Public - The Pagan Portal Podcast

Rachel Patterson talks with bestselling author, folklorist, translator, and witch Morgan Daimler to explore one of European folklore’s most enduring and mysterious traditions: the Wild Hunt. The Wild Hunt is often talked about but not well understood, and it has been part of European folklore for over a thousand years. Stories of ghostly riders, hounds, gods, spirits, witches, and omens of death have changed across cultures but still hold a strong impact. Morgan uses years of research to clear up myths and look at how the Wild Hunt appears in Norse, Germanic, Welsh, Scottish, and Christian traditions, and why it still fascinates modern Pagans, witches, and folklorists. Rachel and Morgan talk about how the Wild Hunt connects to witchcraft, the roles of deities like Odin, Arawn, Frau Perchta, Diana, and others, and stories from history. They also discuss how modern fantasy, including Dungeons & Dragons, has shaped today’s ideas abo…

Is Herne the Hunter really an ancient god, or is there more to his story than meets the eye? In this episode of the Pagan Portal Podcast, Rachel Patterson chats with Moon Books author Andrew Anderson about one of Britain’s most mysterious folklore figures. Herne, the antlered spirit of Windsor Forest, has become an important figure in modern Paganism, witchcraft, Druidry, and folklore. But how much of what we know about him is actually supported by history? Drawing on his latest book, Andrew takes us through stories about Shakespeare, Victorian folklore, Robin of Sherwood, the Wild Hunt, and how Herne went from a little-known ghost story to a well-known figure in modern Paganism. Rachel and Andrew also discuss how folklore grows, how traditions change, and why some spiritual figures are important even if their origins are not ancient. In this episode, you’ll find out: • Who Herne the Hunter re…

Join Rachel Patterson and Welsh folklorist Mhara Starling as they dive into Welsh mythology, folklore, and Pagan practice. Inspired by Mhara's latest book on Welsh deities, their conversation looks at what it truly means to connect with the spiritual traditions of Cymru. They go beyond stereotypes to reveal the stories, language, history, and living culture that shape Welsh Paganism today. Rachel and Mhara talk about topics like the meaning of the word "Welsh" and why some prefer "Cymru." They discuss Celtic identity, the Mabinogi, and how mythology, poetry, and language connect with magic. The conversation also covers the Welsh Otherworld (Annwfn), Awen as inspiration, the bardic tradition, and debates about whether Welsh mythological figures are gods in modern Paganism. Arthurian legends, cultural identity, and how to respectfully engage with Welsh traditions are also part of this engaging discussion. In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why do many people prefer the names…

What does Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas, mean to modern Pagans and witches? Is it just about baking bread, honouring Lugh, and celebrating the first harvest, or does this ancient festival offer something deeper than tradition? For this Lughnasadh special, Rachel Patterson talks with Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, and Katie Ness in a relaxed conversation about how each of them celebrates this time of year. They discuss everything from baking bread and making corn dollies to river offerings, foraging, journaling, working with deities, and simple seasonal magic. Each guest shares personal stories, practical tips, and thoughts on what this festival means today. They also talk about how changes in the seasons and climate can affect traditional celebrations, why gratitude matters more than obligation, and how it's fine if your practice is different from others. Whether this is your first Lughnasadh or you’ve celebrated for years, you’ll find ideas here to…