In the shadowy forest of Slavic folktales, Baba Yaga waits — death crone, devourer, and initiator. In this episode, we journey through her myths, symbolism, and archetypal wisdom. Why does she frighten us? What does she demand? And what do we gain if we pass her tests?

We explore the tale of Vasalisa the Wise through the lens of Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés, look at the origins of Baba Yaga’s name, her connection to death, nature, wild wisdom, and why she still matters — maybe more than ever.

🔮 Featuring:– Myth and analysis of Vasalisa the Wise– Origins and etymology of Baba Yaga– Archetypal initiation and the wild feminine– Symbolism of spinning, fire, skulls, and ritual tasks– Folktales, folklore, and fierce grandmothers

📚 References & inspirations:• Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés • Baba Yaga: The Wild Witch of the East in Russian Fairy Tales by Andreas Johns • The Maiden King by Robert Bly and Marion Woodman

wonderful fiction:

• Ask Baba Yaga: Otherworldly Advice for Everyday Troubles / by Taisia Kitaiskaia • The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore • The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson💌 Subscribe to my newsletter at mariannaportela.substack.com for more myth, ritual, and audio blessings.

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