Night Letters

Iris Brooke and Ellen Walker
  • 5.0 (2)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A podcast birthed in the hours between our waking and dreaming worlds. A portal into the realms of nocturnal beings, after-hours muses, moonlit landscapes. Join us, we will meet you at 10pm. Welcome to Night Letters.

Episodes

  1. Down to the Bones: Grief and the Bonewoman

    APR 30

    Down to the Bones: Grief and the Bonewoman

    Night Letters Podcast — Grief & the Bone Woman In this episode, Iris and Ellen dive deep into grief — the personal, the collective, and the ancestral — and explore what it means to sit with sorrow rather than run from it. In this episode: How grief is showing up personally and collectively right now — and why that's actually a source of hope The feral, untamed nature of grief and why it resists being "polished" or rushed Why fully feeling loss is inseparable from feeling fully alive The pressure modern healing culture puts on "moving through" grief quickly — and why that's worth questioning Ancestral grief: carrying the weight of generations and finding meaning in it Practical ways Iris and Ellen have been moving with grief: crying, movement, writing, breathwork, animals, and community The Myth of La Loba (Bone Woman) Drawn from Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés' Women Who Run With Wolves, the story of La Loba — the wise elder who collects wolf bones in the desert and sings them back to life — serves as the mythic backdrop for this conversation. What bones in yourself are waiting to be gathered and sung back into wholeness? Themes explored: Grief as transformation and death/rebirth cycles The sacred nature of dark, uncomfortable emotional spaces Storytelling and song as acts of rebellion and hope Breathing new life into the bones — rebuilding identity after profound loss References mentioned: Women Who Run With Wolves by Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés Maria Souza (mythologist on Instagram) — Year of Myths course Beatle the Bard (bardcore/medieval hip hop on social media) Beltane & the thinning of the veil Night Letters drops every other Wednesday at 10:00 PM on all major platforms.

    51 min

  2. APR 16

    Return Episode Creativity in Hard Times

    Night Letters — Return Episode Creativity in Hard Times Episode Title: We're Back (And We're Not the Same) Show: Night Letters Hosts: Ellen & Iris Episode Summary: After a much-needed break, Ellen and Iris return to Night Letters for a candid, unfiltered check-in. They catch up on what's been keeping them busy, and get honest about how the current state of the world has been affecting their creativity, emotional lives, and sense of self. This episode is a warm, rambling, deeply felt re-entry into the Night Letters space. In This Episode: The return: Why they stepped away and what it feels like to be back Ellen's updates: A busy tattooing season, a return to brand design, and a solo guest spot in Seattle that pushed her out of her comfort zone Iris's updates: New tattoo mentorship offerings, one-on-one handpoke teaching, and moving her art studio back home Creativity in hard times: How both are navigating making art, selling art, and showing up online when the world feels heavy and why they believe creating is an act of rebellion The authenticity illusion: A conversation about the collapse of performative "realness" on social media and what genuine expression actually feels like Grief, devotion, and surrender: Iris opens up about a heartbroken season and how art has been her sanctuary; Ellen reflects on staying whole rather than striving for regulated wellness Small joys: Pulling weeds as rage therapy, throwback music, sending each other dumb reels at midnight, and planning travel What's coming up: Ellen teases two major summer offerings — an 8-month online group program and an in-person backpacking trip Connect with Iris: DM her on Instagram for tattoo bookings, one-on-one mentorship, handpoke teaching, and tattoo business coaching. Connect with Ellen: Booking tattoos through April & May, monthly flash days, upcoming travel dates to Carmel and Joshua Tree, and two exciting summer offerings coming soon. Follow her main page for announcements.

