Podcast
The Pagan Temple Podcast
The Pagan Temple Podcast is a welcoming space for new and curious pagans, heathens, and animists to explore the basics of paganism. Rooted in an Animist perspective, this podcast takes an inclusive approach, covering topics relevant to a variety of pagan paths. Each episode breaks down complex ideas into simple, easy-to-understand language, with guest discussions, stories, and insights. Whether you're just starting your pagan journey or looking to learn more, join us as we dive into the wisdom of the old gods and the practices of modern pagans.
- Episodes
- 24
- Releases
- Every two weeks
- Typical length
- 22 min
- On air since
- 2024
- Latest episode
- 3 weeks ago
Episodes
24 episodes, newest first
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32 min
The Price of Wisdom Odin at the Well of Mimir
Show notes
This is a full Pagan Parables episode built around the Norse myth of Odin sacrificing his eye at the well of Mimir in exchange for wisdom. It is one of the most theologically rich stories in the Norse sources and one of the most misunderstood.
This episode begins with source clarification, distinguishing the well sacrifice from the separate Yggdrasil hanging, then moves through narrative retelling, deep theological context, and modern practitioner application.
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14 min
Mimir and the Price of Wisdom
Season 2, Episode 10
Show notes
Odin gave up an eye for wisdom. Most people know that part. Fewer know who he gave it to, or what happened to that being long before Odin came asking. This episode tells the story of Mimir, keeper of the well beneath Yggdrasil, and what his story teaches about wisdom in Norse tradition. No background needed.
In this episode:
- Who Mimir is, and why his name is tied to memory itself
- How a hostage trade between the Aesir and Vanir cost Mimir his head, and why Odin kept it talking
- Why the well and the head are two separate stories, even though both lead back to Mimir
- Why Norse tradition treats wisdom as something you pay for, not something you're handedPronunciations: Mimir (MEE-mir), Aesir (AY-seer), Vanir (VAH-neer), Hoenir (HUR-neer), Yggdrasil (IG-drah-sil), Völuspá (VUR-luh-spow) Sources mentioned: Prose Edda (Snorri Sturluson), Poetic Edda (Völuspá), Ynglinga Saga
Join The Grove, our free Discord community, and share what you've paid a real price to understand: https://thepagantemple.com
The Pagan Temple. Education Builds Understanding.
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23 min
Understanding the Norse Cosmos and the Nine Worlds
Season 2, Episode 9
Show notes
A complete beginner's guide to Yggdrasil, the Nine Worlds, and the three sacred wells at the heart of Norse cosmology. Learn where the Norse gods live, who the giants really are, what Helheim actually is, and why this cosmic framework matters for modern practice.
In this episode, you will learn:
• The structure of Yggdrasil, the World Tree
• All nine worlds and who inhabits each one
• The three wells and their roles in Norse theology
• How this cosmology connects to modern Norse pagan practice
• Common misconceptions corrected with source contextLinks
• Full Written Lesson
• Norse and Germanic Paganism: A Complete Guide
• Join The Grove (Discord)
• Recommended Reading:• The Prose Edda (Byock translation)
• The Poetic Edda (Crawford translation) -
13 min
Starting From Zero - Building a Spiritual Practice Through Animism, Meditation, and Nature Connection
Season 2, Episode 8
Show notes
This episode is for the person who feels drawn to paganism but doesn't know where to start, and doesn't yet feel connected to any specific tradition. Rather than routing them immediately into Norse or Celtic or Wiccan content, this episode meets them exactly where they are. It builds a foundation using three things available to any beginner regardless of background: animism, meditation, and nature connection. These are not a tradition. They are a starting place. The episode is warm, practical, and deliberately slow. It is the first thing a brand new seeker hears from The Pagan Temple, and it should feel like a welcome.
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42 min
Norse Paganism for Beginners: The Complete Starting Guide
Season 2, Episode 6
Show notes
A complete beginner's guide to Norse paganism. This episode covers the history, primary sources, the Nine Worlds, an overview of the major gods, key concepts like wyrd and blot and seidr, what modern Heathenry actually looks like, and an honest conversation about racism in Norse pagan spaces.
