2024 Presenter/Workshops (subject to change)
 

Ian McGee
Sometimes known as Cap’n Redboots, son of Cap’n Pat, Ian is a daring swashbuckler who finds more delight in late-night drumming and the serenity of hammock lounging with cats than piracy proper. Just like a 1986 David Bowie, he too is a labyrinth enthusiast and looks forward to continuing the honored tradition at this year’s Starwood .
  Labyrinth Creation/Ritual
This workshop will include the labyrinth setup (layout and the actual setting of lights) along with education about the ritual and the proper cup-to-sand ratio.

Ash McKernan
Ash is a licensed psychotherapist, ecotherapist, bard, life-long explorer of wyrd, and author of the book Wyrdcraft: Healing Self and Nature Through the Mysteries of the Fates (Llewellyn Worldwide). Ash lives in Asheville, NC, where he loves to read, write, dance, and spend time at the crossroads where psyche, nature, magic, and healing intersect. www.wyrdwildweb.com / IG: @wyrdwildweb / FB: Ash McKernan
  Mysteries of Wyrd: The Healing-Magic of Wyrdcraft
Wyrd (goddess of fate, destiny, nature, soul, magic, and becoming) is an ancient mystery that comes to us via Pagan Northern Europe. In this workshop, we will look through a psychological, phenomenological, and mystical lens into the nature of Wyrd, Wyrd consciousness, and the process of Wyrdcraft. Part lecture and part experiential, this workshop will guide its participants through an exploration of how Wyrd manifests within all life's domains – mind, body, relationship, environment, soul, spirit – a process that is revealing, healing, transformative, and in a process of spiritual becoming.
  Mysteries of Wyrd: The Call of the Fates
The "Call of the Fates" comes to us all in our own ways. It is the Call to deep meaning, purpose, magic, and soul. It is the Call to revelation, healing-transformation, and becoming. It is the call to Wyrd (to the ways of fate, destiny, nature, soul, and magic). Let’s explore this Call in sacred community circle together. How has the Call manifested in your life? To what are you being Called? How can you, and we, attune to, and trust, this Call more and more? Come share your experience and wisdom, or simply come to listen and observe. Let us be guides for one another as we heed the Call.

Vivian Meretrix
Vivian was ordained a Priestess of the O.T.O. in 2014 and served as Lodge Master of Chalice of Heaven Lodge in Chicago from 2016-2021, making her the only female lodge master in Illinois history. During that time, Vivian regularly hosted classes on ceremonial magic, occult history, tarot, astrology, Qabbalah, and various Western Hermetic subjects. In 2016, she lectured at Women of Fire, a convention focusing on women in occultism. That same year, Vivian began studying to become the nationally toured burlesque performer and teacher she is today! Currently, Vivian is the Head Hottie of the Illumi-Naughtie, an occult-themed burlesque review she produces in Chicago that educates audiences on the history of the occult and burlesque while presenting ritual theatre and the enchantment of cabaret.
  Self Care Sorcery
In this workshop you will learn how to develop a self-care regimen that builds on meditative practices, ritual awareness, and spiritual development. Building on over 15 years of experience as a health care worker and ordained priestess, Vivian Meretrix will show you how to better embody your inner divinity.
  Shimmy Saints and the Burlesque of the Occult
Your priestess of the Illumi-Naughtie explores the connection between the occult and the cabaret, as well as the history of ecstatic dance. From Crowley's burlesque troupe and its influence on the Gnostic Mass, to the link between the first occult sex therapist and the premiere of bellydance in the US, and into the modern day with Satanic and occult-themed burlesque dancers, we will discuss the long history of the esoteric and the erotic onstage.

Monkeystik
Monkeystik sets meaningful video content for all of their songs. Their roots are percussion and violin based combined with trance dance ambient electronica. A delight for the ears and the eyes, this eclectic group mixes pre-recorded music with live presentation beneath the backdrop of otherworldly video. Most of the presentation has lyrics scrolling as they occur during the show. As part of their Starwood presentation, they will introduce ecstatic dance presented by Kaos (DJ, drummer, and writing contributor) and Harmony (backup vocalist).
Ecstatic Dance Part I
Ecstatic Dance is a loosely guided movement meditation/shamanic journey experience to music. The experience begins with Integration where the participants circle up and share their names and intentions for the dance. Harmony may take everyone through a few heart opening Yoga Asana's to get everyone warmed up before we move into an Arrival stage where we ground and center. The music is atmospheric and meditative at first and then builds into heightened trance-like rhythms. We then bring it down to a landing, a bliss state after all the chaos of the heightened ecstatic state as we catch our breath and move into stillness, which is the Ecstatic Dance version of Savasana. We will then bring the participants back to reality and circle up once again to share our experiences with each other. This entire experience usually lasts around 2 hours.
Ecstatic Dance Part II
In this second presentation, we will go through much of the same process, but the trance-like rhythms will build into more complex improvisations. Bezl has studied intentional polyrhythmic phrasing to induce blissful states so we can ride in the clouds traveling to an enhanced state of mind.

