Gifts of the Wyrd

98 Gifts of the Wyrd: Tania Yager: Allure of the Dark Spirits

You know Dasher, and Dancer, and Prancer, and Vixen. 

Santa, and Frosty, and Rudolph, and Dickens. 

But do you know? The Alluring Dark Spirits of old?

 

In this episode, you can meet three of the Dark Spirits of the Christmas with my guest Tania Yager. Tania is the author of the book The Allure of the Dark Spirits (which will be available Dec. 5, 2025 on Lulu).

We talk about the process of getting the book written and about the three topics of the book: Krampus, La Befana, and the Mari Lwyd.

The book "is a whimsical, bombastic, and deeply heartfelt journey into the shadowy magic of winter folklore. Part memoir, part shamanic exploration, and part folklore celebration, Yager invites readers to walk beside her as she meets the Alpine Krampus in the snowy streets of Munich, seeks out the Italian witch La Befana, and revisits her own bittersweet ties to Wales through the ghostly Mari Lwyd."

We had a great discussion (one of the longer I've done) talking about her journey and about the spirits. 

The book will be available for order on Dec. 5, 2025 (Krampusnacht) in time for the holiday season. A gift for yourself and that special friend in your life who also enjoys the spirits of winter. 

This is a longer episode, so here is a bit of a show flow:

• 0:00:00 Introduction and background of Tania and developing the book
• 0:35:28 Frau Perchta/Frau Holle
• 0:47:33 Krampus
• 1:02:00 La Befana
• 1:11:20 Mari Lwyd - Mari Beast
• 1:37:56 New Projects, closing

 

Yager is a multifaceted visual/ performance artist, writer, holistic educator, and shamanic practitioner. She has dedicated her life to the art of storytelling in all forms and strives to put the education at the forefront of her work. She is the creative director of Twisted Heart Puppetworks and founder of The Wild Hunt of Vista Krampus Run and The Dark X-mas Market of Vista. Through her works, she aims to inspire others to explore folklore, fantasy, myth and magic. 

Order the book beginning Dec. 5, 2025 on Lulu. Find the link at The Wild Hunt of Vista.com

Check out the Dark X-mas Market in Vista California on Dec .13 2025. 

Follow Tania on IG & FB: @twistedheartpuppetworks  and IG: @wildhuntersvista

The Dark Market on IG & FB: @thedarkxmasmarket 

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Subscribe to Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmas Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by the publisher. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: The Night Before Christmas.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

 

97 Gifts of the Wyrd: Ancestral Whispers, Ben Stimpson

 

Building Your Living Ancestral Practice with Ben Stimpson

In this episode of Gifts of the Wyrd, we hear from author Ben Stimpson about his book Ancestral Whispers, published by Llewellyn Books. We explore what it means to build a living ancestral veneration practice—from understaning who our ancestors are, to creating space, crafting offerings, communication, and redefining our releationships with them.

Ben shares insights from the book, personal experiences, and practical approaches for those who want to deepen their relationship with their ancestors. Whether you are new to ancestor work or have done it for a while, this book offers good information for developing or adapting meaningful ancestor work that is right for you - and them. 

Connect with Ben through his website: BenStimpson.com
Social Media: @BenStimpsonAuthor on Instagram, Facebook, Blue Sky, and YouTube.  Patreon @BenStimpson

Ancestral Whispers: A Guide to Building Ancestral Veneration Practices is available at your local bookstore (ask to order if not in stock), the Llewellyn website, or your preferred online retailer.

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Subscribe to Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmas Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by the publisher. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: JPOP.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

96 Gifts of the Wyrd: Wicked Strange with Jeff Belanger

Some stories just never let go — they linger like whispers in the wind or shadows cast by campfires.

This episode, I’m joined by Jeff Belanger to talk about his newest book, Wicked Strange, (with photography by Frank Grace). Wicked Strange shares the ghostly lore and mysterious legends that are part of New England’s history — tales of haunted hotels, mysterious cemeteries, and the places where folklore and fact blur together.

