Back on the Broomstick: Old Witchcraft, New Path

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In this episode of Back on the Broomstick, Chelle and Laylla dive into the art of divination for the dark half of the year. As Samhain fades and the veil is still thin, it’s the perfect time to look ahead at what the months between now and Beltane might hold. Inspired by Chelle’s new charm collection, they explore the fascinating world of charm casting—an ancient form of divination that’s experiencing a magical revival. They chat about how to curate your own set of charms, interpret each one’s unique symbolism, and even how to combine charms with tarot for layered readings. To wrap up the episode, the witches perform a personal reading for each other, setting intentions and gaining insight to carry them through winter into spring. Join them for an enchanting journey of intuition, inspiration, and preparing for the dark months ahead.

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Laylla and Chelle honor the life and legacy of Pamela Colman Smith, the brilliant artist behind the iconic Rider-Waite-Smith (or what Laylla calls the Smith-Waite) tarot deck. Overlooked until recently, Pamela’s work has influenced countless readers and seekers for over a century, yet her story remains shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

Join the witches as they delve into Pamela’s life as a (possibly) queer, (possibly) mixed-race artist and occultist, her connections with the Golden Dawn, and the fascinating symbolism she infused into each card. They’ll explore how Pamela’s vision transformed tarot into a visual language that continues to inspire modern witchcraft and divination.

Tune in as they celebrate this powerful ancestress and unsung hero of tarot, uncovering the artistry, spirit, and intuition she brought to her craft—and why she deserves a place of honor in the hearts of all who read the cards. This episode is a beautiful blend of history, homage, and magic, perfect for connecting with the spirit of an artist who forever changed the world of tarot.

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As a special Throwback Thursday surprise for Samhain, we’re bringing back one of our favorite "Stoned Witches Hour" Wheel of the Year episodes to get you in the Halloween spirit! The third harvest is upon us, and in this timeless episode, Laylla and Chelle dive into the magic and mystery of Samhain, the witch’s New Year, that liminal space when the veil between life and death is at its thinnest.

Join the witches as they explore the traditions, symbols, and sacred practices that define this high holiday. From honoring ancestors and setting up altars to the playful origins of trick-or-treating, they unpack the customs that make Samhain both a time of reverence and celebration. As Laylla and Chelle share their favorite ways to welcome the spirits of the beloved dead and ward off trickster entities, you'll hear why this season is a powerful period for transformation, remembrance, and, of course, a little spooky fun.

Whether it’s feasting, leaving offerings of food and sweets, or simply lighting candles to honor those who have passed, the witches reveal how they make the most of this season’s magical energy. Pour yourself some cider, light a candle, and tune in as Laylla and Chelle share their favorite rituals, insights, and festive Halloween traditions for a Samhain celebration to remember.



*The Samhain Tarot readings have all been claimed! If you'd like to be eligible for surprise future readings, videos, and other offerings - consider signing up to sponsor the show! Link below

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In this episode of The Solarium, Laylla & Chelle review a couple of dark, scratch art decks and a whole bunch of books about our favorite Goddess of the Crossroads, Hecate.

They explore The Wanderer's Tarot by Casey Zabala and The Untamed Spirit Animal Oracle: Wisdom from the Wild Within by Francesca Matteoni, illustrated by Rocco Lombardi. On the book front, they discuss Entering Hekate's Cave: The Journey Through Darkness to Wholeness and Entering Hekate's Garden: The Magick, Medicine & Mystery of Plant Spirit Witchcraft by Cyndi Brannen, Hekate: Goddess of Witches by Courtney Weber, and Year of the Dark Goddess: A Journey of Ritual, Renewal & Rebirth by Lara Vesta. 

Which magical resources will earn the coveted Five Brooms Up? And which ones just didn't light their cauldrons? Grab your familiar, pull out the black candles, and join us at the crossroads to find out!

Many thanks to Red Wheel Weiser for providing the books and decks

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Get ready to light some candles and clutch your crystals, because this week on Back on the Broomstick, Chelle and Laylla are sharing one of their most unforgettable—and unnerving—paranormal experiences; the time they recorded a Ouija board session in a notorious haunted house, an encounter so chilling it made Chelle swear off ever stepping foot in the place again.