Maegdlyn Morris
Maegdlyn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with certifications in sex therapy, end of life concerns, and gender identity. She is the founder of the Benevolent Friends Society whose goal is to provide community support to end of life experiences. She is also the archivist and Assistant Editor of Black Moon Publishing and has been seeking to undermine the obvious for 53 years.
  Death Doula: A Holistic Approach to End of Life
A discussion on death doula traditions and best practices, Legal concerns (paperwork, finding a notary and an accountant, legal representation), Client concerns (creating a binder with all relevant information, documents, journals, unfinished business, creating opportunities for happiness, silliness, end of life conversations, best memories, achievements etc., providing personal comfort, moving through phases of grief), Personal concerns (taking care of your own health and regulations), Social work concerns (creating opportunities for family and friends to be involved, placing boundaries for clients), Funeral or memorial concerns, Spiritual concerns (what the client and family want both during the process and afterwards), and more.
  Ritual- So Who Wants To Die
Carl Jung suggested that we have infinitesimal selves, representing faceted aspects of each individual. The human journey always has an inevitable resolution: death. We share this in common with every living creature having received the first universal gift of life, and yet it remains a mystery. This ritual will speak to anyone who has ever felt that they have outlived a certain aspect of their life or who wants to fully immerse themselves in the bardos, the final frontier, the mystery of the great beyond. Please come with the intention of giving up an aspect of self that no longer serves you or that you have outgrown. Bring two blankets and be prepared to take part in a truly transformational experience.

Mortellus
Mortellus is a lineaged Third Degree Gardnerian High Priestex of the Long Island Line. Presently busy at work on their third book, with the second, The Bones Fall in a Spiral: A Necromantic Primer, completed and arriving soon. In addition to their role as High Priestex, Mortellus is a Mortician, and holds degrees in Design, Education, Fine Arts, and Mortuary Sciences. Their areas of expertise include necromancy, necrobotany, mediumship, and the funerary rites of minority faith groups. They currently reside in Western North Carolina on three acres that doubles as the Covenstead for the Coven of Leaves.
  Necromancy in Practice: Part One
If you're interested in building a necromantic personal practice and aren't sure where to start, in session one here we'll cover history, ethics, and foundational practice.
Necromancy in Practice: Part Two
In session two we'll be diving into spell work and ritual practice.
Character Building: Becoming a Better Practitioner through Tabletop RPG
Mortellus discusses the "Critical Role" of play in magical practice and how tabletop RPG “builds character.” Topics include thought-form, path-working, leadership, coven work, and magical learning methods for the neurodivergent. Bring along a set of Polyhedral dice to learn a new method of divination!
Ritual: Raising The Dead
Join Mortellus as we raise the dead, resurrecting our beloved dead at a Starwood first in this participatory ritual. Bring your favorite offerings for the fire, libation of choice, and a favorite story about your loved one to share around the fire.

Nightbird (Karen E. Martin)
Nightbird is a Reiki Master in the Usui tradition and has completed a two-year shamanic apprenticeship with Windsong Healing Arts (Dayton, Ohio). Her experiences of consciousness include not only shamanic journeywork and energetic channeling through Reiki, but also meditation, drum and dance, chant and song, fire-working, psychedelics and entheogens, ritual, and automatic writing. Nightbird believes that every human is capable of raising their personal vibration and ascending into a higher state of consciousness. In her experience, making this shift primarily done through self-examination, shadow work, and personal healing, with healthy portions of unrestrained joy, self-love, and following genuine bliss.
  Get In Touch with Your Energetic Body
This workshop will help people attune to the energy flowing through and all around the human body. Individuals will practice working with the body's energy in different ways, both actively and through guided meditation. Subtopics: Make a Chi Ball * The Body's Energy Circuit * Grounding * Creating a Protective Aura * Energy Etiquette * the Merkaba / Light Body * Raising Energy for a Specific Purpose
  "Ascension" – What's All the Hubbub, Bub?
Maybe you’ve seen posts about Starseeds, 5D, the New Earth, managing “Ascension symptoms,” and so on, and you’re wondering what all this jargon is about. You could be curious, or perhaps concerned even. (“What kind of nutjobs are these?”) This workshop will address this type of terminology and how it correlates to information or concepts that you may already know or understand. An open discussion, facilitated by Nightbird.

Samantha Novak
Samantha is a circus performer bringing many talents to share at Starwood including fire eating, fire hula hooping, stilt walking, and improvisational character acting.
All the World’s a Stage: An Improv Workshop
If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to be a character actor, this class is for you! During this class you will learn: – What a character actor is and how improvisation is used – Body language and patron interaction – What is a bit? What should and shouldn’t you do when performing one? – Get tips on how to apply and get involved in local character acting opportunities.

PlaySmart Angela
Known on FetLife as "PlaySmart," personally as "Angela," and as "Galiana Chance" in her ex-career as a NiteFlirt top-10-rated phone sex operator, Angela is an opportunistic non-monogamous pansexual switch with a talent for encouraging consensual mischief. She hosts kinky gatherings, including being on the board at Twisted Tryst, the Midwest’s most inclusive kink-friendly camping event. Since 2012, she has presented and facilitated at STL3’s Beat Me in St. Louis and Spanksgiving, MadTown Kinkfest, AIS’s Winter Wickedness, Chicago’s LRA and GD2, Twisted Tryst, and various classes and gatherings in Central IL.
Adults Only: Playing Smart with Dangerous Desires
An adults-only class on playing safely with non-traditional sexual urges. I’ve been involved with kink communities for about 15 years, and I love talking about how to get started safely. We’ll cover brief concepts of consent, some helpful techniques with negotiations for doing non-standard stuff, and cover basic safety and techniques for impact and bondage. We’ll leave plenty of time for questions, because let’s face it, there aren’t a lot of places to go to get these kinds of questions answered in person. You don’t need any experience with kink to attend. If we end up doing brief demos, we’ll give people plenty of chances to leave before we start in case that's not your thing.

