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What can Pagan traditions teach us about death, grief, and the mysteries that may lie beyond this life?In this special episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, host Rachel Patterson is joined by Geraldine Moorkens Byrne, Sian Sibley, and Tiffany Lazic. They look at death not only as an ending, but as an important part of life, nature, and spiritual understanding.Geraldine shares Irish traditions like keening and wakes, showing how these rituals helped people grieve and support each other. Sian discusses the ecology of death, questions modern funerals, and explores natural burial, human composting, and returning our bodies to the Earth's cycle. Tiffany introduces the idea of psychopomps, soul guides from myths, and talks about how they might help us through death and major life changes.Topics covered:- Irish keening and traditional wakes- Communal rituals of mourning and remembrance- Ecological and natural burial- Embalming, cremation and their environmental effects- Human composting and fungal burial- Psychopomps and guides of the dead- The soul’s journey beyond the veil- Pagan perspectives on the afterlife and reincarnation- Maintaining relationships with those who have died- Ancestral responsibility and our duty to future generations- The relationship between science, magic and spiritualityThey discuss how our views on death are changing, ideas about the afterlife and reincarnation, and what we owe to our ancestors and future generations. They also ask how our beliefs about death affect how we care for the world. Can spiritual beliefs comfort us without making us less responsible for the Earth? Do our bonds with loved ones continue after death? And can facing our own mortality help us live with more purpose and connection?Join us for a thoughtful, caring, and sometimes lighthearted conversation about grief, remembrance, nature, the soul, and the mysteries we all share.Subscribe to the Moon Books channel for more talks about Paganism, Witchcraft, mythology, folklore, and spirituality. You can also find audio-only episodes on Spotify.

What does the Divine Feminine really mean, and how could reconnecting with her help us build a more balanced and compassionate world?In this episode of the Pagan Portal Podcast, host Rachel Patterson talks with priestess, author, and Goddess advocate Karen Tate. Together, they have an engaging conversation about Goddess spirituality, sacred feminine values, and the lasting influence of ancient mythology.Karen talks about her journey, from growing up in the American Bible Belt to discovering the feminine side of the Divine. She found her path where spiritual transformation, social justice, and the Divine Feminine meet. She also introduces the “sacred trident” that guides her work: seeing the Divine Feminine as deity, archetype, and ideal.Together, Rachel and Karen explore:- What the Divine Feminine means and why she is more than “patriarchy in a skirt”- The importance of restoring balance between the sacred feminine and sacred masculine- How goddesses can serve as archetypes, role models and sources of empowerment- Sacred feminine values such as empathy, diversity, justice and healthy boundaries- The ancient archaeological evidence for Goddess worship- Whether we can work with deities from cultures and pantheons beyond our own- How patriarchal retellings have shaped myths about Medusa, Persephone and other goddesses- Reclaiming women’s anger, personal power and spiritual authority- What ancient mythology can teach us about gender, sexuality and modern society- Karen’s book, Divine Feminine: Deity, Archetype and IdealThis thoughtful discussion shows how Goddess spirituality can offer sanctuary, inspiration, and practical tools for both personal and collective growth, no matter your gender or spiritual background.If you enjoyed this conversation, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and join us again for another episode of the Pagan Portal Podcast.To listen to the audio-only version, find the Pagan Portal Podcast on Spotify. You can also join as a channel member for early access to new content.

How much of today’s Samhain celebrations come from Irish traditions, and what do we really know about Samhain?In this special episode of the Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson talks with Morgan Daimler, Lora O’Brien, and Geraldine Moorkens Byrne about the history, folklore, and traditions of Samhain. Their conversation is lively and engaging.They discuss Samhain as a turning point in the year, marking the start of winter and a time when the unseen world was thought to come closer. They also talk about remembering ancestors, sharing meals, lighting bonfires, playful mischief, divination, and preparing for the winter ahead.They also explore how Samhain relates to Halloween, from carved turnip lanterns and going door to door to today’s commercial celebrations. The guests challenge some common Pagan misconceptions, like the modern 'dumb supper,' and warn that inviting unknown spirits or the Good Folk into your home can be risky.Topics Covered:• What we know about the ancient festival of Samhain• The correct Irish pronunciation of Samhain• Samhain, liminality and the beginning of winter• Ancestor veneration and remembering the dead• The development of Halloween and All Hallows’ Eve• Irish mischief, costumes and door-to-door traditions• Communal feasting and supporting the wider community• The origins of carved turnips and Halloween pumpkins• Traditional lanterns and lights for the departed• The truth behind the “dumb supper”• Why inviting unknown spirits into your home is dangerous• The Good Folk, the Sí and traditional protective practices• Samhain divination involving food, fire, apples, nuts and charms• Barmbrack traditions and the meanings of its hidden tokens• Bringing Samhain traditions into a modern Pagan practiceSamhain is both a time to celebrate and a time for reflection. People gather to remember the dead, consider what to let go of, and get ready for the year ahead. As Morgan says, you can enjoy the fun of Halloween while still honoring the deeper meaning of Samhain.The Pagan Portal Podcast is produced by Moon Books Publishing and hosted by Rachel Patterson. If you want to hear more about Paganism, witchcraft, folklore, mythology, and magical practice, consider subscribing. You can also become a channel member for early access to new episodes.