    48 min
  3. Cryptids + Fantastical Beasts

    JAN 9

    Cryptids + Fantastical Beasts

    Night Letters Podcast - Episode 10: Cryptids and Fantastic Beasts Release Date: First episode of 2026 Hosts: Iris & Ellen Episode Length: ~64 minutes Release Schedule: Every other Wednesday at 10:00 PM on all major platforms Episode Summary In this magical first episode of the year, Iris and Ellen dive deep into the world of cryptids and fantastic beasts, exploring why these mysterious creatures continue to captivate us from childhood into adulthood. They discuss the difference between cryptids (beings whose existence is debated, like Bigfoot and Mothman) and fantastic beasts (purely legendary creatures from myth and folklore, like dragons and unicorns), and why these beings remain culturally significant. Key Topics Discussed Defining Cryptids vs. Fantastic Beasts Personal Connections to Fantasy Iris's lifelong obsession with Bigfoot and childhood experiences in Big Sur Ellen's childhood love of unicorns, fairies, and illustrated guidebooks How fantasy provided escape and connection to magic during difficult childhoods The role of climbing trees, wild spaces, and imagination in childhood development The Dark Watchers of Big Sur: Iris shares her favorite local cryptid, The Dark Watchers. Tall, thin, dark silhouettes seen on ridge lines wearing wide-brimmed hats and cloaks. Stories span from indigenous peoples (Esselen, Chumash) through Spanish settlers to modern times. Referenced by poet Robinson Jeffers (Such Counsels You Gave Me) and John Steinbeck wrote of the Watchers.Steinbecks son, Thomas and Benjamin Brode wrote "In Search of the Dark Watchers", an illustrated book of paintings of Big Sur/the Los Padres with hidden watchers. Viewed as benevolent guardians and threshold watchers of liminal spaces. Cultural Significance: Why we exile fantasy as we "mature" in Western culture (vs. other cultures that maintain myth) How cryptids often appear during times of cultural upheaval or natural disasters The connection between land-based cryptids and our relationship with nature Cryptids as balancing forces and protectors of the natural world Shadow Work and Trauma: Ellen shares a vulnerable story about childhood shame around fantasy play with unicorns How banishing fantasy sends it to "shadow territory" rather than eliminating it The grief around losing healthy fantasy connections from childhood to adulthood Why we've sanitized language (replacing "monster" with "cryptid") Archetypes and Co-Creation: How our associations with mythical creatures reveal more about us than the creatures themselves The concept of collective consciousness creating entities (like Mothman) Using cryptids and fantastic beasts for personal shadow work and self-discovery The power of myth to represent complex feelings and abstract concepts Quantum Possibilities: Discussion of multi-dimensional existence and why we might not see these creatures The fish-in-water analogy: beings existing in dimensions we can't perceive How quantum physics is validating concepts once dismissed as fantasy Reflection Prompts: Find a fantastic beast or cryptid that delights you and one that scares you—write down your associations with each Create your own personal cryptid/fantastic beast combining your shadow and light elements Consider what childhood fantasies you've exiled and whether they're calling to be reclaimed Unexpected Recommendation: My Little Pony series (for restoring childhood fantasy faith) Connect with the Hosts Both Iris and Ellen are artists who incorporate mythical creatures and cryptids into their tattoo work and art. Follow their Instagram stories for cryptid art shares and consider commissioning your own personal cryptid or fantastic beast tattoo design. Iris: @wildiris.tattoo and @hey.irisbrooke Ellen: @wayfinder_ink and @ellenwalker___ Next Episode: Two weeks Listen at: 10:00 PM for the full Night Letters experience

    1h 4m
  4. Omen Days

    12/25/2025

    Omen Days

    Show Notes: Night Letters – Episode 9: Omen Days & Embracing the In-Between Summary: Ellen and Iris close out the year with a cozy, reflective episode exploring the tradition of "omen days"—the 12 days between Christmas and January 6th. They discuss personal rituals, the importance of slowing down, and how nature-based divination can offer guidance for the year ahead. Topics Covered: Setting the scene: cozy winter vibes, cats, and catching up Reflections on the end of the year and the significance of episode nine in a "nine year" (numerology) The meaning and history of "omen days" (Dec 26–Jan 6) and its Celtic roots How omen days are used for nature-based divination and personal reflection The value of the liminal time between Christmas and New Year’s Letting go of pressure to set resolutions or be productive in the traditional sense Personal stories about winter rituals, hibernation, and embracing stillness The importance of receiving, not just creating, as a spiritual practice Dreamwork, journaling, and other forms of divination (cards, signs from nature) The challenge and value of unproductive time and learning to receive without earning A special "night letter" from Ellen about surrender and belonging Key Quotes: “Omen days is a practice with Celtic roots, known as the time outside of time.” “It’s about receiving—opening yourself to signs, getting still to listen.” “Productivity shouldn’t be the measure; some of the most valuable things are unproductive.” “We always have enough. We always have what we need.” Resources Mentioned: Book: "Wintering" (on embracing the season and its lessons) Oracle cards, nature walks, and dream journaling as tools for reflection Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram for updates and to join in on the omen days practice Share your own rituals or reflections with us! Next Episode: Look for our next episode in early January. Thank you for listening and happy omen hunting!