Tisa Powell
Tisa aka SoulShine Warrior servies others through yoga, sound baths, and energy healing. She is certified in: Kundalini Yoga Teacher (Rishikesh, India), SomaVeda Thai Yoga. Yoga Nidra Sound Healer, Cacao Ceremonies, Fire Cupping, Laughter Yoga, Reiki Master, Fire Performer, and more. Tisa’s personal experience with pain from multiple spinal surgeries led her to deepen her exploration into Sound Healing. Through her Sacred Sound Baths as SoulShine Warrior, she has found natural pain relief, spiritual development, and a peaceful way to help others deepen their connection to the divine within so they may live a life of fullness and abundance. Her aim is to manifest Promiiwihan Sii, or “the practical expression of loving kindness.
  Laughter Yoga
Laughing for no reason. Laughter is contagious and has a powerful and immediate effect on our mind, body, and spirit. Laughter Yoga involves deep breathing, stretching, clapping, and laughter exercises. Laughter Yoga is Childlike Play at its best…as an Adult…getting in touch with your Inner Child. Remembering and playing Games we once played in our youth.
  Kundalini Movement & Stillness Meditation
You’ll be fully immersed in the shaking and dancing of the first two stages that help to “melt” your rocklike being, wherever the energy flow has been repressed and blocked. Then that energy can flow, dance, and be transformed into bliss and joy. The last two stages involve stillness while all of the energy flows through your body. The last stage is stillness with singing bowls. Enable all this energy to flow vertically, to move upward into silence. It is a highly effective way of unwinding and letting go.

Prudence Priest
Prudence has been high priestess of Amaranth Energies [a Greco-Norse coven] since 1971, Ideoplastos from '68-'71, CEO of Freya’s Folk and the American Vinland Association, Ambassadress of Romuva in the USA, Member of the European Congress of Ethnic Religions, Elder in the Covenant of the Goddess and The Ring of Troth, Soror Glynda & priestess in the OTO and translator of “Demonographia”, member of the Rune Gild, Fellowship of Isis, card-carrying member since the '60s of W.I.T.C.H. [Women's International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell], NROOGD coven Children of the Raven, and Circle of Ancient Sisters. She has been an activist for Heathen and Feminist causes for over fifty-five years. Prudence currently lives in and runs Perchtenhof.
  Amber and Jet: The Witches' Jewels
Show and tell. Anecdotes, myths, uses, and more than you might ever want to know about Baltic Gold.
  Sacred Groves
Powerpoint presentation of sights and sites and rites in the EU.

Ra
Ra was a Pagan baby in the 70s in the Chicago region. She holds a B.S. in Clinical psychology and a M.A. in Counseling and Education. She is a pantheist, backpacker, traveler, and a teacher. She has a focus in Gestalt work and teaches Gestalt Dream Therapy technique, helping people to understand their dreams while looking at them through a Gestalt lens. She also leads theatrical exercises in using improvisation and other games to recharge. Since 2017, she has also led small groups in spiritual backpacking expeditions and provided hiker guidance on the Appalachian, Ice Age, and Colorado Trails.
  Improv and Games for Rejuvenation
This workshop is meant to have a little fun and relieve some stress at the same time. This is a chance to be silly, participate, or just watch others have some fun together. We will do a couple of improv games, maybe a bardic circle, and end with a session of Dance, Fight, Dance. Bring a soft pillow to participate in that last one because you can't fight without one.
  Gestalt Dream Interpretation
This workshop is an opportunity to learn and practice interpreting dreams using the techniques derived from Gestalt psychological theory. Participants should bring something to write on, a pen, and maybe a dream to share. Adults only.

Oran Rabbit
My professional circus career began in 2017. I have since become a member of multiple circus groups which not only include performances but safety training courses in fire and teaching Hoop/Beginner Acro/Poi at dance studios for kids. I offer choreographed stage shows, stilt walking, and fire, and my passion is sideshow - bed of nails, a machete ladder, fire eating, and human pincushion. My new and current passion is juggling. I am doing what I love! Creating a fantastic and safe experience for the crowds is always my top priority!
  Beginner Poi
Eager to start a new flow passion, or expand from where you've started? This workshop will host beginner techniques, from the very basics, and a group show and tell theme towards the end where anyone is welcome to showcase their favorite moves that others want to learn! We may even create together a little choreographed routine if everyone is up for it! Some sock poi will be available for use. Please bring poi and water to stay hydrated.
  Beginner Fans Flow
Eager to start a new flow passion, or expand from where you've started? This workshop will host beginner techniques, from the very basics, and a group show and tell theme towards the end where anyone is welcome to showcase their favorite moves that others want to learn! We may even create together a little choreographed routine if everyone is up for it! Some paper fans will be available for use. Please bring fans to practice with and water to stay hydrated.

