As the wheel turns to Imbolc, Laylla and Chelle dive into the Greek myth of Persephone and Demeter, exploring how it connects to the “Persephone Period” that begins on February 1st. Things get lively as the witches realize they have totally opposite interpretations of the myth and even different versions of the story! They unpack the layers of meaning in this tale of balance, transformation, and the cycles of life, while sharing their thoughts on how it ties to the energy of Imbolc.

The myth of Persephone and Demeter is one of the most enduring stories from Greek mythology, a tale of transformation, duality, and the cycles of life and death. It’s what’s known as an etiological myth, one that explains the origins of natural phenomena, in this case, the changing seasons. As Persephone is taken to the Underworld and later returns, her journey mirrors the earth’s transition from barren winter to fertile spring. But as Laylla and Chelle get into the details of the story, they realize they don’t quite see eye to eye. Was Persephone a victim or a willing participant? Is the myth about power, balance, or something deeper? Their disagreement leads to a lively discussion full of insight, banter, and a few surprising takes on this ancient story about the dark Queen of the Underworld.

Of course, no Imbolc episode would be complete without some witchy inspiration! Laylla and Chelle offer ideas for celebrating this sabbat, from candle magic and divination to rituals that honor Brigid and the return of the light. Whether you’re lighting the first spark of spring or reflecting on winter’s lessons, this episode has plenty of magic to share.

Imbolc Folklore 2024
Imbolc Spells 2024
Hecate - Goddess and Ride or Die BFF

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Are Wands air or fire? Are Swords fire or air? Laylla lets her inner tarot nerd loose and Chelle shares the knowledge of her vast Tarot collection as the witches explore the historical roots, systems, and their own intuitive interpretations of the Tarot minor arcana suits of wands and swords.

The witches dive into why they associate Wands with air and Swords with fire, unraveling the layers of history, esoteric tradition, and personal intuition behind their interpretations. Laylla and Chelle share their unique perspectives and explain how their readings are shaped by everything from astrology to visual cues on the cards. They’ll also offer practical tips for finding your own elemental connections and making the meanings truly your own; because tarot is as much about personal resonance as it is about tradition!

Whether you’re a new tarot reader or a seasoned card slinger, this episode is full of insights about the suits and their elemental energies. Grab your favorite deck and settle in for a deep conversation about the magic of the cards!

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In this luminous episode of Back on the Broomstick, the witches explore the mysteries and magick of the full moon, sharing rituals and spells perfect for new and solitary practitioners. Laylla and Chelle break down what to do during a full moon, why these practices are so powerful, and how you can create a meaningful connection with its energy.

From teas and smokable spells to simple yet potent rituals and ways to honor the moon, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you harness the full moon’s magick, no matter where you are in your practice. Whether you’re just starting out or walking your path solo, grab your favorite mug, light a candle, and join us as we bask in the glow of lunar wisdom.

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Welcome to 2025, witches! In this first episode of the year, Laylla and Chelle dive into the magic of fresh starts and share their favorite tarot spreads for setting intentions, exploring opportunities, and navigating the energies of the year ahead. Whether you’re looking to map out your personal goals, connect with the cycles of the year, or align your magic with the possibilities of 2025, this episode has you covered.

The witches also discuss rituals and tips to help you step into the new year with focus, clarity, and a touch of enchantment. Grab your cards, light a candle, and join us as we make 2025 a year filled with purpose and magic!

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Laylla and Chelle sit down with Appalachian witch and priestess Byron Ballard to discuss the aftermath of Storm Helene and how her community is finding resilience in its wake. Byron shares the vital role her Mother Grove Goddess Temple played in helping neighbors recover, offering practical support and spiritual guidance in challenging times.

The conversation flows into the spirits of the land and the Goddess in winter, exploring how the season of stillness and reflection can deepen our connection to the natural world and the sacred cycles of life. Byron’s wisdom as a caretaker of land-based spirituality shines as she discusses honoring the land and its energy during the dark half of the year.

They also chat about Byron’s upcoming book, A Feral Church, set to release on January 8th. Byron offers a sneak peek into her exploration of what it means to create a sacred community that thrives outside of traditional structures, inspiring witches and pagans to rethink how they gather and practice.

