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Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches4.05 Gods and DeitiesIn this episode, we discuss Gods and Deities (in broad strokes, and not necessarily specific to Alexandrian Craft) by answering questions from a listener.  References: Lon Milo DuQuette. Low Magick. Llewellyn Worldwide, 8 Sept. 2011. Farrar, Janet, and Gavin Bone. Lifting the Veil. The Crowood Press, 22 Apr. 2024. Foundation, P. (2023, March 4). Hymn to Proserpine (After the Proclamation in Rome of the Christian Faith) by Algernon Charles Swinburne. Poetry Foundation. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45292/hymn-to-proserpine-after-the-proclamation-in-rome-of-the-christian-faith Plutarch. Plutarch's Morals. Translated from the Greek by several hands. Corrected and revised by. William W. Goodwin, PH. D. Boston. Little, Brown, and Company. C...
2025-12-2958 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches4.04 Seeking 102 (part 2 of 2)So, you've found a coven and had a successful first meeting... Now what? In this bumper, 2 part episode, we've made an effort to shift our advice to go beyond the initial "Seeking 101" stage, discussing the serious practicalities and personal work that lead from being an interested seeker to becoming an initiate: the realities and practicalities of commitment; self-reflection and handling rejection; outer court life; and what red and green flags covens look for in seekers (and vice versa). References: Crowley, V (2014). “Wicca and the Spiritual Quest.” Patheos. Available at: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/vivi...
2025-10-1945 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches4.03 Seeking 102 (part 1 of 2)So, you've found a coven and had a successful first meeting... Now what? In this bumper, 2 part episode, we've made an effort to shift our advice to go beyond the initial "Seeking 101" stage, discussing the serious practicalities and personal work that lead from being an interested seeker to becoming an initiate: the realities and practicalities of commitment; self-reflection and handling rejection; outer court life; and what red and green flags covens look for in seekers (and vice versa). References: Crowley, V (2014). “Wicca and the Spiritual Quest.” Patheos. Available at: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/vivi...
2025-10-1941 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches4.02 Wicca as a Decentralised CollectiveWhat exactly is a decentralised collective, and how does this relate to Wicca? How are things decided if there is no central authority: no kings, queens, witch popes, or even witch CEOs? How is decentralisation maintained? Today’s podcast has come to you thanks to James’ big, delicious brain being left unattended during a long drive.
2025-08-0555 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches4.01 What Work Do Covens Do?What work do BTW covens actually do? What types of coven are there within traditional Wicca, and what's the difference between how members are treated and what is expected? And if coven autonomy is a thing, does that mean there is no crossover between groups and the work they do? We tackle all these questions and more in the first episode of season 4, and - more importantly - we all took part in some uncomfortable role play situations from a coven leadership book from 1998.
2025-04-1752 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.07 Magical Names and PersonasIn our long-awaited 7th episode of season 3 we address the topic of magical names and personas. Magical names are pervasive in witchcraft communities, and the tradition of taking a new name when embarking on a new practice or new time of life is well known. We discuss why witches sometimes choose new names and how that choice can have an impact on one's craft. 
2025-01-3049 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.06 Self-Actualization and Nature TheologyEpisode 6 of season 3 discusses self-actualization in witchcraft. We explore the importance of self-actualization in religious movements and how the “Work” of the craft can be related to this idea. The episode ends with some practices listeners can consider in their own paths to self-actualization.   Mentioned: Her Hidden Children: The Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America (Pagan Studies Series) by Chas S. Clifton Your Dark Side: How to turn your inner negativity into positive energy: Transform Your Inner Negativity into Positive Energy by Vivianne Crowley and Christopher Crowley
2024-08-211h 13Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.05 Getting Back to Basics and Personal PracticeWelcome to episode 5 of season 3! In this episode, we talk about getting back to basics and how to build a personal practice. Is a personal practice necessary if we’re a member of a coven? What if we’re not in a coven - how important is it then? What do we do when we hit a slump, and how can we mitigate getting to that point in the first place?  In this episode, we give advice on what kind of practices a personal practice could include, explore the idea of stagnation within a coven, and mention the w...