Wendy Raphael
Wendy has been a professional artist, sketch journalist, and sign writer for decades and festival attendee for 30 years. Look for her silly signs and random art installations. www.wendyraphael.com
  Love Letters To Starwood
Let's send letters to the universe from Starwood! Unplug, connect and practice calligraphy skills. We will spend time creating letters and postcards to be mailed out from Wisteria. Send one to yourself, a friend, loved one, or place it at someone's camp to spread some magic and joy. Postage provided, donations welcome!

Jennifer Read
Jen has done art all of her life, primarily as a hobby, and science as a profession. She has a BS degree in Natural Sciences & Wildlife Ecology but has worked in a variety of science fields. For the past four years, she has worked as a Waste Management Specialist for the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Jen believes that using trash for art and upcycling materials promotes sustainability and creates beauty for everyone to enjoy.
  The Dancing Disc-O Tree
The Dancing Disc-O Tree is a fantastical and magical outdoor community art piece. Old discs are a problematic waste made of plastic that would take over a million years to decompose, but they can be used to make shiny, iridescent art! The label side of the discs are painted with neon glow-in-the-dark paint and decorated with beads, mini disco balls, and whatever inspires participants. Then the discs are hung up in a tree with a spinning disco ball, and after dark, lit up with blacklights. Making art out of trash helps reduce our impact on the environment. The Dancing Disc-O Tree is a visual reminder that everything we do impacts the environment and how even a little thing like a plastic disc can make a difference!
  Upcycling Interior Design
Give your space a new look and express your creativity without spending a ton of money on new stuff while promoting sustainability. Upcycling interior design utilizes existing interior elements and furnishings and gives them a new life and sparkle. Tons of old cabinets and countertops go to waste in landfills every year. The majority of these are structurally intact and are discarded for cosmetic reasons, wasting tons of resources. In this workshop, I will teach two techniques that can be used in upcycling interior design: epoxy pours for refinishing countertops and Unicorn SPiT stain for woodwork. The participants will create small art projects using these techniques. Get ready to make your space sparkle!

Tamrha Richardson
With 25 years of experience, Tamrha is a practiced Witch, Sorceress, and Tarot reader. Ordained as a High Priestess and Priestess of Hekate in 2014, she leads the Crow, Torch, and Feral Night Coven. Her commitment extends to volunteering as Pagan clergy in two Indiana State Women's Prisons since 2012. In the realm of birth work, Tamrha's journey began as a birth doula and evolved into her current roles as a postpartum doula, herbalist, and placenta encapsulator. Since 2022, she passionately serves as a Traditional Birth Companion, supporting women opting for autonomous births outside the medicalized maternity system. Over the years, Tamrha has assisted over 270 families.
  The Goddess Hekate 
Crossroads. Keys. Dogs. Torches. Snakes. Birth. Life. Death. Rebirth. Magic. Trance. Transitions. Growth. Exploration. The Restless Dead. Chthonic. Liminal. Serpent Girdled. Frightful One. Heart-Eater. The World Soul. All this, and more. While Hekate's history reaches back into antiquity, She is one of the most popular Goddesses in current times. This intro class will discuss Her possible origins, history, and where She appears in classical writing and myth. We will explore Her epithets (names), symbolism, realms, and faces while also discussing ways to begin, or continue, working with this powerful Goddess. We will also briefly discuss the trance technique that will be used in the Hekate at the Crossroads ritual.
  Hekate at the Crossroads-Ritual
In this ritual, we will meet at the crossroads to call upon Hekate through ritual Trance Prophesy. In a Trance ritual, participants are able to communicate directly with Deity through a trained and skilled Seer or Seeress, in order to receive guidance and counsel on personal matters. Privacy is protected through drumming and chant. Ritual is provided by the members of the Crow, Torch & Feral Night Coven, with members who have extensive experience in this type of ritual. Bring a small offering if you like (perishable food item safe if left in nature or a small candle of which will be cleared post ritual), something comfortable to sit on, and something to hydrate yourself with.

Denny Sargent
Denny (aka: Aion 131, Hermeticusnath) is a Seattle writer, artist, and university instructor whose extensive global travels and esoteric studies inform his books. He has visited 30 countries and lived in Japan for four years, teaching at a university and studying Shinto. Denny was first introduced to Mythology and Magick in New York City where he grew up. Since his early teens, he has been accepted as a member of many initiatory groups including Pagan Way, Welsh Traditional Wicca, The GSS, the Typhonian OTO, QBLH, Order of Chaos, Cult of Tara, and the Adinath Lineage of Tantrika. He is one of the founding members of the Horus/Maat Lodge and various other arcane cults too hideous to mention. He has written about Alternative Religions, Hermetic Magick, Taoism, Animism, Shinto, and Tantra.
  Experiencing  Feral Nature Spirits
A lecture on Neo Animism and then a trance-rite of Entering the Other world of the Spirits. In this lecture, discussion and, at the end, the ritual, practical reality of Neo-Animism and the Nature Spirits it will be explained, discussed, and experienced first hand. We end with a rite for opening up our own Spirit to the Other, the endless ancient world of the Animistic spirit of which we are a part.
  Opening To Spirit Animals
An Animistic trance practice and personal Animal Spirit conjuring. After a discussion about Spirit Animals and how to connect with appropriate Spirit Animals, we will move into action. Together, in the wilderness, we will together open up the Other world of the Spirits through ritual practices until we gently enter the realm of the Nature Spirits, and then call forth the Spirit Animals drawn to you with a ritual to call them forth, each such spirit coming to the person who is called if all is as it should be. Closing the gate of the Other, a discussion will ensue about working with the Spirit Animals.
  The Feral Practice Of Conjuring ‘Your’ Spirit Animals
After opening to the Other Animistic world and the Nature Spirits, the process of connecting, bonding, and then opening to your Spirit Animal (or Animals) will be explained and deeply discussed one by one. Then, when there is clarity, together we will ritually conjure ‘our’ Spirit Animals with time for trance work and, of course, returning from the Animistic world with open discussions and further discussion on bonding with Spirits and more.

