The Bell Witch Podcast: Wholesome Spirituality for Magical Folks

Episode 5

Happy New Year, here's a ghost story for you!

Here is a truly chilling original story about the iconic Jubilee Clock Tower that stands proudly looming over the historic Market Place in Otley. A beautifully told original story narrated by the dark spirit Spindleshanks McScrew of The Yorkshire Ghost Tours Est 2024.

Produced by Swailes of The Bell Witch Podcast 2026.

Disclaimer- gruesome and foreboding with theme of death- a true horrifying tale. !!

https://yorkshireghosttours.com/otley-ghost-tour

https://www.instagram.com/turnip.fish.theatre/

#ghosts #haunting #origanalstory #scary #leeds

Greetings Listener, and welcome to The Bell Witch Podcast. A show to help one to get 'Witching in the 21st Century'

This is a spontaneous episode celebrating The Omen Days, where we listen through last years journal pages for the upcoming year 25, and discuss how the Omens were interpried as messages.

WHAT ARE THE OMEN DAYS?

What if some of the most magical and mystical days of the year have been almost completely forgotten. In the midst of all of the frenetic energy of the holidays, we often dismiss the deepening stillness that is also present. In many different cultures around the world, the twelve day period beginning on December 26th and ending on January 6th is considered the most holy time of the year. The days slip beyond the boundaries of time and hidden knowledge becomes more accessible. Many of us feel that restless sense of being in a liminal space, waiting for both an ending and a new beginning.

These 11 days and 12 nights can be found in ancient folklore, noted on medieval liturgical calendars, and in various religious and cultural traditions, including the German tradition of Rauhnächte (the 'rough' or 'magic nights), The Twelve Days of Christmas (marking the coming of the Epiphany), and in the Celtic tradition of The Omen Days. Many of the early celebrations and rituals were an effort to harmonize the gap between the Lunar and Solar calendars. It takes takes 365 days for the moon to go around the sun, and 354 days for the moon to wax and wane 12 times.

The Omen Days are an invitation to observe the signs of nature - the bird's calling, the whispers of the wind through the pine trees, the movement or behavior of a rabbit or other animals, etc. - and use it as a divination for the year to come. Each day is a literal omen, a preview of the calendar year ahead. December 26th corresponding to January, December 27th corresponding to February, and so on. The Omen or message received that day relates to it’s corresponding month.

https://www.silvercrestsanctuary.com/omen-days

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE BELL WITCH PODCAST !

In this festive episode of The Bell Witch Podcast, the Swailes and resident Heathen folklore expert Chew explore the Norse roots of Yule and Christmas traditions. They discuss Odin’s role in the Wild Hunt, the parallels between Odin and Santa Claus, and the symbolism of the Yule log and mistletoe. Chew shares personal pagan practices and stories from Viking festivals, while both speakers reflect on the balance of light and darkness during the season. The episode blends myth, humour, and personal experience, offering listeners a lively look at how ancient Norse customs shape modern holiday celebrations.

Thank you to Lee of Mind Cake podcast for the festive soundbite

and thank you, dear listener, for choosing to listen to tune in to TBWP

Stay Magical xxx

Welcome to The Bell Witch Podcast for this special most festive episode to celebrate Yule.

In the final Solitary Witch episode of 2025, The Bell Witch Podcast host Swailes explores the pagan roots and folklore behind Christmas tradition of Santa Clause. Delving into Yule, the battle of the Holly and the Oak King, and the evolution of Santa Claus. This episode weaves together stories of ancient rituals, medieval revelry, and modern customs. With personal anecdotes and lively interjections from other speakers, the host highlights the enduring magic, balance, and communal spirit of the season, encouraging listeners to embrace both the history and wonder of Christmas and Yule in their own celebrations.

Paganism is the reason for the season!

Blessed Yule from me to you

All my Love and Magic

Swailes FGW x

you can email Swailes on [email protected]

Part of the Darkcast Network

Podcast Pals- Mind Cake and Mountain Murders

LINKS

Research Sources

https://wiccaacademy.com/the-holly-king-and-the-oak-king/

https://www.learnreligions.com/go-a-wassailing-for-yule-2562973

https://www.learnreligions.com/the-origins-of-santa-claus-2562993

https://haeretico.com/christmas-lord-of-misrule/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Claus

Handy Green Man episode link-

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1KoBb1t2rAgiwZZyKHQpwG?si=De07LjhjQSqzsCxjIOsKLw

#YULE #merrychristmas #folklore #wicca #festive #history #magic

Welcome to The Bell Witch Podcast, "Witching in the 21st Century"

In episode 75 of The Bell Witch Podcast, host Swailes welcomes back Genna from Sydney, Australia, a crystal witch and creator of the 'Crystal Forest Guardians' independent oracle deck. They discuss Genna’s creative journey, blending crystals and animals into intuitive oracle cards, her experiences with motherhood, and the supportive witchcraft community.

