Down at the Crossroads

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DatC #095 - Southern Cunning with Aaron Oberon Oct 27, 2019

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I meet with Aaron Oberon to learn about his book Southern Cunning: Folkloric Witchcraft In The American South available from Moon Books. During the discussion we touch upon Christianity and witchcraft, social media, his thoughts on witchcraft, initiation by spirit, the necessity and limitations of initiation in general, and his ideas surrounding folkloric witchcraft. This was a fun conversation and like we say by then of it, if your spirits don’t have a sense of humor, then you need some new spirits.

DatC #094 – Y Mabinogi (Second Branch) with Damh the Bard Sep 02, 2019

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I welcome Damh the Bard back to the show to discuss the second branch of his Y Mabinogi albums. During the discussion we talk about myth versus story, materialism, Science and Paganism, re-enchanting the world, his thoughts on how paganism exists in the UK and how it differs from the USA, and more. This is definitely an unexpected discussion, but it was certainly a great one to have. Admittedly we get a little political in the episode, but what do you expect with the bullshit going on in the world and damn it, sometimes, you got to get yelly. So, consider yourself warned.

*Visit official show notes for more info

DatC #093 - Talking Persephone with Wendy Rule Jun 16, 2019

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I welcome back Australian Visionary Songstress Wendy Rule to discuss her latest album, Persephone. We learn about the goddess herself and the story she is most associated with, while discussing the role she has played in Wendy’s life and career. All in all, it was fun conversation and certainly great to speak with Wendy once again.

*Visit official show notes for further episode information.

DatC Film Club 2 - The VVitch (2015) Mar 31, 2019

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we usually cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers, but tonight that’s not happening because it’s film club time. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I sit down with our good friend Nissa to turn our eyes and minds to Robert Eggers’ 2015 film The VVitch. That’s right, make some popcorn, secure your copy, sit down, get comfortable, lower the lights, and join us as we watch and discuss tonight’s movie. (Just an FYI, there were several audio issues with the recording and I tried to correct them as best as I could.) Please be aware that this episode does contain spoilers and we will be having a pre-movie discussion and then a post-movie discussion, however we won’t be watching the film during the recording of the episode, but we will be hearing music by Wardruna, Horse Cult, and Damh the Bard. If you’re a fan of the show Daria from back in the day on MTV then you’re in for a special treat, because Nissa is a Morgendork, but before we elaborate on just what that is and get into the talking about The VVitch, here’s Gibu by Wardruna.

In 1630 New England, panic and despair envelops a farmer, his wife and their children when youngest son Samuel suddenly vanishes. The family blames Thomasin, the oldest daughter who was watching the boy at the time of his disappearance. With suspicion and paranoia mounting, twin siblings Mercy and Jonas suspect Thomasin of witchcraft, testing the clan’s faith, loyalty and love to one another.

Featured Songs:

“Gibu” by Wardruna
“Day Dreams and Night Mares” by Horse Cult
“Sabbat” by Damh the Bard

Links:

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DatC #092 - Folk Catholicism with Mallorie Vaudoise Mar 17, 2019

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with Mallorie Vaudoise about her background. How she got into Folk Catholicism and the magic and practices associated with it. How Catholicism exists in the USA versus Italy. Ancestor work and the all-important task of reclaiming the past in the new way. All in all, Mallorie was a delightful guest and we hope you enjoyed this long overdue conversation with her.

Featured Music:

“All Things Change” by Kan’Nal
“Verd Min” by Eivør
“Citrus Mistress” by POM
“The Magician” by The Hills and the Rivers
“Sea Song” by The Owl Service
“Sway” by POM

Links:

Italian Folk Magic (website)
Italian Folk Magic (Facebook)
Naples is for Necromancers (Video Lecture)

Call and leave us a message at (856) 481-2984

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DatC #091 - Botanical Magic with Amy Blackthorn Jan 17, 2019

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with witch, tea blender extraordinaire, and author Amy Blackthorn to discuss her book Blackthorn's Botanical Magic: The Green Witch’s Guide to Essential Oils for Spellcraft, Ritual & Healing. During our discussion we learn about her journey into witchcraft and her early experiences as a witch and how a blizzard helped her to start her business Blackthorn Hoodoo Blends, but we start things off with touching upon her successful Facebook page Witchcraft-Down & Dirty. It was great to finally have Amy on the show and we’re glad to finally get this conversation out to you.

"Here is the first contemporary guide to the transformative powers of essential oils for use in spellcraft and the cultivation of ritual power. From rose-scented rosaries to the lingering aroma of frankincense, and the cleansing energy of white sage, Amy Blackthorn— the woman behind Blackthorn Hoodoo Blends —will take you on a journey beyond the soothing, healing power of scents into their hidden realms and their use in prayer, meditation, and shamanic journeying. One of the very first of its kind..."

Anger Into Action Oil Blend (Place a couple drops of this blend into your oil diffuser or mop bucket. Recipe amounts equal enough for a 2ml bottle.)

5 drops of Cardamom
30 drops Sandalwood (Australian)
25 drops Neroli
10 drops Petitgrain
5 drops Ginger

Featured Songs:

"
"Witchka" by S.J. Tucker
"Brotin" by Eivør
"Melusina" by Sharon Knight
"A Faery Song" by Melanie Gruben
"Stones" by Tara Rice
“Battle of Evermore” by Finvarra
"Maker of My Sorrow" by Eliza Rickman
"Little Bird" by S.J. Tucker

Links:

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DatC #090 - Traditional Wicca with Thorn Mooney Nov 18, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with witch, YouTuber, blogger, and now author Thorn Mooney about her book Traditional Wicca: A Seeker's Guide. During the discussion we touch upon her background as a witch, her thoughts on witchcraft, Traditional Wicca and being a practicing Gardnerian and High Priestess of her coven, Foxfire. We discuss the difference and alleged conflict between Traditional Wicca and Traditional Witchcraft. As well as the gate keeping that occurs online, how social media has shaped people's perception and other issues such as classicism, outdated information, the pursuit of knowledge, and personal growth. This is a very frank discussion about modern practice and we hope that you enjoy it. Thorn was a great guest and we hope to speak with her again in the future.

While there are many powerful variations of contemporary Witchcraft, traditional Wicca offers unique experiences for those who seek it out. This book explores structured, coven-based styles of Wicca, in which the practitioners typically trace initiatory lineages back to Wicca's early founders. Discussing covens, initiations, lineages, practices, ethics, and more, Traditional Wicca shares tips and ideas on how to get the most from this profound approach to Witchcraft. Discover how to recognize healthy, reputable covens. Learn how to navigate the process of asking for training and succeeding in an outer court. Explore the spiritual strength of lineages, hierarchies, and initiation. This book also includes contributions from several practitioners, providing valuable first-person perspectives on what it's like to be on the traditional Wiccan path. - Traditional Wicca (back cover)

Featured Songs:

"Witchka" by S.J. Tucker
"Brotin" by Eivør
"Melusina" by Sharon Knight
"A Faery Song" by Melanie Gruben
"Stones" by Tara Rice
“Battle of Evermore” by Finvarra
"Maker of My Sorrow" by Eliza Rickman
"Little Bird" by S.J. Tucker

Links:

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DatC #089 - Textile Artist, Polly Lind Sep 30, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with witch, animist, and textile artist Polly Lind to discuss her background in witchcraft and her wonderful art. Polly is a witch in New Zealand and is a Fabric Artist who makes modern tapestries, banners, and wall hangings that have been inspired by magic, mythology and ancient cultures from around the world. It was great to finally speak with Polly as she is not only an artist and a fun guest, but she also has background in religious studies. It was interesting to hear how the availability of books in New Zealand shaped the witchcraft and pagan communities there. Also, if you’re a Flat Earther, you’re probably not going to like our discussion about how witchcraft in the southern hemisphere differs from the northern hemisphere. All in all, Polly was a fun guest and we hope you think so too!

Featured Songs:

“Sinking Sands” by Dogwood
“Battle of Evermore” by Finvarra
“IngwaR” by Wardruna
“Green and Grey” by Damh the Bard
“Stolen Season” by S.J. Tucker
“Home in your Heart” by Elephant Revival

Links:

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DatC #088 - Six Ways with Aidan Wachter Aug 31, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with talismanic jeweler, musician, and author Aidan Wachter about his work, music, and new book Six Ways: Approaches and Entries for Practical Magic. We learn about Aidan's origins, his beginnings with magick and jewelry making. Plus his relationship to groups and their nature and his music which not many people seem to know about. As we talk about his book -Six Ways- we learn about some of the stories behind the work and how it came to be. As well as explore his definition of magick, his approach to working with spirits, and what his current practice looks like. This was a friendly and fun discussion and we were extremely thankful to finally meet with Aidan on the show.

Six Ways is a collection of approaches and entries for practical magic. It is not a system, grimoire, or belief system. The focus is on the development of healthy spirit ecologies with a decidedly animist bent. - Aidanwachter.com

Featured Songs:

"A Will of Its Own" by Wendy Rule
"Salt" by Eivør
"Two Hands" by Drova
"4DC" by Aidan Wachter
"Peace Tonight" by Elephant Revival
"Hekate" by Faun
"The Wicker Man" by Damh the Bard
"Odal" by Wardruna

Links:

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DatC Film Club 1 - Suspiria (1977) Jul 22, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we usually cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers, but tonight that’s not happening because it’s film club time. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I turn our eyes and minds to Dario Argento’s 1977 film Suspiria. That's right, make some popcorn, secure your copy, sit down, get comfortable, lower the lights, and join us as we watch and discuss tonight's movie. Please be aware that this episode does contain spoilers and we will be having a pre-movie discussion and then a post-movie discussion, however we won't be watching the film during the recording of the episode.

Featured Music

"Devil’s Courtship" by Horse Cult
"Silent Impulse" by Ill Wicker

Links

**If you like what you've heard, please consider supporting us through our Patreon page and check out the show archive for other great content!**

DatC #087 - The Elements of Spellcrafting with Jason Miller Jun 17, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with author, sorcerer, and teacher Jason Miller to discuss his recent book The Elements of Spellcrafting: 21 Keys to Successful Sorcery. However, we start the conversation with learning about his background (because oddly enough we never actually talked about it before) as well as ponder what his super villain name might be. While in our discussion of his book we explore his thoughts regarding enchantment and making your life more enchantable, the idea of harm none and magickal caveats in spellcrafting, substitutions in magick and in one's practice, the pitfalls of striving for absolute authenticity, his beliefs about magick and how he thinks magick works, and more. All in all it was a really good to talk and we hope you enjoy what Jason had to say.

