That Pennsylvania Witch

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode, I speak with Nina Mielipäivä, author of Mythology of the Sámi - Minorities Within Minorities, about the sacred myths and spiritual traditions of the Sámi peoples across the Arctic regions of Scandinavia and the Kola Peninsula. We explore the spiritual traditions of the Arctic North, the importance of preserving Indigenous stories, and the deep pull to reconnect with heritage after family ties and traditions have faded across generations.   Nina's links: https://www.youtube.com/@Fairychamber Buy Mythology of the Sámi - Minorities Within Minorities:  https://a.co/d/09sFz4VC Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of That Pennsylvania Witch, I sit down with Anna Urošević Applegate to explore the threads of heritage, spirituality, and ancestral memory. We talk about her Serbian roots, growing up in Chicago, navigating a dual faith tradition, and her new book, Slava!, which celebrates tradition and ancestral connection. Together, we reflect on the importance of honoring where we come from, the parallels between animistic practices across cultures, and how working with our ancestors can ground and guide us in the present.  Chicago native Anna Urošević Applegate is a first-generation Serbian American and ordained legal Pagan clergy. She holds an M.A. in English from Loyola University Chicago. Anna is the founder of an inclusive Rodnovery fellowship known as the Circle of Rodu. You can learn more at www.circleofrodu.com. Buy Slava! https://www.llewellyn.com/product.php?ean=9780738780672 https://bookshop.org/p/books/slava-slavic-paganism-and-dual-faith-folk-ways-anna-urosevic-applegate/0c41376d2c1034d2?ean=9780738780672&next=t Support the show

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode of That Pennsylvania Witch, I sit down with Dodie Graham McKay to talk about her new oracle deck A Witch’s Ally, the power of connecting to the land, and the creative magic behind her zine work. We also explore how once you’re punk, you’re always punk, and how that ethos shapes her practice. The deck features stunning illustrations by Laura Tempest Zakroff.   Dodie Graham McKay (she/her) is a writer, Green Witch, and filmmaker. She is inspired to document and share stories that capture the beauty of nature and the visible and invisible realms of magic and witchcraft. She is the author of the books Earth Magic: The Elements of Witchcraft and A Witch's Ally: Building a Magical Relationship with Familiars & Animal Companions, and her documentary films include The WinniPagans, Starry Nights, and the Fibe TV four-part series Exploring the Sacred. Dodie spends her spare time walking her dogs, teaching witchcraft, and facilitating a busy coven. She lives in Treaty One Territory, Homeland of the Métis Nation, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.  Dodie's Links: https://www.dodiegrahammckay.com/ Support the show

Send a text In this episode, we explore Urglaawe as a living Heathen tradition rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch culture. I’m joined by authors Robert Schreiwer, Michelle A. Jones, and Stacey Lynne Stewart to discuss their book and the work of documenting and revitalizing this unique spiritual path. We dive into the core beliefs and practices of Urglaawe, from household and community traditions to folkways like Braucherei, and how these customs continue to evolve in the modern world. Along the way, we reflect on the deep cultural roots of Deitsch life, the relationship with land and spirit, and what it means to keep a tradition truly living And, of course, it’s not all serious, there are birch beer references, and a potential cave exploration field trip plan unfolding.  Bios and Links: Robert L. Schreiwer is a co-founder of the Urglaawe tradition within Heathenry. He is a trained Braucher within the Oley Freindschaft guild and the founder of the Blobarrick Freindschaft of Braucherei and Hexerei. He also founded In-Reach Heathen Prison Services and Philadelphia Pagan Pride Day. He served as the Steersman (President and CEO) of The Troth from 2016-2022 and continues to serve The Troth as clergy and in advisory roles. He was a member of the team that authored Declaration 127. He is a Senior Manager of Heathens Against Hate and as one of the managers of Philadelphia's Parade of Spirits. He is a Special Education teacher by day and an Instructor of the Pennsylvania Dutch language at night. Michelle A. Jones is a Hex, an Urglaawe Ziewerin, and secretary of die Urglaawisch Sippschaft vum Distelfink. She is also a founding member of the Primitive Grove Circle eclectic coven based in South Jersey.  Stacey Lynn Stewart is a Ziewerin within Distelfink Sippschaft and a Braucherin. She is involved with her local Pagan Pride Day events and is a past member of the High Rede of The Troth.  Stacey's Art: https://theaccidentalurglaawer.com/shop/ Links: https://www.urglaawe.org/ Buy the book! https://www.llewellyn.com/product.php?ean=9780738777337 https://bookshop.org/p/books/heathen-traditions-of-the-pennsylvania-dutch-an-urglaawe-primer-michelle-a-jones/c2702d3a495b9a83?ean=9780738777337&next=t https://www.amazon.com/Heathen-Traditions-Pennsylvania-Dutch-Urglaawe-ebook/dp/B0DHPPTM8D/ https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/heathen-traditions-of-the-pennsylvania-dutch-robert-l-schreiwer/1146321232 Support the show