Maria Shell
Maria is a Witch and High Priestess and has been practicing since 1989. She is ordained in the State of Ohio and has been facilitating sacred space for others in her community since the beginning. She is also certified in ceremonial facilitation, Ho’Opono Pono, and is currently studying to receive her shamanic life coach certification. Maria is a storyteller and meditation guide and has been working to switch from physical facilitation into an online mentorship model where she offers courses in Magick for Beginners and Coven Crafting - High Priestess training. She is also a medicine carrier and works with Cannabis and other entheogenic medicines to provide heightened awareness, deep spiritual awakening, and a sense of awe at our own magnificence as Co-Creators of our reality. She would love to offer her past life regression and chakra balancing meditations at this year’s event.
  Past Life Regressions
Experience a trip back in time to explore past lives and the lessons that those experiences may bring into our current lifetimes. Jump timelines by embracing these lessons now rather than having to repeat them again in this soul chapter and clear karma in your generational DNA. Allow wisdom and insight to reach from the Quantum Realm into your life at this time.
  Chakra Balancing
Come with me on a guided journey as we tap deeply into the energies of Earth to root ourselves in the present, then open each level of our column of ascension to clear any negative thoughts, energies, and patterns in your life. Maintaining a balanced energy flow within the body helps us maintain physical health as well as the ability to tap into the potential of our other senses and deeply trust our intuitive senses more clearly.

Josh Sherman
Josh is a hand percussionist specializing in Tabla and East-Indian rhythms. He has studied tabla for over 19 years from several renowned tabla teachers. Josh is a scholarship awardee and studies/performs with the Salar Nader Tabla Foundation. He performs solo and with several groups (including Indian-inspired fusion band Rudraksh Rhythm, the Indian devotional kirtan group Enchanted Hearts, and the world fusion band Global Connections) and has performed with musicians and dancers of many different styles from around the world. Performance venues of note include Starwood Festival, Severance Hall, House of Blues, Cain Park, Ingenuity Fest, Tri-C Jazz Fest, Parade the Circle, Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Getty Center in Los Angeles. Josh has also conducted workshops for all ages on Indian Rhythm Theory and other drumming related topics for Starwood Festival, Ingenuity Fest, and for many Passport Project programs.
  Indian Rhythm Theory
Expand your rhythmic repertoire! Learn new ways of conceptualizing rhythm based on the classical rhythm systems of India. This workshop will provide invaluable tools for both improvisation and composing, and is perfect for people who find themselves always reverting back to the same rhythms. Can be applied to any instrument and all skill levels and styles of music. The focus will be more on understanding rhythm than on learning techniques for specific instruments. There is a world of rhythmic possibilities available at our fingertips, and understanding rhythm cycles is a key to unlocking them. (Bring an instrument, participate, or observe.)
  Vocal Percussion: Drumming as a Language
Explore the link between drum sounds and vocal syllables. Learn about Indian vocal percussion as expressed on the tabla and how that concept can be translated to any other drum or instrument. Perfect for both rhythmic accompaniment and taking "solos," this workshop will focus on musicality, melodic drumming, and dynamics. A simple shift in thinking can transform a drum from a rhythmic instrument only to an instrument where infinite melodies can be explored. Can be applied to any instrument and all skill levels and styles of music. (Bring an instrument, participate, or observe.)

Jenny Sieck
Jennifer has a Masters in Counseling with an emphasis in Depth and Archetypal Psychology. Unlike intuitives that focus primarily on divination and prediction, Inner Voice offers a heart-centered approach that opens the client up to follow their unique path more deeply, clearly, and readily. As an intuitive tarot reader, counselor, and meditation instructor, Jennifer offers her intuitive gifts to help you discover your unique soul path so you can recognize and listen to your higher self. She can gently tap into your energies and help you explore choices and possibilities that will lead to greater inspiration, clarity, and focus. Jennifer makes her home in Columbus with her bunny, Alexandra, and kitty, Cassiequinn, as companions.
  Chakra Balancing & Totem Animal Work
An introductory discussion of the strengths and edges of each chakra, and discuss the idea of the anima Mundi, as it connects with animal totem work. I will lead in toning each chakra to notice which chakras and animal totems are speaking. I will discuss shifts and lifts, source messages, and clearing unwanted energies. I will then explain affirmations that go with each chakra, or what I call “zipper songs,” and show the group how to use these to amplify and raise energetic vibrations, as well as how to create zipper songs that are fine tuned to a specific purpose. There will be time for questions as well. I hope to create a fun, helpful, and interactive experience.
  Alchemical Psychology
Alchemical Psychology looks at the premise of the four sacred elements by tracing it back to the Alchemists work with earth, air, fire, and water as tools for evolution. It shows how combining these base qualities in different concentrations was paramount to quality of life for early people. I will revisit these “stages of readiness” as they relate to spiritual evolution and character, what we would now call development of psyche. Understanding and working with these elemental correspondences through several lenses, including the Myers Briggs, astrology, and alchemy, has been transformational to my spiritual process. I hope to share all that I have learned as tools for living. I will use Thom Cavalli’s Alchemical Psychology as the foundation for this talk.