Genna shares insights into the symbolism of her favourite cards, her self-funded publishing process, and future plans for a companion spell book. The episode also features personal updates from the host, event recaps, and encouragement for listener engagement within the indie spiritual podcast community.

Swailes the Friendly Green Witch also updates us on her recent visits, volunteering at Witchfest International and visiting The Dark Secrets exhibition at The Vaults in Waterloo, London.

Check out Genna's new deck here- https://www.instagram.com/rosecauldronmagick/

Witchfest- https://witchfest.net/

The Dark Secrets Exhibition- https://darksecretsexhibition.com/london/

Part of The Darkcast Network https://www.instagram.com/darkcastnetwork/

Podcast Pals- Family Plot- https://open.spotify.com/show/4aDGwGMMSd0SmCk5e8CfUv?si=b45afdfe1fac4bf3

Mind Cake- https://open.spotify.com/show/135hjmyv6RxmUAide5MEIX?si=69fac33244d047d3

PLEASE RATE THIS PODCAST TO HELP IT GROW

Fancy being a guest or suggest a topic? Email [email protected]

Produced with love and magic by Swailes the Friendly Green Witch friendlygreenwitch | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

Join the NEW Patreon for bonus content and exclusive episodes  The Bell Witch Podcast | Podcast | Patreon

You can tip the witch on PayPal [email protected]

Follow #TBWP on Instagram The Bell Witch Podcast (@the_bell_witch_podcast) •

Instagram photos and videos

Official Photos by Beverley Thornton Beverley Thornton (@beverleythornton) • Instagram photos and videos

Music by Geoff Harvey of Pixabay 

Get a discount on VE Cosmetics using 'bellwitch' at checkout- VE Cosmetics - Vegan, CrueltyFree, Gothic & Alternative Makeup

#witchypodcast #witchcraft #crystalhealing #indieoracledeck #animals #Australia #witchcraft #magic

Welcome to The Bell Witch Podcast. 'Witching in the 21st Century'

If you love what you hear and want to support the show please leave ratings, reviews and share the podcast with your friends. It truly helps the show to shine.

In this episode of The Bell Witch Podcast, host Swailes chats with Laura, producer of the Witches Magazine. They discuss the magazine’s origins as a university project, its growth into a beloved seasonal publication, and the importance of community in modern witchcraft. Laura shares behind-the-scenes insights on producing the magazine, her personal journey as a witch, and the value of inclusivity, creativity, and genuine connection. The episode highlights the challenges and rewards of independent publishing, the magazine’s eco-conscious efforts, and the supportive spirit that unites the witchcraft community.

Check out Witches Magazine here- Witchcraft | Witches Magazine

LINKS-

Mind Body Spirit Festival- Mind Body Spirit Festival - Birmingham NEC - 14 Nov - 16 Nov

Mindcake who gifted me the ticket- https://open.spotify.com/show/135hjmyv6RxmUAide5MEIX?si=64e55b9d7cbe4b1e

Sacred Spirit Sessions - https://open.spotify.com/show/3GIv8uVxXqzzXY3wm8vLRN?si=46902a5f3006474a

Witchfest- Home - Witchfest®

Proud to be part of The Darkcast Network- darkcastnetwork | Facebook, TikTok | Linktree

Podcast Pals-

Pod of Terror- https://open.spotify.com/show/0bKeo1MIJkvw3cSnY5djjO?si=69d8ecf65e4648a2

Autumns Oddities - https://open.spotify.com/show/5DqfzP2LR7lBiWOg3KjYZu?si=29da1dd7e5b74f88

Connect with Swailes- [email protected] instagram.com/the_bell_witch_podcast

Tip your witch on Paypal- [email protected]

Thank you for listening.

BONUS Episode

Introducing 'Mindbites' from our Pod Pals Mindcake - Little bites of mental health and wellbeing!

In this Mind Bite, Lee and actor/coach Amy Alexander explore the surprising science behind visualisation, mindset and why your brain can’t tell the difference between dreams and reality.

Amy shares how childhood “pretend adverts” turned into real acting jobs, Lee admits he may be manifesting more Fiat 500s than success and together they break down how attention, awareness and neuroscience actually shape your everyday experience.

This is visualisation without the woo-woo — a playful, grounded chat about focus, energy, psychology and noticing the things that matter (not just tiny Italian cars).

If you enjoyed this Mind Bite, you can listen to the full conversation with Amy on our main episodes:

The Healing Power of Yoga

What Does "Showing Up" Really Mean?

Check out the show at- https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mind-cake-mental-health-with-humour-heart-and-custard-tart/id1716342802

https://open.spotify.com/show/135hjmyv6RxmUAide5MEIX?si=07330ea6d8b943e0

Please subscribe and leave some stars to help the show to shine!

Welcome to The Bell Witch Podcast- 'Witching in the 21 Century'

In this 73rd episode- a 'Solitary Witch' episode of TBWP, the host Swailes explores the magic and science behind spoken words, sharing personal stories about language, manifestation, and mental health. She discusses how words shape reality, referencing witchcraft, neurodiversity, and neuroscience, and reflects on a transformative week of silence in 2011 that shaped her understanding of her own language.