Whether you love an eerie ghost story, a touch of folklore, or just want a beautifully photographed book to get lost in, Wicked Strange has it all.

Join us as we dig into why strange tales endure — and what they reveal about the people who tell them.

Jeff Belanger is an author, podcaster, storyteller, adventurer, and explorer of the unexplained.

You may remember chatting with Jeff back in episode 86 about Krampus and other Yuletide beings of Christmas time with his book The Fright Before Christmas. 

You can also watch the New England Legends PBS series on PBS rebroadcasts or Amazon Prime. The New England Legends podcast is available on podcast apps and Spotify. 

Have a look at Jeff's website for the Haunted New England Calendar, appearance schedule, and more at: Jeff Belanger.com

 Wicked Strange is published by Weiser Books and available from their website, local bookstores, and online book sellers. 

See my write up about the book on Substack and please subscribe for future notifications.

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Subscribe to Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmas Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by the publisher. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Dancing Skeletons. Outro: Ghost Stories.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

95 Gifts of the Wyrd: Celtic Hedge Witchery with Joey Morris

Joey Morris, author of Celtic Hedge Witchery—A Modern Approach, offers insight and inspiration for anyone seeking to deepen their practice of Celtic spirituality in modern times.

We explore hedge witchcraft as a path of connection with the land, spirits, and Celtic deities, including the Morrigan, trees and plant allies, and the ancient wisdom of the Three Cauldrons.

There is so much more than we can discuss in such a short time, so be sure to pick up her book to expand on topics brought up, meditations, spells, rituals, and more. 

She has also designed the Celtic Goddess Calling Planner to introduce you to 12 Celtic Goddesses as well as rituals, invocations, and spells. The planner and more about Joey’s work, contact info, and socials, are available on her website, Starry Eyed Supplies.

Celtic Hedge Witchery—A Modern Approach is published by Weiser Books and available through their website, Joey’s website, local bookstores, and online booksellers.

See my write up about the book on Substack and please subscribe for future notifications.

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Subscribe to Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmas Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by the publisher. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: JPOP.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

94 Gifts of the Wyrd: Enfys Book - Queer Rites

A great topic this episode discussing milestones for Queer folks and how we can celebrate and recognize them in our pagan practices. 

Enfys Book takes time to speak about their book developed from their own personal journey and the experiences of others for creating ritual for important life experiences for those in the LGBTQIA+ community. 

Whether just starting on your journey or you have gone through many of these milestones already, this book will help to recognize and claim those important occasions in our lives in meaningful and powerful ways. 

Discover rituals for identity, names, pronouns, drag persona, experiencing transition, building relationships and chosen family, and so much more. 

The book is dedictated "to everyone who is trying to be their most authentic, fabulous self." 

Enfys Book (they/them) is an author, priestx, blogger, teacher, performer, singer, songwriter, and comedian. They have taught many classes on tarot, Hermetic Qabala, magickal rites of passage, and queering one’s magical practice at conferences and events around the world. Their other books include Queer Qabala, and co-author (with Ivo Dominguez, Jr.) of Sagittarius Witch.

Find them on their website Major Arqueerna, Mastadon, and YouTube.

Queer Rites is available from Llewllyn Books, at your local bookstore, or e-commerce site. 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow me on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by the publisher. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro and Stinger: JPOP.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

93 Gifts of the Wyrd: Enchanted Plants with Varla Ventura

Varla Ventura, author of Enchanted Plants: A Treasury of Botanical Folklore & Magic, joins me this episode to talk about .... yes, plants.  

Varla is the author of several books about the enchanted realms.  She is a long time lover of plants and their magical connection between the physical realm and that of the beyond.  