Rachel Patterson welcomes back author, witch, priestess, and teacher Irisanya Moon to the Pagan Portal Podcast for an engaging conversation about one of Greek mythology’s most mysterious figures: Hecate.What makes Hecate so popular in modern Paganism and Witchcraft? Is she really a “Dark Goddess”? Why do people connect her with crossroads, keys, torches, ghosts, and magic? Can we ever fully define a deity whose nature is to exist between worlds?Rachel and Irisanya look at Hecate’s origins, symbolism, and lasting influence by drawing on mythology, history, and modern Pagan practice. They talk about why Hecate still fascinates witches, scholars, and spiritual seekers, and instead of giving easy answers, they welcome the mystery at the heart of Hecate.In this episode, you’ll learn about:- Hecate’s origins and place within Greek mythology- Why is Hecate associated with crossroads, keys and torches?- The symbolism behind Hecate’s Wheel- Hecate’s connections with Persephone, Demeter, Zeus and Hermes- Why is Hecate known as the Queen of the Witches- Common misconceptions about the “Dark Goddess” and “Triple Goddess”- Shadow work, liminal spaces and spiritual transformation- Building a personal relationship with Hecate- Practical ways to honour Hecate in modern Pagan practice- Why mythology is about meaning rather than certaintyWhether you’re new to Hecate or have worked with her for years, this episode gives a thoughtful look at one of Paganism’s most fascinating deities and the lessons she offers to those at life’s crossroads.If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share in the comments how you work with Hecate or which deity you’d like us to talk about next.

Rachel Patterson talks with bestselling author, folklorist, translator, and witch Morgan Daimler to explore one of European folklore’s most enduring and mysterious traditions: the Wild Hunt.The Wild Hunt is often talked about but not well understood, and it has been part of European folklore for over a thousand years. Stories of ghostly riders, hounds, gods, spirits, witches, and omens of death have changed across cultures but still hold a strong impact. Morgan uses years of research to clear up myths and look at how the Wild Hunt appears in Norse, Germanic, Welsh, Scottish, and Christian traditions, and why it still fascinates modern Pagans, witches, and folklorists.Rachel and Morgan talk about how the Wild Hunt connects to witchcraft, the roles of deities like Odin, Arawn, Frau Perchta, Diana, and others, and stories from history. They also discuss how modern fantasy, including Dungeons & Dragons, has shaped today’s ideas about folklore. The conversation looks at whether the Wild Hunt still matters in modern Pagan practice and what these old stories can teach us now.In this episode you’ll learn:* What the Wild Hunt actually is and why it’s so difficult to define.* How far back can the folklore be traced, and what are the theories surrounding its origins?* The many different forms the Wild Hunt takes across Europe and beyond.* Who leads the Hunt, from gods and goddesses to legendary figures and folkloric spirits?* Who—or what—the Hunt is believed to pursue.* Historic accounts of people witnessing the Wild Hunt.* The connections between the Wild Hunt, witchcraft, fairies, the restless dead, and seasonal folklore.* How Christianity influenced the evolution of Wild Hunt traditions.* Common misconceptions created by modern fantasy and role-playing games.* How contemporary Pagans and witches engage with the Wild Hunt today—and why Morgan urges caution.If you’re interested in Paganism, witchcraft, mythology, folklore, fairy lore, or the traditions that shaped European spiritual beliefs, this conversation gives a thoughtful and well-researched introduction to one of folklore’s most fascinating mysteries.If you like the Pagan Portal Podcast, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment to share your thoughts. We’d love to hear your experiences, research, or favourite stories about the Wild Hunt.

