The Pagan Portal Podcast

• The Magic of Birds in Paganism, Witchcraft & Folklore w/ Mabh Savage

  Birds have always captured the human imagination. They walk the land, swim the waters, and soar through the skies—crossing boundaries we can only dream of. In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, host Rachel Patterson speaks with author Mabh Savage about the symbolism, myths, and magic of birds in Paganism, Witchcraft, and folklore.Together they explore:- Why birds are seen as liminal beings that move between worlds- How categories of birds—songbirds, scavengers, birds of prey—carry distinct magical energies- The myths and superstitions that shape how we see magpies, crows, pigeons, and more- Ways to connect with bird magic in everyday life, from watching your local wildlife to journaling, meditating, or working with dreams- How folklore—whether ancient or recent—continues to shape magical practice todayWith humour (including a few pigeon mishaps), deep insights, and plenty of folklore, this conversation celebrates the power of birds as teachers, guides, and symbols of transformation.Perfect listening for witches, pagans, folklore lovers, and anyone fascinated by the spiritual lessons of the natural world.

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• Celebrating Samhain with Pagan Witches w/ Rachel Patterson, Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, Katie Ness

  In this special Samhain episode of the Pagan Portal Podcast, we embrace the turning of the wheel as the nights draw in and Halloween approaches. It’s the perfect time to honour the ancestors, share stories, and perhaps indulge in a comforting cottage pie.Join host Rachel Patterson alongside guests Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, and Katie Ness, as they share their wisdom, insights, and seasonal magic.So pull on your favourite hoodie, put the kettle on, grab some autumnal treats, and settle in for this enchanting Samhain celebration with The Pagan Portal Podcast.

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• Word Witchery: The Magic of Words, Spells & Goddesses w/ Katie Ness

  Words hold power. In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, host Rachel Patterson is joined by author and priestess Katie Ness for a deep exploration of word magic—from ancient hymns and love charms to modern poetry and spellwork.Together, they discuss:✨ The role of chanting inward and outward in ritual and energy work✨ Whether intention or wording matters more in spellcraft✨ Ancient practices of weaver priestesses, who sang and blessed cloth with sacred words✨ The goddesses of writing and knowledge: Nisibar, Seshat, Saraswati, and Minerva✨ How poetry, journaling, and even tarot cards can become tools of word witchery✨ Personal stories of grief, creativity, and transformation through writingFrom Mesopotamian curse tablets to Egyptian funerary hymns, from yogic chanting to poetry inspired by tarot, this episode weaves together myth, history, and modern Pagan practice.Perfect for anyone interested in Paganism, Witchcraft, goddesses, creativity, ritual, yoga, and the sacred power of words.

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• Witchcraft, Spirit Guides & Healing Past-Life Wounds w/ Barbara Meiklejohn Free & Flavia Kate Peters

  In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, host Rachel Patterson speaks with Barbara Meiklejohn-Free and Flavia Kate Peters about their life’s work, magical practices, and deep spiritual callings.Barbara shares the powerful origin of Spirit Visions, born from a four-day vision quest in the Badlands, and the story of Arnemetia — the ancient water and grove goddess of Buxton whose sacred well still flows today. Together, Barbara and Flavia explore the importance of healing past-life wounds, guiding souls through death rites, and weaving magic into the entire cycle of life.From drumming in the King’s Chamber of the Great Pyramid to their everyday rituals with candles, altars, and incense, they reveal how magic infuses their daily lives. They discuss the role of magical tools, the importance of keeping one’s deities private, and their shamanic connection to animals — from cats who guard their rituals to elephants and leopards offering profound moments of healing.✨ In this episode:- The origin of Spirit Visions & Arnemetia’s Grove- Healing Witches’ Wounds & past-life cycles- Death rites, celebrancy & rites of passage- Magical tools, drumming & sacred sound- Keeping deity work private for spiritual protection- Daily rituals to honour the sacred- Shamanic connections with animals & familiars

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• Sacred Smoke, Witchcraft & Everyday Magic: Plants, Ritual, and Sound w/ Dawn Leith Dougherty

  In this episode of The Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson is joined by author and plant witch Dawn Leith Dougherty for a rich, grounded conversation about the art and history of smoke cleansing.Together, they explore:- The global traditions behind burning herbs and resins- Why white sage isn’t the only option, and what to use instead- Creating your own incense blends for ritual, rest, or energetic shifts- The power of sound: chanting, humming, and music in spiritual practice- Scientific studies that show how sacred smoke affects microbes and energy- Growing and connecting with your own herbs for deeper magicDawn also shares her personal journey into plant magic, her favourite blends, and how you can begin working with herbs. Whether you’re deeply spiritual or simply looking for a more grounded and calming practice.This is a conversation full of wisdom, humor, and heart. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to working with smoke and sound, there’s something here for you.

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