    52 min
  5. The Hermit

    12/11/2025

    The Hermit

    Night Letters Podcast – Episode 8: The Hermit Welcome to another late-night conversation with Iris and Ellen! In this episode, our hosts dive deep into the “hermit” archetype—what it means, how it shows up in their lives, and why embracing solitude can be both challenging and transformative. In this episode: Iris and Ellen share personal stories about recent “hermit” phases, including the life changes that led them to seek solitude. Discussion of the hermit as an archetype in tarot, mythology, and everyday life. The difference between healthy solitude and unhealthy isolation, and how to recognize the signs. How winter and nighttime naturally invite us to go inward, reflect, and recharge. The importance of self-trust, setting boundaries, and learning to listen to your own needs. Insights on mental health, creativity, and the value of stepping away from external noise. Reflections on how to know when it’s time to re-emerge from hermit mode and reconnect with the world. Key Quotes: “Hermiting has been very liberating… it’s really helped me to just really find my way, again, back to myself.” – Iris “The hermit can show up in so many ways, and sometimes it’s about simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters.” – Ellen Stay Connected: New episodes every other Wednesday at 10:00 PM on all major platforms. Like, subscribe, and share with a friend if you enjoyed this episode! Next up: A possible bonus episode from Monterey, and a future deep dive into “omen days.” Thank you for joining us in the quiet! We hope this episode inspires you to honor your own seasons of solitude. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

    49 min
  6. The Pathless Path

    11/27/2025

    The Pathless Path

    Night Letters Podcast – Episode 7: The Pathless Path Summary: Ellen and Iris return after a brief hiatus for a candid, heartfelt check-in. They dive into the theme of the “pathless path,” sharing personal stories about navigating life’s transitions, creative renewal, and the importance of honoring both endings and new beginnings. In This Episode: Reconnecting after a break and embracing the messiness of showing up The meaning behind “the pathless path” and finding direction in uncertain times Personal updates: navigating crisis, restlessness, and creative ebbs and flows The role of intuition, somatic wisdom, and “wayfinding” in daily life Reflections on the end of the year, the symbolism of the snake and the horse, and honoring cycles of death and renewal Creative practices: journaling, collage, tattooing, photography, and block printing The importance of gratitude for past versions of ourselves and lessons learned Announcements: upcoming tattoo sessions, workshops, and collaborative projects Announcements: Ellen will be tattooing at Iris’s studio and hosting an open studio in Grass Valley Iris is guesting at The Gallery in Aptos, co-hosting a tattoo project with Ellen, and leading a hand poke basics workshop Both will be in Seattle in January for tattoo sessions—details on their social media Calls to Action: Share the episode with friends or on social media if you enjoyed it Like and review the podcast to help it grow Reach out to Ellen or Iris for tattoo appointments, workshops, or collaborations Thank you for listening! Stay tuned for the next episode in two weeks, and remember: if you’re feeling lost or in-between, you’re not alone—Ellen and Iris are right there with you on the pathless path. Find Us: INSTAGRAM Podcast: @nightletters_podcast Iris: @wildiris.tattoo @hey.irisbrooke @songdog.studios Ellen: @wayfinder_ink @ellenwalker___ @wayfinder_studios EMAL: nightletterspod@gmail.com WEBSITES: Iris: irisbroke.com songdogstudios.com Ellen: ellenwalkderdesign.com This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

    1h 2m
  7. Our Tattoo Journey, Part 2

    11/06/2025

    Our Tattoo Journey, Part 2

    Night Letters Podcast – Episode 5, Part 2: Our Tattoo Journey Hosts: Iris & Ellen Release: Wednesdays at 10:00 PM on all major platforms Episode Overview: Iris and Ellen continue their deep dive into their personal and collaborative tattoo journeys. The conversation explores the origins of their artistic styles, the evolution of their hand poke techniques, and the symbolism behind their favorite designs. Key Topics: Origins of Style Both hosts share how their backgrounds in art and family influences shaped their tattoo styles. Discussion of inspiration from ancient, indigenous, Scandinavian, and Celtic art. The process of simplifying designs for hand poke tattooing. Nature & Symbolism Iris and Ellen talk about drawing inspiration from local flora and fauna, animism, and the energy of living things. The importance of symbols, portals, and the energetic essence in their work. Collaboration & Friendship Stories of tattooing each other, including the significance of their first meeting and the meaning behind their tattoos. Reflections on the trust, co-creation, and integration involved in giving and receiving tattoos as friends and artists. Transformative Experiences The emotional and energetic impact of significant tattoos, such as throat and heart tattoos. The role of tattooing in personal transformation, healing, and empowerment—especially for women. Recent Projects & Future Goals Updates on collaborative tattoo pieces and upcoming releases. Both hosts share their aspirations for larger hand poke pieces, travel, and new creative offerings. Iris discusses her new somatic tattoo experience and the exploration of tattoo as a language. Night Letters The episode closes with each host reading a personal "night letter". Connect with Iris & Ellen: Instagram: Iris: @wildiris.tattoo, @hey.irisbrooke Ellen: @wayfinder_ink, @ellenwalker___ Podcast Instagram: @nightletters.podcast Email: nightletterspod@gmail.com

