

Occult of Personality podcast
Occult of Personality
Occult of Personality explores the occult and esoteric with authors and experts in the field.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 2, 2021 • 52min
Billy Hepper - Our New Co-host
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.In episode number 212, we have a very special guest, my new co-host, Billy Hepper! Billy is a Freemason and lectures on Masonic topics. He hails from Vancouver, British Columbia, and has been a longtime listener and supporter of the podcast.Billy also has skills in digital audio, and we share a love of specific esoteric studies, like Freemasonry, the Grail mythos, spiritual contemplation, and Tradition.It’s been a few years since Rudolf and I parted ways and I have to admit that doing the podcast with a partner is a lot more fun. So, thankfully, Billy has agreed to join me here and we’re looking to make the podcast fresher, more energetic, and fun by doing what we do best. So, you can expect more excellent audio interviews with authors and experts in occultism and esotericism. But in this episode, I welcome Billy and we talk about our shared interests.One of the topics Billy and I discussed is the book, Meditations on the Tarot, as it has had a significant impact on both of us. This text is subtitled A Journey into Christian Hermeticism, and it demonstrates a contemplative method for direct apperception of divine wisdom through the symbolism of the Major Arcana of the Tarot. We are forming a study circle for this book to go through it in depth. More details about the study circle are available in the recording of the initial meeting. That meeting and all future meetings will be recorded and made available for members in the Chamber of Reflection at chamberofreflection.com. After the interview, stay tuned for an important message about our new Meditations on the Tarot Study Circle.The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Crypt of the Black Virgin” by our own Billy Hepper.Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you again! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come. Although you may listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com, subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality, or join us at https://rokfin.com/occultofpersonality! And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!Order of the Cup and the Sword: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2125957214164805/

Oct 1, 2021 • 1h 2min
Tantric Physics with Craig Williams
In episode number 211, we’re joined again by our good friend, spiritual practitioner, martial artist, and author Craig Williams, to discuss his recent book, Tantric Physics I & II—In One Volume— (Vol.1: Cave of the Numinous Vol.2: Sacred Body, Sacred Space) from Anathema Publishing, Ltd. https://www.anathemapublishing.com/tantric-physics-vol-1-2Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you again! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #211, Craig Williams returns to the show to talk about his wonderful book, Tantric Physics, specifically Volume II: Sacred Body, Sacred Space! You can find Craig online at http://www.ayurvedaaustin.com/. I want to take a moment to reminisce about how I’ve known Craig personally for 9 years. Since the day I met him, he’s been honorable, straightforward, honest, smart, talented, inspiring, and has had the most intense focus on advancing on his spiritual path of almost anyone I’ve ever known. Craig’s writing and talks inspire his readers and listeners to learn and grow and become better people. I am honored and proud to call Craig my friend. I am also thrilled that he joined us here to discuss Tantra and his book, which is an absolutely amazing two-volume in one that is one of the best books on the subject I’ve read. Whatever your spiritual path, Craig’s work is beneficial because he is describing authentic esoteric view and methods that are designed to and do produce gnosis as the result. I highly recommend Tantric Physics I & II!"First explored in Tantric Physics Vol. I: Cave of the Numinous, the new release from Anathema Publishing, Tantric Physics II: Sacred Body, Sacred Space continues to express the haunting inner realizations of initiatic perceptions. Embracing both the right-hand and left-hand paths, the text reveals a unique vision of a Tantric physics utilizing all branches of Vaidika sciences: Yoga, Ayurveda, Jyotish, Vedanta, and Tantra."Far from a dry academic text, Tantric Physics II: Sacred Body, Sacred Space reveals an intensely personal initiatic vision of the human body, Shivaite and Vaishnava gnostic streams, and the mysterious path of the Aghori leading unto the Womb of the Dark Goddess in all her intoxicating manifestations."The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Diana Nemorensis (A Ritual in Four Parts)” by Noumenal Vibes x Giulia Turolla (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnHKyfY_Paw). In the second half of the interview in the Chamber of Reflection, Craig and I continue to discuss Tantric Physics, diving very, very deeply into an exploration of gnosis, gnostic bliss, birth and death, and much more. In all my years of recording this podcast, few interviews have resulted in a more in-depth analysis and a discussion that goes straight to the heart. You do not want to miss this crucial conversation on the very nature and purpose of esoteric practice! I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past—my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!