I can't write this any better, so borrowing it directly from Weiser's write up for her to interest you in her book: 

"From fairy tales to your garden, Enchanted Plants is an illustrated treasure trove of the lore and magic in the kingdom of plants. Take a walk through mystical, magical, and folkloric gardens and discover the plants and flowers that have captured our hearts and minds for centuries. From the baneful bog to the garden gate, plant lover and lover of the bizarre Varla Ventura brings together forgotten lore of plants for the ultimate romp through a botanical wonderland, including excerpts from fairy tales and a lively discussion of each plant’s legendary magical and medicinal properties."

And I agree. This is a stunning book with beautiful illustrations and wonderful descriptions of plants and folklore to accompany them that Varla has carefully researched and worked with specifically for this book. 

Have a listen to the episode and pick up the book to visit the enchanted gardens and find a plant for you.

Varla's website is here: https://www.varlaventura.net/

on Instagram at: @varlaventura

Order the book from your local book resource, Weiser Publications, an online bookseller, or borrow from your library.  

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow me on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro and Stinger: JPOP.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

92 Gifts of the Wyrd: Call of the Morrigan Oracle Deck

Have you felt the call of the Great Queen but thought She was unapproachable, dark, or focused on war/warrior?The Call of the Morigan Oracle Deck may be able to help you decipher those messages and find your place in working with the Morrigan.

Joining me to talk about the creative process of the deck are authors Stphanie Woodfield and Karen Storminger and artist Naomi Cornock. 

The Morrigan is more than the Celtic goddess of war, she inspires and impacts her followers to their power and fullness of life. 

Complete with folklore, spells, rituals, and prose, the deck and guidebook are more than a tool for divination, they are a magical tool of transformation and connection to the land on which you live, the inner being, and the spirit realms. 

Stephanie, Karen, and Naomi are all priestesses of the Morrigan who worked closely together with meditation and devotional work to bring this project into being. 

They share their work with the Morrigan, how they came together, and how the Morrigan spoke to each of them to keep them connected throughout the process. 

The deck is available from Llewellyn Publishing, local bookstores, and online sellers.

For review about the deck, see my post on Substack and follow.  

 Stephanie Woodfield (Orlando, FL) is a devotional polytheist, teacher, and Priestess of the Morrigan. She is also a founding member of Morrigu’s Daughters. StephanieWoodfield.com

Karen Storminger (Shelton, CT) has been a practicing polytheist Pagan who works with the Morrigan, Hecate, Brigid, and the Cailleach. She is also the coauthor of Prayers to the Morrigan. TheCrowAndTheDragonfly.wordpress.com

Naomi Cornock (West Country England) is a Pagan artist whose work is an extension of her animist beliefs, reflecting her connection to nature and her ancestors. NomeArt.com

 

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow me on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by Llewellyn Publishing. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Music. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro and Stinger: JPOP.  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

91 Gifts of the Wyrd: Jennifer Cooper Steidley - Tarot Disassembled

Do you take things apart to see how they work? Do you wonder what the symbols on a tarot deck mean? The Tarot Disassembled deck and book by Jennifer Cooper Steidley, helps you do both!

And she joins me to talk about the deck and how the idea to deconstruct the images of tarot to go behind the scenes of what we usually see on a card for deeper meanings and inspiration. 

Whether starting your journey on tarot or a seasoned reader, this deck has something for everyone. "It's such a multi-layerd system, that there is so many different ways and depths you can get into to read. And this is one little offshoot."

The book and deck are sold separately and available from Weiser Books website, your local book shop, or online book seller. The indie version is still available on her website/ Etsy shop.

Jennifer Cooper Steidley is a graphic designer by day and a tarot deck collector, creator, and enthusiast at all other times. Also available from Jennifer are the Tarot Assembled and Symdala Tarot. See her website for more about her and to order. Instagram @jennifercoopersteidley

Jennifer will teaching about using symbols in tarot as part of the Tarot Summer School 2025 on July 21 presented by the Tarot Readers Academy. 

