In this episode of The Gothic Heart, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Carol Hughes, a seasoned podcaster and paranormal enthusiast behind Real Ghost Stories and The Grave Talks. With decades of experience in radio and podcasting, Carol shared her journey into the world of the supernatural, fueled by her own experiences growing up in a haunted house. We swapped stories about ghostly encounters, what it’s like to work in the paranormal space, and how she decides which submissions make it to her shows. Carol’s passion for storytelling and her thoughtful approach to sharing others' experiences really shine through. Whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and maybe a ghostly chill or two!

Episode Highlights:

• The Evolution of Podcasting
• Exploring Ghost Stories and Paranormal Experiences
• Finding Guests and Sharing Stories
• Personal Paranormal Experiences
• Skepticism and Belief in the Paranormal
• Seeking Out Haunted Locations
• Exploring Haunted Places and Ghost Tours
• The Amityville Horror: Fact or Fiction?
• Evaluating Paranormal Experiences and Mental Health
• The Intersection of Personal Experience and Paranormal
• Sharing Stories: The Importance of Community in the Paranormal

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Email: carol at realstorymedia.com
• Real Ghost Stories podcast
  • Instagram: @ghostpodcast
• The Grave Talks podcast
• The Stanley Hotel, The Crescent Hotel, LaLaurie Mansion, Amityville House

Accompanying blog post can be found at https://amityalexandra.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode33

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CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart 

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/ 

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity 

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Summary:

*Trigger Warning: Suicidal Ideation*

In this episode, I chat with Elena and Emily, the dynamic duo behind Mountains and Magic Events, about their passion for creating immersive, book-inspired experiences that bring readers together in the most magical ways. They share how their love for fantasy and a desire for genuine community led to crafting events that feel like stepping straight into the pages of your favorite stories. We talked about everything from planning these epic gatherings to the importance of fostering connection and individuality in a world that can sometimes feel isolating. Plus, they spill a bit about their journey, personal challenges, and why building a life—and business—that feels magical every day is their ultimate goal. Trust me, this one’s all about inspiration and finding your people!

Episode Highlights:

• The Vision Behind the Events
• Creating Community Through Fantasy
• Planning the Perfect Fantasy Event
• Building a Local Community
• Looking Ahead to 2025
• Spotlighting Undiscovered Authors
• Creating Accessible Experiences
• The Power of Connection
• Mental Health and Literature
• Finding Magic in Everyday Life
• Embracing Individuality
• Vulnerability in Partnerships
• Gratitude and Growth

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Mountains and Magic Events
  • >> Newsletter

In this solo episode of The Gothic Heart, I share an exciting update on how embracing authenticity has transformed my work with Amity Alexandra. From transitioning the brand’s aesthetic to a more Victorian Gothic and ethereal vibe, to the joy of launching my first collection—featuring pieces like the Haunted Mirror pendant and Arachnids Allure earrings—I reflect on the passion and pride that fuels each design. I also reveal the expansion into cosmetics, a natural step given my love of makeup, blending goth and sparkle seamlessly. Plus, there’s a sneak peek into our upcoming Celestial Shadows launch party, with glam workshops, swag bags, and more. It’s been a journey of growth, niching down to connect with the right clients, and staying true to what feels genuine. Thank you for joining me on this wild ride!

Episode Highlights:

• Embracing Authenticity in Entrepreneurship
• The Evolution of Amity Alexandra
• The Launch Party and Community Engagement

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Haunted Mirror pendant
• Arachnids Allure earrings
• Amity’s “first” cosmetics line (in 2000!)

Photos of the above can be found in the accompanying blog post at https://amityalexandra.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode31

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

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In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with my brother, Seth, about what it was like growing up together, our wildly different interests, and the hilarious moments that defined our sibling bond. We reminisced about the times I made gift-giving easy by loving anything with skulls or yellow (yes, that’s still true) and how our clashing music tastes became a source of endless banter. Seth shared his memories of me dragging him to concerts he definitely didn’t want to attend, and we reflected on how our relationship evolved over the years, from childhood squabbles to him dressing up as Dracula to officiate my Halloween wedding. This conversation was all about family, embracing who we are, and finding humor in the journey.