Our witchy hosts then take you on a journey through the fascinating history of spirit communication, tracing séances from Victorian parlors to modern-day living rooms. You’ll discover the surprising origins of the Ouija board, which began as a simple parlor game but evolved into one of the most feared and misunderstood tools in paranormal investigation.

The episode tackles the age-old debate: are Ouija boards truly portals for demonic energy, or have they been unfairly demonized by pop culture?  Chelle and Laylla weave together historical accounts, personal experiences, and spiritual insights. They’ll also share their own hard-earned tips for safe spirit communication (pro tip: maybe don’t start off with questions like “Is anyone evil here?”).  Their discussion expands into more ghostly encounters from their personal vaults and the various ways spirits may attempt to connect with the living, sharing touching stories of how departed loved ones have sent signs to their families.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, this episode is packed with eerie insights, nervous laughter, and magical advice that will have you looking over your shoulder—and maybe reaching for your own spirit board (with proper precautions, of course!). Send us your ghost stories, because the spirit world loves an audience, and we’re here for it!

Seybert Commission
Ouija Board History

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It's almost Samhain! The spooky season is the perfect time to cuddle up with a good witchy movie. Laylla and Chelle talk about some of our favorite Halloween classics to uncover the real magic behind the Hollywood spells. With blankets wrapped tight, hot tea in hand, and snacks aplenty, our witches have put in the *tough* work of rewatching beloved witchy flicks to answer the burning question: Is there real magic in these movies, or is Hollywood just spinning broomsticks for cash? And is there any truth to one of these movies being cursed by a real life witch?

From the sisterhood of "Practical Magic" to the teenage angst in "The Craft," and the delightful camp of "Hocus Pocus," these films have become staples of the spooky season; but just how much of the spellwork is authentic? And hold on to your broomsticks because there's a new witch in town—Disney's "Agatha All Along." Is this modern addition to the witchy canon casting actual spells or just riding the wave of witchy trends?

In this episode, Laylla and Chelle uncover some true witchcraft secrets hidden in their favorite spooky films. From creepy sounding code names for herbs to real-life witchy practices making an appearance on the big screen. You might be surprised to learn just how many genuine magical elements snuck their way into these films, and that even some of the dialogue contains actual spells!

If you've ever wondered whether Hollywood's witches are stirring up more than just special effects, tune in as our real witches break down the enchantments, the truths, and the tricks behind these Halloween favorites. It's a cauldron of movie magic, myth, and a sprinkle of mayhem as we celebrate the witchiest time of the year!

Expect some laughs, a few "ah-ha" moments, and possibly a strong urge to rewatch these classics with fresh eyes and a new appreciation for the witchcraft hidden beneath the cinematic spells!

Practical Magic Curse 

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In this episode of The Solarium, Laylla and Chelle are joined in their sunlit haven by special guests Paulina Stevens and Jezmina Von Thiele, authors of the book Secrets of Romani Fortune-Telling: Divining with Tarot, Palmistry, Tea Leaves, and More, and co-hosts of the Romanistan podcast. The authors share their personal experiences of being raised in traditional fortune-telling families, offering listeners an intimate look into the rich and complex world of Romani divination practices.

In their book, Paulina and Jezmina introduce a variety of Romani divination techniques, including card reading, palmistry, dream interpretation, and tea-leaf and coffee reading—methods that have been shaped and perfected by the Roma for centuries. They also share practical exercises to help listeners develop their intuition and uncover their natural spiritual gifts, while emphasizing the important role of divination in shadow work, clearing blockages, and deepening self-awareness.

As fortune-tellers themselves, Paulina and Jezmina give an insightful look into Romani spirituality, its connection to fortune-telling, and the continued persecution the Roma face today. They share their knowledge to help others find community and a space they can be celebrated.

Tune in for a magical conversation filled with wisdom, empowerment, and a deeper understanding of Romani fortune-telling practices. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your intuitive abilities or learn more about the spiritual heritage of the Roma, this episode offers a wealth of insight and inspiration!

Paulina Instagram
Jezmina Website
Romanistan Instagram
Book Signing
Order Secrets of Romani Fortune Telling

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Laylla and Chelle sit down with the delightfully witchy (and very busy!) Rev. Laura González for a conversation about Parliament of Worlds Religions, Tarot, teaching, ancestors, and death traditions for this time of year. Rev Laura shares her experience opening Parliament as well as powerful insights and meaningful ways to remember our beloved dead and celebrate the cycle of life, death, and remembrance.