There is no shortage of spells out there. Some books highlight thousands of spells, but do any of them actually work? And how well do they work? I don’t mean just getting a result—I mean getting a result that matters, a result that will impact your life or the lives of those you work for. The Elements of Spellcrafting provides the most effective and efficient ways to get things done with magic. The Elements of Spellcrafting identifies and explains 21 keys to successful sorcery—a best practices of sorcery—in three sections:

Principals and strategies for how best to apply magic before you begin.
Methods and tactics that will ensure a positive outcome.
How to take spells to the next level—building a life of spiritual accomplishment and material success beyond the basics.

If you have ever cast a spell that didn’t work, The Elements of Spellcrafting will help you figure out why. If you regularly cast spells that seem to work but you still wind up in the same circumstances, this book will definitely help you chart a new course for victorious spellcrafting. - The Elements of Spellcrafting, back cover

[caption id="attachment_6628" align="alignright" width="177"] Blood red torma offering described by Jason. Photo by Jason Miller.[/caption] Featured Songs:

"The Magician" by The Hills and the Rivers
"Movements in the Sky" by Church of the Cosmic Skull
"Freedom Song" by Omnia
"Fallon City Messiah" by Hey Satan
"No harm" by Tara Rice
"Hekate" by Faun

Links:

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DatC Minisode 4 - Catbutts & Checklists Apr 23, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame, and we usually cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers, but tonight that isn't happening because it's minisode time! I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I sit down to discuss spell-work, favorite spells, spell mistakes, backfires, and even mishaps. Along with our main topic we'll be discussing updates regarding us, the show, our book, as well as reading listener email and during the episode we even make a quick phone call with Australian visionary songstress Wendy Rule to talk about her Full Moon Magic live stream concerts. All in all, it’s another good time and we hope you enjoy it.

Minisode Topic: Spell-work

How do you define/explain what a spell is?
What are your favorite go-to “back pocket“ spells?
What was your first spell?
Spell backfires or mistakes?

Featured Songs:

"The Wolf Sky" by Wendy Rule
"A Will of Its Own" by Wendy Rule
"Neptune" by S. J. Tucker
"Mother" by Witchwood

Links:

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DatC #086 - Sigil Witchery with Laura Tempest Zakroff Mar 31, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with author, artist, blogger, dancer, and designer Laura Tempest Zakroff about her new book Sigil Witchery: A Witch’s Guide to Crafting Magick Symbols, from Llewellyn. During our discussion we touched upon the relationship between art and magick, mark making, sigil creation, right and left brain thinking, the use of symbols in society and magick, and more. Laura was a fun guest as always and we were delighted to have her back on the show.

Sigils are magical symbols that are designed to influence ourselves and the world around us. Tracing through history, art, and culture, this illustrated book offers an innovative and fresh approach to sigil magick that is accessible and intuitive. You don't need a degree in art or magick to make effective sigils! Learn how to manifest your will through your very own designs. Explore traditional and modern meanings of shapes, symbols, numbers, letters, and colors, while receiving guid- ance on how to add personal meaning to your marks. Sigil Witchery includes methods of application, tips for choosing materials, and important considerations for both temporary and permanent sigils. This book helps you improve your drawing techniques, use sample exercises to challenge yourself, and gain deeper metaphysical insight and inspiration—all to guide you to develop your own powerful sigil magick. - Sigil Witchery, back cover

Featured Songs:

"The Worship of Trees" by Telling the Bees
"Walpurgisnacht" by Faun
"Verd Min" by Eivør
"Devil's Courtship" by Horse Cult
"Baba Yaga" by The Nathaniel Johnstone Band
"Seven Veils" by The Nathaniel Johnstone Band
"Freedom Song" by Omnia
"Dove of Mine" by Eliza Rickman

Links:

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DatC #085 - Magical Destinations with Natalie Zaman Feb 27, 2018

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I speak with author and Wandering Witch herself Natalie Zaman about her book Magical Destinations of the Northeast available from Llewellyn. As with all new guests, we learn about Natalie's background, how she found her path, and what ultimately inspired her book as we explore some of the locations she visited while researching and what she experienced while she was there. All in all, this was energetic conversation about reclaiming your local landscape and gaining a new perspective on the sites and landmarks of where you live.

Every state in America has sacred sites―places that change you, heal you, and make you feel alive. Magical Destinations of the Northeast details more than 300 spiritual destinations perfect for meditation, magic, and just plain fun. This hands-on guidebook also includes spells and rituals and provides tips for the magical uses of official state plants, flowers, gems, minerals, and trees. There are pockets of magic to be found everywhere―places that make you stop in your tracks as powerful energies speak to your soul. This book is filled with awe-inspiring destinations, featuring little-known gems, natural landscapes, and manmade creations, as well as Native American and African American heritage sites. With everything from witch’s temples to Druid circles, spiritualist communities to mysterious stones, this book will make your next trip a truly magical journey. - Magical Destinations of the Northeast (back cover)

Featured Songs:

"Imbolc Song" by S.J. Tucker
"After the Storm" by Wendy Rule
"Wax Nostalgic" by Eliza Rickman
"Free" by Omnia
"Peace Tonight" by Elephant Revival
"The Art of Magick" by Ralph Buckley
"Silvitni" by Eivør
"Burn Me Out" by S.J. Tucker

Links:

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DatC #084 - Y Mabinogi with Damh the Bard Dec 24, 2017

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I welcome Damh the Bard back to show to discuss his new album Y Mabinogi: the First Branch of the Mabinogion a wonderful bardic adaptation by Damh himself with new music created to build upon the story of the first branch. Along with exploring the creation and music of his new album we learn more about his background and his former life as we discuss pagan leadership and community. You might be as pleasantly surprised as we were.

The Mabinogion (Welsh pronunciation: [mabɪˈnɔɡjɔn]) are the earliest prose stories of the literature of Britain. The stories were compiled in Middle Welsh in the 12th–13th centuries from earlier oral traditions. The two main source manuscripts were created c. 1350–1410, as well as a few earlier fragments. These stories offer drama, philosophy, romance, tragedy, fantasy and humour, and were created by various narrators over time. The title covers a collection of eleven prose stories of widely different types. There is a classic hero quest, "Culhwch and Olwen"; historic legend in "Lludd and Llefelys" glimpses a far off age; and other tales portray a very different King Arthur from the later popular versions. The highly sophisticated complexity of the Four Branches of the Mabinogi defies categorisation. The stories are so diverse that a leading scholar has challenged them as a true collection... - Wikipedia

Featured Songs:

"Rhiannon" by Faun
"Fire in the Head" by Sharon Knight
"Glashtyn Shanty" by S.J. Tucker
"Spirit of Albion" by Damh the Bard
"Devil's Nettle" by Horse Cult
"Who is Coming" by Damh the Bard
"Tides" by Eivor
"Annwn" by Damh the Bard
"These Hollow Hills" by Damh the Bard

Links:

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DatC Minisode 3 - Goblins & Faeries Nov 22, 2017

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame, and we usually cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers, but tonight that isn't happening because it's minisode time! I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I sit down to discuss the books which have inspired and influenced your paths as we read listener email. We also travel down the rabbit trails they evoke as well as reflect upon our recent journey to the realm of the fae to attend the International Faerie Convention itself, FaerieCon! This is a pretty goofy episode in all honesty. So, I guess we were still recovering from previous weekend when we recorded this.

Minisode Topic:

Listener email and reflecting on FaerieCon weekend.

Featured Songs:

"Gibu" by Wardruna
"Satyros" by Faun

Links:

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DatC #083 - Glamour Magic with Deborah Castellano Nov 11, 2017

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I welcome Deborah Castellano back to the show to discuss her new book Glamour Magic: The Witchcraft Revolution To Get What You Want and how it's not just about looking good and why it's more relevant to one's witchcraft and practice than some would initially think. Deborah offers up some of the secrets of glamour in our discussion and we even explore how different men can apply and utilize glamour in their everyday life. We also learn how we already do this type of work on a subconscious level and how as practitioners we can enhance and instill more magick in what we are doing to our benefit. All in all, it was great to sit down with Deborah and we hope you enjoy our conversation with her.

Glamour is the art of taking what makes you exciting and interesting to others and using it as leverage in accomplishing your Great Work. This fun romp of a book helps you use glamour to accomplish total world domination . . . or to revolutionize your magical practice if ruling the world isn’t your thing. Glamour Magic encourages you to be crafty, cunning, and unafraid to want something fiercely. Learn how historical figures used glamour in their campaigns for greatness. Discover experiments, exercises, and rites for your Craft. Glamour is your secret weapon—your guide to finding what you want and getting it, too. - Glamour Magic (Backcover)

Featured Songs:

"Pretty Little Head" by Eliza Rickman
"The Battle of Evermore" by Finvarra
"Faithful Friend" by Eivor
"Witchka" by S.J. Tucker
"Seven Veils" by The Nathanial Johnstone Band
"If You Were My Monster" by Tara Rice

Links:

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DatC #082 - For Puck's Sake, Mat Auryn! Oct 12, 2017

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I - after being interviewed by him- finally got a chance to speak with Patheos blogger and teacher Mat Auryn about his work and path as a witch. We also explore his thoughts on witchcraft, the modern craft and the direction it's heading in, the devil, initiation, validation, cursing and more. We had a great time speaking with Mat and could not have predicted all the paths we wandered down during our chat with him.

