The Pagan Temple Podcast

Matt Holloway
  • 4.7 (7)
  • SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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. 

  1. JAN 15

    Is Loki a God? Some Arguments

    Text me your Questions! 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    34 min

  2. JAN 11

    Tricksters Across Traditions: Boundaries, Illusions, Chaos

    Text me your Questions! 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    33 min

  3. 12/29/2025

    Unlocking Norse Magic: Seiðr, Galdr, and The Power of Runes

    Text me your Questions! 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    19 min

  4. 12/27/2025

    Back to Basics: Embracing Paganism's Core Principles

    Text me your Questions! 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    43 min

  5. 12/27/2025 · BONUS

    The Pagan Temple Podcast: A Fresh Direction

    Text me your Questions! 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    5 min

  6. 09/04/2025

    Mabon to Mooncakes: A Journey Through Autumn Equinox Traditions

    Text me your Questions! 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    16 min

  7. 08/10/2025

    Greek Gods: Divine Disasters with Valuable Lessons

    Text me your Questions! 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 b******t 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. Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    24 min

  8. 07/19/2025

    Ep. 11: Understanding Medusa The Guardian, Not the Victim

    Text me your Questions! 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 Support the show Website Facebook Instagram Youtube Books

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

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. 

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Holloway
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Pagan Temple Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Pagan Temple Podcast