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18 min
Starting From Zero: Building a Spiritual Practice Through Animism, Meditation, and Nature Connection
Season 2, Episode 5
Show notes
A lot of people find paganism and feel stuck before they even start. They think they need to pick a tradition, choose a pantheon, or have their practice perfectly figured out before they can do anything. That's not true. In this episode, we're starting from zero together. We explore three foundational building blocks that any seeker can use, no matter where they are on their path: animism, meditation, and nature connection. These aren't tradition-specific practices. They're ways of relating to the world around you that can support any spiritual path you eventually choose. Whether you've been curious about paganism for years or just found this podcast today, this episode is for you. What we cover: - What animism is and why it's a powerful starting point - Simple meditation practices rooted in spiritual awareness - How to build a real connection with the natural world around you - A gentle, practical routine you can start this week
Join The Grove, our free Discord community, for discussion and support: https://www.thepagantemple.com/Discord
The Pagan Temple: Education Builds Understanding.
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34 min
Is Loki a God? Some Arguments
Season 2, Episode 4
Show notes
In this episode of The Pagan Temple, Matt examines the five most common arguments against Loki's divine status in modern Norse paganism: his identity as a Jotunn, the lack of archaeological evidence, perceptions of him as evil, his role in Ragnarok, and the influence of Marvel. Matt provides a detailed analysis based on primary sources and Norse theology to challenge these claims and discusses how modern devotees can responsibly practice Loki worship through informed reconstruction.
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33 min
Tricksters Across Traditions: Boundaries, Illusions, Chaos
Season 2, Episode 3
Show notes
The Trickster Archetype Across Cultures | Loki, Hermes, Set, Gwydion, and Veles
What do Norse shapeshifters, Greek cattle thieves, and Egyptian storm gods have in common? Explore the Trickster archetype across five pagan traditions and discover why these boundary-crossing, chaos-bringing figures are essential to mythology and spiritual practice.
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19 min
Unlocking Norse Magic: Seiðr, Galdr, and The Power of Runes
Season 2, Episode 2
Show notes
Exploring Norse Magic: Seidr, Galdr, and Runic Magic Explained
In this episode, Matt Holloway from the Pagan Temple delves into the fascinating world of Norse magic, focusing on three main types: Seidr, Galdr, and Runic Magic. Learn about their historical background, societal perceptions, and how modern practitioners are reconstructing these ancient practices. Discover the nuances of each magical form and how they can overlap, hear interesting anecdotes, and get insights on how this knowledge is being revived and adapted in contemporary spiritual practices. Perfect for anyone interested in Norse mythology, magic, or spiritual reconstruction.
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43 min
Back to Basics: Embracing Paganism's Core Principles
Season 2, Episode 3
Show notes
Pagan Spirituality 101: Foundations of Nature-Based Practices
Join Matt from The Pagan Temple as he explores the foundations of nature-based pagan spirituality. Perfect for beginners or those returning after a break, this video simplifies pagan practice down to its core elements: awareness, connection, and practice. Learn grounding techniques, daily rituals, and how to connect with nature wherever you live. Stay consistent and rediscover your spiritual path with practical, easy-to-follow exercises.
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5 min
The Pagan Temple Podcast: A Fresh Direction Bonus
Season 2, Episode 1
Show notes
In this brief episode, host Matt Holloway announces the rebranding of the podcast to The Pagan Temple Podcast. He shares the reasons behind the shift, including his efforts to create a cohesive platform for new Pagans with resources, lessons, and a supportive community. Matt highlights the features of The Pagan Temple, such as foundational lessons, in-depth theological discussions, and a welcoming Discord server. He also discusses the free and paid membership options and encourages listeners to join and participate in the evolving community.
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16 min
Mabon to Mooncakes: A Journey Through Autumn Equinox Traditions
Season 1, Episode 13
Show notes
Join Matt Holloway on The Old Gods and New Pagans Podcast as he explores how various cultures around the world celebrate the autumn equinox. From the Welsh mythology-inspired Mabon to the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival and Japanese moon viewing tradition, discover the diverse ways humanity honors this moment of balance. Learn the history and significance of these celebrations and how to respectfully incorporate elements of them into your own seasonal practices. Whether you're drawn to Celtic traditions, curious about global customs, or eager to create a meaningful autumn celebration, this episode offers insights and inspiration.
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24 min
Greek Gods: Divine Disasters with Valuable Lessons
Season 1, Episode 12
Show notes
Dive into the messy, dramatic world of Greek deities and discover why their flaws make them surprisingly effective spiritual allies in modern life. Unlike distant, perfect beings judging your life choices, these gods and goddesses understand what it means to be beautifully, messily imperfect – because they are too.
