Tarot cards—fortune-telling gimmick or a window into the past? In this season premiere of Shadow’s Embrace, we unravel the mysterious origins of Tarot, tracing its journey from medieval playing cards to a tool of divination and self-reflection. From secret societies to pop culture, we'll explore how Tarot has shaped—and been shaped by—history, myth, and the human desire for answers. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, step into The Fool’s shoes as we take the first step on a path filled with secrets, symbolism, and surprising truths.

Welcome to this special Halloween episode of Shadow’s Embrace! Join Rachel and Paul as they dive into the hauntingly rich history of Halloween, from its mysterious Celtic origins to its transformation into the spirited celebration we know today. Together, they’ll uncover legends, lore, and the eerie evolution of this holiday through centuries of spooky traditions.

Amid the discussion, Rachel and Paul explore a playful hypothetical: what if local kids tried to pull off a Halloween prank? It’s a light-hearted look at the ‘tricks’ side of the holiday, making for a fun, spooky, and thought-provoking episode that’s perfect for the season.

Join us this time as we discuss the Black-Eyed Children. Who are they? What are they?

Are they aliens? Vampires? Demons? Harbingers of the Mandela Effect? Fergie and Will.i.am just wanting a blanket and some hot chocolate? You'll have to listen to find out. Make sure you stick around to hear Paul's in-depth critical analysis of the Scream franchise and listen as we wax poetic about liminal spaces. This truly is the episode that has everything.

In the final episode of our Aleister Crowley podcast series, we delve into the enigmatic legacy of the occultist and his enduring influence on modern spirituality. We explore Crowley's controversial teachings and his role in shaping contemporary occult practices. Join us for a riveting conclusion to our deep dive into the life of this legendary figure.

In this episode, we delve into the enigmatic early life of Aleister Crowley, the controversial figure who would become known as the "Great Beast." From his strict religious upbringing in Victorian England to his rebellious school years and early mystical experiences, we explore the formative events that shaped his path towards becoming a notorious occultist. Join us as we uncover the influences and pivotal moments that set Crowley on his journey to infamy.

In this episode, we delve into the rich history of the Menger Hotel, a landmark known for its opulent architecture and storied past. We explore the tales of famous guests, including Theodore Roosevelt and Babe Ruth, who once walked its historic halls. The hotel’s ghostly legends come to life as we recount spine-chilling encounters reported by visitors and staff over the years. Join us for an intriguing blend of history and mystery, as we uncover what makes the Menger Hotel a timeless treasure in San Antonio.

This episode, Paul and Rachel discuss the curse of Dudley Town and its origins in England. Ed and Lorraine Warren make a surprise appearance in this story, and Paul has... feelings. You definitely don't want to miss this.

Sources:

"The Demonologist: The Extraordinary Career of Ed and Lorraine Warren" by Gerald Brittle

"Ghosts of Connecticut: The Haunted Locations of Bristol, New Britain, Waterbury and Wallingford" by Jeffrey Fisher

"The World's Most Haunted Places" by Jeff Belanger

Conspiracy Theories Podcast - Dudleytown

Further Reading:

"Haunted Connecticut: Ghosts and Strange Phenomena of the Constitution State" by Cheri Revai

"The True Story of The Quiet Zone: Unraveling the Mystery of a Town Suspended in Silence" by Stephen G. Bloom

Email us at podcastshadowsembrace@gmail.com