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow me on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle 

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: Feeling the Best. and Stinger: Happy Feet.  Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

90 Gifts of the Wyrd: Davezilla - Magical AI Grimoire

In this episode, I’m joined by Davezilla, graphic artist and author of Magical AI Grimoire, to talk about working with current technology for our sacred work. As technology rapidly advances, it opens up a lot of questions on how it can be legitimately implemented in our practice and daily lives, should we implement (or how much), and what are some of the results?

In this book, Davezilla presents ways to use AI technology for ritual work in similar ways of using other programs like search engines, social media platforms, computer assisted art and writing, etc.  He explains how to craft questions to prompt results (promptcrafting) to spark your own creativity and spiritual practice for today’s tech-witches/tech-pagans.

There are spells and rituals for a variety of topics crafted for different traditions that can be readily used, adapted, or used to inspire your own promptcrafting experience. 

The book is available from Red Wheel/Weiser directly, your local bookshop, or online bookseller.

Find more about Davezilla’s works and links at www.hexsupport.club and follow him on Social Media: Instagram, Bluesky, and Threads at @davezillamedia

 

Check out Davezilla’s tarot deck: Tarot of the Unexplained (also from Weiser Books)

 

 

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channels on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: Feeling the Best. and Stinger: 8-bit Surf.  Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

89 Gifts of the Wyrd: Christian Brunner - Alpine Witchery

Christian Brunner joins me to talk about his book Alpine Witchery. Christian has researched the accounts of hundreds of witch trials which took place in his native Austrian Alps. 

The accounts record the spells men and women were accused of conducting which he has carefully categorized with their elements and ingredients. 

This is not a grimoire per se, but does allow for those intersted to see how these folk traditions might be adapted and used today. 

Christian shares his connection to the material as well as his process for translating these for this project. 

Alpine Witchery is available at Llewellyn, from your local bookshop (ask them to order if not in stock), or online seller.  

You can find Christian on Facebook, Instagram, and at his website Christianbrunner.com. 

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channels on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/

Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

This product was sent to me by Llewellyn Publishing. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: Feeling the Best. and Stinger: The Way Things Used to Work.  Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

 

 

88 Gifts of the Wyrd: Wendy Miller -Atomic Cat Tarot

Are you a fan of Mid-Century Modern, Atomic Style design, cats, and tarot?  Then this is the deck for you!

I discovered this deck last year and picked up an early copy as a Yule gift for my husband.  Now Atomic Cat Tarot creator Wendy Miller has launched it on Kickstarter to be able to publish more decks and have it available in the tarot world. 

Wendy joins me on this episode to talk about the deck, the process leading into it, the art, and more.  It is a fun conversation with someone who loves cats, tarot, and Atomic style. 

Get your Jetsons fix for your readings and fun art. What is your favorite card and cat?

The Atomic Cat Tarot is now live on Kickstarter through mid-June 2025.  It's fully backed and delivery is expected in early autumn (in time for Christmas/Yule - so get a copy for a friend). You can see all the cards on the Kickstarter page. 

Wendy will also be supporting a couple of cat charities with proceeds from the project. 

Find Wendy on Instagram and Facebook: @cardtobelieve and see more of her decks and projects on her website: Card to Believe. 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channels on Substack: https://giftsofthewyrd.substack.com/ , Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 , Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro and Stinger: Lounge Bossa.  Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

87 Gifts of the Wyrd: Judika Illes - Witches: A Compendium

What is a witch? How have they been a part of history, pop culture, and in everyday life from history to today? Find out in the revised Witches: A Compendium by Judika Illes from Weiser books. 

Witches introduces you to a range of witches and how they have interacted with, impacted, and influenced society through the ages.  Included are witches of history such as Marie Laveau, Tituba, Merlin, and the Countess Erzsebent Bathory to modern practitioners; divine witches; and witches of literature and cinema (TV and film) such as Samantha Stephens and Endora, Elphaba and Glinda, and the Sanderson Sisters.