The psychological advantage of working with Greek gods lies in their relatability. When your deity once turned a lover into a tree because they were having a bad day, suddenly your own relationship mistakes don't seem so catastrophic. There's solid psychological research supporting this approach: working with imperfect divine figures can significantly reduce shame and self-criticism, making it easier to practice self-compassion. But make no mistake – honoring a deity's humanity doesn't mean excusing toxic behavior. Zeus's serial cheating doesn't make infidelity acceptable; these are cautionary tales showing what happens when power goes unchecked.
Meet four powerful Greek allies who can transform your life: Athena, goddess of strategic wisdom, helps overthinkers make decisions and navigate complex situations with clarity. Aphrodite, fiercer than Valentine's cards suggest, teaches self-worth and healthy relationships – she's less "draw your soulmate to you" and more "stop settling for people who don't appreciate you." Apollo cuts through bullshit with his truth-telling energy, perfect for creative blocks and honest self-assessment. And Persephone, whose journey from sheltered daughter to Underworld Queen represents the ultimate transformation, shows how sometimes apparent disasters are breakthroughs in disguise.
Working with these deities doesn't require literal belief – many practitioners view them as psychological archetypes or symbolic representations of human experience. What matters is whether engaging with these energies helps you live better, make wiser choices, and become more authentically yourself. Through simple practices like offerings, meditation, or asking for guidance, you can access divine perspectives that complement your own thinking.
Join our community through the podcast website or the Pagan Temple Discord server at thepagantemple.com to share your experiences with Greek deities or ask questions about incorporating these practices into your life. Remember, even the gods make mistakes – the trick is learning from them. That's where wisdom comes from.
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22 min
Ep. 11: Understanding Medusa The Guardian, Not the Victim
Season 1, Episode 11
Show notes
In this episode of 'Old Gods and New Pagans,' host Matt Holloway delves into the true origins of Medusa's myth. Discover why the well-known tale of Medusa being punished after being assaulted by Poseidon is actually a Roman addition that came centuries later. Revisit the ancient Greek portrayal of Medusa as a powerful protector rather than a victim. Understand the cultural shifts that led to the dramatic reinterpretations of her story, and explore the implications of these myths in both ancient and modern contexts.
00:00 Welcome to Old Gods and New Pagans
01:52 Medusa: The Original Myth
05:56 The Roman Retelling of Medusa
10:04 Why the Roman Version Stuck
12:34 Medusa as a Protector in Ancient Times
15:06 Modern Reclamation of Medusa
17:01 Navigating Between Ancient and Modern Interpretations
19:15 Conclusion: The Power of the Original Medusa
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19 min
Ep.10 Offerings & Sacrifices - From Food to Fire
Season 1, Episode 10
Show notes
Think offerings and sacrifices are the same thing? Think again. In this deep dive, we explore one of the most fundamental—and misunderstood—practices in pagan traditions: giving gifts to the gods.
From ancient Greek temple ceremonies where entire communities gathered to share sacred meals, to modern pagans leaving apples on kitchen altars, we'll unpack what our ancestors actually did (spoiler: it wasn't all dramatic Hollywood stuff) and how these practices have evolved for the 21st century.
We'll cover the real difference between offerings and sacrifices, explore traditions from Greek thusia to Norse blót, and get practical about modern approaches that won't break your bank or get you weird looks from the neighbors. Plus, we'll tackle the environmental considerations that matter in today's world—because littering isn't honoring nature spirits, it's just littering.
Whether you're looking to deepen your existing practice or just curious about what pagans actually do when nobody's watching, this episode cuts through the mystical jargon to give you practical, grounded information you can actually use.
Topics Covered:
• The crucial difference between offerings and sacrifices
• Historical practices across Greek, Norse, and Celtic traditions
• Modern adaptations for apartment dwellers and budget-conscious practitioners
• Environmental considerations for responsible practice
• Common mistakes and how to avoid themContent Warning: This episode discusses historical animal sacrifice in an educational context.
"Old Gods and New Pagans" explores ancient wisdom and modern pagan practices with curiosity, respect, and just enough skepticism to keep things interesting. New episodes drop every [frequency] wherever you get your podcasts.
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28 min
Ep 9: Unlocking Ancient Wisdom: Ancestral Veneration and Modern Adaptations
Season 1, Episode 9
Show notes
The episode explores the significance of ancestor veneration, highlighting its historical roots and practical applications in modern life. By discussing various rituals, shared meals, and spaces dedicated to honoring ancestors, we address the complexities of family history and the importance of healing generational trauma.