    1h 14m
  8. Our Tattoo Journey: Part 1

    10/30/2025

    Our Tattoo Journey: Part 1

    Nightletters Podcast – Episode 1: Our Tattoo Journey Begins Welcome to the Nightletters Podcast! In this special episode, hosts Ellen and Iris dive deep into their personal journeys as hand poke tattoo artists, sharing how tattooing became a central part of their lives and friendship. In this episode: Ellen and Iris introduce themselves and the unique nighttime vibe of their podcast. Both hosts reflect on their earliest experiences with tattoos—what drew them to the art form, and how their backgrounds shaped their paths. The conversation explores the challenges and joys of being self-taught artists, including the lack of traditional apprenticeships and the importance of community. Ellen and Iris discuss the meaning and process of hand poke tattooing, how it differs from machine tattooing, and why they’re passionate about this slower, more intentional approach. They share their personal philosophies and rituals around tattooing, from client consent and ceremony to aftercare and integration. The episode highlights the emotional and energetic aspects of tattooing, including the transformative power of marking life’s milestones and the deep connections formed with clients. Both hosts open up about the importance of support, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of the tattoo industry. The episode wraps up with a look ahead: more stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and the promise of a mini-series on their tattoo journeys. Connect with us: Have questions or want to learn more? DM us on Instagram at @nightletterspodcast or reach out to our personal pages: Iris @wildiris.tattoo or @hey.irisbrooke Ellen @wayfinder_ink or @ellenwalker___ Stay tuned for upcoming offerings, studio visits, and the next episode, where Ellen and Iris will share more about their collaborative work and favorite tattoo stories. Thank you for joining us in this intimate conversation about art, healing, and the power of intentional tattooing. Whether you’re a fellow artist, a client, or just curious, we’re grateful to have you here. Listen, subscribe, and share! This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

    1h 21m
  9. The Sacred Warrior

    10/16/2025

    The Sacred Warrior

    Night Letters Podcast – Episode 4: Sacred Warrior – Show Notes Welcome to Episode 4 of the Night Letters Podcast, hosted by Iris and Ellen. This episode, titled "Sacred Warrior," explores the archetype of the sacred warrior—what it means, how it manifests in daily life, and its importance in both personal and collective growth. Episode Highlights: Introduction to the Sacred Warrior archetype: heart-led, purpose-driven, and devoted to service. Personal reflections from Iris and Ellen on how the sacred warrior energy shows up in their lives, including motherhood, artistry, activism, and healing. Discussion on the difference between a traditional warrior and a sacred warrior, emphasizing service, devotion, and inner work. The importance of vulnerability, rest, and renewal as part of the warrior’s journey. Exploration of "armor"—both literal and metaphorical—and how adornment, boundaries, and tools (like tattoos, art supplies, and even sunglasses) serve as protection and expression. The role of sacred rage: honoring anger as a catalyst for change and a sign of vitality, while learning to channel it constructively. The necessity of movement, self-care, and allowing emotions to flow rather than stagnate. The value of solitude, rest, and stepping back from community to reconnect with one’s own mission and clarity. Encouragement to embrace visibility, imperfection, and the courage to "show up" even when it means failing or being seen in vulnerability. Announcements about upcoming workshops, tattoo offerings, and ways to connect with Iris and Ellen. Connect with Us: Iris: Instagram @hey.irisbrooke and @wildiris.tattoo Ellen: Instagram @ellenwalker___ and @wayfinder.ink Podcast: Instagram @nightletters_podcast Support the Show: Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform. Share episodes to your Instagram stories and tag us! Reach out with your thoughts, questions, or your own "night letters." Thank you for listening and being part of our community. Stay tuned for the next episode, where the conversation continues into the world of tattoos and personal transformation. Sweet dreams! This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