SadaNam Singh
SadaNam has been studying and training in yoga since 2007 with his first four years of courses at The Ohio State University. He has been teaching at festivals since 2010. SadaNam is certified in Kundalini Yoga (KRI) and is a Reiki Master which he offers to those who consent during Savasana. SadaNam is also trained on therapeutic gong with Mike Tamburo so he can offer a multifaceted healing experience through movement, sound healing, and energy work/touch therapy.
  Partner Yoga/ Acroyoga
Don’t worry, you don’t need to bring a partner, my co-teacher and I take turns with anyone in need after we demonstrate and help spot you, and no experience or flexibility is required. We begin with simple partner exercises to build trust, balance, and loosen tight muscles with stretching and Thai yoga massage. Then, we work our way up to flying where we hold each other up on our feet (Acroyoga). Not only is this super fun, but it improves flexibility, relieves tension, feels amazing, and builds intimacy, especially when we get into Tantric partner meditation (non-sexual). Plus, you can get pictures of you flying and amaze your friends!
  Kundalini Yoga: Power Up Your Body/Mind/Spirit
There are no prerequisites or experience required for this energizing movement meditation practice except to show up with an open mind. Kundalini yoga is known as a street yoga, meaning anyone off the street can do it. You might notice commonalities with martial arts and Qi Gong in the dynamic, rhythmic, dancey movements designed to kick start your energy and light your fire to sustain you through the whole day! Kundalini Yoga always begins with a mantra to connect you with your highest self and the Universe followed by awakening breathwork, stretches, and exercises to relieve tension from your body and open up your energy channels as well as open your heart to gratitude and celebration in connection with the elements, Mother Earth, and Father Sky. Get ready to light up your Body, Mind, and Spirit!

Drake Spaeth, PsyD
Drake (aka SilverDrake) is a ritualist, spiritworker, and clinical psychologist. He has presented at Pagan gatherings and various conferences since 1997 and authored academic book chapters and articles about spirituality. He follows a Celtic, Faery, and Norse Pagan path that honors ancestors and seasonal spirituality. He is currently the Existential-Humanistic Psychology Specialization Coordinator at Saybrook University, where he has also served as Psychology Department Chair 2018-2021. Drake has taught at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology since 2004 and Northwestern University since 2015. He was the 2019-2020 President of the Society for Humanistic Psychology (Division 32 of the American Psychological Association).
  Sacred Hunt Ritual Orientation Meeting
Please see the description of the Sacred Hunt Ritual. Anyone who is interested in participating in the Ritual as a Hunter, Villager, or Drummer (no expert drumming experience required, just enthusiasm and passion for ecstatic ritual) needs to attend this 90-minute meeting in Hickory Grove. Each group's role and function will be explained. There is one important ritual position that needs to be filled—that of Firetender, for whom we would have specific instructions.
  The Sacred Hunt Ritual
This two hour ritual is an ecstatic ritual that utilizes physical exertion and the elements of firelight, a woodland setting, and intense drumming to facilitate consciousness alteration for the purpose of spiritual transformation or awareness. It involves an alchemical melding of the work of the Villagers (Yin element), Hunters (Yang element), and Drummers (Flux). The Hunt can be a personal odyssey to overcome challenges to spiritual evolution, eliminate toxic or unnecessary elements in one's life, or to quest for something integral to personal growth. Participation entails additional attendance at a prior orientation meeting as well as a debriefing meeting the day following. All participants must be approved by Drake or Pan prior to participating. It is closed to all other participants.
Sacred Hunt Post Mortem (Debrief)
This is a 90-minute meeting to share stories and debrief about ritual experiences in the Sacred Hunt Ritual the night before. Anomalous and intense experiences are typical and this meeting is a good way to share about them, integrate and process what occurred, and put closure on the experience. All Sacred Hunt Ritual participants are asked to attend.

Beltana Spellsinger  
Bernadette Holzer AKA Beltana Spellsinger is an advocate for a stronger democracy in Missouri. Bernadette is a candidate for Missouri’s House Representative, in District 143 - in 2022/2024, and serves as the Chair of the Missouri Legislative District 143 Democratic Committee. She is a member of the Texas County Missouri Democratic Committee, the Missouri Democratic Party Rural Caucus, and the Missouri Democratic Party Progressive Caucus.  She and her daughter are also running to be At-Large Delegates for the Democratic National Convention in August.
  Why I Ran For Office, and Why You Should, Too.
In 2022, I felt that the state of Missouri needed a change. No one in my district had stood up to run against a Republican opponent in my district in years. I decided that I would take the leap and be the first to jump in and do this. I ran for Missouri State House Representative in 2022. I plan on doing the same in 2024. Although I did not win in 2022, I discovered a lot about politics, the need for fair and balanced elections, and why I wanted to fight for my family and our rights. In this discussion, I would like to share with you why I believe it is so important that we stand up for our rights, wherever we are, whomever we are, and to be visible, strong, and proud of who we are so that others will be empowered to do the same.