2024-07-0856 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.04 Wiccan EtiquetteIn this episode we discuss some Do’s and Don’ts for Seekers and Initiates who are visiting covensteads they are unfamiliar with or open rituals. We also discuss etiquette around expectations and the (now oft repeated) 5Cs of effective communication. References: Traditional Wicca: A Seeker’s Guide - Thorn Mooney
2024-05-121h 02Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.03 Wicca and Mental Health(CW: mental illness) This episode we tackled a much-requested topic: mental health and the craft. How does one manage mental illness and Wicca? How much should a seeker divulge about mental health when approaching a coven? What about priesthood and coven leaders?
2024-04-031h 20Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.02 Healing & HexingWe dug deeper into the topics of healing and hexing - pins, poppets, pleasure and pain - this month: the roles they play (or not) in traditional Wicca, a smattering of history and lore, and some tried and true methods, too! Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on X at @Circ...
2024-02-1456 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches3.01 Leading a CovenHail, and Welcome, everyone, to Season 3 of Circle Talk 4 Witches - it feels good to be back! We kick off Season 3 by revisiting a core component of Traditional Wicca - Covens. We’ve touched upon the topic of covens before (Season 1 Episodes 6, 7, and 11), though in this episode, we want to talk more about leading a coven and coven mechanics. We address a bit of “how” to start a coven, a lot of “why” one might start a coven, some of the “yikes!” that comes along with running a coven and how to mitigate them, and touch briefly upon why a stu...
2024-01-111h 16Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.12 Fast and LooseWe went fast and loose for our season 2 finale, taking turns answering some questions and ponderings sent in by listeners. We had a nice time: starting cults, initiating our beds, discussing the sexiness of elders, and learning the definition of “hot take”.   References: The Power of Ritual by Casper ter Kuile
2023-11-1854 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.11 InitiationHappy equinox! This bumper episode is a discussion of initiation: why do we make such a big deal about it, anyway? We also look at the different types of initiation, what you might find or expect, after effects and more. References: Alex Sanders, King of the Witches - June Johns (warning: shenanigans ahead) The Witches’ Bible - Janet and Stewart Farrar Traditional Wicca: A Seeker’s Guide - Thorn Mooney High Magic’s Aid - Gerald Gardner
2023-09-221h 33Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.10 Spellwork to Make Magic HappenFor our belated August cross-quarter episode we are continuing to explore different ways of doing “magic”. In this episode we discussed various means of creating and implementing your own spells.  There are several external resources referenced, especially an article by Jenya T. Beachy, originally published in the author’s patheos blog “Dirt Hearth Witch” in 2015: Making It So: Seven Steps to Effective Spells. Other references include: The Witch’s Path: Advancing your Craft at Every Level by Thorn Mooney Website: Astrology.com/tr Six Ways: Approaches & Entries for Practical Magic by Aida...
2023-08-191h 11Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.09 EthicsWe're back! For our return we discuss the ethics of Alexandrian Witchcraft and witchcraft in general. Not only do we take on the question of “The Rule of Three” and “Harm None” but we also discuss subjective and objective ethical questions and whether there are any universal ethical considerations in Alexandrian Witchcraft. The discussion is more interesting than the description, so check it out!
2023-07-271h 01Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.08 Wicca as a Living TraditionIn this month’s episode we discuss the idea of Traditional Wicca as a “Living Tradition,” one that is continually evolving through time and practices while still remaining true to its core as an Initiatory, ritual-based practice. Our views on this are in contrast to some other Initiates, an expected and welcome consequence of coven autonomy. Room for differences is one of the things that makes Alexandrian Witchcraft so fantastic and vibrant.   References: Witches' Way: Principles, Ritual and Beliefs of Modern Witchcraft - Stewart and Janet Farrar Wicca Covens - Judy Harrow
2023-05-2543 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.07 Great RiteJoin us as we continue our exploration of magic and ritual associated with the sabbats. In this episode we discuss the Great Rite, both symbolic and literal. We consider conventional and stereotypical understandings of this Rite and attempt to explain how the energy of the Great Rite is for everyone and how its meaning goes far beyond the obvious.   Resources: Witch's Bible: A Complete Witch's Handbook Transformative Witchcraft by Jason Mankey High Magic's Aid by Gerald Gardner All Acts of Love & Pleasure: Inclusive Wicca by Yvonne Aburrow
2023-05-0244 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.06 EgregoresEpisode 26 is a continuation of our discussion that started in episode 24. We dive into the idea of a coven “setting” and why that is important, before launching into exploring egregore in Wicca: what is it? Is there more than one egregore? Can egregores be changed? Why do they matter, anyway? To find out, break out the Brasso, slice up the tomato bread, and dig into our newest episode…
2023-03-291h 03Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 WitchesMeditation and the EquinoxHail, and welcome, everyone, to episode 25 - “Equini” (even though we know it’s ‘equinoxes’ 😛) Sabbat Special and Meditation. In this episode, we discuss the practices of meditation and how they relate to the equinoxes. How do we practise meditation? It is just as simple as sitting still in the lotus position? Are there other ways to practise meditation? How does a regular meditation practice benefit a coven? Listen in as we discuss a variety of techniques that we use personally and in our coven work.   References, Notes, and Links: Jason Miller’s books Qab...
