Ultraculture With Jason Louv

In this episode, we sit down with esteemed author Richard Kaczynski and practicing occultist Lynn Mavius for a captivating discussion on their journeys through Thelema, magic, and the intricate history surrounding figures like Aleister Crowley, J.F.C. Fuller, and Victor Neuburg. Richard opens by delving into his extensive contributions to the Western esoteric tradition, highlighting his renowned biography Perdurabo, which offers a comprehensive account of Crowley’s life. He also shares insights from his latest work, Friendship and Doubt, a deep exploration of the intertwined relationships between Crowley, Fuller, and Neuburg, and how their agnosticism and free thought shaped their magical practices and personal philosophies. Lynn complements Richard’s narrative by sharing her experiences as both a writer and a dedicated occultist. She discusses her active role within the local Pagan and Thelemic communities, where she teaches and engages with a broad spectrum of spiritual practices. As the conversation progresses, Richard and Lynn explore the idea of being a well-rounded magician, emphasizing the need to balance esoteric study with broader worldly pursuits. They reflect on their own practices, underscoring the importance of discernment, listening to one's inner voice, and the pursuit of one's true will. The pair also dive into the dynamics of being a magical couple within Thelema. With candid anecdotes, they discuss how their shared spiritual practices strengthen their bond, while also stressing the importance of maintaining individual paths. The conversation then shifts to a timely topic: the influence of social media—especially TikTok—on the dissemination of esoteric knowledge. Both express concern over the rise of disinformation and the cultural shifts within modern spirituality. Lynn points out the increasing polarization within occult communities and the lack of nuance in contemporary discussions of esoteric authors and their works. Together, they call for a revival of the intellectual curiosity that once characterized earlier generations of practitioners, encouraging engagement with diverse viewpoints, even those that challenge one's own beliefs. As the dialogue nears its conclusion, Richard shares exciting updates on his upcoming projects, including the audiobook release of Perdurabo, the critical edition of The Sword of Song, and his forthcoming book Mind Over Magic, which seeks to bridge the gap between psychic practices and psychological research. Lynn also promotes her latest initiatives, inviting listeners to join her online community and attend her lectures on modern occultism. Together, Richard and Lynn offer a contemporary lens on Thelema, advocating for inclusivity, thoughtful engagement, and the reclamation of magical traditions in today’s society. Their conversation is not only thought-provoking but also a call to deeper understanding, challenging preconceived notions of what it means to be a practitioner in the modern world, while enriching our appreciation of Thelemic history.

In this extensive interview, Jason speaks with Charlie Larson, a teacher, writer, and a practicing pagan and witch, who delves into the themes of personal transformation and the role of deities in modern spirituality. Charlie opens up about their lifelong passion for writing, which has served as an outlet for self-expression through both his childhood struggles and adult experiences. Their journey in language began during a challenging childhood, leading to academic pursuits in linguistics and a career in teaching English as a second language. This foundation laid the groundwork for Charlie's recent project: a book focused on the deity Anubis. Charlie provides a robust overview of Anubis, the Egyptian god often associated with death but whose role encompasses greater complexities. Initially conceived as the god of the dead, Anubis's character evolved over time, especially with the rise of Osiris, leading to a nuanced view of his responsibilities, which include embalming and the weighing of hearts—a pivotal aspect of ancient Egyptian beliefs surrounding the afterlife. Charlie explores theories on Anubis's origins and discusses how these deities were intertwined with the cultural fabric of ancient Egypt, providing context to their relevance in modern spiritual practices. The conversation shifts to the intersection of mythology and personal experience. Charlie describes their unique perspective on Anubis as a guide for navigating personal struggles, particularly during periods of difficulty and transformation. They encourage listeners to view deities like Anubis not merely as ancient figures but as living entities that maintain relevance in contemporary spirituality. This perspective recognizes the ongoing evolution of religious practices and the importance of adapting ancient teachings to modern contexts. Jason highlights the recurring theme of death within both ancient Egyptian spirituality and contemporary society. He critiques American cultural attitudes towards death as taboo, contrasting them with other cultures that embrace a more open relationship with mortality, such as Dia de los Muertos in Mexico. In discussing these differences, Charlie notes a growing trend in the U.S. toward celebrating life rather than solely mourning death, a shift that coincides with a rekindled interest in the spiritual significance of deities like Anubis. As they explore the significance of personal rituals and practices with Anubis, Charlie emphasizes the importance of intention over traditional ceremonial trappings. They advocate for a heartfelt approach to connecting with deities, suggesting that conversations and meditative practices can serve as effective means of establishing relationships with these powerful figures. They also touch upon the dual role of pets, particularly dogs, in providing comfort and protection, drawing parallels between the instinctual bond many people share with their animals and the guiding nature attributed to Anubis. Throughout the interview, both Jason and Charlie reflect on the transformative power of personal adversity and the healing process, underscoring the complex interplay between experiences of loss and the search for meaning in the modern world. Charlie candidly shares their experiences with shadow work, framing it as a journey supported by their connection to Anubis—a relationship that offers comfort and perspective amid life's challenges. The discussion concludes with Charlie sharing insights on how to incorporate the lessons learned from these ancient deities into contemporary spiritual practices. They encourage listeners to explore their own unique connections and to view these relationships as an evolving, living practice rather than a rigid adherence to tradition. The conversation not only provides historical context but also serves as an invitation for individuals to explore their personal spirituality with openness and creativity. Charlie's upcoming book, set to release in early No