• Importance of archaeological evidence on ancestor practices
• Historical accounts from Romans and Norse culture
• Common elements of ancestor veneration found in many cultures
• Practical tips for daily rituals and creating an ancestral shrine
• Engaging with difficult family histories and trauma
• Overcoming barriers to practicing ancestor veneration
• Simple ways to integrate ancestor practices into daily life -
19 min
Ep 8: Odin's Hidden Depths and Ancient Secrets
Season 1, Episode 8
Show notes
What if Odin is more than the wise, guiding figure we've come to know? Prepare to uncover the layers of a god who defies simple categorization. On this episode of Old Gods and New Pagans, I, Matt Holloway, invite you to explore the untamed and complex nature of Odin beyond the pop culture portrayals. From his name, which is rooted in "fury" or "frenzy," to his unsettling sacrifices for wisdom, including the loss of an eye at Mimir's Well, Odin's story is one of relentless pursuit and profound contradictions. We journey through his controversial use of Seiðr magic, traditionally taboo for men, revealing his unyielding quest for power and knowledge that challenges conventional narratives.
As we navigate the complexities of deities, we emphasize the necessity of acknowledging both their virtues and flaws. Even gods possess multifaceted personalities, not unlike humans. By examining Odin's obsession with war and his thirst for wisdom, we discuss the importance of embracing these contradictions. His willingness to share wisdom, despite his darker traits, offers a more nuanced understanding of his character. Join us in this exploration of the enigmatic Odin, where we challenge the simplified depictions and celebrate the rich, layered stories of mythology.
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17 min
Ep 7 Discovering the Role of Myths in Pagan Traditions
Season 1, Episode 7
Show notes
Can mythology shape our understanding of the world and our place within it? Discover the answer as we journey through the intriguing realm of pagan traditions and mythology on Old Gods and New Pagans. Join Matt Holloway as he unravels the complex tapestry of pagan storytelling, where myths are not just tales of yore but powerful narratives that continue to influence cultures and spiritual practices today. We'll explore how these stories serve as moral compasses, explain natural phenomena, and preserve the essence of pagan cultures across history. Whether you're a devoted practitioner or simply curious, this episode promises to enrich your perspective on the timeless art of myth-making.
In this enlightening discussion, Matt delves into the diverse ways pagans interpret their myths, from atheistic perspectives that see deities as symbolic archetypes to theistic views that embrace them as manifestations of natural forces. With examples like the Norse god Odin, who embodies wisdom and war, we'll explore how atheistic pagans find meaning in myth without literal belief in gods. This episode respects the multiplicity of interpretations and beliefs within paganism, offering insights into the various ways mythology can be understood and appreciated. Grab a cup of tea, get comfortable, and embark on a journey through the colorful world of pagan myths, where every story holds a piece of history and soul.
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28 min
Ep: 6 Modern Paganism and the Importance of Community
Season 1, Episode 6
Show notes
What if embracing community could transform your pagan practice? Join me, Matt Holloway, on this enlightening episode of "Old Gods, New Pagans" as we explore how building strong communal bonds can elevate your spiritual journey. We journey through historical contexts, examining the significance of pagan communities from family units to regional gatherings, and discuss how modern pagans can replicate these connections. I share my personal experiences, from intimate friend groups with diverse practices to larger organizations like the Pagan Project, which aims to promote public understanding and awareness of paganism.
Dive into practical steps for fostering and maintaining vibrant pagan communities, whether through shared rituals, unique altar setups, or seasonal gatherings. Discover the parallels between pagan communities and other religious groups, and learn how to balance solo practice with community engagement. We'll also discuss the power of online platforms like Discord in building global connections, and provide tips for maintaining relationships with non-pagan friends and family. To round off the episode, find out how you can actively participate in the Pagan Project through social media, volunteering, or simply sharing your experiences, contributing to a supportive and growing network.
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40 min
Ep: 5 Bridging the Gap: Explaining Paganism to Christians
Season 1, Episode 5
Show notes
Challenge your preconceptions and join in a respectful exploration of the ethical parallels that bind us, despite divergent paths. We confront the stereotypes casting shadows over the peaceful spirituality of pagans, dissecting historical contexts and biblical scriptures to shed light on commonalities with Christian ethics, like environmental guardianship and the pursuit of social justice. Without a whisper of judgment, we promote an interfaith dialogue that aims to dispel fears and forge a path towards mutual respect. By recognizing the shared values and dispelling myths, this episode is a testament to the power of understanding and the beauty of diverse religious expressions standing in harmony.
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