Aug 27, 2021 • 57min
Angel Millar: The Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. In episode number 210, we’re joined again by our good friend, author, and speaker Angel Millar, to discuss his recent book, The Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality: Craftsman, Warrior, Magician. Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you again! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #210, Angel Millar returns to the show to talk about his wonderful book, The Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality: Craftsman, Warrior, Magician! You can find Angel online at https://angelmillar.com/. I want to take a moment to express how grateful I am to Angel for his work, his friendship, and for the way that he values what makes us better, both individually and collectively. I have known Angel for almost as long as I’ve been doing the podcast, which is more than 15 years. During that time, he has helped me, given me guidance, and helped show me how to be more capable. I know that he has done and continues to do the same for others. I really enjoyed and learned from Angel’s book, and I think no matter where you are on your path, it would be beneficial and I highly recommend it, as I do all his work. I am truly impressed with the writing and the clarity with which he expresses what are ultimately timeless ideas but makes them applicable to modern readers. The Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality is not only a wonderful read but can help readers to begin to shift their perceptions and experience by using what is taught along with the meditative exercises."Exploring the craftsman, warrior, and magician archetypes—three vocations that echo the traditional tripartite division of society—Angel Millar reveals how these archetypes represent the three successive stages of spiritual growth in an individual’s life. He shows how they provide structure for the initiatory process to develop one’s mental, physical, and spiritual potential. As craftsman, the individual experiences “mnemonic” initiation: the cultivation of memory as well as language. As warrior, “somatic” initiation: development of the physical body and cultivation of the spirit body. And as magician, “gnostic” initiation: cultivation of the self and manifestation of the Higher Self. . . Structured to parallel the three archetypal stages of the initiatic process, this comprehensive guide offers a literary initiation through three degrees of esoteric knowledge."The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Way of the Warrior” by Seismic Anomaly (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/seismic-sweetrock?song=4).In the second half of the interview in the Chamber of Reflection, Angel and I continue to discuss The Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality, focusing more on the archetype of the magician, gnosis, and some of the results of intense spiritual practice, including bliss states and gnostic intoxication and how they are used as a method to better know the actual nature of reality. Join us for that fascinating conversation! I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!https://www.amazon.com/Three-Stages-Initiatic-Spirituality-Craftsman/dp/1620559323

Jul 31, 2021 • 59min
Alexander Heringhaus: Hermetic Magick and More
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.In episode number 209, we’re joined by Hermetic magician Alexander Heringhaus, who is also the proprietor of the Nettles Garden website at TheOldCraft.com - https://www.theoldcraft.com/, for a wonderful chat about his path of Hermetic magic, the significance of his website, and much more! Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com/, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you again! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #209, an interview with Hermetic magician and the creator of the website Nettle’s Garden at TheOldCraft.com described as, “… dedicated to Witchcraft, Hermetics, Magick, and Alchemy featuring the biographies of occult personalities, interviews, and articles written by practitioners for practitioners.” You may recall that TheOldCraft.com featured an interview with yours truly in September of 2020 (https://www.theoldcraft.com/2020/09/06/interview-greg-kaminsky-awaking-authentic-spiritual-practice-uncommon-path/). During the course of that interview and over the following months, I’ve had extensive discussions with Alexander Heringhaus about Nettle’s Garden, his intention behind this website, the way he interviews practitioners, as well as talking in depth about his own path of Hermetic magick. It was a real pleasure to have the time and space to conduct the pre-interview conversations and the interview itself, which occurred over the course of a few months and several recordings. That was one, among many, of the things I appreciated about Alexander. He has a definite aim and intention, but there was never any rush. The time we took allowed us to become more comfortable, to share more, and to understand each other better. This in and of itself was a teaching for me on the nature of magick, time, and patience. Even though I’ve been doing interviews for this podcast for almost 20 years now, Alexander still taught me how I can be better at it. I hope you enjoy this wonderful chat as much as we did!"Alexander Heringhaus was born in Ruhr-area, Germany. He practiced occultism and especially Western Hermetics since the age of 12, including working as a teenager for 4 years in an occult bookshop, where he connected with all kinds of different magicians, Abitur in Frankfurt/Main, where he often visited Walter Englert’s (OTO grandmaster, Ptahhotep in Fraternitas Saturni under Gregorius) bookshop “Occulta,” another beautiful place to connect back then. Alexander, though, was never associated himself with any known occult groups. Later university in Aachen, Germany, and Bern, Switzerland. Later after a career in publishing and management, he pursued an MBA in Moscow. Alexander lives with his family in Romania and Moscow, Russia. His main occupation is management and entrepreneurship in tech. He keeps in touch with the occult community over theoldcraft.com and the connected Instagram account theoldcraftcom, which is mainly dedicated to mascot and witch doll “Nettle.”"The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos - http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3 and the outro music is “Paradigm Shift” by Matt van den Heuvel - http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/vandenheuvel-petalsoffire?song=1.Alexander Heringhaus has been studying the occult, Hermeticism, and ceremonial magick for many, many years. Alexander’s esoteric practice has taken a prominent place in his life, so much so that he accomplished working through Franz Bardon’s Initiation into Hermetics. Heringhaus shares his experiences and insights into this path with us in a very special second half of the interview, available to members of the Chamber of Reflection at https://chamberofreflection.com/ and our patrons at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality/. Be sure to listen to that amazing interview!I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!