2023-03-2132 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.04 Ritual Triggers & Beyond the RobesIn this episode we begin to discuss practices in our circles including effective ritual triggers and skyclad practice. We ran out of time in our discussion so look forward to part two where we'll discuss how different practices impact the coven egregore. 
2023-02-2759 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.03 Imbolc/Lammas Magic: PurificationCircle Talk continues to circle back through the sabbats, this time revisiting Imbolc/Candlemas/Lammas and their associations with rites and practices of purification (ironically along with a lot of very impure language from Gi). Join us for conversations on smoke cleansing, fire cleansing, water cleansing, broom tips, and lots of laughs!  Blessed sabbat!
2023-02-011h 02Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.02 Books!Welcome to our second episode of season 2! In this episode we finally talk about books!... Well, actually we've been doing that all along, haven't we?  In any event, this is an attempt at giving a more organized list. We discuss recommended reading lists for Seekers, our coven members, and from what we're enjoying now. Before you listen you may want to be ready to make a list for your library or favorite bookstore! List of books we mentioned: On Alexandrian Wicca and/or Alex Sanders A Coin for the Ferryman by J...
2023-01-141h 13Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches2.01 Solstice Special: Trance InductionHappy solstice (whichever one you happen to be celebrating!) and welcome, everyone, to Season 2 of Circle Talk for Witches. After our hiatus, we bring you our first sabbat special of the season: Solstice Magic - Trance Induction.   Last season these specials focussed on what we do for the sabbats in the northern and southern hemispheres. For season two, we want to focus on different types and ways of magic.    The bad news? The audio for this one is a little choppy due to a bad connection somewhere that we didn’t notic...
2022-12-2144 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.20 Samhain MagicAnd so the Wheel has spun full circle! Welcome to our last episode of Season 1, folks! For the next turn of the Wheel, we’re concentrating on magic and witchcraft that can be performed around each of the Sabbats. For this episode, we concentrate on Samhain (with a smidge of Bel-tân (and all the other spellings of that Sabbat 😛)), and in particular, on binding, banishing, and warding. How do we perform all of these practices? Are they the same, or are there overlaps? How do we get Practical Magic and Brasso into *this* episode? And what sound do alliga...
2022-11-0150 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.19 Ritual ToolsA listener request episode, episode 19 brings you a discussion about tools of witchcraft. We talk about the stabby-boys, the pokey-boys, the swingy-boys, and everything else! How do we all pronounce the tool that begins with an ‘A’? What’s the difference between a censer and a thurible? And are all wands made equal? Do you need all the tools at the same time, or even at all to practise effective magic and witchcraft? Grab a cuppa, a glass of wine, or whatever your favourite tipple is, and take a listen to Episode 19 - Tools. References, Notes, and Links...
2022-10-1748 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.18 Mabonology: The Autumn & Spring EquinoxesJoin us for the last “sabbat special” where we talk about personal practices and break down the astronomical & cultural backgrounds of the sabbats. Learn about why we don’t talk about “Mabonology” or “Ostaraology”, and about Josie’s plan to advocate for an “Easter Croc”.    Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us at CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can find us on Instagram and Facebook at CircleTalk4Witches or on T...