Doug Sundling
Doug has been involved with sweat lodges since 1986. He brought the sweat lodge to Wisteria in 1997. Since then, he has constructed and maintained a sweat lodge site at Wisteria and has facilitated sweat lodges for events held at Wisteria, including every Starwood festival which Wisteria began hosting in 2010.
  Sweatlodge Orientation
A general overview of a sweatlodge shall be presented. We will discuss fundamentals of traditional sweatlodges, share personal experiences with sweatlodges, and advise how to prepare for an evening sweatlodge. Open to anyone, but those who wish to participate in a sweatlodge must attend this orientation. No one with any respiratory ailment – infection, cold, allergies, coughing, etc. – can participate.
The Sweatlodge Ceremony
The cycle of birth and death fuels the flame of life and is a ceremony to ascertain balance through cleansing and renewal. The ceremony is shaped by both the past and the present. Your spiritual sincerity is the most important thing you can bring to a sweatlodge. No Drugs or Alcohol; just the 4 Elements  – Earth, Air, Fire, & Water.

Koshek Swaminathan
A researcher of both Eastern and Western occult and spiritual traditions as well as the scientific method, Koshek has lectured at the International Centre of the Theosophical Society in Adyar, India as well as Theosophical Society branches, Masonic lodges, and Rosicrucian associations. Koshek comes from Brahmanic tradition and studied Vedic chanting at a young age while being immersed in stories of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. After being introduced to the Western magical tradition, he soon realized the similarities to the magical tradition of the Brahmans – the mostly secret Brahman ritual traditions hold the missing keys to esoteric practices.
  Hindu Magick: Feel the Power of Lord Ganesh
There is a powerful formula from the ancient Brahmanas (appendage to the Vedas that explain the science of ritual) that I will share with you. Together we will bring to life the astral presence of Lord Ganesh. Ganesh is the Hindu God of magick and he holds the power over a class of beings called the Gana. This is why he is called the Gana-Pati (Lord of Ganas). The Gana are similar to the Genies of the Middle East. They are classified and invoked through formula and ritual. Ganesh also controls the Tattvas (Elementals) made up of Akasha, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. These spirits, along with the Ganas, make a complete and compact magical practice. We will chant together, do magick ritual, and learn the history and practice of the ancient tantric lore of Ganesh.
  Yoga for the Seven Levels of Intuition
Awaken and develop your subtle senses easily and systematically with this interactive workshop. Consult your inner self. Recognize fields and auras. This workshop will take a new approach to the teachings by using individual experiences as stepping stones towards subtle consciousness so that one can trigger inner states at will. Bring your yoga mat. Yoga practices naturally open up intuitive channels and help you get out of your own way. Are there particular yoga practices that awaken each of the 7 levels of intuition? An outline given in the Yoga Sutras – a 2000-year-old text written by the Indian sage Patanjali – talks of Pragna. Defined in the Sutras as an inner knowledge that is higher than any knowledge obtained by reason and inference, Patanjali shows just how to acquire this Siddhi (occult power) and then goes into how to strengthen your Pragya. I will give you the sequential process so that together we can experience our intuitive senses.
 
Tom Swiss
Tom describes his spiritual path as "Zen Pagan Taoist Atheist Discordian," which usually baffles questioners enough to leave him alone. He is the author of Why Buddha Touched the Earth (Megalithica Books, 2013) and blogs as "The Zen Pagan" for the Patheos Pagan Channel. He has previously served as President of the Free Spirit Alliance. Tom has built a reputation as a lecturer on subjects spanning the gamut from acupressure to Zen and from self-defense to sexuality, drawing on his training and experience as an Asian Bodywork Therapist, a karate instructor, a poet, a singer/songwriter, an amateur philosopher and spiritual explorer, and a professional computer geek. Find out more about his wacky adventures at www.infamous.net.
  Feeling Good with Accupressure and Shiatsu
Shiatsu (Japanese for "finger pressure") and acupressure are forms of Asian Bodywork Therapy, which use pressure and stretching to relieve pain and stress. According to the theories of Chinese medicine, these techniques help balance the flow of qi, or vital energy, in the body. We will discuss and practice the use of acupressure points for physical, emotional, and spiritual balancing, and also learn a simple self-shiatsu routine. If time permits we will also do some partner work. Please bring a mat or towel to lie on for stretching.  
  Punk Magick
Learn how to strip the art of magick – "causing Change to occur in conformity with Will" – down to its absolute bare essentials, and go forward confidently with a "do it yourself" spirit to engage directly with it, using a five part structure for any magickal working: 1. Decide what you want. ("Set intention.") 2. Do weird stuff. ("Raise energy.") 3. Make the weird stuff connect in your mind with what you want. ("Direct energy.") 4. Seal the deal. ("Cool down.") 5. Get off your ass!