In this episode of ULTRACULTURE, host Jason Louv sits down with Daniel Burke, an author whose work explores the intriguing phenomenon of crisis apparitions through a cross-cultural and historical lens. Daniel introduces the concept of crisis apparitions—intense experiences where individuals become aware of a loved one’s death at a distance, often just before it occurs. Drawing from his extensive research, Daniel discusses how these events manifest as sightings, voices, intuitions, or sensations of pain, revealing a deep emotional connection between the living and the deceased. Together, Jason and Daniel delve into the psychological and cultural factors surrounding these experiences. They examine how family dynamics, societal norms, and belief systems influence the sharing and interpretation of crisis apparitions, especially in times of grief. Daniel shares personal stories and historical accounts that highlight the ubiquity of these phenomena, despite their lack of mainstream recognition, and invites listeners to consider their broader significance. As the conversation deepens, Daniel critiques the typical scientific perspectives on crisis apparitions, challenging listeners to move beyond simple explanations. He and Jason explore how different cultures, such as those in Ireland and Iceland, have embraced supernatural experiences through folklore, maintaining a connection to the spiritual realm that offers comfort and insight into death. This thought-provoking episode provides a compelling exploration of a rarely discussed but profound aspect of human experience. Tune in as Daniel shares his knowledge, personal stories, and the impact of his work, offering fresh perspectives on life, death, and the mysterious phenomena that bridge the two. Links & Resources: 🌈 Magick.Me - Online School for Magick, Meditation, and Mysticism: https://www.magick.me 🃏🔮✨ Introduction to Magick - The world's best course on practicing real magick, right where you are sitting now: https://www.magick.me/p/intro-magick 🧘‍♂️ (NEW!) Free Guided Meditation and Mailing List: https://start.magick.me 📖 (NEW!) Free Introductory Magick Course: https://www.magick.me/p/why-magick 🌌 See you in class! ✨

Judika Illes, author of "Witches: A Compendium" and "Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells," engages in a detailed conversation about the practical aspects of magick and witchcraft. She contrasts her approach to spellbooks with those that lack actionable content, emphasizing the importance of personal experience in crafting effective spells. As a long-time participant in the magical community, Illes discusses the evolution of witchcraft and the challenges faced by new practitioners amid misinformation online. The dialogue highlights the significance of community, shared experiences, and cultural respect in magical practices. Illes elaborates on the role of intention in spellcasting and how aligning personal motivations with actions is essential for success. She views magic as an innate human experience that fosters empowerment and understanding. The conversation concludes with insights on her editorial work at Weiser Books and encourages listeners to consider the values of respect, community, and intention in their magical journeys. Links & Resources: 🌈 Magick.Me - Online School for Magick, Meditation, and Mysticism: https://www.magick.me 🃏🔮✨ Introduction to Magick - The world's best course on practicing real magick, right where you are sitting now: https://www.magick.me/p/intro-magick 🧘‍♂️ (NEW!) Free Guided Meditation and Mailing List: https://start.magick.me 📖 (NEW!) Free Introductory Magick Course: https://www.magick.me/p/why-magick 🌌 See you in class! ✨

Join Paul Wyld as he unravels the complex legacy of Jim Morrison, the rock icon entwined with the Western esoteric tradition. Discover Morrison’s journey as a visionary, revealing his struggles with spirituality and societal norms. The discussion highlights his dual role as an artist and secret teacher, illustrating how his music served as a catalyst for awakening. From exploring the influence of psychedelics during the Vietnam War to the cultural shifts of his time, this conversation is a deep dive into the spiritual essence of one of music's most enigmatic figures.

Jezmina Von Thiele and Paulina Stevens, dynamic Romani women, share their journeys of empowerment through cultural heritage. They discuss the rich traditions of Romani fortune-telling, emphasizing the need to reclaim their history. The conversation touches on the impact of intergenerational trauma, the balance between public visibility and cultural security, and the fine line between superstition and intention in their practices. They offer insights into the unique challenges faced by the Romani community and the importance of representation.

Sara Mastros, a professional witch and author renowned for her insights into Solomonic magic, dives deep into the historical and cultural roots of magical practices. She discusses the unique fusion of Jewish traditions, mathematics, and modern techniques in magic. The conversation also explores the role of psychedelics and angelic communication in magical experiences. From personal anecdotes of healing through magic to the interplay of perception and technology, Mastros offers enlightening perspectives for both enthusiasts and skeptics alike.

Richard Metzger, a television host and author known for the provocative show Disinformation, discusses his new documentary project, Magick Show. He delves into modern occultism, sharing insights from over 50 influential figures in the field. The conversation touches on the evolution of magic as a metaphor for creativity and personal growth. They also reflect on societal turbulence, from the rise of extremism to the impact of misinformation, highlighting the need for community among practitioners while navigating today's complex landscape.

I Am JopauL, a passionate advocate for Israel and host of the I Am Verified podcast, shares his unfiltered insights on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He dives into the complexities of recent regional conflicts and international law, discussing the identity of the Druze community and the pervasive misinformation shaping public perceptions. JopauL emphasizes the historical nuances behind the conflict while addressing ideologies like Islamism and rising anti-Semitism, urging a deeper understanding of these multi-layered issues.

Kris Spisak, an expert in folklore, dives into the complex figure of Baba Yaga, a character embodying both darkness and light in Slavic traditions. She reveals Baba Yaga's duality as both a villain and a feminist symbol, reflecting the hopes and horrors of our lives. The conversation connects her to themes of nature, herbalism, and empowerment, highlighting the importance of storytelling in cultural identity, especially during conflict. Spisak also discusses how Baba Yaga's myth continues to inspire personal transformation and resilience today.