Is Herne the Hunter really an ancient god, or is there more to his story than meets the eye?In this episode of the Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson chats with Moon Books author Andrew Anderson about one of Britain’s most mysterious folklore figures. Herne, the antlered spirit of Windsor Forest, has become an important figure in modern Paganism, witchcraft, Druidry, and folklore. But how much of what we know about him is actually supported by history?Drawing on his latest book, Andrew takes us through stories about Shakespeare, Victorian folklore, Robin of Sherwood, the Wild Hunt, and how Herne went from a little-known ghost story to a well-known figure in modern Paganism. Rachel and Andrew also discuss how folklore grows, how traditions change, and why some spiritual figures are important even if their origins are not ancient.In this episode, you’ll find out:• Who Herne the Hunter really was in the earliest surviving sources• Whether William Shakespeare invented Herne or inherited an older legend• The story behind Herne’s Oak and the many trees that have claimed the name• How Herne became connected with the Wild Hunt and why that link is more complicated than many realise• Whether Herne has any genuine connection to the Green Man or other horned deities• How popular culture, from Robin of Sherwood to The Box of Delights, helped shape modern Pagan views of Herne• Why folklore is constantly evolving, and how communities create living traditions• Andrew’s thoughts on whether Herne should be understood as a god, a spirit, a folkloric figure, or something altogether differentIf you’re interested in Paganism, witchcraft, British folklore, Druidry, mythology, or how history links to modern spiritual practice, you’ll find this conversation thoughtful and grounded in real evidence. It offers a new perspective on one of England’s most famous legendary figures.If you enjoy the Pagan Portal Podcast, please like, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts about Herne the Hunter in the comments. We’d love to hear how you connect with or understand this fascinating figure in your own practice.

Join Rachel Patterson and Welsh folklorist Mhara Starling as they dive into Welsh mythology, folklore, and Pagan practice. Inspired by Mhara's latest book on Welsh deities, their conversation looks at what it truly means to connect with the spiritual traditions of Cymru. They go beyond stereotypes to reveal the stories, language, history, and living culture that shape Welsh Paganism today.Rachel and Mhara talk about topics like the meaning of the word "Welsh" and why some prefer "Cymru." They discuss Celtic identity, the Mabinogi, and how mythology, poetry, and language connect with magic. The conversation also covers the Welsh Otherworld (Annwfn), Awen as inspiration, the bardic tradition, and debates about whether Welsh mythological figures are gods in modern Paganism. Arthurian legends, cultural identity, and how to respectfully engage with Welsh traditions are also part of this engaging discussion.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why do many people prefer the names Cymru and Cymry over Wales and Welsh?- What "Celtic" really means and why it isn't simply an ethnic identity.- How do the Mabinogi, folklore, poetry, and the Welsh Triads preserve ancient traditions?- What Annwfn, the Welsh Otherworld, represents in mythology and magical practice.- The meaning of Awen and why inspiration lies at the heart of Welsh magic.- How the bardic tradition connects storytelling, poetry, prophecy, and witchcraft.- Why do the Welsh deities remain the subject of lively debate among scholars and modern Pagans?- The Welsh origins of many Arthurian legends and their continuing spiritual significance.- Whether you need Welsh ancestry to work with the deities of Cymru.- How to respectfully explore Welsh Paganism while supporting the living culture and language.If you practise Paganism, love Welsh mythology, are interested in witchcraft, or just want to learn about one of Britain's richest living traditions, this episode is for you. You'll get an engaging introduction to the myths, magic, and culture of Cymru from one of its leading modern voices.

What does Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas, mean to modern Pagans and witches? Is it just about baking bread, honouring Lugh, and celebrating the first harvest, or does this ancient festival offer something deeper than tradition?For this Lughnasadh special, Rachel Patterson talks with Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, and Katie Ness in a relaxed conversation about how each of them celebrates this time of year. They discuss everything from baking bread and making corn dollies to river offerings, foraging, journaling, working with deities, and simple seasonal magic. Each guest shares personal stories, practical tips, and thoughts on what this festival means today.They also talk about how changes in the seasons and climate can affect traditional celebrations, why gratitude matters more than obligation, and how it's fine if your practice is different from others. Whether this is your first Lughnasadh or you’ve celebrated for years, you’ll find ideas here to help you connect with the land, the harvest, and the changing seasons.In this episode, you'll learn:- The differences between Lughnasadh and Lammas, and where the names come from- Traditional first harvest customs, bread baking and loaf blessings- Ways to celebrate with simple, meaningful rituals- How offerings, gratitude and abundance can become part of your seasonal practice- The role of Lugh, Belisama, Hekate, Rhiannon, Isis and other deities in personal practice- Foraging, flower pressing, corn dollies and other seasonal crafts- Seasonal spellwork for abundance, gratitude and reflection- Why many witches adapt their practice around nature rather than fixed calendar dates- Journaling, magical reflection and following the changing rhythm of the year- The importance of spending time outdoors and building a deeper connection with the landNo matter how you celebrate the first harvest, Lughnasadh is a time to pause, notice what has grown, give thanks for what you have, and get ready for the slow shift toward autumn. This conversation offers thoughtful insights, practical ideas, and lots of laughter.If you like talking about Paganism, witchcraft, folklore, seasonal festivals, and magical practice, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment to share how you celebrate Lughnasadh or Lammas. We’d love to hear about your traditions.