Mat Auryn (Massachussetts) is a witch, writer, professional psychic, and occult teacher throught New England. He has been drawn to the occult and metaphysical since an early age, reading books on witchcraft at eight years old. He is a graduate of Black Rose Witchcraft and a priest in Sacred Fires Tradition of Witchcraft founded by Devin Hunter. He is a current student and mentee of Christopher Penczak in the Temple of Witchcraft Mystery School, Laurie Cabot in the Cabot-Kent Hermetic Tradition and Jason Miller in the Sorcery of Hekate. He is a devotee of the Covenant of Hekate founded by Sorita D’Este. He writes for Patheos Pagan in his blog For Puck’s Sake and on his personal website. He has been featured in various magazines, radio shows, books and other periodicals such as DisInfo, The Wild Hunt, Magick Magazine, Moon Books, Cutline Press, Just Julie, Magical Experiments, and more. - matauryn.com

Featured Songs:

"Egil Saga" by Faun
"The Swing" by Eivor
"Raido" by Wardruna
"Odal" by Wardruna
"Maker of My Sorrow" by Eliza Rickman
"The Devil’s Hole" by Swallows

Links:

Links: Pagan Podcast Spotlight by Tim Titus, The Juggler, Ancient Aliens, LegendaryTimes.com, SitchinIsWrong.com, Skeptoid.com, Typhonian Order, Alan Chapman, Richard Dawkins, James Randi, DebunkingSkeptics.com, Myth of the Million Dollar Challenge, Patheos: God Spots in the Brain, Scientific American: How Critical Thinkers Lose Their Faith in God, A Bigger World Podcast, The Pagan Rapport, Title Goes Here:, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

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DatC Minisode 2 - Memory & Dream Sep 17, 2017

Hello and thank you once again for joining us down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame, and we usually cross paths with today’s most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers, but tonight that isn't happening because it's minisode time! I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I sit down to discuss the books which have influenced our paths as well as updates, future happenings, shenanigans, and more. We're getting back on the horse and what better way than with a minisode?

Minisode Topic: Books which influenced us.

What books influenced you and your path?

Featured Songs:

"Ravens in the Library" by S.J. Tucker
"Hunter" by Pandemonaeon

Mentioned Podcasts

Related Links

A Happy Announcement - My YouTube Channel Jan 15, 2016

A short audio announcement about my YouTube channel A Witch in Southern New Jersey. Music "Hallowed Ground" by Rest You Sleeping Giant

DatC #063 - Witchcraft and Krampus with Cory Hutcheson Dec 23, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara joins us as we meet with Cory Hutcheson of New World Witchery to discuss his podcast, his path as a witch, his thoughts about witchcraft and we close the show with a chat about Krampus and the annual Philadelphia event known as Krampuslauf.

Featured Songs:

"The Rakers" by Elephant Revival
"Rattle them Bones" by Swallows
"Down to the Sea" by Elephant Revival
"Girl Into Devil" by S.J. Tucker
"Hyme to Herne" by S.J. Tucker
"The Feast of Krampus" by S.J. Tucker

Related Links

DatC #062 - Reaching the Next Generation at FaerieCon 2015 Nov 29, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight we visit FaerieCon for a panel I moderated titled Reaching the Next Generation, which featured notable authors and leaders such as Ivo Dominguez Jr., Raven Grimassi, David Salisbury, Byron Ballard, and Michael G. Smith. During the panel we discuss the issues and problems of bridging the gaps found within a multi generational, diverse, and every developing religious community. Though we only manage to scratch the surface of this complex issue a lot gets addressed during the one hour panel session.

Featured Songs:

"Secrets Told" by Woodland
"The Skater" by The Owl Service
"Cupid's Arrow" by Woodland
"Point of You" by Elephant Revival
"Hymne der Nacht" by Faun
"Triceltika" by Omnia
"Stones" by Tara Rice
"Go On" by Elephant Revival

Related Links

DatC #061 - Counting Witches On Pinheads with Gordon White Oct 17, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight I meet with Rune Soup Blogger and Chaos Magician Gordon White about his article, Counting Witches On Pinheads, which he published in November of 2014 on the Rune Soup. Gordon and I have a great discussion about Chaos Magick, his article, and what he thinks the modern witchcraft movement should be doing. Gordon was a great guest and we had a lot of fun during this conversation.

Featured Songs:

"Tjuren" by Hedningarna
"Samhain" by The Owl Service
"Gibu" by Wardruna
"Witch's Cross" by Woodland
"The Call of the Mountains" by Eluveitie
"Lyke Wake Dirge" (Black Moon Version) by The Hare and The Moon
"Cernunnos" by Omnia
"A Puppeteer Came Into Town" by Telling The Bees

Related Links

Counting Witches On Pinheads by Gordon White - Rune Soup Blog
New forthcoming title from Gordon White - Scarlet Imprint

DatC #060 - Sabbat Box with Hugh Carey Sep 17, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight I meet with Hugh Carey who happens to be one of the hard working men behind the online retailer Eclectic Artisans and the popular witchy subscription service Sabbat Box. Hugh and I have a great discussion about his businesses as well as the issues surrounding being a retailer in the Pagan community as well as the misconceptions and backlash that can often happen as a result. Sabbat Box has been in high demand since its unveiling in Spring of 2015 and it doesn't appear to be slowing down any time soon.

Below is an excerpt from an article posted on the Wildhunt Blog back in April of 2015 showing some of the backlash Hugh and Tom experienced:

...the problematic nature of even some Pagan ‘products’ such as Sabbat Box. We should be wary of attempts to sell us items evoking ‘Pagan Community’ and the imagery of magic, because this is the same ploy used to sell items devoid of meaning. - Click here for the complete Wildhunt article

Featured Songs:

“Moonwalker" by Bekah Kelso and the Fellas
"Bridges " by Eivør
"Zeitgeist" by Faun
"Cupid's Arrow" by Woodland
“Dream of Mississippi” by S.J. Tucker
"Black Snake" by Wendy Rule
“Wicker Man” by Damh the Bard
“Remember Me" by Eivør

Related Links

DatC #059 - Flying with Sarah Anne Lawless Jul 01, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight Tara and I meet with beloved blogger, artist, and professional witch Sarah Anne Lawless to discuss witchcraft, her blog, entheogens, flying ointments, and the idea and practice of soul flight. We have a great discussion about her work and experience as a non Wiccan witch and her flying ointments that are available online through the Black Arts Foundry website.

Featured Songs:

“Windflower” by Telling the Bees
“Down to Sea” by Elephant Revival
“The Golden King” by Witchwood
“Sabbat” by Damh the Bard
“Girl into Devil” by S.J. Tucker
“Kokopelli” by Omnia
“No Harm” by Tara Rice
“The Devil's Hole” by Swallows

Related Links

DatC #058 - Stolen Season with S.J. Tucker May 31, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed, host Chris Orapello and tonight we meet with beloved singer songwriter, pixie pirate, myth punk, folk rocker S.J. Tucker to talk about her new album Stolen Season, what went into the creation of it, as well as her music, the genus loci, some of her personal path, and her unexpected draw towards Hoodoo and Vodou. SJ is a great guest and we had a rather intense conversation that kind of broke my brain a little by the end of it.

In 2014, S. J. celebrated ten solid and joyful years of touring and performing. This year, she’s released a new album called Stolen Season, which explores her Mississippi Delta jazz and blues roots more than ever before. On her plate for the rest of 2015 are such treasures as a new illustrated book based on her Wendy & Peter Pan songs (with an album to follow), a myths-and-literature-inspired song collection called Stormchaser, a video game soundtrack, and a long-awaited follow-up to her spiritually focused Blessings album, called Rootless. - sjtucker.com

Featured Songs:

"Willie O'Winsbury” by The Owl Service
“Willow's Song” by The Familiars
“Rain Down” by Ginger Doss
“The Emerald Horizon” by Tara Rice
“Birds and Stars” by Elephant Revival
“The Battle of Evermore” by Finvarra
“Dream of Mississippi” by S.J. Tucker
“Stolen Season” by S.J. Tucker
“La Sirene” by S.J. Tucker
“Little Bird” by S.J. Tucker
“Beetz in my Salad” by Big Bad Gina and S.J. Tucker
“Rootless” by S.J. Tucker

Related Links

DatC #056 - Activism with Shauna Aura Knight Apr 15, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald, and no longer congested host Chris Orapello and tonight we meet with author, teacher, and blogger Shauna Aura Knight to discuss activism, how to get involved, and her experiences with being an activist. Shauna and I have a powerful and eye opening discussion as we put our ears to the ground about some hot button issues while I try extremely hard to not sound as congested as I was when I spoke with her. So, please forgive me for how I may sound in this episode. LOL

Featured Songs:

"The Wicker Man" by Damh the Bard
"Earth Warrior" by Omnia
“Stones" by Tara Rice
"Zeitgeist" by Faun
"King" by Eluveitie
"Stolen Season" by S.J. Tucker

Related Links

DatC #055 - Magical Beginnings at FaerieCon East 2014 Mar 30, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching bald headed host with the most Chris Orapello and tonight we return to the land of the fae for a panel I moderated that pertained to magical beginnings. This was my first time moderating a panel and I look forward to moderating future panels at FaerieCon. This particular panel featured past guest Byron Ballard as well as Ivo Dominguez Jr. and Michael Smith both being of The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel who is the same organization that put on the recent Sacred Spaces / Between the Worlds Convention that we've been talking about on this show recently. Thankfully we get to hear this fun and insightful panel of experienced practitioners as they share their knowledge and wisdom with us about their beginnings of working with magick and living a magical life.

Featured Songs:

"Sabbat" by Damh the Bard
"Kokopelli" by Omnia
"We are Shangri-La" by S.J. Tucker
"Gentle Storm” by Betsy Tinney
“Blaue Stunde" by Faun
"Iron from Stone" by Damh the Bard

Related Links

DatC #054 - Portals and Sharon Knight Mar 16, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching bald headed host Chris Orapello and tonight, we meet with musician and past guest Sharon Knight to see what she has been up to, but more so to learn about Portals which is her next album that she is crowd funding for that will be featuring all of the artists featured in this episode. Sharon and I have a fun discussion about her up and coming album as well as touching upon her last tour, social media, what she has planned in the future. However, just when you think we have the low down on what she has going on, she hits us with a something really impressive that she has been getting involved with and I won't spoil that for you. You'll just have to hear it for yourself.

Featured Songs:

"Song of the Sea" by Sharon Knight
"Walpurgisnach" by Faun
"Glashtyn Shanty" by S.J. Tucker
"The Huntress” by Betsy Tinney (featuring S.J. Tucker)
"Black Snake" by Wendy Rule
“Hunter" by Pandemonaeon
"Dream of Mississippi" by S.J. Tucker
"Fire in the Head" by Sharon Knight

Related Links

DatC #053 - Willful Bane: The Joy of Hex with Byron Ballard Mar 01, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching bald headed host Chris Orapello and tonight, we meet with past guest Byron Ballard to elaborate on some of the things she brought up during our last discussion with her back in episode #50, specifically her workshop Willful Bane: The Joy of Hex. Byron and I are joined for the first time by my girlfriend Tara as we explore the issues surrounding the magickal and ethical practice of hexing as well as learn about the usefulness of marshmallows. This conversation is definitely a good time with some thought provoking content and a few laughs along the way.