Jun 14, 2021 • 1h 20min
Forbidden Fruits: An Occult Conversation with Guido Mina di Sospiro & Joscelyn Godwin
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.In episode number 208, our friends Guido Mina di Sospiro and Joscelyn Godwin return to the show to discuss their recent book, Forbidden Fruits: An Occult Novel. I want to take a moment to explain why it’s been more than two months since the last episode. You see, my father had been ill, and he recently passed. I needed some time to be with family and so that’s what I did. But now it’s time to turn back to the task at hand, illuminating podcast interviews about the esoteric. I need you to know that I very much appreciate your patience and understanding while I’ve been away.Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you again! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #208, an interview with Guido Mina di Sospiro and Joscelyn Godwin about their recent book, Forbidden Fruits: An Occult Novel, a follow-up to their previous collaboration, The Forbidden Book. You can find Guido online at http://guido-mina-di-sospiro.com/ and Joscelyn at https://sites.google.com/a/colgate.edu/jgodwin/. You may recall that Joscelyn was our guest way back in 2012 (https://occultofpersonality.net/joscelyn-godwin/) and Guido in 2015 (https://occultofpersonality.net/guido-mina-di-sospiro/). Forbidden Fruits is a wonderful and intriguing tale, masterfully told and chock full of esoteric themes and insights that you might expect from experts in esoteric research and creative writing. I really enjoyed this second novel by Guido and Joscelyn. The way that current events, the esoteric, intrigue, and a fascinating plot are woven together in a highly entertaining story is quite brilliant. Furthermore, I really love how Guido, a master storyteller and one who can communicate the subtle intimacies of humanity and life, combines his writing with the erudite and esoteric knowledge of Joscelyn, one of the most respected and highly regarded academics in this field. They are a dream team. I highly recommend Forbidden Fruits! You will not regret partaking in its tempting tale.Guido Mina di Sospiro is an award-winning, internationally acclaimed author of many books, and an erudite man with the soul of a poet. Joscelyn Godwin is a widely-recognized authority on the subject of Western esotericism and the author of many respected works on the subject. The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Forbidden” by Rob Costlow.I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! https://www.innertraditions.com/books/forbidden-fruits

Mar 7, 2021 • 1h 5min
The End of the World with Derek Hunter
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.In episode number 207, our friend Derek Hunter returns to the show to discuss his recent book, The End of the World: A Love Chaos Grimoire for the Survival and Evolution of Human Beings.Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.I want to take a moment to announce the publication of my first book! It’s entitled PRONAOS: Reflections on the Preliminary Practices of Buddhist Tantra from a Western Perspective. If you're interested in esoteric spirituality and the pursuit of gnosis, seeking effective and practicable methods that produce transformation and even have the potential to bring the practitioner to self-realization, then this book is for you. Designed to provide readers with a perspective on the view and methods of the preliminary practices of Buddhist Tantra (Vajrayana) in a way that is accessible and applicable to modern Westerners, using examples and quotations from familiar philosophical and esoteric traditions. Because human beings are essentially similar, this path can be effective and has proven to be so for women and men across centuries, continents, and cultures. The highest spiritual realization is available to all of us regardless of who we are, where or when we live, or any other circumstance provided we receive the teachings and practice the methods. This book is a first step towards that. Available at https://www.amazon.com/PRONAOS-Reflections-Preliminary-Practices-Perspective/dp/B08WZHBQDF/.Now, in episode #207, an interview with Derek Hunter about his recent book, The End of the World: A Love Chaos Grimoire for the Survival and Evolution of Human Beings. You can find Derek online at https://www.love-chaos.com/ and you may recall that Derek last joined us previously in 2018 (https://occultofpersonality.net/3-in-1/).