2022-09-2334 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.17 Wicca as a Mystery Tradition: PolarityAs the Heads say in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, “It’s going to be a bumpy ride!” In this episode, we continue with the theme of Wicca as a Mystery Tradition and discuss polarity; what it is, what it isn’t, and how it can be worked with in an Initiatory Wican framework. How do the gods view polarity (hint: they don’t), how do non-cisgendered Wicans handle polarity, does gender come into it, and can polarity ever be adapted (hint: it can). How does polarity work with same-sex initiation and same-gender initiation? Is that even allowed in...
2022-08-3057 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.16 Brasso and Bread Sabbat SpecialAnd the Wheel turns, once again to Lughnasadh and Imbolc. Welcome to Episode 16: Brasso and Bread. Take a listen to find out what Lughnasadh and Imbolc mean to each of the presenters, who John Barleycorn is, and what types of practices happen at each of these cross-quarter festivals. Bonus content for a mini-lesson in Cymraeg, Gaeilge, and etymology (yes, we geek out in this episode). Why does Brasso feature so strongly in our podcasts? Where does bread come into it? And what’s the connection between these two sabbats? Take a listen to Episode 16: Brasso and Bread to find ou...
2022-08-0324 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.15 Wicca as a Mystery TraditionSummary: After you’ve listened to this episode, you’ll be an initiate of the Wicca… jokes (please don’t recule us :P)! In this two-part episode, we discuss Wicca as a Mystery Tradition and what we mean by that phrase. What is Wicca as a Mystery Tradition based on? What Sekrets™ are we hiding (they’re as good as those damned bees keeping that sweet, sweet nectar)? Who is Initiatory Wicca open to (hint: it’s everyone)? Can the Mysteries be read about from a book? How did our early Wiccan Elders view Wicca as a Mystery Tradit...
2022-07-2754 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.14 Solstice 2022Solstice blessings from all of us at Circle Talk! What’s happening out in space to cause the solstices? What’s happening down here on earth, ritually, spiritually and physically? Whether you’re getting ready to sing out the light in the Northern Hemisphere, or cosying up for winter in the Southern Hemisphere, we’ve got you covered for all things solstice. Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know by e-mailing us...
2022-06-1718 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.13 Sex & Drugs & Rock n’ RollWhat role does sex play within Initiatory Wica? What about the Sabbat orgy with the Devil? Do we need protection (pun intended)? How do we achieve altered states of consciousness, and can they be achieved alone? And what’s expected of Seekers and neophytes? Grab a cuppa, wine, gin, water, or your favourite tipple and join us as we discuss all things sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll! How could we *not* cover these topics for our 13th episode ;)   Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be ans...
2022-05-3153 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.12 Beltane & Samhain Sabbat SpecialTo quote Battlestar Galactica (2003), “All of this has happened before, and all of this will happen again.” We’re halfway through turning the Wheel and so the Northern and Southern Hemispheres are swapping topics. Sure there’s a bit of review but we also manage to wander into new and weird territory, including a reference to fetishes! (but not those kinds of fetishes!).   Yes we know we’ve referenced the Wickerman before… and we probably will again.  Wickerman (1973) - Maypole Song Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, o...
2022-04-2642 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.11 Coven HierarchyWe’ve spent plenty of time talking about the importance of autonomy, but how does that fit into the hierarchical structure of a BTW coven? In this episode we discuss the different roles that exist in most (if not all) Wiccan covens, the definition of “elder”, and our experiences with the dedicant or neophyte degree. We also talk about other positions or functions in the coven and begin to brainstorm what kind of roles a 21st-century coven might want to include. Share your ideas for new coven “jobs” on our Facebook page!
2022-04-201h 01Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.10 Sabbat Special: The Equinoxes‘Don’t Call Me Mabon’ meets ‘Don’t Call Me Ostara’ during this episode as we discuss the spring and autumn equinoxes. What is an equinox, and what is their significance in Wica? Why don’t they have cool Pagan names like the others? And how do we celebrate these transitional festivals? Sit back, relax, and come take a listen to find out! Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know by emailing us at CircleTalk4W...
2022-03-1832 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.09 No Kings, No Queens, No More“He must be a King, as there’s no s**t on him,” said Monty Python, but this is not true of all “Kings”, as we find out in this episode of Circle Talk, where we discuss leaders in Initiatory Wica, kings and queens (or lack thereof), what happens with Big Names in Wica, autonomy and sovereignty, who the famous "King of the Witches" was, how does all of this relate to the Degree System, what’s one of the rules that we’ll include in the Grand Council (hint: it involves pineapples), and much more. Do you have a top...
