Laylla and Chelle welcome the very witchy author Judika Illes for a magical conversation. They talk about her newest book, "Witches: A Compendium," a beautifully crafted tribute to witches across history who dared to embrace their power and walk their own unique paths. From ancient enchantresses to modern-day magic makers, this book is a celebration of all things witchy and wise.

Of course, no chat with Judika would be complete without mentioning her iconic magical tome, "the encyclopedia of 5000 spells." The book so massive it could double as a doorstop, a weapon, or an altar in a pinch! They share some laughs about its legendary size while also honoring the incredible depth of magic packed into those pages.

The witches also share a secret dream of becoming the scary witch who lives alone in the woods...you know, the one people whisper about with equal parts fear and fascination. Of course, Laylla and Chelle agree they’d totally share a cozy cottage in the forest together because, let’s face it, being scary is way more fun with your best witch by your side!

This episode is a magical blend of wisdom, humor, and heartfelt reflections on the importance of staying true to yourself and boldly reclaiming the title of witch, especially in today’s world. So grab your grimoire, light a candle, and get ready for a conversation that’s as powerful as a perfectly cast spell... and just as fun!

https://www.instagram.com/judikailles/

https://www.youtube.com/user/JudikaIlles

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJudikaIlles/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/judikailles

*This episode has been edited for time and clarity

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Get ready for a spellbinding mix of history, magic, and just the right amount of witchy mischief! In this episode of Back on the Broomstick, Laylla and Chelle unravel the tangled web of Valentine’s Day. Is it related to ancient Roman fertility festivals? What made it the Hallmark holiday it is today? 

But what’s love without a little magick? After digging into history, our witches shift gears into the art of sex magick; one of the most potent, transformative, and (let’s be real) misunderstood forms of witchcraft. They break down the basics, from using pleasure as an energy-raising tool to casting spells with intention and desire. Whether you’re flying solo or weaving magic with a partner, Laylla and Chelle share tips on how to bring enchantment into your intimate rituals; safely, ethically, and with a whole lot of witchy confidence.

So light a candle, grab some chocolate (or something stronger), and tune in for an episode filled with history, humor, and the kind of magic that makes the heart (and other things) race.

Sex, Sorcery, and Spirit by Jason Miller

Sexual Occultism by John Mumford

Sacred Sex by Gabriela Herstik

The Ethical Slut, Third Edition: A Practical Guide to Polyamory, Open Relationships, and Other Freedoms in Sex and Love By Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton

The Satyr's Kiss by Storm Faerywolf

Sacred Power, Holy Surrender Lee Harrington 

Radical Ecstasy Hardy & Easton

Urban Tantra Barbara Carrellas 

Queer Magic anthology edited by Tai Kulystin & Lee Harrington 

The Kama Sutra

Modern Sex Magic by Donald Michael Craig

Queer Rites: A Magickal Grimoire to Honor Your Milestones with Pride by Enfys J. Book 

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From athames to chalices, wands to pentacles—witches love a good altar setup! But what do all these tools actually do, where do they come from, and do you really need them to practice witchcraft? In this episode, Laylla and Chelle break down the history, purpose, and modern use of altar tools in witchcraft, exploring both traditional ceremonial items and the everyday objects witches repurpose for magical work.

They’ll talk about the origins of some of the most well-known altar tools, how they’ve evolved, and whether they’re still relevant for witches today. Do you need a fancy blade to cast a circle, or will a kitchen knife do? Can a coffee mug be a chalice? And what if you don’t use tools at all? Whether you’re building your first altar or just want to rethink your magical setup, this episode is full of witchy wisdom on how to make your tools work for you. Grab a candle, settle in, and let’s talk about what’s really needed for powerful spellcraft!

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For our 100th episode, we’re getting nostalgic and stirring up a little bit of chaos! This week, we’re blending the best of Back on the Broomstick with our old podcast The Stoned Witches Hour, bringing you stories of Tarot curses, cryptids, and dropping a bit of cannabis knowledge along the way.

Laylla kicks things off with a tale about a tarot reader who threw a curse at a party girl during the summer of love in San Francisco. Chelle stays true to her paranormal-loving roots with a dive into an Ohio frog cryptid (because why wouldn’t there be a frog man haunting the Midwest?). And in true Stoned Witches fashion, we talk about what we’re smoking while Laylla answers Chelle’s cannabis questions, including what the heck THCA is and whether “bellacarphan” is a real thing or just another classic Chelle mispronunciation.

To wrap up the episode, we’re giving you some witchy wisdom on how to tell if you or your home are cursed, and more importantly, what to do about it! Whether you’ve got a suspicious string of bad luck or just love a good magical defense strategy, we’ve got you covered!

It’s been an incredible 100 episodes, witches! Thank you for being part of this journey with us! Now grab your favorite herbal offering (whatever that may be!), settle in, and celebrate in spooky, witchy, style!

Since this episode is so long, here is a chapter guide:

00 intro

4 00 Groundhog's Day Lessons

8 08 Weed facts

16 34 The Curse of 1000 Lombard St 

40 46 Frog Man Cryptid of Loveland Ohio

56 25 Let's Talk About Curses

Zillow Listing of 1000 Lombard St

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As the wheel turns to Imbolc, Laylla and Chelle dive into the Greek myth of Persephone and Demeter, exploring how it connects to the “Persephone Period” that begins on February 1st. Things get lively as the witches realize they have totally opposite interpretations of the myth and even different versions of the story! They unpack the layers of meaning in this tale of balance, transformation, and the cycles of life, while sharing their thoughts on how it ties to the energy of Imbolc.