Send a text In this episode, I speak with Teacher Sara Mastros about her book Introduction to Witchcraft. Drawing on her Greek and Jewish heritage and years of occult practice, Sara shares insights into witchcraft as a living tradition. Known as a dedicated teacher, she has a remarkable gift for explaining complex magical ideas with clarity, making deep esoteric concepts accessible to students and practitioners alike.  Sara L. Mastros is the author of The Big Book of Magical Incense, Orphic Hymns Grimoire, The Sorcery of Solomon: A Guide to the 44 Planetary Pentacles of the Magician King, and the forthcoming Sefer HaOtot: A Hebrew Book of Seals. Recognized by her peers as a brilliant and original thinker, an engaging and inspiring teacher, a compelling and clever writer, and a generally decent human being, Sara spends a lot of time dreaming, thinking, enchanting, writing and teaching about witchcraft, magic, and myth. But, her true passion is raising up an army of inspired, educated, empowered witches prepared to weave weird new ways of Being in a world that desperately needs us. Rise up!   Sara's Links: https://witchlessons.com/ https://www.instagram.com/saramastroswitchlessons/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/@SaraMastros Buy Sara's Books! https://www.crossedcrowbooks.com/shop-crossed-crow-books/p/introductiontowitchcraft https://bookshop.org/p/books/introduction-to-witchcraft-thirteen-lessons-in-the-practice-of-magic-sara-l-mastros/cdff2045dbd31496?ean=9781964537573&next=t https://www.amazon.com/Introduction-Witchcraft-Thirteen-Lessons-Practice/dp/1964537576 Support the show

Send a text Author Christian Brunner takes us deep into the Alpine world of cunning craft, spell traditions, and ancestral lore. From documented witch trial magic to modern Druid practice, we explore how mountain spirituality continues to evolve, and what his upcoming Wild Hunt book reveals about Europe’s most mysterious spectral procession.   Christian's links: http://www.christianbrunner.com/bio.htm https://www.instagram.com/christianfbrunner_author/ https://www.tiktok.com/@christianbrunner_author Christian's Books: Alpine Witchery Mountain Magic Please buy at a local store or order at: https://bookshop.org/ https://www.barnesandnoble.com/ https://www.amazon.ca/ Support the show