“The end of the world as we know it may indeed be upon us. The window of opportunity for human beings to survive this century is getting smaller with each passing year, each passing decade. While there are many books out there for ways to increase our chances of survival by combating climate change and other possible causes for the demise of humanity, this book offers an unusual approach: to use Magick as a means of survival and also evolution. This book is a call to action for all practitioners of Magick, to utilize whatever practice that you currently utilize for the purpose of the survival and evolution of human beings. It offers one example made by the author, but it in no way suggests this is the only way. The book is meant to encourage, not dictate. Readers are welcome to take what they find within these pages for their own use, and for those unfamiliar with occult practices, they too can participate as well. All are welcome. Magick works, as any practitioner will tell you. Typically, modern magick details what to do for individual benefits. This book and the 6-day ritual Hunter undertook from March 6th to March 11th, 2020, is not about individual success, it is about how we can use magick to benefit us all, as a species.”I really like the intention behind Derek’s work and this book and appreciate the desire to benefit humanity by esoteric means. I also feel that this is one of the more positive reactions to the events of the past year that I’ve seen. This interview was quite enjoyable as Derek is a kind, thoughtful, and good man who has overcome adversity and works to help others. All of that comes through his words and deeds as you’ll hear in this interview. I recommend Derek and his work. His approach to spirituality is genuinely from the heart and that is a great quality.“Derek Hunter is a writer of fiction and non-fiction, the founder of Love Chaos, a non-dogmatic, agnostic philosophy and way of life. Hunter created Love Chaos in 2014 with the publication of the first book, Love Chaos. It was conceived as a means for Hunter to help himself in a dark time in his life, and also to help others.” The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Evolution” by MRDC (https://www.magnatune.com/artists/albums/mrdc-timecode?song=4).In the second half of this interview in the Chamber of Reflection, Derek Hunter goes into depth about the specifics of his magical work and the deities involved. It’s great to get this level of insight into a private magical working that was designed to have vast effects. Thanks to Derek for sharing with us. Listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com or at our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . .https://www.love-chaos.com/https://www.amazon.com/End-World-Grimoire-Survival-Evolution/dp/B08C9CZ1GW

Dec 20, 2020 • 1h 3min
Approaching the Middle Chamber with Jaime Paul Lamb
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky. In episode number 206, I’m absolutely thrilled to bring you an interview with Freemason, occultist, and author Jaime Paul Lamb. But first, I want to take a moment to wish all of you a Blessed Winter Solstice, Joyous Yule, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a Happy New Year! May the Light Also Be Born Again in Your Own Hearts!Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.I want to take a moment to announce that my own book, tentatively titled Celestial Intelligences—Angelology, Cabala, and Gnosis: Giovanni Pico della Mirandola’s Quest for the Perennial Philosophy by Greg Kaminsky, and typeset and illustrated by Joseph Uccello, is scheduled for release by Anathema Publishing Ltd. in 2021. I am very excited to be working with Gabriel and Anathema Publishing along with my friend, the talented artist Joseph Uccello to publish my extensive research into Pico’s syncretic mysticism. More to come on this book in 2021!Now, a word about another one of our sponsors. I support the work of Phoenix Aurelius by purchasing his alchemical products and services. You can do the same and help support Occult of Personality podcast at the same time when you go to https://www.phoenixaurelius.org/?ref=occultofpersonality, or just click Phoenix’s logo on the side of the Occult of Personality website, and then make a purchase.Now, in episode 206, an interview with Freemason and author Jaime Paul Lamb about his most recent book, Approaching the Middle Chamber: The Seven Liberal Arts in Freemasonry and the Western Esoteric Tradition. You can find Jaime Paul Lamb online at https://www.jaimepaullamb.com/. "In the culmination of the second section of the Fellowcraft degree, prior to entering the symbolic “middle chamber” of King Solomon's Temple, the craftsman must ascend a flight of winding stairs, where important lessons are bestowed upon the craftsman for future reflection and study. Unfortunately, few craftsman have undertaken the study of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences, perhaps due to the fact that prior to this book by Brother Lamb, few books have taken an in-depth look at the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences. This is a well-written, well-researched, and very approachable book that explores how the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences relate to Freemasonry, as well as other esoteric traditions. This book is an instant classic, and a must read for anyone who has tread upon the flight of winding stairs to the middle chamber."In his latest offering, Freemason and occultist Jaime Paul Lamb minutely analyzes the wealth of hidden knowledge and symbolism contained in the lecture of the Masonic Fellow Craft degree, colloquially referred to as the “Middle Chamber Lecture.” Lamb provides a detailed historical context for each subject, while simultaneously offering hundreds of unprecedented observations from the perspective of