Join Laylla, Chelle, and Byron for a thoughtful discussion filled with wisdom, hope, and the power of community


Byron's website https://www.myvillagewitch.com/
Facebook: H Byron Ballard
Instagram: @byronballard5789
A Feral Church https://www.malaprops.com/book/9780738776361

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It’s the first night of Yule, and what better way to celebrate Mother’s Night than with some witchy wisdom and warm guidance from your favorite magickal aunties, Laylla and Chelle? In this cozy, fireside-style episode of Back on the Broomstick, the witches answer questions sent in by listeners, getting into the nuances, ethics, and practicalities of the craft.

From heartfelt questions like spellcasting for your child, to the mystical, like hedge riding tips and tools. Ever wondered what to do with your old spell jars? Laylla and Chelle discuss the dos and don’ts of reusing spell components, giving a fresh take on magical sustainability. They also explore the possibility of taking on students, whether its advised to use a pendulum with a Ouija board, and so many more.

Pour yourself a cup of spiced cider, light a candle, and join us for an enchanting start to the 12 Nights of Yule as Laylla and Chelle share their insights, stories, and magical know-how.

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In this festive and thought-provoking episode of Back on the Broomstick, Laylla and Chelle unwrap "The Good, the Bad, and a Yule Ghost Story" to bring a mix of holiday cheer, real-world reflections, and spooky seasonal vibes to your listening ears.

First, the good! The witches are over the moon to share their delight at receiving heartfelt Yule cards from listeners at their new post office box. Your warm words and magical blessings have filled them with seasonal gratitude and the joy of connection. Then, the bad: they dive into two troubling stories of religious discrimination involving witches, sparking a candid discussion about the challenges faced by modern practitioners and the resilience of the magical community in the face of prejudice.

Finally, we end with a hauntingly beautiful Yule ghost story straight from Massachusetts. A chilling Lady in White legend, who wanders the Winter Solstice night with an air of mystery and a connection to the season’s darker, quieter magic.

So grab a warm drink, light the Yule log, and settle in as Laylla and Chelle take you through an episode filled with joy, justice, and just the right amount of ghostly wonder. Blessed Winter Solstice and happy Yule!

The invocation from HP Amy Hardy-McAdams at the city council meeting:

As a Priestess of the Goddess, I invoke the Gorgonaea, champions of equality and sacred rage. I call to Medusa, monstrous hero of the oppressed and abused. I open the Eye of Medusa, the stare that petrifies injustice.

I call upon the serpent that rises from this land to face the Stars, the movement of wisdom unbound.

May these leaders find within themselves the Embodied Divine, the sacred essence of the spark of the Universe and the breath of the Awen.

Place in the hands of these leaders the sacred work of protecting the sovereignty and autonomy of all our people.

Gorgon Goddess, make them ready and willing to be champions for all in this city, not just those in power.

Shine a light for them, that they may walk the path of justice, protected and prepared, illuminating the darkness.

Endow them with the fire of courage, the waters of compassion, the air of truth, and the strength of the earth itself.

As Above, so below.

As within, so without.

As the universe, so the soul.

May there be peace among you all.

And so it is.

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The longest night of the year is upon us, and the witches of Back on the Broomstick are here to guide you through the magic of Yule and Winter Solstice traditions! In this festive and witchy episode, Laylla and Chelle celebrate the season of light returning by sharing their favorite Solstice practices, cozy rituals, and ways to infuse your home and winter celebrations with magic.

Learn about the ancient Nordic practice of Sunwait, where witches honor the sun’s slow return leading up to Yule. Get inspired by Laylla's beautiful Solstice Candle Ritual, a simple yet powerful way to embrace the light even on the darkest night.
Stir up some seasonal enchantment with simmer pots to fill your home with warmth, abundance, and protection. And head off into the shadowy world of Christmas Cryptids, like the Icelandic Yule Cat and Krampus, to uncover the darker, mischievous side of holiday lore.

Whether you're lighting candles, honoring the cycles of the sun, or simply looking for ways to add a little witchy sparkle to your winter, this episode has everything you need to make your Solstice season magical, meaningful, and just the right amount of spooky.

Join us as we embrace the coziness of Yule, connect with ancient traditions, and celebrate the return of the light. Merry Solstice and Blessed Yule!

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