Also included are tools for a modern witch, travel tips, animals associated with witches and more.  This is a great handbook to learn about a variety of witches as well as eplore the question yourself: "Am I a witch?"

Pick up a copy from you favorite bookstore (or ask them to order it for you) or from Weiser Books. 

Check out Judika's other works and upcoming oracle deck: Protection Spells (due in May 2025). Follow Judika on Instagram at: @judikailles   and Weiser Books at: @weiserbooks

 

 

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Land of 8 Bits. Outro: Feeling the Best. Stinger: Mastermind.  Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

86 Gifts of the Wyrd: The Fright Before Christmas with Jeff Belanger

>Thump< >Thump<  

Is that the sound of reindeer hooves on the rooftop?  A knock at the door for a surprise appearance from Santa Clause to bring gifts? 

Maaaayyybe.  Or maybe it's Père Fouettard, Belsnickel, or Sinterklaas with his chimney Piets arriving to punish the naughty.  Perhaps Krampus, Gryla, the Yule Cat or Yule Lads, or the Mari Lwyd to take you away or kill you for venturing out in the cold, harsh, dark winter.  

Step in to the dark roots of Christmas with The Fright Before Christmas author Jeff Belanger. From shapeshifters to mountain trolls, to elves, to heavy-handed

 cohorts of Saint Nicholas, the Christmas holiday has been filled with ghosts and monsters ready to dole out punishment to those who need it. The Winter Solstice is a time to be afraid. 

Delve into the folklore of these beings, traditions, and how to make them a part of your holiday practice today. 

Find Jeff on Facebook and Instagram: @exploringlegends

Get the book from your favorite bookseller, Weiser Books, or online retailer.

And for the cool Yuletide Monsters Oracle by Madame Onca I mentioned at the top of the show, order it from her Etsy shop, Madame Onca Studios, and check out our interview on episode 70.

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

# # # #

Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: O Come O Come Emmanuel Stinger and Outro: The Night Before Christmas.  Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

85 Gifts of the Wyrd: Norse Goddess Rune Oracle: Raven Stark and Sharon McLeod

Joining the podcast this episode are the incredible and talented creators of the Norse Goddess Rune Oracle - Rebecca Joy "Raven" Stark and Sharon McCleod.  Raven is a rune practitioner, a volva, and a teacher of runes and Norse spirituality.  Sharon is an artist/illustrator inspired by nature, myth, magic, and all thing otherworldly. 

Together they created the amazing Norse Goddess Rune Oracle which connects the power of Norse goddesses and beings with the power of the runes for use in divination, magic, and relationship with divine powers.  

The deck focuses on the 24 runes of the Elder Futhark; and to increase the number of goddesses to connect with, merkstave cards are included bringing the deck to 39 red-edged cards.  

Hear about their wonderful friendship, how they worked with the goddesses of the deck as well as those who are not featured, and other interesting topics of conversation. 

 

You can pick up the deck from your favorite metaphysical shop (support community business when you can), from Llewellyn Books or Blue Angel Publishing, or from an online retailer. 

Llewellyn Books https://www.llewellyn.com    Blue Angel Publishing https://blueangelonline.com

Follow Raven and Sharon on Instagram and look up their work and projects on their websites: 

Raven Stark: www.starkravenrunes.com  Instagram @stark_raven_Runes 

Sharon McCleod: www.sharonmcleod.com    Instagram @sharonmccleod3

 

This product was sent to me by Llewellyn Publishing. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Outro: Emotion. Stinger: Gotta Get It. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

84 Gifts of the Wyrd: Yule Webinars with Imelda Almqvist

With the upcoming Winter Solstice and Yule season in the Northern Hemisphere, Imelda Almqvist joins me to talk about her upcoming webinars about Vrouw Holle (Frau Holle) and St. Nicholas (Sinterklaas in the Netherlands). 

