guest today is London based wellness advocate, inspirational writer, artist, graphic designer and author Tracy Kelly to speak about her new book 'Healthy Reminders' To learn more about Tracy and to order her book, please visit: www.tracykelly.ca --------- To learn more about Paduka Wellness and Ben Stimpson, please visit: www.padukawellness.com www.facebook.com/padukawellness Please hit subscribe to get updates on future episodes of Essence. ------------ About Essence: Essence is a podcast all about story, journey and self. Released twice a month, Ben interviews individuals about their work, their life journeys and the insights gained. ------------- Copyright information: Title Music: "Wintersong" by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons BY Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/