Featured Songs:

“Stones" by Tara Rice
"Bells of Alluria" by Sharon Knight
"Rootless" by S.J. Tucker
"To The Morrigan" by Sencha the Vate
"Cernunnos" by Omnia
"Let The Wind Blow" by Wendy Rule
"The January Man" by Damh the Bard
"The Devil's Hole" by Swallows

Related Links

DatC #052 - Career Crafting with Christopher Penczak Feb 14, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching bald headed host Chris Orapello and tonight, we meet with witch, teacher, writer, and healing practitioner Christopher Penczak about his experience being a career witch as well as his thoughts on pagan leadership. We also talk about his publishing company Copper Cauldron Publishing and some of what went into forming the Temple of Witchcraft located in Salem, New Hampshire.

Featured Songs:

“She” by Tenpenny Joke
“Hymn to Pan” by Faun
“A Witchesbrew” by Omnia
“Witches Rune” by S.J. Tucker
“The Art of Magick” by Ralph Buckley
“Branwen's Lament” by Damh the Bard
“The Battle of Evermore” by Finvarra
“Long Black Curl” by Tuatha Dea

Related Links

DatC #051 - Sex, Sorcery, and Spirit with Jason Miller Feb 07, 2015

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching bald headed host Chris Orapello and tonight, we meet with local New Jersey sorcerer and author Jason Miller to discuss his new book Sex, Sorcery, and Spirit: The Secrets of Erotic Magic. Jason and I have an honest discussion about sex magick, what it is, what it isn't, and we learn another reason why it's best to avoid touching someone else's magickal tools.

The songs featured in this episode were:

“Long Black Curl” by Tuatha Dea
“Wild Purple Irises” by Jessica Star
“Ereshkigal” by Wendy Rule
“Waking Panther” by Mama Gina
“Bridge of Birds” by The Familiars
“Love in the Forest” by Omnia

Related Links

DatC #050 - Hillfolk's Hoodoo with Byron Ballard at FaerieCon East 2014 Dec 28, 2014

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your bewitching, bald headed host Chris Orapello and tonight, we travel to the land of fae once again to attend FaerieCon East 2014 where I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing beloved Appalachian Folk Magic practitioner and author Byron Ballard. Byron and I had a fun discussion about her book Staubs and Ditchwater: A Friendly and Useful Introduction to Hillfolk's Hoodoo as well as talk about her background, experiences, and thoughts in regards to practicing witchcraft and the art and drama of religious ritual in paganism today. Music featured in this episode:

"Saltatio Vita" by Omnia
"Song of the Witches" by S.J. Tucker
"Dark Eyes" by Betsy Tiney (featuring S.J. Tucker)
"No Harm" by Tara Rice
"Alesia" by Eluveitie
"Walpurgisnacht" by Faun

Links for Byron Ballard and her work:

Episode related link:

TI&TB - #032 - A Deed Without A Name

DatC #049 - House of Grimassi at FaerieCon East 2014 Nov 24, 2014

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. Tonight, we travel to the land of fae to attend FaerieCon East 2014 where I had the unexpected pleasure of interviewing beloved author Raven Grimassi and Stephanie Taylor-Grimassi of House of Grimassi in front of a live audience.

Raven Grimassi is a Neo-Pagan scholar and award-winning author of over twelve books on Witchcraft, Wicca, and Neo-Paganism including Old World Witchcraft and Italian Witchraft. He is a member of the American Folklore Society and is co-founder and co-director of the Crossroads Fellowship, a modern Mystery School tradition. He lives in Springfield, MA. - Red Wheel / Weiser Online

Raven Grimassi is the author of over a dozen books dealing with witchcraft, some of which include his award winning book Wiccan Mysteries, Wiccan Magick, Hereditary Witchcraft, as well as his controversial book Ways of the Strega (re-released as Italian Witchcraft). We meet with Raven and Stephanie to learn about their work and to discuss Raven's recent book Grimoire of The Thorn-Blooded Witch which was a companion book to his 2011 release Old World Witchcraft.

For the first time in more than a decade, Grimassi introduces readers to a new system of witchcraft, one that draws upon the old ways and the old days. Rich with spells, rituals, and detailed illustrations of plant spirits, Grimassi dares readers to take the path that leads deep into the darkened woods—to traverse upon the Thorned Path. Meet the entities that dwell within the organic memory of the earth, the devas, the deities, the magical life force that lies within the wooded glen. Learn to work with these spirits, and use their wisdom to transform your life and your practice. - Red Wheel / Weiser Online

The songs featured in this episode were:

“Mr. Raven” by MC Lars
“Gentle Storm” by Betsy Tinney
“Wild Purple Irises” by Jessica Star
“Ravens in the Library” by S.J. Tucker
“The Morrigan” by Omnia
“Blaue Stunde ” by Faun
“Sons and Daughters (of Robin Hood)” by Damh the Bard

DatC #048 - The Cunning Peter Paddon Nov 01, 2014

Hello and thank you once again for joining me down at the crossroads for some music, magick, and Paganism. Where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, occultists, and deep thinkers. Tonight, we meet with The Crooked Path walking Cunningman himself Peter Paddon to discuss Traditional Witchcraft. Peter and I had a great conversation about witchcraft and his thoughts on deity, the mysteries, his work, and what he had planned in the future. Peter was very big on utilizing technology in his teaching and in making himself available to the rest of the community. However, the heartbreaking reality of this interview is that Peter passed away quietly in his sleep three days after I spoke with him. His family made an announcement online about his passing and an obituary for him was written by Heather Greene for The Wild Hunt. My heart goes out to him and his family during this time. Though he was in the middle of a short break from his pod/vidcast during the time of his passing we at least have this final interview with him as well as the legacy of his writings and shows to learn from and honor him by. As you will hear in my discussion with him, he was extremely honest and friendly and had a lot of knowledge and experience to share. He touched the lives of many, including myself, with his show and teachings and he will sorely be missed. Farewell Peter.

The music featured in this episode.

"Walpurgisnacht" by Faun
"Salad of Doom" by S.J. Tucker
"Fehu" by Wardruna
"No Harm" by Tara Rice
"The Winnowing" by Swallows
"Call Me Satan" by Omnia
"Fire in the Head" by Sharon Knight
"Imramma (A Soul Journey)" by Damh the Bard

Related Links

DatC #045 - Of Goddess With Erick DuPree Jul 20, 2014

Hello and thank you for joining me Down at the Crossroads for some Music, Magick, and Paganism where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, Occultists, and deep thinkers. Tonight, we meet with author and beloved Pagan blogger Erick DuPree who is seeking submissions for his anthology Finding the Masculine in Goddess' Spiral: Men in Ritual, Community and Service to the Goddess. Erick and I have a great discussion about his path, his view of the Goddess, and being a priest of the Goddess in today's world.

A popular blogger in the Pagan community, he is most known for Alone in Her Presence, a blog - turned book - turned column, now hosted on Patheos.com. As writer, he has contributed to numerous anthologies including surviving sexual trauma, race relations, and children's faith development. He is author of Alone In Her Presence: Meditations on the Goddess, and forthcoming books, The Hero Within: Reframing Masculinity with the Goddess and the anthology Finding Masculine in Goddess' Spiral: Men in Ritual, Community and Service to the Goddess, both by Immanion Press. - erickdupree.com, Meet Erick

The songs featured in this episode were:

“Ancient Ones” by Kellianna
“I walk with the Goddess” by Kellianna
“The Goddess” by Ralph Buckley
“The Witches Tree” by Cernunnos Rising
“Silent Moon” by Damh the Bard
“The Winnowing” by Swallows

Related Links

DatC #044 - Why You Can't Worship Jesus Christ and Be Pagan with Sam Webster Jun 15, 2014

Tonight we meet with former Patheos.com Columnist Sam Webster (now at The Wild Hunt) to talk about his controversial Patheos article "Why You Can't Worship Jesus Christ and Be Pagan," and other issues such as the superiority of Pagan theology, his concerns regarding the popular notion of building interfaith relationships, religious legitimacy, and his thoughts on what we need to be doing as Pagans to insure our religious future in the years to come.

Sam is also the President and Executive Director of the Pantheon Foundation, whose mission is to provide organizational support for the practice of Pagan religion and the fostering of Pagan Ministry. To study the history, promote the culture, and advance the social welfare of Pagans and the Pagan community.

Sam Webster, M. Div., Mage, hails from the Bay Area and has taught magick publicly since 1984. He graduated from Starr King School for the Ministry at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley in 1993. He is now a PhD candidate at the University of Bristol, UK, studying Pagan history under Prof. Ronald Hutton. He is an Adept of the Golden Dawn, a cofounder of the Chthonic-Ouranian Templar order, and an initiate of Wiccan, Druidic, Buddhist, Hindu and Masonic traditions. His work has been published in a number of journals such as Green Egg and Gnosis, and 2010 saw his first book Tantric Thelema, establishing the publishing house Concrescent Press. He authors two blogs, Arkadian Anvil and Pagan Restoration . In 2001 he founded the Open Source Order of the Golden Dawn, and serves the Pagan community principally as a priest of Hermes. - SamWebsterMage.com

The songs featured in this episode were:

“Hunter” by Pandemonaeon
“To The Morrigan” by Sencha the Vate
“Call Me Satan” by Omnia
“Alesia” by Eluveitie
“A Poison Tree” by Finvarra
“Glashtyn Shanty” by SJ Tucker
“Green and Gray” by Damh the Bard
“Pagan Ways” by Damh the Bard

DatC #043 - Modern Witch, Devin Hunter May 21, 2014

Tonight, we have a great candid and honest discussion with Modern Witch Podcast host Devin Hunter. I spoke with Devin back in March about the state of the community. This is one conversation that may turn some heads and incite some feedback. We discuss current issues such as British Traditional Wicca and his issues with it as a gay man, Wiccanate Privilege, the LGBT Pagan community and what it may not be doing, and finally where he thinks the pagan community should be heading in the future. We also get to hear about his up coming projects and his online witchcraft academy starting in June called Black Rose Witchcraft and more, blessed be!