We talk a little about who Vrouw Holle and Sinterklaas are and the interesting connections they have as soul conductors (psycho pomps) especially for children.  In this discussion, get a nice introduction to them both and our experiences growing up with Vrouw Holle and Sinterklaas as part of our Dutch heritage. 

It's an intersting discussion with more to come in the webinars.  Sign up for the webinars below.

North Sea Water - Vrouw Holle .  Nov 21, 8 pm GMT

North Sea Water - Sinterklaas. Dec 5, 8 pm GMT

Imelda is an international teacher of Sacred Art and Seiðr/Old Norse Traditions, a painter and author of nine books. She currently teaches in the UK, the US, Sweden and Greenland. https://www.shaman-healer-painter.co.uk/

Follow Imelda on Facebook, Instagram @almqvistimelda, and sign up for her Substack which shares interesting articles at least once per week.  Check out Imelda's teaching schedule and books on her website (above) and pick up North Sea Water in my Veins, The Pre-Christian Spirituality of The Low Countries. 

 

 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Outro: Emotion - Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

83 Gifts of the Wyrd: Queering the Runes, Siri Vincent Plouff

Siri Vincent Plouff joins the podcast to talk about a favorite subject, runes. Their book, Queering the Runes, was just released in November 2024 and we talk about the book, dispel notions that runes are not for everyone (they are!), how they can relate from a queer perspective, and just about runes in general. 

The book is an excellent way to introduce yourself to the runes with a fresh look at how they interact with people today.  Or if you are used to working with runes, have a look at them with a new lens and see how they might teach something new or different.  

Siri has been a practicing with for nearly 20 years and reading tarot and runes professionally for six. They host The Heathen's Journey podcast, teaches workshops, and is coauthor of Lessons from the Empress with Cassandra Snow. 

Order Queering the Runes at your favorite bookshop, directly from Red Wheel/Weiser, or online book seller. 

You can find Siri on Instagram: @siri.vincent.plouff and Patreon: @sirivincentplouff

 

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

# # #

Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Stinger: Mastermind Outro: Commercial Bliss - Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

82 Gifts of the Wyrd: Rick de Yampert - Magic of Crows & Ravens

As October inches towards Samhain, Rick de Yampert joins me to talk about the magic of Crows and Ravens from his book: Crows and Ravens: Mystery, Myth, and Magic of Sacred Corvids. 

Rick has been working with Crows and Ravens for a number of years along his path and has dedicated a lot of study to how corvids behave and how we can commune with them to enrich and enhance our connection to nature, magic, and the Web of Wyrd. 

 

Do you have crows or ravens appearing in your path or daily routine? Do they visit your yard or bring gifts? Do you speak with them? Does their presence in your life help you with your magical practice? Rick's book provides some ways to connect with them and build a magical connection to them.   

Have a listen as we discuss some of those topics and more. 

 

Crows and Ravens is published by Llewellyn Books and available from Llewellyn, your favorite book seller, or online. 

Check out Rick's projects and schedule at: https://rickdeyampert.com/   and see Mr. Crow and other artwork at Mister Crow Art. 

# # #

Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd

Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

This product was sent to me by Llewellyn Publishing. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Outro: Commercial Bliss. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Gifts of the Wyrd Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

81 Gifts of the Wyrd: The Asgardians - George O'Connor

"Welcome to the Nine Worlds, home of Gods, Valkyries, Dwarves, and more!" promises MacMillan Publishsers about the latest series by my guest; author and artist George O'Connor. George created the 12 volume series The Olympians and just released Thor in October 2024, the second book of his series The Asgardians.

The first volume of The Asgardians series, Odin, was released in March 2024.

We talk about his process for bringing the myths of these two popular pantheons as illustrated storytelling.  It was a fun and interesting discussion to hear about George's interest with the Norse stories and how they have been a part of his life for so long and still inspiring ways to be told.  And it's always nice to get a behind the scenes scoop on how ideas come about, the creative process, and other bits of writing and drawing a graphic novel about such interesting characters and adventures. 