2022-03-1256 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.08 Cheese & Beer, Lambs & Loaves Sabbat SpecialThe festivals of Lambs and Loaves, or is it Beer and Cheese? In this episode, we talk about the Lammas, or Lughnasadh, and Imbolc and what we all do for these holidays. Are they both harvest festivals? Why are there reptiles? How even do you pronounce *that* name? Is it the start or end of winter? What can you carry around in your fanny pack? And what’s our new Sabbat name for Samhain? Find out in this Sabbat Special episode, also with a special treat of Peter singing.    Do you have a topic that you’...
2022-01-3042 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.07 Why Covens? Part 2In this episode, we discussed some of the culture around asking for initiation rather than assuming one can join a coven, what is a “proper person” and what is “properly prepared”, ways to find a coven, how to approach a coven, how to meet with coven leaders and what to expect from those meetings, outer court practices, and when does initiation happen. James also led us through a discussion of Red Flag warning signs that Seekers should be on the lookout for. And, to the surprise of no one, we “outed” ourselves as being on the progressive end of the spectrum...
2022-01-251h 25Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.06 Why Covens?In this episode, we talk about covens, what they are, what they’re not, how to go about joining a coven, and everything else in between. Do they practise “skyclad” (“naked”)? Do they follow a set of beliefs, and are they dogmatic? Is Wica a cult? What if there aren’t any covens in my area? Will covens seek me out? Find out, in this, episode six.   Liking what you’re hearing so far? Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We’d...
2021-12-281h 13Circle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.05 Solstice SpecialIn this episode, we discuss the Winter and Summer Solstices, and how each of your hosts celebrate the Sabbat happening in their hemisphere at the moment. Why is light such a big deal at both solstices? Why do the solstices fall on specific dates? How can you beat (literally!) the darkness? And why do we discuss a terrifying Welsh horse?   As always, please get in touch if you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion; we’d love to hear from you...
2021-12-1532 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.04 VouchingIn this episode, we talk about the practice of vouching and how it works in the Alexandrian Witchcraft and wider British Traditional Wica (BTW) community, including what exactly a vouch is, how it’s obtained, and what it means when a vouch is refused. What’s the difference between a vouch, being confirmed, being recommended, and being properly prepared? Find out in this, episode four. Liking what you’re hearing so far? Do you have a topic that you’d like us to discuss, or even a question to be answered during the discussion? We’d love to hear fr...
2021-11-3056 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.03 Samhain and Beltane SpecialIn this episode we explore our personal and outer court practices around Samhain (and Beltane!), including dumb suppers, ritual dramas, and bonfires. And we ask the ever important question: WWASD? (Answer: grab a pint)   As always we’d love to hear from you! Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).   References *At some point we discussed the use of the phrase “Hail the Traveler!” in some...
2021-10-3056 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.02 OathsAn episode about oaths and oath taking, and why they are so important in Alexandrian practice: what does 'oathbound' even mean? Is there a difference between holding things as oathbound and straight up gatekeeping?   As always we’d love to hear from you! Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).   References: Intro quote from: Farrar, J., Farrar, S., Farrar, J., & Farrar, J. (1996). A witches' bibl...
2021-10-3036 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches1.01 DefinitionsIn this not-really-a-minisode we attempt to define and explain various terms and definitions tossed around in the online BTW community including “Witchcraft”, “BTW”, “Trad”, “Lineage”, and more!    As always we’d love to hear from you! Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).   References “Practice begets Belief” from Prothero, S. (2011). God is not one: The eight rival religions that run the world. HarperCollins.
2021-10-3034 minCircle Talk 4 Witches
Circle Talk 4 Witches0.00 IntroductionIn this minisode we make our first attempt at recording and briefly introduce ourselves, our backgrounds, and the purpose of this podcast.   As always please email any Email questions/comments to CircleTalk4Witches@gmail.com. You can find us on instagram and facebook as CircleTalk4Witches And on Twitter as @Circle4Witches (because character limits).
2021-10-2505 min