The songs featured in this episode are:

“Fehu” Wardruna
“Soul Journey” by Cernunnos Rising
“Earth Warrior” by Omnia
“Berserker” by Leslie Fish
“Thousandfold” by Eluveitie
“Wild Rose” by Faun
"Snake Star Song" by SJ Tucker
“Waking Panther” by Mama Gina

DatC #042 - Living A Life Of Magic Mar 02, 2014

Hello and thank you once again for joining me Down at the Crossroads where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, Occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your lovable, hug-able host Chris Orapello and tonight, we meet with the loving and enchanting Australian visionary songstress We ndy Rule to discuss her recent escapades and activities, her thoughts on the Pagan community, and her popular online course Living a Life of Magic which will be entering into its third year. All this and more, enjoy!

Renowned Pagan Visionary Songstress Wendy Rule and her partner Timothy Van Diest present an exciting 13 month online journey through the year’s Lunar cycles. Deepen your connection with Self, Nature, Community, and Spirit and discover the unique Magic within you. Together we will create a focused and vibrant community of fellow spiritual journeyers, which will enable us to share our knowledge, exchange ideas, and create lasting connections.

The songs featured in this episode were:

"My Sister the Moon" by Wendy Rule
"The Ash Grove" by Kellianna featuring Wendy Rule
"Black Snake" by Wendy Rule
"A Witches' Brew" by Omnia
"Kelpie - The Cliffs of Moher" by Finvarra
"Bewitched" by Sharon Knight
"The Winnowing" by Swallows
"Glashtyn Shanty" by SJ Tucker
"A Will of its Own" by Wendy Rule

DatC #041 - Pagan Leadership with Shauna Aura Knight Feb 08, 2014

Hello and thank you for joining me Down at the Crossroads where witches gather for the sabbath, offerings are made, pacts are signed for musical fame and we cross paths with today's most influential Pagans, Occultists, and deep thinkers. I am your host with the most Chris Orapello and tonight, we meet with author and teacher Shauna Aura Knight to discuss problems and leadership in the Pagan community and her workshops at this year's PantheaCon. Are you a good leader? Are you sure? Well, regardless, we all can learn something about being better at what we do because being better only helps us and our community to prosper and grow.

"An artist, writer, leader, teacher, event organizer, environmental activist, and spiritual seeker, Shauna travels nationally offering intensive education in the transformative arts of ritual, community leadership, and spiritual growth." - shaunaaura.wordpress.com

The songs featured in this episode were:

“Brighid” by Damh the Bard
“Proof of Life” by Sora
“Book of Shadows” by Ralph Buckley
“Punagra” by Faun
“Moon” by Omnia
“Fire in the Head” by Sharon Knight
“Black Snake” by Wendy Rule
“Stand Up” by Omnia

DatC #040 - Green Wizardry with John Michael Greer Jan 13, 2014

Hello and thank you for joining me Down at the Crossroads where we turn the pagan community on its head to watch it flail about like a beetle on its back.. Tonight, we are joined once again by author and Grand Archdruid of the Ancient Order of Druids in America, John Michael Greer to discuss his new book Green Wizardry: Conservation, Solar Power, Organic Gardening, and other Hands-On Skills from the Appropriate Tech Toolkit and boy do we talk. This is one heavy in your face conversation where we also discuss the Pagan community and where it may be heading. You might be surprised!

The songs featured in this episode were:

“Alesia” by Eluveitie
“Zeitgeist” by Faun
“Creator Destroyer” by Wendy Rule
“Dimna Juda” by Finvarra
“We are Shangri-La” by SJ Tucker
“Free” by Omnia
“It's Not Easy Being Green” by MC Lars
“Greensleeves” by Kellianna
“I don't speak human” by Omnia
“Sons and Daughters of Robin Hood” by Damh the Bard

DatC #039 - Sarah Anne Lawless Nov 17, 2013

Thank you for joining me Down at the Crossroads where we have the conversations that the pagan community needs to have. Because as you know, we are, "Pagan culture for the Seasoned Pagan." Tonight, we meet with beloved occult artist, author, blogger, and witch Sarah Anne Lawless who is known for her artwork and her long-time running blog which can now be found at her website sarahannelawless.com.

A professional artist, writer, and witch, Sarah’s work has been published in various books, magazines, and online in The Cauldron, Hex Magazine, Witches & Pagans, Witchvox, Serpent Songs, and Hoofprints in the Wildwood. She is a carver, painter, and illustrator working in the mediums of bone, wood, ink and paint creating original artwork, talismans, and ritual tools. Sarah is an animist, initiated witch, and wortcunner with a love of otherworldly beauty, folklore, mythology, poisonous plants, wildcrafting, wild places, and bones. - Bio, sarahannelawless.com

Sarah and I discuss her path, the touchy issue of mental illness in the Pagan community, finding a teacher, as well as her recent projects, like her involvement in the Pagan Bundle, and publications like her appearance in Scarlet Imprints latest anthology of witchcraft essays titled "Serpent Song." And along with some great discussion we also get to hear music by Omnia, Sharon Knight and T. Thorn Coyle, Eluveitie, SJ Tucker, and Swallows. Enjoy!

DatC #038 - Sharon Knight Neofolk Romantique Nov 02, 2013

Tonight, we meet with Celtic Folk Rocker Sharon Knight Down at the Crossroads to discuss her new album Neofolk Romantique of which we hear some songs from. Sharon and I even had a great discussion about some Pagan community issues and the development of modern Pagan culture.

San Francisco songstress Sharon Knight is a Celtic folk singer in leather armbands. She plays octave mandolin as if it were an electric guitar and sings as though she means to summon a storm. Her penchant for combining fierce and gutsy bravado with ethereal beauty, a hearty dose of fantastical lyrics, and an obvious love of storytelling has inspired her own musical style, “Neofolk Romantique”. - www.sharonknight.net

And along with hearing some music by Sharon we also get to hear some great songs by Finvarra, Sora, and S.J. Tucker. All this and more in our latest gathering down at the crossroads. Enjoy!

DatC #037 - Black Snake Rules Oct 13, 2013

In this episode, we meet with passionate and empowering, Australian Visionary Songstress Wendy Rule and discuss her upcoming album titled Black Snake as well as exclusively hear several new tracks from it. We also discuss her making of the album and get to hear about her future escapades with recent show guest Kellianna down in Australia where they will be headlining the Australian Goddess Conference as well as touring the country over the next few weeks. Be sure to support Wendy through her Pozible fundraiser and get your copy of her album Black Snake before the official release of it in November. Make your friends jealous. Trust me, it's fun.

Along with hearing some new and some treasured music by Wendy, during the episode we also get to hear songs by Faun, The Familiars, and Kellianna.

DatC #036 - Traditions with Kellianna Sep 29, 2013

We mix tradition and eclecticism with well known and beloved singer, songwriter, and chantress Kellianna and we get to hear some great musical renditions from her recent album titled Traditions which is a collection of Traditional songs featuring duets with Wendy Rule, Jenna Greene, and Kenny Klein. Be sure to also check out her live DVD available on her website.

"Kellianna is an American pagan artist internationally performing song and chant inspired by myth, magic, sacred places and ancient times. With guitar and vocals she brings to life the stories and sagas of the Gods and Goddesses. With Native American frame drum and chant she honors the Earth and the Ancestors via primal drumming and powerful vocals." (Kellianna.com)

Kellianna has appeared as a performer and teacher at the Earth Warriors Festival in Clarksville, Ohio and she will also be appearing at Australian Goddess Conference that will be happening Friday, October 18-20 2013 of which she will then being touring Australia with past show guest Wendy Rule. Some people have all the fun! Enjoy.

Featured Artists:

DatC #035 - The Geek Creation Show with Jeff Mach Sep 13, 2013

In this episode, we get a little nerd-core as we cross paths with the eventful geek, Druid, and Pagan Jeff Mach who is behind such successful east coast gatherings as The Steampunk World's Fair, The Wicked Renaissance Fair, and his latest cultural homage to geekdom with the Geek Creation Show! I learned about Jeff and his work from an interview done by Heather Greene featured on the Wild Hunt Blog. Along with his events, we also discuss the crossover that often exists between geek culture and Paganism and if I could, every download of this episode would come with it's own slice of bacon unless of course you don't eat bacon, in which case I would just recommend that you pass the bacon onto someone who does.

Featured Artists:

DatC #034 - The Wonders of S.J. Tucker Aug 24, 2013

In this episode of Down At The Crossroads, we cross paths with beloved Pixie Pirate Mythpunk Folk Rocker S.J. Tucker to talk about the recent soundtrack she did for the independent film Ember Days as well as discuss her upcoming new album Wonders of which we will be exclusively premiering several songs from in this episode. Since we will be speaking about two separate albums by S.J. all the music featured in the episode is by her and available for purchase through her website. If you live in the Nashville, TN area see her play live on August 31st at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Nashville. Besides being my first time speaking with S.J. Tucker, which I was thrilled about, this is also the first time in the new format where we take the opportunity to discuss and reflect upon the Pagan community and it's great to hear what she had to say about it.

The featured songs include:

"Salad of Doom" from her album, Mischief
"We Were Angels Once (Wake The Fallen)" from the Ember Days Soundtrack
"We Are Shangri-La (Emerald City Mix)" from the Ember Days Soundtrack
"To My Valentine" from her album, Mischief
"Song of the Witches" from her upcoming album, Wonders*
"Wonders" from her upcoming album, Wonders*
"For Iago" from her upcoming album, Wonders*
"Rootless" from the Rootless single

Links:

DatC #033 - Apocalypse Not with John Michael Greer Aug 22, 2013

In this episode of Down At The Crossroads, we cross paths with John Michael Greer who is the Grand Archdruid of the Ancient Order of Druids in America and the author of more than twenty books on a wide range of subjects, including The Long Descent: A User's Guide to the End of the Industrial Age, The Ecotechnic Future: Exploring a Post-Peak World, The Wealth of Nature: Economics As If Survival Mattered, and Apocalypse Not: Everything You Know About 2012, Nostradamus, And The Rapture is Wrong. And if you like what you heard in the interview, be sure to checkout his blog The Archdruid Report today!

