Witches in Welsh Folklore: A Magical Conversation w/ Ben Stimpson
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In our latest episode, we talked extensively about Ben Stimson’s book, Doves and Ravens: For Witches and Whites Book of Wales and the Borders. This book uncovers the rich tapestry of Welsh folklore, focusing on authentic sources and historical accuracy. Ben explains the intriguing title, inspired by a recurring motif in Welsh legends involving magicians and their fates. The research process was intensive but rewarding, tracing the evolution of folklore from the 1700s to the early 20th century
Welcome to The Bell Witch Podcast: Witching in the 21st Century!
HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY TO TBWP!
In this episode, Swailes interviews Benjamin Stimson—author, podcaster, therapist, and witch—about their journey from Wales to Canada and back, their multifaceted witchcraft practice, and his deep connection to folklore and the landscape. Ben discusses the concept of fate (“W.E.I.R.D”), differences between UK and Canadian pagan communities, and the importance of authentic sources in his book Doves and Ravens: The Witches and Wise folk of Wales and the Borders, which explores historic Welsh witchcraft folklore. The conversation highlights historical witches, living traditions, and the enduring presence of magic in modern life, inviting listeners to explore folklore and visit the sites featured in Ben’s work.
"If you buy the book, go to the places. Imagine you're in the story itself and connecting, commune. That's really what one of my big goals was for people—to actually visit the country, because it is one of the best countries in the world. I'm a little biased, but it is one of the most beautiful in my opinion."
It is a beautiful enchanting conversation highlighting the importance and value of the folklore history of our land.
LINKS-
- Buy the book- Of Doves and Ravens : Benjamin Stimpson : 9781837050093 : Blackwell's
- Connect to Benjamin- Ben Stimpson Counselling | Integrative Counselling
- Listen to Ben's podcast- https://open.spotify.com/show/0PVyTZcEsf8ILmcl6zdAuT?si=6e2fcff53048458f
- Connect to TBWP- email thebellwitchpodcast@yahoo.com
- Join the Patreon- The Bell Witch Podcast | Patreon
- Follow Swailes- Instagram
Mentioned-
Robin Hoods Bay episodes-
Magic of the sea- https://open.spotify.com/episode/73s38PWPl042Kw8K3J3ab2?si=8f292e1369144197
Witches, Ghosts and Folklore from the coast- https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Pt20TZI0bjI3XP9K8mAKB?si=d21ec206d9504b2e
Affiliate discounts- 'BELLWITCH' on VE Cosmetics - Vegan, Cruelty Free, Gothic & Alternative Makeup
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KEYWORDS
witchcraft, Ben Stimson, mental health therapist, author, podcaster, folklore, ancestor work, spirit work, pagan community, Canada, UK, cultural context, Doves and Ravens, Welsh folklore, witch trials, Scandinavian traditions, Germanic traditions, fate, premonitions, cultural appropriation, indigenous lands, magic, cunning folk, divination, astrology, Welsh history, Eisteddfod, traditional charms, ancestral veneration, magical practices, healing, storytelling, community, social cohesion, supernatural, dragons, Welsh magic, historical figures, Bella Ffou, Lizzie Beattie, Doctor John Harris, narrative analysis, source authenticity, modern witchcraft, neurodivergent, queer, non-binary, identity, cultural heritage, Welsh culture, landscape, community practices, Treadwells, Essence Podcast, ancestral whispers, Llewellyn Worldwide, Sukhumi, therapy, personal practice, witch's ball, miracle balls, legends, gender and class in folklore, magical realism, UK paganism, North American paganism, magical identity, Welsh traditions, storytelling techniques, cultural exploration, site-specific folklore, immersive experiences, Welsh language.