Send us a text In this episode I talk with Morgan Daimler about Fairy lore, mistranslated texts, and the Tuatha Dé Danann, and why precision in language matters. We explore their work translating older sources, the ripple effects of bad scholarship, and how correcting the record is fueled by equal parts passion and the undeniable motivational power of spite.. a surprisingly effective academic engine. We dive into the Fair Folk, the ethics of sharing knowledge, and the strange afterlives of old texts. It was a sharp, funny, and genuinely wonderful conversation, and I’m deeply grateful for Morgan’s work and for the generosity they bring to preserving and sharing these traditions. Morgan Daimler teaches classes on Irish myth and magical practices, fairies, and related subjects in the United States and internationally. Morgan has been published in multiple anthologies as well as articles in various magazines, and she is one of the world's foremost experts on all things Fairy. Besides the titles available through Moon Books Morgan has a high fantasy novel 'Into Shadow' through Cosmic Egg and has an urban fantasy/paranormal romance series called Between the Worlds. Morgan has also presented papers on fairies and on fairies and witches at several university conferences. Morgan's links: https://www.facebook.com/Morgandaimler/ https://www.instagram.com/morgandaimler/?hl=en https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/authors/morgan-daimler Buy Tuatha Dé Danann: https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/our-books/tales-tuatha-de-danann-volume-1 Support Morgan's Future Projects and Research: https://www.patreon.com/morgandaimler Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of That Pennsylvania Witch Podcast, we welcome author and Minoan spirituality expert Laura Perry for a deep and lively exploration of ancient myth, modern practice, and the winding pathways that shape our Pagan lives. Together, we wander into the heart of the Minoan world—discussing who the Minoans may really have been, how their vibrant Bronze Age culture still resonates today, and why the Minotaur continues to captivate the Pagan imagination. Laura shares insights from her work with Modern Minoan Paganism, offering a fresh and empowering view of the labyrinth not as a prison, but as a place of transformation. We also open up about our own spiritual journeys, comparing experiences, challenges, and moments of revelation along the path. From mythology to modern witchcraft, from personal practice to community connection, this conversation weaves together the old and the new in a way that feels both grounded and magical. Laura's links and info: Laura Perry is the founder and Temple Mom of Ariadne’s Tribe, a worldwide inclusive Minoan spiritual tradition. In this role, she also leans on her experience as a Wiccan priestess, a Reiki Master, an artist, and a longtime herbalist and fiber artist. She has been writing all her life, but her first book was published in 2001. She writes pagan and magical-themed fiction and non-fiction and has also created a Minoan Tarot deck and coloring book. Her articles have appeared in The Magical Times, Indie Shaman, SageWoman and Pagan Dawn magazines, among others. When she’s not busy writing, painting, or leading rituals, you can probably find her digging in the garden or giving a living history demonstration at a local historic site. Buy Laura's books: https://bookshop.org/p/books/pantheon-the-minoans-laura-perry/bf6727686ce2d56c?ean=9781803416274&next=t https://lauraidaeja.substack.com/p/the-minoan-sun-goddess https://www.lauraperryauthor.com/ Support the show

Send us a text That Pennsylvania Witch Podcast welcomes author, storyteller, and modern bard Halo Quin for a journey into the heart of magick and self-discovery. In this illuminating conversation, Katelyn Dawn and Halo explore the art of Bardic wisdom and inspiration, uncovering how stories, song, and myth can guide us along our own unique spiritual paths. Together, they dive deep into the realms of land spirits, fairies, and the living magick of place, while courageously broaching taboo topics and the power of leaving shame behind. With warmth, humor, and wisdom, Halo shares insights from their new book and the transformative classes they offer through their website, inviting listeners to reconnect with their creativity, courage, and calling. Halo is a Dr of philosophy, a pagan author, a song-witch, and a changeling bard who calls Wales home. They have been practising and teaching magic for over 25 years and know that the world is enchanted, and that we are here for more beauty, pleasure, and play than we imagine. Halo's Links: https://haloquin.net/ Order Halo's Books: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/storytelling-for-magic-bardic-skills-and-ritual-craft-for-witches-and-pagans-halo-quin/7657537?ean=9781803414065&next=t&affiliate=7835 Support the show