Featured Artists:

DatC Podcast Promo Aug 20, 2013

2014 Promo for Down at the CrossroadsHosted by Christopher OrapelloMusic Credits: “Darkness in the Light” by More Human Than Human and “Out of Darkness” by Alain GalarneauWebsite: www.infinite-beyond.com

Podcast Announcement Aug 17, 2013

A formal announcement about the show format change as well as the show name and goal. As of August 2013 The Infinite and the Beyond will become the show Down At The Crossroads. Here is a blurb about it:

Down at the Crossroads features one on one interviews and discussions with today’s most influential Pagan artists, authors, musicians, teachers, leaders, bloggers, podcasters, and more! The conversations are sure to be inspiring, insightful, entertaining, and always engaging. We will attempt to push the community forward and take devil’s advocate to a whole new level. Exploring topics that will turn the Pagan community on its head in an attempt to gain a new perspective on life, all while hearing some great music by today’s greatest Pagan and Pagan inspired musicians and bands. Down at the Crossroads is where today’s Paganism crosses paths with the world!

The formal annoucement for this transition can be found in its entirety on the blog at http://www.infinite-beyond.com/titb-podcasting-announcement/ I look forward to meeting you down at the crossroads! Blessed be!

TI&TB #032 - A Deed Without A Name Jun 16, 2013

In the latest episode of The Infinite and the Beyond, we speak with Australian author and teacher, Lee Morgan about her new book A Deed Without A Name: Unearthing the Legacy of Traditional Witchcraft. Lee identifies as a pagan animist – witch and runs a blog titled My Craft and Sullen Art where she identifies herself as a Traditional Witch, non traditional dichotomy-smasher, line-blurrer, bone-singer, folk-healer, head-bender, and sometimes poet.

We hear some awesome music by Swallows from their latest album, “Witching and Divining.” Swallows is an Americana/rock band from Minneapolis, Minnesota who has recently released their second full-length album, the roots-oriented Witching & Divining. Since its release, Witching & Divining has received strong media support in the Twin Cities and was in rotation on over 160 college and public radio stations throughout the U.S. and Canada, including several weeks of charting in the CMJ and Earshot! top 30 on 15 stations.

In A Corner in the Occult, we learn about Scottish witch Isobel Gowdie who was tried for witchcraft back in the 17th century. One of most of the witchcraft confessions obtained in trials from the past centuries, Isobel Gowdie's, a flaming red haired woman from Auldearn, Scotland, is said to be the most elaborate and compelling and offers a unique look at what Scottish Witchcraft may have been like.

And in The Essence of Magick Series, we consider the values and issues surrounding authenticity. The desire for truth and the concern for authenticity in one's spiritual and religious practice, has a tendency to even filter into one's personal magickal practice. Which begs the question, what does it mean for one's magick to be considered as authentic? Does this issue refer to history and the accuracy of a practice or does it refer to the level of sincerity behind the act? All this an more in this episode of The Infinite and the Beyond. Enjoy!

TI&TB #031 - Financial Sorcery Apr 27, 2013

In the latest episode of The Infinite and the Beyond, we speak with author, teacher, and sorcerer Jason Miller about his work and his new book Financial Sorcery, magical strategies to create real and lasting wealth. In a Corner in the Occult we learn about the often over looked Illustrator of the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot, Pamela Colman Smith. We see who won a copy of Leslie Fish's album “Avalon is Risen” that was featured back in Episode #029. In the Essence of Magick, we learn about “symbols” and what role they play in the work of the magickal practitioner. And as a treat we get to hear some new music by Damh the Bard from his recent album “Antlered Crown and Standing Stone.” - Blessed Be!

Links: Jason Miller, South Jersey Pagan Pride Day, Wicca 101, Good Vibrations, Between the Worlds, Leslie Fish, Behutet Magazine

Featured Artist: Damh the Bard (online store)

Credits: George Wood, Theory in Motion, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin, Music Alley

TI&TB #030 - The Inspiring Wendy Rule Feb 11, 2013

In this episode we speak with Australian visionary songstress Wendy Rule and have a very enjoyable time with her as we discuss her work; her online course Living a Life of Magick; hanging out with the fae; her future album and her current US tour. All while being completely captivated by her music which plays throughout the episode. In A Corner in the Occult, we learn about the controversial, “King of the Witches,” Alex Sanders and in the spirit of creativity we contemplate the ideas surrounding the Awen in The Essence of Magic. All this and more in this haunting and inspiring episode with the lovely Wendy Rule!

Links: Wendy Rule, Living a Life of Magick, PantheaCon, Alex and Maxine Sanders marriage film

Featured Artist: Wendy Rule on CDBaby

Background Music: George Wood, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin

Credits: Music Alley

Episode Script

TI&TB #029 - The Necronomicon Mythos Jan 24, 2013

In this episode we discuss The Necronomicon Mythos with author Donald Tyson who in the last several years has added four significant texts to the magickal legacy and reality of the Necronomicon, with his own copy of “The Necronomicon,” his nozel “Alhazred,” the “Grimoire of the Necronomicon,” and his workbook “The 13 Gates of the Necronomicon” all released by Llewellyn Publications believe it or not? In A Corner in the Occult we learn about the life of beloved weird fiction author H. P. Lovecraft. We explore some fun and heartfelt music by our featured artist Leslie Fish from her album “Avalon Is Risen.” I announce a contest that will conclude in episode #31 so checkout the announcement later in this episode to hear all the details. And In the Essence of Magick, we discuss Magickal Paradigms. All this and more in this installment of The Infinite and the Beyond!

Links: Donald Tyson, PaganFM!, FaerieCon, Between The Worlds Interfaith Conference, Backpacking Through The Universe

Music: George Wood, The SpookShow, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin

Feature Artist: Leslie Fish

TI&TB #028 - O.T.O. / AC 2012 Oct 27, 2012

It's election time! Are you a voter? Are you voting? Well, before you decide, you should explore your options by checking out our interview with Joseph Thiebes about the Ordo Templi Orientis, his Aleister Crowley 2012 presidential campaign, and the ideas regarding authority You just might change your mind!

In A Corner in the Occult we learn about Major Grady Louis McMurtry aka: Hymenaeus Alpha and find out how important he was to the O.T.O. Later in the show we discuss Sympathetic Magick and how it effects our everyday lives as we look into The Essence of Magick. And we get to hear some great music by our featured artist Ralph Buckley. All this and more, enjoy!

Links: Joseph Thiebes, Speech in the Silence, O.T.O., EGC, AC 2012, Life After Service.

Featured Artist: Ralph Buckley.

Background Music: George Wood, Nada Surf, Linda Holzer, Alexander Falcao, Persian Paladin.

Credits: Podsafe Audio, Music Alley.

TI&TB #027 - Free Will, Magick, and Deity Jul 24, 2012

In this episode we explore magick and creativity as we speak with the mysterious electronic music composer Alka who was kind of enough to come on the show and share his music with us which is featured throughout the episode. In A Corner in the Occult we learn about famous, mystic, poet, artist, and engraver William Blake. Highly influential to artists and occultists, Blake has been a focus for scholars since his death as he continues to fascinate and inspire new generations. We learn about the phrase, “So Mote It Be” in the Essence of Magick. Have you ever considered the phrase itself and what exactly it implies as a practitioner of magick? Find out in this episode! Also during the show, I read listener email, we hear a great track by Donna Lewis and to close we revisit the ideas of Free Will, Magick, and Deity. Do you have free will in regards to your personal religious theology? If so, what does this mean in how you view deity? Find out this and more in this electronic episode!

Links: Alka Blog, Hands of Change, William Blake Tarot, Hermetic Library Anthology Vol 1, Music: George Wood, Donna Lewis, Adam Zampino, G, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin Featured Music: Alka, Donna Lewis Free File: So Mote It Be! (mp3) Credits: Music Alley

TI&TB #026 - Gods and Aliens May 15, 2012

In this episode we discuss gods and aliens and the ideas surrounding Ancient Astronaut Theory. Do you believe in extra-terrestrials? Do you think they visited and helped ancient human civilizations? Are you a supporter of Ancient Astronaut Theory? If your answer is a resounding YES, then this episode is not for you, because I take a look into some of the propositions made by Ancient Astronaut Theorists and offer my thoughts on the matter which may not jive with you and your alien putty, but do not worry there is always Stonehenge!

Later in the episode, I discuss the only alien abduction case I have helped with as a paranormal investigator. Hear the details as I share my diagnosis and methods of addressing the issue in my effort to help a friend. In A Corner in the Occult we learn about Lam, Aleister Crowley’s favorite martian, as well as the Typhonian Order which focuses on working and communication with extra-terrestrial entities, The Great Old Ones, as well as some of the darker aspects of metaphysics.

We hear a track from our featured artist and future guest Alka, an electronic music composer who incorporates magick, occultism, and estoric practices and systems into his music making process. We discuss evocation in the Essence of Magick. I read listener email and talk about James Randi. We see which two lucky listeners won copies of Etched Offerings, and to close we ponder the origin of deity. This episode is really out of this world!

Music: George Wood, Guy David, Reflected Illusions, G, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Promos: Lamyka's Wiccan Podcast, The Wigglian Way, Baphmetis Meditation,

Featured Music: Alka, Ash Verjee,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #025 - Magical Identity Mar 17, 2012

In this episode we have a revealing and compelling conversation with occult author Taylor Ellwood about his new book Magical Identity. How can we apply magic in relation to our identity and how does our identity relate to the practice of magick? In A Corner in the Occult, we learn about 20th century Hermetic teacher Franz Bardon. During his unusual life, the three books he published during his life, Initiation into Hermetics, The Practice of Magical Evocation and The Key to the True Qabbalah are said to be a complete course in magick. In The Essence of Magick we discuss magickal names. Found in many traditions and religions of the world, is the practice of taking on a new name. What is the essence of the magical name in relation to magick and the practitioner? Come and explore this topic with us. I also read listener email and have an announcement to make about the future of the podcast. We also have the pleasure of hearing the new song "Sirens" from our featured artist Olga Nunes, whose new album LAMP will be released on May 15th. All this and more in this latest installment of The Infinite and the Beyond!