Episode Highlights:

• Sibling Dynamics: Growing Up Together
• Contrasting Interests: Music and Hobbies
• Embracing Individuality: Acceptance Over Time
• The Evolution of Family Relationships
• Celebrating Unique Weddings: A Gothic Affair
• Personalization and Self-Expression
• Closing Thoughts: Embracing Differences

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Green Day, Nirvana, Britney and N-Sync
• Gravity Kills, Sevendust, Dope, Marilyn Manson, Disturbed, Cold Chamber, Korn
• Billie Joe from Green Day (Dookie)
• Magic the Gathering
• Hallowedding
• Nirvana, Hole, Bush

Photos of the above can be found in the accompanying blog post at https://amityalexandra.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode30

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amityalexandrajewelry

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

In this episode of The Gothic Heart, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with USA Today bestselling author Kel Carpenter, who specializes in paranormal and Gothic novels. We talked about her writing journey, from her love of spooky stories to starting her career at 15, and how she self-published her way to success. Kel also shared some behind-the-scenes insights on creating complex characters and worlds, and how she’s all about empowering strong female leads in her books. Plus, we got into some really cool tips on using music to help with writing flow. If you're into paranormal vibes and kick-butt women, this episode is definitely for you!

Episode Highlights:

• The Journey into Paranormal Writing
• Self-Publishing Success
• Evolving Writing Style and Themes
• Creating Strong Female Characters
• Crafting Complex Characters
• World-Building in Fantasy
• Advice for Aspiring Writers
• The Importance of Adult Themes
• Upcoming Releases and Marketing Strategies

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Kel Carpenter
• kelcarpenter.com
• Facebook: @authorkelcarpenter
• Instagram: @authorkelcarpenter
• Dark Maji series
• Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
• “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” series
• “Vampire Diaries”
• Her Immortal Monsters trilogy
• Book 1 is FREE for the month of October!
• Book 3 releases on October 31!
• Samhain

Photos of the above can be found in the accompanying blog post at https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode29

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amityalexandrajewelry

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Rebecca Williamson, the owner of Cambre House, a haunted wedding and event venue with a rich history and some seriously spooky vibes! We got into some eerie ghost stories, including tales from Rebecca’s family and paranormal investigations that revealed there’s much more to this place than meets the eye. Rebecca shared her personal experiences living with the paranormal and how the spirits at Cambre House still make their presence known. If you’re into haunted venues, spooky tales, or even just curious about living with ghosts, this episode is for you!

Episode Highlights:

• Living in a Time Capsule: The History and Antiques of Cambre House
• Spooky Stories: Doors Opening on Their Own
• Discovering the Haunted Nature of Cambre House
• Preserving History: The Importance of Historical Homes
• Realizing the Haunting of Cambre House
• Eglantine Cambre: The Active Spirit
• The History of Cambre House
• Advice for Aspiring Paranormal Investigators

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Cambre House
  • www.cambrehouse.com 
  • Instagram: @cambre.house 
  • Facebook: @cambrehouse 
  • TikTok: @cambrehouse
  • YouTube search for video investigations of Cambre House
• Rebecca’s favorite investigations:
  • Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City, Missouri
  • Waverly Hills in Louisville, Kentucky
  • Ashmore Estates in Southern Illinois
• Paranormal investigation tools: 
  • K-II
  • Spirit box