the Western Esoteric Tradition. The dizzying scope of this almost impenetrable component of Masonic ritual is deftly handled by Lamb, as he sequentially tackles subjects such as the operative and speculative dynamic in Masonry and its correlative in the Hermetic Arts, the qabalistic significance of the Brazen Pillars, the mythological symbolism underlying the ancient orders of architecture, the occult application of the five human senses and, finally, the esoteric substrata of the seven liberal arts and sciences."From Jaime Paul Lamb: I’m excited to announce the release of Approaching the Middle Chamber: The Seven Liberal Arts in Freemasonry and the Western Esoteric Tradition. It is 138,000 words, 452 pages and is copiously illustrated. If you have ever experienced the Fellow Craft degree (or if you are a non-Mason interested in the Seven Liberal Arts and/or Western Esotericism), you are going to find a lot to like in this book. I believe it fills a major vacancy in Masonic and occult literature. Huge thanks (again!) to The Laudable Pursuit for doing an amazing job editing, laying out and formatting this quality paperback edition—the book is absolutely gorgeous."Jaime Paul Lamb, who also authored the previously well-received Myth, Magick & Masonry: Occult Perspectives in Freemasonry (The Laudable Pursuit, 2018), was raised at St. Johns Lodge No. 6, F.&A.M., chartered in 1765 at Norwalk, CT. He is currently the lodge organist at Ascension Lodge No. 89, F.&A.M., Phoenix, AZ. Lamb is past master of Arizona Research Lodge No. 1, Phoenix, AZ and is a member AASR NMJ (Valley of Bridgeport) & SJ (Valley of Pasadena) and Phoenix York Rite Bodies. He is also involved in the Arizona College SRICF. Lamb’s main avenues of research include: Hermetic Qabalah, Rosicrucianism, Alchemy (spagyric or vegetable kingdom, primarily), Mystery Cults, Renaissance Astrology, Tarot Symbolism, Comparative Mythology, Comparative Religion, Esoteric Psychology and Ceremonial Magick."I really loved Jaime Paul Lamb’s recent book Approaching the Middle Chamber. For me, this was the ideal book that I’ve been seeking since before I even considered submitting an application to my local lodge. The first 20 or so minutes of the interview is me praising Lamb’s work to the moon and back, so you know that this book is worth your time, whether you’re a Freemason or not. Anyone interested in the symbolism, study, and practice of any aspect of Western esotericism will appreciate this fine volume. I was impressed by Lamb’s penetrating insights and extensive sourcing. I highly recommend Approaching the Middle Chamber. If you enjoy listening to this show—get this book right away—you’ll be glad you did. The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “In the Middle” by Beight (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/beight-rhythm?song=10).In the Chamber of Reflection, Jaime Paul Lamb and I continue the conversation. We delve into his insights regarding the number 15 and the magic square of Saturn. We talk about our impressions of the founders of Freemasonry based on what we can read and observe. Lamb discusses the wages he’s been paid in terms of penetrating the hidden recesses of nature to plumb the depths of her secrets. Then we go even deeper into the implications of his work and where it leads. Listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com or at our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . .http://www.thelaudablepursuit.com/store/approaching-the-middle-chamber-the-seven-liberal-arts-in-freemasonry-and-the-western-esoteric-traditionhttps://www.jaimepaullamb.com/

Oct 24, 2020 • 1h 1min
Phoenix Aurelius
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.This is episode number 205 featuring an interview with alchemist Phoenix Aurelius.Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us in the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #205, an interview with alchemist Phoenix Aurelius. You can find Phoenix online at https://www.phoenixaurelius.org/. Phoenix Aurelius has been practicing alchemy since he was 16 years old. He is accomplished in laboratory alchemy and the study of the alchemical tradition, creating medicines, treating clients, and teaching the royal art. Phoenix is also devoted to organic and biodynamic agriculture, which informs his alchemical practice. His mission is to, “…help integrate alchemy into the social fabric of our culture to inspire transformation and conscious evolution of both ecology and humanity.” It was wonderful to speak with Phoenix after following his work for so many years. I was especially intrigued by his challenge to the generally accepted Hermetic correspondences based on his own research. I think this is a profoundly important subject and hope his openly discussing it here allows for greater examination of the presuppositions in Western esoteric practice. It was also quite fascinating to hear about Phoenix’s work using intrinsic data field analysis. The accuracy of the process that he describes is quite surprising and is definitely cause for further investigation. I support the work of Phoenix Aurelius by purchasing his products and services. You