This week, we’re taking a brief detour from our usual haunted history to explore the deeper symbolism behind the stories we so often tell. Brandon sits down with artist and folklorist Stacey Williams-Ng, creator of The Southern Gothic Oracle, a richly illustrated divination deck that draws upon the archetypes, landscapes, and traditions of the American South.

In this conversation, Stacey shares the inspiration behind her work, from the hurricane lamp to the sassafras root, and discusses how these everyday objects become powerful symbols of Southern identity, memory, and myth. We also delve into her latest project, HAUNTS, an upcoming oracle deck featuring ghosts, cryptids, cursed places, and poisonous plants—all drawn from regional folklore.

Launching soon via Kickstarter, HAUNTS builds on the success of Stacey’s previous decks, The Southern Gothic Oracle and The Southern Botanic Oracle, and continues her mission of preserving Southern folklore through art and storytelling.

Stay tuned until the end of the episode for a special reading from Stacey using her original deck.

Links to check out:

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