    53 min
  10. Trickster: The Sacred Disruptor

    10/02/2025

    Trickster: The Sacred Disruptor

    Night Letters Podcast – Trickster Episode (Night Letter #3) Hosts: Ellen, Iris Setting: Mojave Desert, Yucca Valley, near Joshua Tree, recorded at night under the moonlight Episode Theme: The Trickster archetype Key Topics Discussed: The unique energy of recording at night in the desert Personal stories about night hikes, encounters with wildlife, and the magic of the desert The meaning of the Trickster archetype: disruptor, rule-breaker, chaos-bringer, and sacred disruptor Trickster figures in myth: Hermes, Coyote, Loki, and more The duality of Trickster energy: shadow and light, mischief for good vs. chaos for chaos’ sake The importance of humor, play, and levity in life and creativity The role of Trickster energy in personal growth, creativity, and breaking patterns The feminine as Trickster: reclaiming voices, bodies, and duality Sub-archetypes: rebel, shapeshifter, fool, jester Personal reflections on how Trickster energy shows up in the hosts’ lives The power of embracing change, fluid identity, and the liminal spaces of night The sacredness of humor and the danger of spaces where humor is forbidden The importance of being willing to be messy, foolish, and open to possibility Quotes and inspiration from Clarissa Pinkola Estés (“Women Who Run With the Wolves”) Invitation to listeners: share your own Trickster stories, explore myths, and embrace the archetype Contact & Community: Email: NightLettersPod@gmail.com Instagram: @NightLetters_Podcast Artwork for this episode by Ellen Walker: @ellenwalker___ and @wayfinder_ink Find Iris Brooke at: @hey.irisbrooke and @wildiris.tattoo Closing Thoughts: Embrace the Trickster within: be bold, playful, and open to change The night self as muse and source of creative energy “Who do I want to become now?” – the beauty of shapeshifting and evolving identity Listeners are encouraged to share their stories and join the community Thank you for listening and joining us under the desert moon!

    38 min
  11. Sirens Song: The Creative Process

    09/18/2025

    Sirens Song: The Creative Process

    Night Letters Podcast – Episode 2: The Creative Process Welcome to another late-night session with Iris and Ellen! In this episode, recorded at 10 p.m., we invite you to join us in the unique energy of nighttime creativity. Episode Highlights: Reflections on the recent full moon in Pisces and its emotional impact Honest conversation about the ups and downs of the creative process, including creative blocks, flow states, and even “creative drowning” Personal rituals, quirky habits, and the importance of self-care for artists and creatives The value of community, support, and celebrating each other’s creative work Permission to make “bad art” and embrace the full spectrum of creative expression The connection between creativity, the body, and emotional well-being Special readings: Each host shares a personal “night letter”/poem inspired by the episode’s themes Connect with Us: Ellen: @ellenwalker___ (main), @wayfinder_ink (tattoo) Iris: @wildiris.tattoo (tattoo), @songdog.studios (studio), @hey.irisbrooke (art/coaching) Podcast: @nightletters_podcast on Instagram Art: This episodes art is created by Iris Brooke @hey.irisbrooke All episode art will be available in limited quantities at the end of each month Upcoming Events: Power Animal Retreat in Yucca Valley (late October) – https://www.ellenwalker-design.com/power-animal Wayfinder Studios Grand Opening Celebrations Monday September 22: more info at @wayfinder_studio Support the Show: Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform Like, review, and share with friends Tag us on Instagram and join the conversation! Thank you for staying up late with us. Remember: creativity is your birthright—embrace it in all its forms. See you next episode! This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

    1h 5m

  12. 09/04/2025

    Night Letters - 1

    This week, [Iris]and [Ellen] [introduce themelves]..... Topics discussed: Introduction What is Night Letters Who are Ellen and Iris Links mentioned in this episode: @nightletters_podcast @wildiris.tattoo @hey.irisbrooke @wayfinderink @ellenwalker This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

    41 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

A podcast birthed in the hours between our waking and dreaming worlds. A portal into the realms of nocturnal beings, after-hours muses, moonlit landscapes. Join us, we will meet you at 10pm. Welcome to Night Letters.

Information

  • Creator
    Iris Brooke and Ellen Walker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Night Letters