Accompanying blog post can be found at

 https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode28

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amityalexandrajewelry

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

In this episode, I chat with the incredible Melissa Kim Corter, and let me tell you, her expertise in shadow work and depth psychology blew my mind! We explored the fascinating world of Jungian shadow work, where Melissa explains how we can work with the hidden parts of ourselves that influence our emotions and reactions. She shares her journey into this field, touching on her childhood curiosity with all things dark and mysterious, and how she’s turned that passion into a career. From shadow work to synchronicity and dreams, Melissa makes these deep topics feel relatable and even fun! You don't want to miss this enlightening and inspiring conversation.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Shadow Work and Melissa's Expertise
• Understanding the Shadow Self and Hidden Parts
• The Uncomfortable Process and Emotional Release of Shadow Work
• Overcoming Fear of the Unknown through Knowledge and Understanding
• Melissa's Personal Journey and Curiosity with the Dark and Unknown
• Introduction to the Beauty of Darkness and Self-Expression
• Understanding Darkness as a Space of Potential and Depth
• The Concept of Radiant Darkness
• Starting Shadow Work: Creating a Darkness Journal
• Uncovering Blind Spots with the Help of a Trusted Friend
• Using Fairy Tales for Self-Reflection and Understanding

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Melissa Kim Corter
  • Website: https://www.melissacorter.com
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissakimcorter/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissakcorter/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MelissaKimCorter
  • Substack: https://melissakimcorter.substack.com/
• Carl Jung
• Jungian shadow work
• Depth psychology
• Breadcrumbs
• Synchronicity (vs coincidence)
• Clinton Road, New Jersey
• Beauty in Darkness
• Darkness journal
• New book coming September 2025!

Accompanying blog post can be found at

https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode27

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amityalexandrajewelry

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

In this episode of The Gothic Heart, I chat with Sophie Zollmann, a digital marketing expert with a magical twist! Sophie shares how she’s embraced her witchy, gothic style and intuitive approach to thrive in business. We talk all about authenticity, combining personal flair with professional life, and why being true to yourself is key to success. Sophie also gives some fantastic tips on marketing strategies and how following your intuition can lead to better decisions—both in life and business. It’s an inspiring conversation filled with realness, magic, and a little bit of Stevie Nicks energy!

Episode Highlights:

• The Power of Intuition
• Women Gone Wild: The Intuition Edition
• Navigating the Challenges of Being True to Yourself
• Strategic and Measurable Digital Marketing
• The Power of Authenticity in Branding and Marketing
• Measurable Goals and Strong Calls to Action in Marketing
• Choosing Digital Marketers Who Embrace Authenticity
• Diversifying Your Business for Growth and Resilience

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Sophie Zollmann
  • Digital Success Session: http://sophiezocalendar.com 
  • Website: https://sophiezo.com 
  • Facebook: https://facebook.com/sophiezo 
  • Instagram: https://instagram.com/thesophiezo 
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/sophiezo 
  • LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sophiazollmann 
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PlugandPlayTeam 
  • The Unstoppable Marketing Mix Free Guide: https://sophiezo.com/the-unstoppable-marketing-mix/ 
• Women Gone Wild, The Feminine Guide to Fearless Living, The Intuition Edition
  • Letting Intuition Lead

Photos of the above can be found in the accompanying blog post at https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode26

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

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Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amityalexandrajewelry

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

In this episode of The Gothic Heart, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Colby Boothman and Mikhail Konov from A Cross Between. We covered everything from their eclectic backgrounds in music, film, swordsmanship, and VR experiences to their incredible live shows that mix techno, industrial, and even goth influences. We also talked about how they manage to collaborate while living on opposite coasts, and the amazing, high-tech performances they’re creating—think VR dancers and real-time visuals! If you're into unique, immersive musical experiences or just curious about their journey, this episode is packed with passion, fun, and lots of geeky goodness.