Send us a text In this episode, host Katelyn Dawn welcomes beloved author Nicholas Pearson to talk about his upcoming book, The Witching Stones: Crystals, Gemstones, and Minerals to Empower Your Life, set to release on October 6, 2025. Together, Katelyn and Nicholas dive deep into the magic, mystery, and memory of stones, sharing personal stories of how crystals and stones have influenced their own magical practices. Listeners are treated to thoughtful reflections on the spiritual personalities of stones, and how connecting with these ancient allies can become a truly initiatory experience for modern witches and magical practitioners. Nicholas, known for his rare blend of scientific knowledge and mystical insight, offers a sneak peek into the book’s contents—including 13 in-depth stone monographs that go far beyond the usual crystal basics. He discusses how the stones in The Witching Stones were carefully chosen not for popularity, but for their occult power, folklore, and historical significance. The conversation explores the idea of stones as sentient spiritual allies, not just shiny tools of manifestation. Listeners also get insider info on Nicholas’s upcoming workshops and events, where he’ll guide participants in connecting more deeply with minerals as magical partners. These include both in-person appearances and virtual opportunities for learning and ritual. About the Book: Praised by leading authors like Ivo Dominguez Jr., Mat Auryn, Tess Whitehurst, Christopher Penczak, and Madame Pamita, The Witching Stones is described as a transformative guide that merges earthy science with magical spirit. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to go beyond commercialized crystal content and into the true heart of mineral magic.  Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned witch, this episode offers both practical tips and spiritual inspiration, encouraging listeners to see the stones beneath their feet as keepers of ancient wisdom and powerful co-creators in magic. Connect with Nicholas Pearson: www.theluminouspearl.com https://www.instagram.com/theluminouspearl?igsh=Y2Jub3N6dzdxZTlr https://www.facebook.com/TheLuminousPearl?mibextid=ZbWKwL https://linktr.ee/theluminouspearl?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0BQRL_9pPPTnDeSBj3jnY8JmmHq-OaEFLkABmZsXwGEEFju8cRgkD6Qyg_aem_9KIlxrOgF_dFoH80AWKwGg Support the show

Send us a text In this enlightening episode, Katelyn sits down with Priestess, author, and spiritual guide Elyse Welles for a rich conversation weaving together Greek mythology, esoteric wisdom, and modern Pagan practices. Elyse shares insights from her spiritual journey, the inspiration behind her new book, and her approach to fostering inclusivity within sacred and mystical spaces. They delve into the role of the divine feminine, reclaiming ancient wisdom for modern times, and how Elyse integrates storytelling, ritual, and scholarship in her work. The episode also highlights her podcasts, upcoming workshops, and events designed to empower others through connection with myth, magic, and inner knowing. Elyse's links: seekingnumina.com https://open.spotify.com/show/3FZ6I7kRqtRJ7bhpa9nKNq?si=239168421f32456e https://open.spotify.com/show/3K91NLEQpTX5w6m3OzUuY9?si=38802735550e41f6 https://open.spotify.com/show/4SvI7GsZC5aZwHG6SIXm1S?si=ddaa22b30ff24c97 https://www.samhainfest.com/