Dragons appear in almost every culture, but were they always the frightening creatures we imagine today?In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson chats with stone carver, artist, and author Dave Stone about the deeper history of dragons and serpent stories. Drawing on mythology, archaeology, folklore, and his own experiences, Dave shares what he discovered while writing his latest book and explores why dragons continue to fascinate us.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why dragon myths appear in cultures across the world• The connection between dragons, serpents, wells, rivers, and sacred waters• How dragons became demonised in many religious traditions• Why dragons may originally have been symbols of nature, place, and animistic belief• The hidden meaning behind dragon slayer myths such as Apollo and Python, Marduk and Tiamat, and St George and the Dragon• How dragon symbolism survived despite religious and cultural change• The role of dragons in Chinese, Celtic, Greek, Slavic, and Mesopotamian traditions• Why dragons can be viewed as powerful symbols of environmental awareness and connection to the land• The fascinating links between serpent lore, household spirits, and ancient Pagan practices• Dave's experiences visiting Delphi and the legendary cave associated with the PythonRachel and Dave explore patterns in mythology, from sacred springs and mountain caves to household serpents and dragon-slaying heroes. They discuss animism, the spirit of place, hidden environmental themes in old stories, and the ways dragons are connected to the land.Whether you see dragons as mythological creatures, spiritual allies, guardians of nature, or symbols of wild forces, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on one of the world's oldest myths.

In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson talks with Sam Wise about how witchcraft, queer identity, community, and spiritual practice all connect.They talk about the history of Lavender Witchcraft, the close ties between queer communities and magical traditions, and why it’s important to make Pagan and witchcraft spaces openly inclusive. Sam also shares thoughts on ancestor work, including connecting with both family ancestors and queer activists, elders, and trailblazers who have shaped today’s communities.They also talk about nature-based spirituality, finding a connection with the natural world in daily life, and how people outside cultural norms have often played important roles in spiritual traditions. Rachel and Sam discuss allyship, learning from mistakes, and building communities where everyone feels truly welcome.Topics Covered:• What is Lavender Witchcraft?• The history behind the Lavender Menace• Queer identities in witchcraft and folklore• Spiritual roles beyond traditional gender norms• Nature connection in everyday life• Ancestor work and queer ancestors• Allyship and supporting marginalised communities• Building inclusive Pagan spacesIf you’re interested in Paganism, witchcraft, queer spirituality, ancestor work, or just want to learn more about the people and traditions behind modern magical practice, this conversation gives you a lot to think about.

People often put runes into simple categories like divination tools or mystical symbols, making them seem distant and mysterious. In this episode, we challenge that idea.Rachel Patterson talks with Imelda Almqvist to explore what runes really are and what they have always meant.They discuss common misconceptions, such as the belief that runes are only for magick, and connect them back to their origins as a living writing system from the Viking Age.Topics Covered:- Common misconceptions about runes- Elder Futhark vs Younger Futhark- Runes as language vs magickal tools- The rune wheel and creation cycles- The Norns and the nature of fate- How old are the runes- Making your own rune set (tradition vs modern practice)- Learning runes vs studying the mythsThe conversation then explores the rune wheel as a cycle of creation, the Norns' actual role in shaping fate, and how to balance historical knowledge with personal practice.There is also a practical focus throughout, covering how to get started, whether to make your own runes, and when or if you should explore the myths.This episode is not about telling you there is only one right way. Instead, it aims to help you find a deeper understanding of the runes.