 

Both series' can be ordered through your local book store. Find out more about George's works at MacMillan Publishers. 

Follow George on Instagram at @thegeorgeoconnor and on his website for his upcoming webcomic and events.

 

# # #

Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Stingers: Mastermind & Feeling Happy. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Outgoing: The Northern Path by Alexander Nakarada (www.serpentsoundstudios.com) Licensed under Creative Commons by Attribution 4.0 Licesne https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings using Zencastr and Audacity.

80 Gifts of the Wyrd: Nehalennia author Gunivortus Goos

Author Gunivortus Goos joins me to talk about the long awaited (by me especially) English translation of his book on Nehalennia.  The book is avaialable in German, Dutch, and now English.  The English title is: Nehalennia: Divine Lady of Prosperity, Trade and Safe Crossings.  It is now available via Amazon throughout the world and in Europe on BoD Buchshop. 

Nehalennia is a Dutch Goddess who was revered and honored in the area controlled by the Romans of the first - second centuries in what is now the southern west coast of the Netherlands.  After that time, Nehalennia was lost to the oceans and time and evidence was literally fished up in the 17th century in the form of votive stones, revealing an acitive practice of honoring her. 

Goos and I talk about Nehalennia, a bit about her origins,  about the process of researching and bringing the information together for the book, and about bringing in into an English version. 

 

The book has minor updates of new finds and information not in the German or Dutch editions.  Goos has many other books available on a variety of Gods, Goddesses, and topics which you can find more about at his website Boudicca. There you can find books in German and Dutch as well as other essays. Many are available via Amazon or in Europe via BoD. 

Goos has been on the podcast before to talk about his works: Mist Witches (episode 59) and Frau Holle and Germanic Magic (episode 41). 

If you want to learn more of the history that we know of about this obscure Dutch Goddess who now has a devoted following, have a listen and order the book. 

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Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Outgoing: Commercial Bliss. Stingers: Biggest Smile & Emotion. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings by Zencastr and Audacity.

79 Gifts of the Wyrd: Amy Blackthorn, Author of Sacred Plant Magic

It is great to have Amy Blackthorn on to talk about things botanical - brews, magic, and sacred plant magic. Amy us author of several books on botanical magic, including Blackthorn’s Botanical Magic, Blackthorn’s Botanical Brews, and Blackthorn’s Botanical Wellness. She is the founder of Blackthorn’s Botanicals. 

Her upcoming book Blackthorn's Book of Sacred Plant Magic is from Red Wheel/Weiser Books and scheduled for release in August 2024. Pre-order now with your local bookstore (if possible), Weiser's website, or online seller. 

 

Amy Blackthorn shows readers how to bring plant spirits into their daily spiritual practice with therapeutic access, subconscious learning, and divining skills that help them understand plant spirits on a deeper level. Using the power of scent, we can create a sense of the sacred in our daily lives. Part reference guide, part recipe book, and part ritual journey, it offers readers an in-depth exploration of the vital connection between scents and magical practice.

Links: 

https://amyblackthorn.com/

Blackthorns Botanicals

Sacred Space Conference

https://bookshop.org/

 

* * *

Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

Follow my channel on Instagram: @wyrdgifts1 Facebook: @GiftsoftheWyrd Email: giftsofthwyrd@gmail.com

Order The Christmast Oracle Deck created by me and artist Vinnora at https://feniksshop.etsy.com follow FB/IG: @thechristmasoracle

This product was sent to me by Weiser Books. I have not been compensated for this interview or review, and my opinions are my own. 

Please leave feedback on Apple and other podcast providers. This helps the podcast to be found easier.

Music.  Intro: Cooking with the Italians. Outgoing: Commercial Bliss. Royalty free music from https://www.fesliyanstudios.com  Please do not add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. I have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.

Logo Created by Xan Folmer. 

Logo based on the Vanic boar created by Vanatru Priestess Ember of the Vanic Conspiracy.

Studio recordings by Zencastr and Audacity.