can do the same and help support Occult of Personality podcast at the same time when you go to https://www.phoenixaurelius.org/?ref=occultofpersonality, or just click Phoenix’s logo on the side of the Occult of Personality website, and then make a purchase. The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “The Alchemical Tree” by William ZeitlerSo, as you probably could tell, we had some connection issues towards the end of this part of the interview. But rest assured we reestablished the connection and successfully completed the second half of this fascinating and revelatory conversation, which you can find in the Chamber of Reflection. Listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com or at our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . . https://www.phoenixaurelius.org/

Aug 30, 2020 • 50min
Stewart Clelland and the Elus Coens Texts
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.This is episode number 204 featuring an interview with scholar and initiate Stewart Clelland who is joining us to speak about the recently published THE GREEN BOOK OF THE ÉLUS COËN (The COMPLETE Manuscrit d’Alger 1772): A TREASURY OF COËN TEXTS IN TWO VOLUMES.Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us and the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #204, Stewart Clelland joins us to talk about the Élus Coëns, his work translating their texts, and more! You can find Stewart online at https://sjaclelland.com/.As a teacher of Philosophy and Religious Studies in and around the North East of Scotland, Stewart holds a Master’s Degree (M.A.) in Western Esotericism (University of Exeter) and a PGDE in Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies (The University of Aberdeen), as well as a B.A. (Hons) in Fine Art and Philosophy (University of Dundee).His research background is centered on esoteric spirituality and the practice of heterodox religious traditions with a particular interest in marginalized and persecuted religious communities, both historical and contemporary. Stewart’s work engages with Religious Studies specifically in the so-called ‘Western Esoteric Tradition’ or Hermetic Tradition in religious and philosophical thought.‘THE GREEN BOOK OF THE ÉLUS COËN (The COMPLETE Manuscrit d’Alger 1772): A TREASURY OF COËN TEXTS IN TWO VOLUMES. This book is an English translation of an obscure and previously unpublished French eighteenth-century masonic manuscript (1770) known as Le Manuscript d’Alger or, ‘The Green Book of the Elu Coen’. Detailing the inner workings and highest degrees of an occult esoteric order known as the Elus Coën, this fascinating manuscript has been lost for more than two hundred and fifty years and has only recently come to light. The information contained here is a must for anyone with a serious passion for masonic history. It was translated by Stewart Clelland, edited by Josef Wages, and designed Steve Adams.As the High-Degrees of Freemasonry swept across the landscape of eighteenth-century Europe, an obscure and occult order started to develop known as l’Ordre des Chevaliers Élus Coëns de l’ Univers or the Order of Knight-Mason Elect-Cohens of the Universe, more commonly referred to as the Élus Coëns. Whilst once the most serious and illustrious of the eighteenth-century esoteric masonic societies, much of the Order’s authentic original materials have been lost or forgotten for centuries. This English translation of the rediscovered eighteenth-century Coën manuscript . . . was written by Léonard-Joseph Prunelle de Lière (1741- 1824), a close friend of Louis Claude de St Martin (1743-1803), and includes a copy of Pasqually’s list entitled ‘Alphabetical Table of 2,400 Names’ . . . Understood as a kind of directory of the celestial world, angels and spirits are alphabetically classified and each associated with two numbers. It is followed by a document of eighty-seven pages covered with hieroglyphic symbols from a variety of sources; Hebrew, Arabic, Egyptian and Phoenician. It is important to note that these luminous glyphs were not the actual goal of the operations. Pasqually saw in these glyphs signs that indicated to the theurgist that his reconciliation was in progress; the luminous glyphs are believed to be the marks of divine favor on the road to ‘reintegration.’Also included from the ‘Fonds Prunelle de Lières’ is the strange ‘Book of Initiates’. A collection of 117 pages containing the messages delivered by an ‘Unknown Agent’ between 1785 and 1787 and excerpts from the magnetism sessions held in Lyon by Jean-Baptiste Willermoz. Additionally, and also a better-known element of this collection is the included manuscript of Les Nombres, a posthumous work by Louis-Claude de Saint-Martin. The copy included here is believed to have been copied directly from an original manuscript of the Unknown Philosopher.Detailing the inner workings and highest degrees of the Order, this fascinating manuscript enlightens the reader in the true, very visceral nature of the Order. Requiring the utmost commitment, and a decidedly monastic lifestyle, the Order prescribed everything from hairstyle to diet. Far from the everyday festivities of mainstream