Swailes emphasizes intentional, positive speech, the pitfalls of capitalism, and the importance of self-kindness. Humorous interjections from friends add warmth. Listeners are encouraged to use words as tools for healing, empowerment, and magic, making this episode a thoughtful blend of personal insight, practical advice, and spiritual wisdom.

Recent guest appearances-

Mind Cake- https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ILWTgXZpE2iawSGpod99a?si=1e7c4746b8bd464f

Pursuit of the Paranormal- https://open.spotify.com/episode/6QDB9lNdi6sB7VHLkJOKFq?si=5c09f6ec79b6427c

Anchor Heaven- https://open.spotify.com/episode/3pz7rwL9DFE09LENuIUZ4F?si=ubYwmHrFS_eK2mrTAcu-ZA

Part of the Darkcast Network Family- https://www.instagram.com/darkcastnetwork/

Podcast Pals- https://open.spotify.com/show/1B3plQvpBHBLk3QAM1dlCp?si=eea519c38b6746e9

PLEASE RATE THIS PODCAST!!

Fancy being a guest or suggest a topic? Email [email protected]

Produced with love and magic by Swailes the Friendly Green Witch friendlygreenwitch| Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

Join the NEW Patreon for bonus content and exclusive episodes The Bell Witch Podcast | Podcast | Patreon

You can tip the witch on PayPal using [email protected]

Follow #TBWP on Instagram TheBell Witch Podcast (@the_bell_witch_podcast) •Instagram photos and videos

Official Photos by Beverley Thornton BeverleyThornton (@beverleythornton) • Instagram photos and

videos

Music by Geoff Harvey of Pixabay

DISCOUNTS

Get a discount on VE Cosmetics using

'bellwitch' at checkout- VE Cosmetics - Vegan, CrueltyFree, Gothic & Alternative Makeup

Sponsored by Whimsy Goth Market of London- https://thewhimsygothmarket.uk/

Stay Magical x

#witchypod #witchcraft #spokenword #witch #indiepod #magick

HAPPY HALLOWEEN AND BLESSED SAMHAIN!

In this special Halloween edition of The Bell Witch Podcast, the host welcomes Yorkshire blogger and journalist Shannon Palmer. Shannon shares chilling and heartfelt stories of hauntings and supernatural encounters from her life and family history, including ghostly visits, eerie coincidences, and local haunted sites in Bradford and Halifax. The episode blends personal anecdotes, folklore, and paranormal investigation, exploring themes of life, death, and the unknown. With warmth and humour, Shannon and the host discuss the emotional impact of these experiences, offering listeners a captivating and spooky celebration of the Samhain season.

The Yorkshire lasses- Shannon and Swailes have audio great chemistry on this episode, and although it is a dark topic, there is much Yorkshire silliness and giggles.

Listen if you dare!

Follow Shannon here- Shannon|Yorkshire Blogger (@thelittlelifeofshazzap) • Instagram photos and videos

Podcast Pals-

Book of the Dead https://open.spotify.com/show/3b6lWRP822ZyLQ4T1O9ILp?si=7c487aa7b6a546f4

Missing in the PNW https://open.spotify.com/show/4fsL3AK7yOHRL6rMr051xO?si=7393b46030344571

Disclaimer- slight swearing

Part of the Darkcast Network Family- https://www.instagram.com/darkcastnetwork/

PLEASE RATE THIS PODCAST!! it really helps us keep on keeping on

Fancy being a guest or suggest a topic? Email [email protected]

Produced with love and magic by Swailes the Friendly Green Witch friendlygreenwitch| Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

Join the NEW Patreon for bonus content and exclusive episodes  The Bell Witch Podcast | Podcast | Patreon

You can tip the witch on PayPal- [email protected]

Follow #TBWP onInstagram The_Bell Witch Podcast (@the_bell_witch_podcast) •

Instagram photos and videos

Official Photos by Beverley Thornton Beverley

Thornton (@beverleythornton) • Instagram photos and

videos

Music by Geoff Harvey of Pixabay 

Get a discount on VE Cosmetics using 'bellwitch' at checkout- VE Cosmetics - Vegan, Cruelty Free, Gothic & Alternative Makeup

#ghoststories #haunted #uncanny #westyorkshire #reallifeghoststories #blogger #nde #ShannonPalmer

Please enjoy this Halloween Special brought to you at the stroke of midnight by the Podcasts of The Darkcast Network-

Rainbow Crimes, The Final Trace, Missing in the PNW, The Book of the Dead, Mountain Murders, Mythical True Crime, Pod of Terror, Famous Last Words, Murder in the PNW, ATTWG, Day By Day, A Hateful Homicide, Rogue Darkness, Tragedy With A View and The Bell Witch Podcast.

Chapters:

Happy Halloween and blessed Samhain.

#witchypodcast #happyhalloween #ghoststories #spookystories #haunted #uncanny #truecrime #samhain #october #spooky