Links: Eclectic Artisans, Taylor Ellwood, Magical Identity, Immanion Press,

Music: George Wood, Josh Woodward, Kendra Springer, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Olga Nunes,

Promos: Kakophonos, Between the Earth and Stars, The Witches View Podcast,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #024 - Between Oraia and Helene Dec 22, 2011

In this episode we speak with fellow podcaster Oraia Helene from Between the Earth and Stars and talk about her recent changes with her name, doing her shows, how she balances her scientific side with her magickal side, and to close we discuss her work as a writer and podcaster and have a great time while doing it. We also speak with Inanna Gabriel from Misanthrope Press regarding the new pagan story anthology Etched Offerings Voices from the Cauldron of Story. In A Corner in the Occult, we learn about Scientist, Thelemite and 20th century Occultist Jack Parsons who, interestingly enough, has a crater on the moon named after him. Listen and found out why! And later in the show we discuss the Powers of the Sphinx in The Essence of Magick. To know, to dare, to will, to keep silent, and to go are crucial to the developing student of mysticism. Also in the episode we feature a great song from the Philadelphia band Espers an emerging indie band and we close the show with a special musical holiday treat from SCHOLAR the occultist and rapper. All this and more in this delightful episode!

Links: Garden State Pagan Alliance, Temple of the Earth and Stars, Misanthrope Press, Title Goes Here:, Inanna Gabriel, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, More Human Than Human , Ramon Goose, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Promos: Between the Earth and Stars, Baphmetis Meditation,

Featured Music: Espers, SCHOLAR,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #023 - The Kybalion with Philip Deslippe Oct 29, 2011

In this episode we look into the history of The Kybalion with author Philip Deslippe, who wrote the extensive introduction for the newly released book The Kybalion, The Definitive Edition. Seemingly shrouded in mystery, The Kybalion has been a popular text for the last one hundred years that and has been a big influence in many people’s lives. In the early episodes of this podcast we went through The Kybalion and the seven hermetic laws that it discusses. In our conversation with Philip Deslippe we learn about some of his recent findings in regards to the text and its author William Walker Atkinson and we wrap up our discussion with Atkinson’s lost book The Seven Cosmic Laws just now appearing in print. In A Corner in the Occult we look into famous American occultist, Tarot expert, and author Paul Foster Case. Not only was Case an initiate of the famous Alpha et Omega and even a Freemason, but he was also the founder of the Builders of the Adytum an Order following in the tradition of the Western Esoteric Tradition which still exists to this day. Later in the show we discuss the magickal altar in The Essence of Magick, read some listener email and embrace some wonderful music by featured artist Jasmine Commerce. All this and more in this great informative episode!

Backround Music - George Wood, Fakesensations, Linda Holzer, Alexandre Falcao, Persian Paladin,

Feature Musical Artist - Jasmine Commerce,

Links - Philip Deslippe, The Kybalion The Definitive Edition, South Jersey Pagan Pride, The Witches' Ball, Haunted Halloween Weekend with Al Rauber, Builders of the Adytum, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Promos - Lamyka's WIccan Podcast, Pennies in the Well, Media Astra Ac Terra,

Credits - Podsafe Audio, Music Alley,

Show Script

TI&TB #022 - Life and Living Sep 24, 2011

In this episode we talk about late Llewellyn author Scott Cunningham in A Corner in the Occult. Many Pagans and or Wiccans often find Scott’s books on their journey as Pagans. Many find his books on magick and religion uplifting and at times pertinent to their growing views on life and existence. We also look into the idea of human flourishing and happiness and how to create it in one’s life. Are you happy? Are you flourishing? How would you define and list your values and virtues? Would you say that they are serving you and your life beneficially? Learn about virtue and Eudaimonia and how your life lives up to the teachings of Aristotle and other philosophers. See how some of the new virtue systems found in modern Paganism stand in comparison to a tried and true system which comes from Plato as we find an elementary way to update it for modern use. Later in the show, I read listener email and we look at the history of the five elements in The Essence of Magick. Find out where the five elements of western occultism come from and how they came to be used in ritual magick. And to close we discuss suicide, assisted suicide and how they exist in relation to Paganism. Have you ever had someone in your life kill themselves? Have you ever known someone who died of a terminal, debilitating, and/or painful illness? How do the issues associated with suicide and assisted suicide relate to Paganism?

Links: Pagan Values Blogging Month, South Jersey Pagan Pride Day, Atlantic University, AU Parapsychology & Consciousness Conference Brochure, Akasha Temple Live, Haunted Halloween Weekend with Al Rauber, Hotel Macomber, Divine Community, Your Life Your Voice Hotline, American Association of Suicidology, American Federation for Suicide Prevention, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education, World Health Organization, ,Title Goes Here:, Misanthrope Press, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Working Girls, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, The Joy of Living, Persian Paladin,

Promos: Druidcast,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #021 - Conspiracies and World Peace Jun 26, 2011

In this episode we look into the popular issues with conspiracy theories and uncover the truth behind what they are. Is the government really spying us? Do conspiracy theories actually reveal anything significant or is there something deeper and more personal behind their existence in the world? In A Corner in the Occult we visit early 20th century Germany and discuss the Nazis and the issues pertaining to their possible involvement with occultism. Many people like to attribute their rise to power and the events pertaining to the Second World War to their involvement in the occult arts and even demonic influence. We also read some listener email and in The Essence of Magick we talk about visualization and astral projection. Learn why visualization is so important to the magickal arts and learn how to astral project in this episode's installment of this great and informative series! And to close, we finish the episode with a look into the ever present concern and pursuit for world peace. Take a new perspective on issues surrounding world peace and why it may not be the easiest thing to accomplish after all despite what some people say.

Links: Pagan Values Blogject, South Jersey Pagan Pride, Nazis: The Occult Conspiracy, College Humor Originals: Nazi Zombies, Dead Snow Trailer, Outpost Trailer, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Stereophonic Space Sound Unlimited, Kevin Wood, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Promos: Pennies in the Well, Magick and Mundane, The Witches View Podcast, Media Astra Ac Terra,

Featured Music: Grace Buford,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #020 - Reiki, Yoga, and Wellness Apr 12, 2011

In this episode we go on location to talk about Reiki and Yoga with Janet Watkins from Live in Joy Yoga and Wellness in Audubon, NJ. Janet shares with us some of her experiences and insights as a registered Yoga instructor and Reiki Master. We learn about Russian healer, prophet, and monk Grigori Rasputin in A Corner in the Occult. Rasputin was the adviser to the Russian royal family during the turn of the 20th century which was an unusual position of power for someone who wasn’t born of Russian Nobility and it would be this position that would eventually lead to his elaborate and trial some death in 1916. He is often argued by some to have contributed greatly to the fall of the Romanov Dynasty in 1917, which was the last dynasty to rule over Russian. We speak with local musician Robin Renee who describes herself as being a Mantra-Pop recording artist, a wayward poet, an obsessive fangirl, and writes from the intersection of music, eros, and the Divine. We also feature several of her songs in during the show, discuss the ideas surrounding energy in The Essence of Magick, read some listener email, listen to some great music, and have joyful and insightful time doing it.

Links: Live in Joy Yoga and Wellness, International Pagan Coming Out Day, Pagan Podkin Super Moot 2011, Peter Dybing, Pagan Japan Relief Project, The Dream Between, Coffee-Works (VTC), Title Goes Here:, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Robin Renee, The-Watcher, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Amy Rigby, Robin Renee,

Promos: Pennies in the Well, Borealis Meditation,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #019 - Dissecting Wicca Feb 13, 2011

In this episode we dissect and learn about the contemporary pagan religion known of as Wicca. We speculate about some of its primary roots and influences and go into more depth than most books on subject ever seem to go. Find out what makes Wicca what it is and what makes a Wiccan a Wiccan in this break down of the religion of Wicca. We learn about Doreen Valiente in this episode's edition of A Corner in the Occult. The famed Mother of Modern Witchcraft played a crucial role in the existence and development of Wicca throughout the entirety of the twentieth century. Doreen was one of Gerald Gardner's early High Priestesses and later authored of several well respected texts on witchcraft and became the Patron of the Center for Pagan Studies in 1995. In the Essence of Magick we look into the idea, practice, and significance of ritual initiation and the role it plays in groups and in religions such as Wicca. We even discuss the idea behind the popular modern Wiccan practice of self-initiation and looking into the reality and practicality of such a ceremony. I also read some listener messages and to close we discuss advanced Wicca and ways in which one can enrich their religious experience.

Links: Doreen Valiente, Pagan Federation, Pantheon Blog: Wicca Series, Title Goes Here:, Misanthrope Press, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Juliana Hatfield, Lindie Lila, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Promos: New World Witchery, The Scotchcast, Media Astra Ac Terra, Pagan FM!, The Wigglian Way, Pagan Centered Podcast

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #018 - Low Magick Dec 21, 2010

In the latest episode of The Infinite and the Beyond, we welcome back author Lon Milo DuQuette and talk about the rerelease of his Tarot of Ceremonial Magick and his new book Low Magick: It’s all in your head… You just have no idea how big your head is and we touch upon some of what he mentions in it; like his discomfort with the ideas of low and high magick, his concept of The Great G, pop goes Ganesha, and the celebrating of Christmas as a non-Christian.

We discuss my appearance on Beyond the Threshold with Gary Blackheart that occurred back in November. Gary took me beyond the threshold and we discussed some touchy and often difficult issues that I have mentioned in the past on this podcast. I elaborate on my crisis of faith and come to some refreshing conclusions.

In A Corner in the Occult we learn about The Book of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage and ceremonial goal of one attaining Knowledge and Conversation with their Holy Guardian Angel. The most familiar edition of the book was translated in 1900 by Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers for incorporation into the curriculum of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. The book reveals a ritual procedure that becomes a pinnacle goal for ceremonial magickians of the western esoteric tradition.

Later we talk about “words of power” in the Essence of Magick series and look into language, words, and meaning as well as the roles they play in magick and ritual. I also read listener email and we have a good time as always! All this and more!