Freemasonry, the Élus Coëns were spiritual warriors engaged in magical combat with angelic and demonic entities. These original rites of the Élus Coëns, instruct the initiate how to enter into relations with angelic spirits, which are sympathetic to Man’s fallen state, and who aid him upon the path to reintegration with the Divine.After the death of the order’s founder, Martinez de Pasqually in 1774, the teachings of the Elu Coën were most certainly doomed to fade into the mists of history – this new volume sheds the most illuminating light yet on this fascinatingly hidden masonic history.It was delightful speaking with Stewart about these texts and his work more generally. In particular, I found it quite notable how the Élus Coëns were attempting to bring about a literal end of the world through their spiritual practice. While I certainly don’t share their view, it is remarkably interesting to learn about what could accurately be described as a radical doomsday cult. These primary source texts are crucial to the scholarship and historical understanding. The quality of the translation, editing, and overall design is most impressive, and I commend the work of this team in producing a majestic set of books.The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Where the Green Meets the Blue” by Mountain Mirrors (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/mountain-lunar?song=5)In the Chamber of Reflection, Stewart and I continue the interview about his work on the Elu Coen texts and his work which integrates academic research and teaching with his intense interest in Western esotericism. Join us for that excellent second half of the conversation! And if you haven’t already, please check out the recent recording, “On Virtue and the Practice of Virtue." This is an exposition on virtue as the enactment of love and compassion through spiritual practice. Listen to those exclusive recordings at https://chamberofreflection.com or our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. Finally, we have a very brief survey for all the members of the Chamber of Reflection that will be linked on the website and in our Facebook group.I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!Thanks for listening and until next time . . .

Aug 5, 2020 • 1h 17min
Niles Heckman
Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky. This is episode number 203 featuring an interview with documentary filmmaker, essayist, speaker, podcaster, and more—Niles Heckman!Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site who aid us and the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you! Because of your support, we’re able to bring you recordings of this caliber and many more to come.Now, in episode #203, Niles Heckman joins us to discuss his path and his work in a most interesting conversation!Niles is a documentary photographer and filmmaker, essayist and speaker whose work focuses on themes of ageless wisdom for our modern times. Sharing insights in his films, spoken-word essays, podcast An Infinite Path, alternate media appearances, street photography blog Philosophical Photography, and in mentorship with others.He is the director of the feature film Transmutation, the documentary series Shamans of the Global Village, the short Balanced Opposites, and a collection of short-form documentary narrations. Please see his website at https://nilesheckman.com, where you can also find his podcast, An Infinite Path.I really enjoyed speaking with Niles again. The first time was when we spoke for his podcast for episode 091, entitled, “Some of the Most Amazing Teachings to Date,” https://www.nilesheckman.com/podcast/2019/11/3/ep091-greg-kaminsky. I have to say that has been probably the most in-depth interview I’ve done recently exploring my own path and recent revelations. I tried to do the same for Niles in this interview and learned quite a bit, including that his desire is to inspire and empower by pairing media with ageless wisdom to benefit others.I respect Niles because he’s an authentic seeker who’s willing to dive in and do the work required to learn and grow. And I appreciate the way that he connects with others and shares his explorations with the world. You may as well. If so, you can support his work at https://www.nilesheckman.com/membership.The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Into the Infinite” by Logic Gate (http://download.magnatune.com/artists/albums/logicgate-voyages?song=1).In the Chamber of Reflection, if you haven’t already, please check out the recent recording about how to “Get Your Spiritual Practice Lit” in 15 steps. These are ways that I’ve learned to deepen your understanding of your spiritual path and practice, and if followed with sincerity, will change your life. Also, I’m preparing another exclusive recording for members on the practice of virtue and its benefits that will be ready within a few days of the release of this podcast. Listen to those exclusive recordings at https://chamberofreflection.com or at our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality.I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!Thanks for listening and until next time . . .