

What Magic Is This?
Douglas Batchelor
What Magic is This? is a topic based podcast about Magic, the Occult, the Esoteric, the Paranormal, the Supernatural and the Weird. Each episode revolves around one single topic in the hope that we can flesh out the important aspects one needs to know about it. From history to practices to important figures and more, What Magic is This? is for anyone curious about Magic and the strange world in which we live. If you're looking for the best place to find out about any of these topics, you've found the right Podcast to get you on your way.
Episodes
Mentioned books

85 snips
Sep 15, 2023 • 1h 58min
Enochian Magic with Scott Stenwick & Cliff Wigtil
Expert in Enochian Magic, Scott Stenwick, and enthusiast, Cliff Wigtil, discuss the origins and evolution of knock-in magic, the mysterious book 'Libra Loga', the grimoire-like portion of Enochian magic called Deheptarkey of Mystica, the concept of the Four Watchtowers and the Great Table, the association of aethers in political magic, different approaches to Enochian magic, the role of the 'holy table', communication with hyper-intelligent celestial beings, and the risks associated with practicing magic.

9 snips
Aug 31, 2023 • 1h 44min
Occultism with Mitch Horowitz
Mitch Horowitz, a renowned historian of alternative spirituality and author, dives deep into the intricate world of occultism. He explores its multifaceted definition, noting how interpretations vary wildly among practitioners. The conversation highlights the roots of occultism in Renaissance thought and its evolution through key figures like Isaac Newton and Aleister Crowley. Mitch discusses the revival of occult practices in the 21st century, intertwining them with astrology and UFO phenomena, while advocating for an accessible, open-minded approach to its modern resurgence.

Aug 14, 2023 • 2h 2min
Stones, Gems & Crystals with Nicholas Pearson
Nicholas Pearson, an expert in stones, gems, and crystals, joins the host to discuss the distinctions between crystals, minerals, rocks, and mineraloids. They explore the mythic underpinnings of emeralds and the personal experience and properties of rhodonite. They also review Pearson's books, discuss the pushback against rationalism, and delve into the energetic impact of touching crystals. Additionally, they address the ethical concerns surrounding crystal sourcing and the concept of stones having agency.

Jul 24, 2023 • 2h 10min
Ouija
For something which is only about 150 years old, the grip that Ouija or Spirit Talking Boards have on the cultural imagination is staggering. For some, it has been used to great effect to help them write their best work. For others it is a demonic tool which allows evil spirits or even the devil into your life. Yet for most of us who have used them, they never seem to disappoint; there is always seemingly an interesting story attached. The Ouija board has been explained away by science and skeptics, but I think it is past time we reconsider what it is about these amazing objects which keeps us coming back decade after decade.

May 29, 2023 • 2h 26min
Astrological Magic with Andrew Watt
Astrology and Magic. Two things that go together like salt and pepper. When we look back through the ages, they always seem to have been intertwined, for matching what happens in the celestial spheres with what happens here on earth seems like such a natural interaction. But where does one even start? What things should one keep in mind if they want Astrology to be the major aspect of their Magical spells and rituals. Helping us through it is the Astrologer, Magician and Poet- Andrew Watt.

May 14, 2023 • 1h 59min
Introduction to Paganism with Angela Puca
The term Paganism is used today (for the most part) to refer to contemporary religious and spiritual traditions which take their influences from historically pre-Christian beliefs. While many of these are fairly different from each other, there are some distinctions which these sorts of Paganism all seem to share for the most part. Many are Polytheist, see spirit and the sacred as being imminent, and hold the natural world in high regard. Taking us through some of the broader strokes of contemporary Paganism is the scholar of Magic, Witchcraft, and Paganism- Dr. Angela Puca!

Apr 29, 2023 • 1h 18min
The Celts... and Magic with Amy Hale
If one was to walk into their local New Age, Witchcraft and Magic shop and have a look around, one would notice that much of the merchandise in said shop was Celtic. From amulets, to books of Celtic Magic, even Celtic Oracle Cards. This would probably give one the impression that the Celts were an enormously magical civilization, perhaps even the most magical that has ever existed. But how much do we know about the Celts, and how should we think about Celts these days? To help us understand better is Folklorist and scholar Dr. Amy Hale.

Apr 18, 2023 • 1h 3min
The Origins of British Fairies with Francis Young
When most of us close our eyes and think of Fairies, more often than not the winged fairies of 19th century Britain is what will come to mind. Over the last 160 years, some historians and folklorists have attempted to figure out just how the British conception of the fairy came to be. For the most part and in the minds of many, it seems like fairies were some sort of Pagan Celtic survival of Christianization. However, this might not be the case at all. Taking us through the Origins of Fairies in Britain, is Author and Historian Dr. Francis Young.

Apr 14, 2023 • 1h 17min
Fairies, Witchcraft & Magic with Lee Morgan
Much of the last four episodes in the Fistful o' Fairies series has been about the history and folklore of the Fairies. But what does a Magical world look like with Fairies involved; what is a Fairy witchcraft? While most folks through history have done their best to avoid or appease the Good Neighbours, what things should be kept in mind if one would wish to interact in some way with them? Giving us a peek into the world of Fairy, Witchcraft and Magic is the author and Traditional Witch, Lee Morgan.

Apr 8, 2023 • 1h 33min
Fairies in Ritual Magic with David Rankine
When one looks back at older documents belonging to and written by ritual magicians, for the most part they seem to be about compelling Angels, Demons and Spirits to aid you in your magical activities. And yet, not discussed very much by anyone is the fact that in some of these Grimoires, Fairies seem to make an appearance. What's more, the reason that fairies are evoked seems to be for entirely different reasons than the usual suspects. Taking us through Fairies in ritual Magic of the past, is one of the foremost authorities on Western Ritual Magic and Grimoires, the one and only David Rankine!