Links: Lon Milo DuQuette, Email Lon, Tarot of Ceremonial Magick, Thelesis Aura, Beyond the Threshold, Tenacity Radio, The Juggler, Pagan Newswire Collective, Rikki LaCoste, Rikki Come Home Video, Title Goes Here:, Misanthrope Press, ChrisOrapello.com, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Guy David, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Louis Armstong and the Commanders,

Promos: Media Astra Ac Terra, Beyond the Threshold, Kakophonos, Pagan FM, Lakefront Pagan Voice,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #017 - Ghosts and Loyd Auerbach Nov 08, 2010

In the latest episode of The Infinite and the Beyond, we speak to Parapsychologist Loyd Auerbach about his experiences as a paranormal investigator. Loyd runs the Office of Paranormal Investigations out in California and has been consulted and featured on many shows dealing with hauntings and the paranormal. Loyd talks to us about being a parapsychologist, ghosts, educational opportunities, investigating, and we even discuss some of the current television shows that depict paranormal investigation. I share some of my own personal ghost stories, one of which occurred when I was very young and the other when I was much older. My interest in the paranormal started from this very early experience as a child; while the other experience taught me that you never know when you're being watched and by whom. We learn about famous escape artist and medium debunker Harry Houdini in A Corner in the Occult. Can you untie knots with your toes? Houdini could! Learn about this famous magician, his battle with the spiritualist movement during the early 20th century and why he is spotlighted in this episode's edition of A Corner in the Occult. Also in the episode, I read listener email. We see which listener won a copy of Jeva Singh-Anand’s book Bed Time Stories for the Faint of Heart. And in The Essence of Magick Series we discuss the ideas behind magickal intent and learn about what makes it up and how much it applies to greater scope of one's existence and not exclusively to the practice of magick. This is a real fun episode. I hope enjoy it!

Links: Loyd Auerbach, Tenacity Radio, Title Goes Here:, Misanthrope Press, ChrisOrapello.com, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Ludovico Einaudi, ASCIAN, Jim Butler, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Guy David, Ray Parker Jr., Persian Paladin,

Promos: A Pagan Heart in Maine, Beyond the Threshold, Kakophonos, Media Astra Ac Terra, Pagan FM!,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #016 - A Crisis of Faith Sep 26, 2010

In this episode we talk with fellow podcaster and author Jeva Singh-Anand about his new book Bedtime Stories for the Faint of Heart. Jeva is the host of the Lance and Graal podcast and Professor Zarnoff’s Channel on YouTube. We also discuss his background as a former Christian Fundamentalist and what happened to cause him to move away from it. I go back to lodge after a year of staying away from it and I share my experiences about that return. We learn about 16th century heresy in this episode’s edition of A Corner in the Occult as we learn about Father Giordano Bruno. I read a single listener message to a nostalgic pagan podcaster music track. I also announce a contest for this episode. We start The Essence of Magick Series by looking into “Belief and Magick.” How much does belief really play into the practice and effect of magick and how does one apply their will to their magick and how do such acts differ from mundane acts which may be of a similar context and nature. We hear a great music track from Tenpenny Joke an Alternative Australian band who may not be a pagan band, but who absolutely rocks none-the-less and we are glad to have them in this episode! To close the show we look into crises of faith, what they are, and why they’re actually beneficial for one’s spiritual growth and a positive sign of one’s dedication to their path. All this and more in this great episode, Blessed Be and 93!

Links: Lance and Graal, Professor Zarnoff, Black Hat Press, Giordano Bruno, MeatCrab.com, Starsend Radio, WXPN Philadelphia, The Gatherings, Title Goes Here:, Misanthropress, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, George Winston, Vince Guaraldi, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Persian Paladin,

Promos: Media Astra Ac Terra, Druid Cast, Kakophonos, Standing Stone Garden Gate,

Featured Music: Tenpenny Joke, XTC, REM

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #015 - Ergo, the Ego Aug 08, 2010

If you hadn’t guessed, in this episode we discuss the Ego, ergo the name of this episode, and we discuss these issues with famous occult author and musician Lon Milo DuQuette along with his forth coming book on Low Magick: It's All In Your Head ... You Just Have No Idea How Big Your Head Is. We wrap up our journey through the Kybalion. I announce a new show segment series for the podast. I read listener email. We learn about Henri Cornelius Agrippa in A Corner in the Occult. We go on location is Eastern Pennsylvania to learn about some of the local wildlife. We find out which lucky listener won a copy of Dr. Dean Radin’s book Entangled Minds. And we have a great time doing it!

Links: Lon Milo DuQuette, MagiQuest, Funplex, Quantum Entanglement and DNA, Sweet Babalon (Video), White Album (CD), Low Magick (New Book), Title Goes Here:, Misanthrope Press, ChrisOrapello.com, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Carly Simon, Blackmore's Night, Los Lobos, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Guy David, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Lon Milo DuQuette,

Promos: Kakophonos, Pennies in the Well, Media Astra Ac Terra, Druid Cast, Witchery of One, Lance and Graal,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #014 - Magick with Dr. Dean Radin Jun 26, 2010

In this episode we learn about the legendary French alchemist Nicolas Flamel in A Corner in the Occult. I read some of the listener messages that I received since the last episode. We talk with author and parapsychologist Dr. Dean Radin, senior scientist at The Institute of Noetic Sciences and author of Entangled Minds, Extrasensory experiences in a Quantum Reality. During the course of the interview we talk about the Global Consciousness Project, discuss his experiences as a research scientist and finally how his findings relate to the art and practice of magick. I also announced a contest which will occur in the next episode so be sure to enter if you are interested in participating. All this and more in this great episode, blessed be and 93!

Links: Dean Radin, Entangled Minds: Dean Radin's Blog, Global Consciousness Project, Jonathan Goodman, Global Brain Painting, Institute of Noetic Sciences, IONS: PSI Games, The Alchemy Website, Jungian Podcast, Title Goes Here:, ChrisOrapello.com, Proud Pagan Podcasters,

Music: George Wood, Al Petteway, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Ted Tunes, Persian Paladin,

Promos: Pennies in the Well, :Media Astra Ac Terra, Kakophonos,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #013 - A Little Bit of Bohemia May 26, 2010

We look into Bohemianism and its similarities to modern paganism. We discuss absinthe the famous mythic bohemian drink, along with its brief history, how to prepare it, enjoy it, and how to buy it. We learn about famous author, psychic, medium, and magickian Dion Fortune in A Corner in the Occult. We explore the Principle of Gender in our journey through the Kybalion. We memorialize the recent passing of Peter Steele from the band Type O Negative and we hear a song from them as well. We read some of the listener email that has come in since the last episode. We play some great music and see which two lucky listeners will win copies of Stacey Fitzpatrick’s album Forever More. To close we talk about Gender and Deity and look into the issues that they reveal about modern paganism. And more in this fun episode!

Links: The Wormwood Society, Philadelphia Distilling Company, Delaware Phoenix, Pacific Distillery, St. George Spirits, Gnostalgic Spirits, Ltd., The Absinthe Museum, The Society of Inner Light, Stacey Fitzpatrick, Title Goes Here:, ChrisOrapello.com, Disinformation,

Music: George Wood, Jefferson Airplane, Guy David, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Ted Tunes, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Stacey Fitzpatrick, Type O Negative, Jerfferson Airplane, Iron Butterfly,

Promos:Media Astra Ac Terra, WitchesBrewHaHa, New World Witchery, Standing Stone and Garden Gate,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #012 - The Goddess and the Grail Apr 02, 2010

We bring Pagan Pride Day into the studio as we learn about bloodlines, genetics, and the Goddess and the Grail with local Foundation teacher Ken Neuhauser. In A Corner in the Occult we learn about Madame Helena Blavatsky and the Theosophical Society. I play a song I’ve been wanting to play since the beginning of the podcast as well as more music by singer songwriter Stacey Fitzpatrick whom we met in the previous episode. And later in the show we find out which two lucky winners win the first two copies of Stacey Fitzpatrick’s album Forever More. All this and more in this informative and fun episode!

Lecture Bibliography:

The Nag Hammadi Library,
Rosslyn- Guardian Of The Secrets Of The Holy Grail by Tim and Marilyn Hopkins Wallace-Murphy,
The Secret Tradition in Arthurian Legend by Gareth Knight,
Holy Blood, Holy Grail by Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh, and Henry Lincoln

Links: Stacey Fitzpatrick, Foundation Capstone, Ken Neuhauser, White Dog Cafe, Theosophical Society in America, Title Goes Here:, ChrisOrapello.com,

Music: George Wood, Melissa Cox, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Ted Tunes, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Stacey Fitzpatrick, The Sword,

Show Libray: Isis Unveiled (pdf), Kabalah and Kabalism (pdf), Studies in Occultism (pdf), The Secret Doctrine (pdf),

Promos: Moonshine,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #011 - Coincidence and Synchronicity Mar 15, 2010

In this coincidental episode we explore the Principle of Cause and Effect as we continue with our journey through The Kybalion. We talk with South Jersey singer songwriter Stacey Fitzpatrick and I play some of her music during the episode. In A Corner in the Occult we learn about influential Swiss Psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung and his ideas of the Archetype, the Collective Unconscious, and Synchronicity. I read listener email. We find out who won the resin pentacle wall plaque from Episode 10 and I announce the music CD contest for episode 12! We talk with local High Priest PanOrpheus about divination and his upcoming workshop at the Ecumenicon Interfaith Conference occurring at the end of March in Potomac, Maryland. To close, I try and make sense of all this crazy stuff. Enjoy!

Links: Stacey Fitzpatrick, PanOrpheus, Ecumenicon Interfaith Conference, Thanissaro Bhikku, Audio Dharma,

Music: George Wood, Maserati, Ann Sweeten, Guy David, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Ted Tunes, Persian Paladin,

Featured Music: Stacey Fitzpatrick, The White Stripes,

Promos: A Pagan Heart in Maine, Celtic Myth Podshow, The Mystic Mind Podcast, Standing Stone and Garden Gate, Lakefront Pagan Voice, Media Astra Ac Terra, Geek Witch,

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network,

TI&TB #010 - Death and Necromancy Jan 23, 2010

In this extra long landmark episode we talk about death, the greatest rite of passage of them all by addressing its meaning and reality as well as how it affects the meaning of life. We talk to Ray Sette about being a Psychic Astrologer. We learn about Dr. John Dee, Sir Edward Kelley, and Enochian Magic in A Corner in the Occult. I read listener email. We find out which two lucky listeners won the goathead wall plaques from Episode #008. I share some personal stories regarding my experiences with death and medical cadavers. And to close we discuss Necromancy and Electronic Voice Phenomena.

Links: Ray Sette Psychic Astrologer, Association TransCommunication, Krampus, Mid-Atlantic Paranormal Research, American Express Commerical

Music: George Wood, Blue Oyster Cult, ASCIAN, Dragon Ritual Drummers, All India Radio, Guy David, Alexandre Falcao, Linda Holzer, Ted Tunes, Persian Paladin

Featured Music: Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Portishead

Promos: Inciting A Riot, Lance and Graal, Witchery of One, Spiritscast

Credits: PodsafeAudio, Podsafe Music Network