Send us a text In this episode of That Pennsylvania Witch, host Katelyn Dawn invites guest Timothy McKenna  Together, they explore whether meditation is an ancient spiritual tool, a misunderstood psychological hack, or just a really expensive excuse to avoid your inbox. Along the way, they broach a wide range of related (and delightfully tangential) topics, including: Mindfulness and open-mindedness The Ra Material (aka the Law of One) and cosmic download culture The CIA’s Gateway Experience QHHT hypnosis And yes… we touch on eldritch horror, millennials vs elder millennials, and Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, because clearly the universe is interconnected Katelyn brings her intuitive, witchy lens; Timothy offers both philosophical insight and skeptical questioning — with a dose of dark humor and cosmic sarcasm.  Trigger Warning & Mental Health Disclaimer: This episode contains brief mentions of suicidal thoughts and self-harm, particularly in the context of discussing the limits of spiritual practices as mental health tools. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional or contact a crisis support line in your area. Help is available, and healing is possible. While meditation can be a beautiful, empowering practice, it is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical support. Your mind, body, and soul deserve real care — from both the cosmos and your community Tim's links and info: Tim McKenna is a design and product leader that has led small and global design teams for the past 20 years. Having made an early career pivot from music into design, Tim has led design from small startups to global technology companies. Tim has taught design at York College of Pennsylvania and Harrisburg University, additionally has led the AIGA Central PA chapter to create community for designers in south central Pennsylvania. Tim's many industry credentials, past speaking circuit, and in demand mentoring schedule had propelled Tim as an influential figure in design. Tim's career path and identity was suddenly and abruptly changed as he was part of a company layoff, which tore down long held vapid beliefs and opened a new door in his life to seek beyond the ego and the material. Now, Tim balances his successful career, his spiritual seeking, and family as he continues on his path for knowledge, acceptance, and integration. Derek Sivers ~ Useful Not True Book: https://sive.rs/u Mark Manson Solved Values Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pdYVl60TqKLNAwKgFdk0C?si=286bd785ebbb473b Area 52 Podcast/YouTube Channel:http://www.youtube.com/@Area52Investigations The Law of One/Ra Material: https://www.llresearch.org/channeling/ra-contact/intro Daniel Ober ~ QHHT Practitioner: https://yourquantumhealingexperience.net/ Monroe Institute: https://www.monroeinstitute.org Tim's LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyfxmckenna Tim's Website: https://timmckenna.design/ Tim's BlueSky:

Send us a text I welcome Author and Scholar Kelle Ban Dea on today's episode of That Pennsylvania Witch Podcast. Join us as we explore the Mother archetype and learn about Kelle's recent and upcoming books.  *Trigger warning- brief mention of pregnancy loss and domestic violence at 18:12-18:45.  Kelle Ban Dea is a Columnist, Naturalistic Pagan, Scholar, and Author with Moon Books Publishing who studied at the University of Cambridge. She has published several dynamic literary pieces, including her recent Pagan Portals book Modron, Meeting the Celtic Mother Goddess, and her upcoming book Mabon, Discovering the Celtic God of hunting, healing, and harp. The release date is May 27th!!!  Kelle's links: https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/authors/kelle-ban-dea https://kellebandea.substack.com/

Send us a text In today's episode, Katelyn has a conversation with Ness Bosch about the Dark Goddess Archetype, Shamanism, and the Path of the Bones.  Ness Bosch, La Huesera, is an Iberian Shamaness and Priestess. Author and independent researcher, mother of 3, Ness lives in Scotland where she is a founding member of the Goddess Community Scotland. Founder of The Path of the Bones and the Clan of the Bone Woman (La Huesera). She is the Head of the Covenant of the Waters and the Temple of Astarte. Before moving to Scotland, Ness was a Regional Coordinator for the Pagan Federation International in Spain. Ness was the first Spanish Torchbearer or the Covenant of Hekate. She is a Hierophant Priestess, Dame Commander, and Archdruidess of the Fellowship of Isis. Links and projects: https://www.covenantofthewaters.org/covenant-of-the-waters/ https://goddesscommunityscotland.substack.com/p/to-embrace-the-gods https://www.ancestralpathwaysconference.com/call-for-proposals/