As we move deeper into the Season of the Witch and closer to Samhain, our hosts discuss the rich traditions of the Day of the Dead with Rev Laura, learning how food, altars, and celebration create bridges between the worlds of the living and the dead. The witches talk about personal experiences, remembering our beloved dead this time of year with food and traditions, what it means to mourn, and so much more as we continue to celebrate the season of the witch!

Light a candle for your ancestors and join us for this special episode celebrating traditions and remembrance. 

Blue Witch Linktree and website

Artist Chicoatli

Poem read by Rev. Laura González at Parliament of Worlds Religions
OUR MOTHER by Christian Ortiz Velarde

Our Mother, who art in heaven and on earth and everywhere,
Blessed be your beauty and your abundance.
Bring to our hearts the key that opens the portal of love.
Let each being be in conscious freedom with other beings,
And that the exercise of sacred jubilation be part of our existence,
May we welcome you at our table to share the holy food of your fertile womb.

Our Mother, who art in heaven and on earth and everywhere,
May you guide our steps,
May the rhythm of our hearts be one with the heart of the earth,
And so worship his blessed song.
May the stars guide us in the dark nights.
And the sun and moon embrace our bodies.

Oh Great Spirit.
Oh Great Mother.
Oh HOLY WOMAN.

Dedicated to:
Dora Velarde (My Mother/Source/Body/Soul), with love, light and gratitude.

Rev Laura's fave divination decks Legacy of the Divine and Stacey Demarco

*This episode has been lightly edited for time and clarity

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This week, Laylla and Chelle dive into the world of paranormal investigation with special guest Alonnie, psychic medium and Co-Founder of SPECTERS (Study of Paranormal Events Confirmed Through Evidence, Research, and Science). From sensing spirits as a child to leading one of Central New York's paranormal research teams, Alonnie shares her journey of learning to understand her ability to see ghosts and how she has channeled that ability to help others.

Get ready for a fascinating discussion about what really goes into ghost hunting (spoiler: it's not like the TV shows!). Alonnie breaks down the essential tools and techniques for paranormal investigation, while sharing spine-tingling tales from actual investigations. Our witchy hosts contribute their own supernatural encounters, leading to an enlightening conversation about the different ways mediums, witches, and investigators interact with the spirit world.

Whether you're a skeptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, this episode offers valuable insights into responsible paranormal investigation and working with spiritual sensitivity. From EMF meters to protection rituals, Alonnie shares practical advice for anyone interested in exploring the paranormal while staying safe and grounded.

So dim the lights, grab your favorite ghost-hunting tools (or just a cozy blanket), and join us for an episode that bridges the gap between the worlds of witchcraft and paranormal investigation. After all, who better to talk about things that go bump in the night than a psychic medium and two witches?


https://hauntedhinsdalehouse.com/
https://hauntedhistorytrail.com/explore/the-historic-bundy-house
https://www.facebook.com/ParanormalResearchandEducation
https://www.youtube.com/@hometownhaunted9970
www.ALONNIE.com
https://www.facebook.com/AlonniePsychicMedium
www.ANVILE.us 
Book by Alonnie & Anvil
Hometown Haunted: Authenticated -The Historic Bundy House

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Get ready to light those candles and stir the cauldron, it’s officially the Season of the Witch! In this episode Laylla and Chelle kick off a month of delightfully spooky topics perfect for October. The witches chat about their recent adventures at CNY Pagan Pride Day, share some magical moments from the festival, and dish on connecting with community. 

They'll explore the thinning of the veil, honoring ancestors, and why this sabbat holds such a special place in witchy hearts. Plus, get ready for some wickedly good ideas on how to celebrate, whether you're a solitary practitioner or part of a coven.

Finally, our favorite witches share their personal traditions for welcoming the spooky season. From binge-watching "Practical Magic" or horror movie marathons, pumpkin spice everything, and decorating their altars for the spirits that walk among us. Join them for an enchanting discussion full of autumn vibes, witchy wisdom, and everything you need to welcome the season of shadows and spells.

So light your black candles, don your best witchy attire, and join Laylla and Chelle as they kick off a month of magical mischief. After all, it's the season of the witch, and Laylla & Chelle are making it as magical as possible!

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