Rachel Patterson sits down with Carly Rose from The White Witch Podcast for a relaxed chat about what modern witchcraft is really like, from the messy moments to the magical ones and everything in between.They discuss how witchcraft becomes part of your everyday life, not just something you do occasionally. They share early influences like Merlin, Arthurian legends, and trips to places such as Tintagel, and talk about the practical side of creating your own practice. They also touch on learning by doing, staying curious, and accepting that you can’t read every book or know everything about the craft.Carly shares some of the practices that have shaped her journey, like hedge riding, breathwork, and shadow work. These tools can be truly transformative, even if they are the ones you might resist at first.Rachel and Carly also talk about the discipline that can come with keeping up a spiritual practice, the guilt many witches feel when life gets hectic, and why perfection isn’t the goal. Witchcraft is meant to fit into real life, with spilled salt, forgotten tools, and messy altars included.If you’ve ever wondered if you’re “doing it right,” this episode reminds you that witchcraft is a lifelong journey and there’s always more to discover.Topics covered:Witchcraft as a lifestyle- Learning the craft through books and experience- Merlin, Arthurian legend, and early magical influences- The deep well of UK folklore and witchcraft history- Hedge riding and spirit journeying- Discovering breathwork as a spiritual tool- Facing the challenge of shadow work- Discipline, guilt, and keeping a practice going- Why witchcraft doesn’t need to be perfectListen to The Pagan Portal Podcast for conversations with authors, practitioners, and creators from across the world of witchcraft, paganism, and modern spirituality.

Most of us are taught from a young age not to question death.We’re handed a set way of doing things. But what if you step outside that and take a closer look?In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson and Kristoffer Hughes talk about death, dying, and what it truly means to return to the earth. They cover topics like the environmental impact of cremation and the process of human composting, also known as terramation. Their conversation challenges the idea that our bodies are simply something to discard.Kristoffer shares his own experience with natural organic reduction, including the unusual moment when he lay in a coffin during a mock funeral. This changed how he views death. The experience felt less clinical, less final, and more alive.This conversation is about more than just alternative death practices.It’s also about the words we choose, the rituals we keep, and the ways we’ve learned to think about the end of life.And maybe it’s about remembering something much older as well.Topics Covered:- What terramation / human composting actually is- Why “disposal” might be the wrong word for death- The environmental impact of cremation and burial- Experiencing a mock funeral firsthand- Decomposition vs transformation- Pagan perspectives on death and returning to the earth- Why ashes don’t nourish life, and what does- Reimagining funeral rituals and sacred spaceLearn more about Terramation and Eterrna here: https://www.eterrna.life/If this episode speaks to you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who’s open to rethinking what comes next.

Beltane is often described as a fire festival, a fertility festival, or a date on the calendar, but it is much more than that. In this special Beltane episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, host Rachel Patterson speaks with Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, and Katie Ness to discuss what Beltane really feels like in practice. They cover everything from Jack in the Green processions and Victorian folk customs to the awakening of creativity, working with the land as it is, and allowing the Wheel of the Year to turn naturally instead of following fixed dates. This conversation focuses on experiencing Beltane rather than just following a set of rules.The discussion highlights anticipation over arrival, why Beltane can feel like a personal new year, how modern Paganism carries ancient energies into new forms, and why celebrating life, creativity, and connection is essential to the season. It’s thoughtful, grounded, and based on real practices rather than a quest for perfection.Whether you celebrate Beltane through ritual, art, offerings, community events, or simply by noticing the changes in the land around you, this episode invites you to slow down and connect with the season in your own way.Topics covered include:- What Beltane means on a personal level- Jack in the Green and the value of modern traditions- Beltane as anticipation, momentum, and celebration- Creativity, art, and the return of colour and energy- Allowing the Wheel of the Year to turn naturally- Working with local land, plants, and offerings- Modern Paganism as a living traditionIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is also walking the Wheel with you.

In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson is joined by Swailes from The Bell Witch Podcast for a candid conversation about discovering effective magic and releasing what doesn’t work.They discuss their first experiences with sigil magic, including the meaningful act of baking and eating a sigil as a ritual for self-worth and growth. The talk then shifts to the impact of words, the importance of speaking kindly to yourself as an act of magic, and how we often slip into patterns of self-criticism without noticing.Swailes describes their personal method for creating sigils, which is a slow, meditative practice that takes hours, followed by daily work and charging. They also talk about simplifying your craft, moving away from spiritual consumerism, and trusting your instincts rather than sticking to rigid guidelines.There’s a reflection on using inherited tools, the practice of using a single crystal for Reiki, and the magic found in objects that carry history. The episode wraps up with a discussion about witchcraft as a journey home, one that reshapes boundaries, self-worth, and how you navigate the world.Topics covered include:- Sigil magic and embodied ritual- The power of words and intention- Simplifying witchcraft practice- Reiki, crystals, and ancestral tools- Witchcraft as a path of personal change