Send us a text  In this episode, Katelyn sits down with author Nicholas Pearson to discuss his latest book, Crystals for Psychic Self-Defense. Nicholas delves into how crystals and stones can aid in aligning and harmonizing your space and personal energy field, as well as assisting in establishing clear boundaries.  Nicholas Pearson has been immersed in all aspects of the mineral kingdom for nearly 30 years. The award-winning author of several books, including Crystal Basics, he offers classes online and in-person around the globe. He lives in Orlando, Florida.  In this full-color guide to crystals for psychic self-defense, crystal healing teacher Nicholas Pearson explores how to partner with the mineral kingdom for protection, cleansing, and countermagick. He begins by introducing common sources of psychic harm and explains best practices for discerning the symptoms of psychic attack and harmful energies. Looking at spiritual hygiene and the energy field, he shares several cleansing and purifying techniques, including magickal baths, selenite sweeps, aura scrubbing, and smoke cleansing, as well as how to cleanse, program, charge, and activate crystals. He also looks at special techniques aimed at strengthening the boundaries of empaths and highly sensitive people. You can pre-order your copy of Crystals for Psychic Self-Defense wherever books are sold. Nicholas Pearson Links: www.theluminouspearl.com https://www.instagram.com/theluminouspearl?igsh=Y2Jub3N6dzdxZTlr https://www.facebook.com/TheLuminousPearl?mibextid=ZbWKwL https://linktr.ee/theluminouspearl?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0BQRL_9pPPTnDeSBj3jnY8JmmHq-OaEFLkABmZsXwGEEFju8cRgkD6Qyg_aem_9KIlxrOgF_dFoH80AWKwGg

Send us a text Join Katelyn and Hawthorn as we discuss the concept of Sanctuary through a Pagan lens. Ana Hawthorn is an experienced, multifaceted Pagan Leader, Herbalist, and Entrepreneur.  Check out the shops mentioned in this Podcast if you're local - www.thebewitchingmoon.com https://www.the9collective.shop/

Send us a text In this episode of That Pennsylvania Witch, Katelyn is joined by the FABULOUS Silver RavenWolf!!!! Silver is a best-selling Author of 25 incredible books, and is the founder and leader of the Black Forest Circle and Seminary, a Wiccan organization with national and international groups.  She is an artist, spirit doll maker, chandler, photographer, Braucherei practitioner, internet entrepreneur, wife of 38 years, mother and grandmother. Silver has been interviewed by The New York Times, the Wall Steet Journal, US News & World Report, and A&E Biography. She is an empowering, inspiring, and talented human. Silver and Katelyn discuss Samhain, ancestor veneration, astrology, Braucherei, and divination. During their conversation, Silver shares a profound and inspiring perspective on embracing the transformative role of Cronehood, embodying the essence of Sacred Crone energy as a seasoned mentor. Check out Silvers site for her latest offerings: Www.whispermagick.com You can purchase her recent self-published Masterpieces here: Hebbi's Most Marvelous Halloween Party https://a.co/d/62uDjWT Runic Sorcery: Keywords of Power Workbook https://a.co/d/aN2wC1E Join Silver, Katelyn, and many other awesome folks at The Charleston area Witchy Weekend on November 7th and 8th at The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Charleston WV: https://www.facebook.com/share/RHFtd7XHC5cvPW6o/ #Silverravenwolf #Braucherei #Cronehood #torideasilverbroomstick #Charlestonareawitchyweekend #runicsorcery #cronewisdom #Pennsylvaniawitchpodcast #Samhain #astrology #Ancestorwisdom #cronewisdom

Send us a text Join Katelyn Dawn and Anya Peters in a conversation about Herbalism, Pollinator Stewardship, ancient rivers, potatoes, and compost... (In no particular order).  As a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania, Anya is deeply committed to ecological justice and care. Her love of gardening and photography reflects her passion for the natural world. A recent journey of self-discovery has led her to embrace her lifelong Pagan beliefs and recognize the magic in the mundane.  Bringing a touch of sarcasm to every situation, and having a healthy skepticism of government, Anya has carved out a peaceful haven on her homestead, nestled on Susquehannock Land. Tending to the land alongside her husband and enjoying the company of her feisty daughter and two goofy dogs brings her immense joy. A unique blend of experiences and beliefs shapes her villain origin story.  To find more information on Anya, book a garden consultation, or expert photography session, check out: www.Hedgerowcollective.com

Send us a text In this episode of That Pennsylvania Witch, join Katelyn as she talks about the Autumn Equinox, potentially mispronounces words, and goes on several tangents. Happy Fall!

Send us a text Come hang out with Katelyn Dawn as she rambles about this brand-new podcast project!