The myth of Persephone and Demeter is one of the most enduring stories from Greek mythology, a tale of transformation, duality, and the cycles of life and death. It’s what’s known as an etiological myth, one that explains the origins of natural phenomena, in this case, the changing seasons. As Persephone is taken to the Underworld and later returns, her journey mirrors the earth’s transition from barren winter to fertile spring. But as Laylla and Chelle get into the details of the story, they realize they don’t quite see eye to eye. Was Persephone a victim or a willing participant? Is the myth about power, balance, or something deeper? Their disagreement leads to a lively discussion full of insight, banter, and a few surprising takes on this ancient story about the dark Queen of the Underworld.

Of course, no Imbolc episode would be complete without some witchy inspiration! Laylla and Chelle offer ideas for celebrating this sabbat, from candle magic and divination to rituals that honor Brigid and the return of the light. Whether you’re lighting the first spark of spring or reflecting on winter’s lessons, this episode has plenty of magic to share.

Imbolc Folklore 2024
Imbolc Spells 2024
Hecate - Goddess and Ride or Die BFF

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Are Wands air or fire? Are Swords fire or air? Laylla lets her inner tarot nerd loose and Chelle shares the knowledge of her vast Tarot collection as the witches explore the historical roots, systems, and their own intuitive interpretations of the Tarot minor arcana suits of wands and swords.

The witches dive into why they associate Wands with air and Swords with fire, unraveling the layers of history, esoteric tradition, and personal intuition behind their interpretations. Laylla and Chelle share their unique perspectives and explain how their readings are shaped by everything from astrology to visual cues on the cards. They’ll also offer practical tips for finding your own elemental connections and making the meanings truly your own; because tarot is as much about personal resonance as it is about tradition!

Whether you’re a new tarot reader or a seasoned card slinger, this episode is full of insights about the suits and their elemental energies. Grab your favorite deck and settle in for a deep conversation about the magic of the cards!

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In this luminous episode of Back on the Broomstick, the witches explore the mysteries and magick of the full moon, sharing rituals and spells perfect for new and solitary practitioners. Laylla and Chelle break down what to do during a full moon, why these practices are so powerful, and how you can create a meaningful connection with its energy.

From teas and smokable spells to simple yet potent rituals and ways to honor the moon, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you harness the full moon’s magick, no matter where you are in your practice. Whether you’re just starting out or walking your path solo, grab your favorite mug, light a candle, and join us as we bask in the glow of lunar wisdom.

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Welcome to 2025, witches! In this first episode of the year, Laylla and Chelle dive into the magic of fresh starts and share their favorite tarot spreads for setting intentions, exploring opportunities, and navigating the energies of the year ahead. Whether you’re looking to map out your personal goals, connect with the cycles of the year, or align your magic with the possibilities of 2025, this episode has you covered.

The witches also discuss rituals and tips to help you step into the new year with focus, clarity, and a touch of enchantment. Grab your cards, light a candle, and join us as we make 2025 a year filled with purpose and magic!

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Laylla and Chelle sit down with Appalachian witch and priestess Byron Ballard to discuss the aftermath of Storm Helene and how her community is finding resilience in its wake. Byron shares the vital role her Mother Grove Goddess Temple played in helping neighbors recover, offering practical support and spiritual guidance in challenging times.

The conversation flows into the spirits of the land and the Goddess in winter, exploring how the season of stillness and reflection can deepen our connection to the natural world and the sacred cycles of life. Byron’s wisdom as a caretaker of land-based spirituality shines as she discusses honoring the land and its energy during the dark half of the year.

They also chat about Byron’s upcoming book, A Feral Church, set to release on January 8th. Byron offers a sneak peek into her exploration of what it means to create a sacred community that thrives outside of traditional structures, inspiring witches and pagans to rethink how they gather and practice.

Join Laylla, Chelle, and Byron for a thoughtful discussion filled with wisdom, hope, and the power of community


Byron's website https://www.myvillagewitch.com/
Facebook: H Byron Ballard
Instagram: @byronballard5789
A Feral Church https://www.malaprops.com/book/9780738776361

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It’s the first night of Yule, and what better way to celebrate Mother’s Night than with some witchy wisdom and warm guidance from your favorite magickal aunties, Laylla and Chelle? In this cozy, fireside-style episode of Back on the Broomstick, the witches answer questions sent in by listeners, getting into the nuances, ethics, and practicalities of the craft.

From heartfelt questions like spellcasting for your child, to the mystical, like hedge riding tips and tools. Ever wondered what to do with your old spell jars? Laylla and Chelle discuss the dos and don’ts of reusing spell components, giving a fresh take on magical sustainability. They also explore the possibility of taking on students, whether its advised to use a pendulum with a Ouija board, and so many more.

Pour yourself a cup of spiced cider, light a candle, and join us for an enchanting start to the 12 Nights of Yule as Laylla and Chelle share their insights, stories, and magical know-how.    

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