Episode Highlights:

• Colby's Journey into Swordsmanship

• Musical Roots and Influences

• Accessibility in Music and Fashion

• Collaboration with Grimoire Academy

• Innovative Performances and Technology

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• A Cross Between
  • Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ACrossBetweenMusic/
  • Instagram https://www.instagram.com/acrossbetweenmusic/
  • Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/acrossbetween
• Colby Boothman
  • Instagram https://www.instagram.com/colbyboothman/
  • Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Colbybs
  • Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/colbyboothman
• Mikhail A. G. Konov
  • Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mikhailagkonov/
  • Dvngeons
  • Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/dvngeons/29th-bass-stage-set
• Grimoire Academy / Grimoire Studios
  • Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GrimoireAcademy/ 
  • UPCOMING SHOWS: The Grimoire Exhibition
    • 10/12/2024 @ Colorado Springs Event Center, CO
    • 10/19 and 20/2024 @ Clark County Event Center, WA
    • 10/26 and 27/2024 @ WaterFire Arts Center, RI
    • 11/2/2024 @ Grand River Convention Center, IA
    • 11/9 and 10/ 2024 @ Dayton Convention Center, Ohio
• Star Wars: Battlefront
• Nick Gillard
• Jurassic Park 
• EBM Music
  • Nitzer Ebb, Front 242, Christian Death
• Peppercast
• Silent (VJ/DJ)
• Scottie Fox, Stable Diffusion VR
• Strange Desert, Orlando
• Nurtured by Naku
• Queen of the Damned
• Star Wars Kid meme

Accompanying blog post can be found at

https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode25

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

In this episode, I chat with Brett Kelley, an incredible artist whose gothic and Halloween-inspired work totally resonates with me. We talk about everything from his journey growing up with ADHD, to embracing his individuality through art, martial arts, and goth culture. Brett shares his unique experiences working in creative fields like stunt performing, makeup artistry, and how his love for spooky themes shaped his artistic style. We also bond over our shared love for heavy metal and alternative music, and Brett gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming projects, including his Surreal Estate series and enamel pins. It's a super fun, nostalgic, and inspiring conversation about embracing who you are and creating art that speaks to your soul!

Episode Highlights:

• The Challenges of Finding Acceptance as Goth Kids
• Embracing Personal Interests Professionally
• From Circus Performer to Artist
• Favorite Bands and Music Influence
• Shared Experiences and Parallel Lives
• Finding Inspiration in Music and Pop Culture
• Staying True to Yourself as an Artist
• The Fascination with Enamel Pins
• Exploring Creativity through Surreal Estate
• The Importance of Authenticity in Art
• Upcoming Projects and Exciting Ventures

If you're loving what you heard, grab a screenshot and spread the word on Instagram! Tag me @amityalexandrajewelry so I can join in the excitement. And hey, if you're really feeling the vibe, drop a review and toss those five stars my way. Your support fuels this passion project, and I'm so grateful for every bit of it! 🌟

_____________________________

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Brett Kelley
  • Facebook https://www.facebook.com/brett.kelley.7737
  • Facebook Artwork https://www.facebook.com/BKArtMerc
  • Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bkartworks
  • Online Shop https://ko-fi.com/bkartworks
• Music: Gravity Kills, Static-X, Dope, Korn, Disturbed, Nine Inch Nails, Coal Chamber, Head PE, Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage
• Kyle Pasciutti of Decimated Designs
• Surreal Estate
• The Brooklyn Art Museum, Sketchbook Museum
• The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures in Tuscon
• Monster Arts Project
• RPM Fest
• Epic Sages
• Gore Folkfest 2024

Photos of the above can be found in the accompanying blog post at https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart/episode24

_____________________________

CONNECT WITH ME!

The Gothic Heart Blog | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/blogs/the-gothic-heart

Check out the Amity Alexandra Jewelry Design Website | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/

Schedule a Consult with Me! | https://amityalexandrajewelry.com/pages/work-with-amity

_____________________________

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amityalexandrajewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amityalexandrajewelry

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amityalexandrajewelry

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amityalexandrajewelry

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amityalexandrajewelry