Tamara Von Forslun
Tamara was dubbed by Raymond Buckland "The Witch of Oz" in the early 80s and has been involved in studying and teaching Traditional and Modern Witchcraft since 1970. For over 50 years, she has been considered one of the world's respected Pagan and Witch Elders and comes from a long line of Traditional hereditary witchcraft from Cornwall. Tamara created Australia's first legal Neo-Pagan “Church of Wicca” and is Arch Priestess in Australia of the Aquarian Tabernacle Church (ATC). She is also a Traditional Initiated Witch of the Coven of Draconis (Black Forest Witches in Germany); an Alexandrian HPs; High Priestess and Matriarch of the Tribe of the Crow and Clans of Boskednan International; Ordained Priestess of the Fellowship of Isis by Lady Olivia and Lord Lawrence Durdan-Robertson; Accepted Elder of the Grey Council of Wizards and Sages. Tamara is also an International Award-winning author and lecturer, teacher, Naturopath and Herbalist; Traditional Witchcraft Ritualist; Oracle High priestess; Wedding and Funerary Celebrant.
  Australian Aboriginal Blessing Ceremony
Describing the ceremonies of an Aboriginal Witch and their storytelling.
  Traditional Boskednan Hereditary Witchcraft and Ritual
Explaining all about our Clan of Boskednan and its history from the 16th century up to today, why it was secretive and now public.
  Romani Tarot and the Magic Circle
How we do a Traditional Circle, its essence, creation, and forming for Ritual and Spellcrafting, Full Moons, Festivals, and Healings.

Alfred Willowhawk
Alfred has been a spiritual coach in the community since 2008. He is the First Priest of the Wyte Rayvn Tradition and the Spiritual Leader of the White Raven Retreat Center. Alfred is a published author of several wellness books and has assisted over 100 people on their personal spiritual paths.
  Chanting for Life
Chanting for Life combines Kirtan with a connection to the positive energy of the universe with your energy. Using Bhakti chants, Dr. Willowhawk and his harmonium assists you to deepen your connection with the positive energy within you.
  Poseidon - The God you THINK You Know
Much is written about Poseidon, and much of it is conjecture that is based on Classical Greek Mythology. There is much more about him that is less known. He is part of the triple Gods of Zeus, Hades, and of course, Poseidon. He, with his two brothers, are visible in all aspects of one's life. What does the story of Poseidon really mean? What does Poseidon mean to me today?

Jason Winslade PhD
Jason is a scholar of performance studies, media, religion, and popular culture, focusing on the history of occultism and Paganism. His work has been published in various anthologies and journals and he has taught at various universities for the past 25 years. His blog, "Occultural Context," is available on the Patheos website and he is a co-host of the YouTube show, "Pop Occulture with Lilith Dorsey and Jason Winslade." A longtime Starwood attendee and musician, Jason can often be found sitting in with various bands onstage. Along with his partner, Vivian Meretrix, he produces bellydance, live music, and burlesque events in Chicago under the name Ritual Rhythms Chicago, and also writes and performs music with his collaborators as Secrets of the Beehive.
  Occult Performance on Stage and Screen: The Swinging 70s
The early 70s was a golden era for occult theatre and cinema. Emerging from the psychedelia of the 60s, stage and screen directors began to question the messages and ideals so pervasive in the counterculture, and experiments got stranger and stranger. Focusing on Jorodowsky's cult classic film, The Holy Mountain, and the work of avant-garde theatre directors Richard Schechner and Jerzy Grotowski, we will discuss some of the themes and practices of these auteurs and how they laid the foundation for ritual initiation and practices in modern Paganism.
  Occulture of Dune
As Frank Herbert's classic novel, Dune, has returned to the forefront of popular culture through the successful films by Denis Villeneuve, now more than ever Herbert's ideas are worth discussing. The original novels were a warning and have essentially predicted many of the problems we face today with politics, religion, economics, and the environment. We will trace some of the particularly occult themes in the books, such as the powers of the Bene Gesserit priestesshood and how initiatory groups played such a role in the books, with inspiration from actual occult groups in history. We'll also discuss the various adaptations and how they've represented the times and cultures and produced them, including the aborted 1973 adaptation by Alejandro Jodorowski. Adjust your stillsuits and get ready for a spicy workshop!

Angie Yelton
Angie is a mom, a wife, a witch, and an artist, not necessarily in that order. She hails from Northern Indiana. Angie has been an artist as long as she can remember. She has dabbled in various mediums, with modeling clay being the favorite until she discovered ceramics in high school. After a few college courses and a personal hiatus, she began playing in the mud again eight years ago and hasn't been clean since! More recently, she has picked up wire wrapping, originally to enhance her ceramic pendants, and fell in love with the process and possibilities. Angie loves showing people that anyone can create, even teaching ceramic classes for a year in her community.
  Wire & Gem Trees
Trees are a huge part of all paths of life. In almost every belief system, you will find a story involving a tree. Trees give us oxygen, shade, paper, firewood, homes, and more. Let's bring a tree inside! In this class, we will use wire and gemstone beads to make little trees. Multiple colors of wire will be available, along with many types of natural gemstone beads. We will attach finished trees to rocks, shells, or air dry clay to help them stand. This class is suitable for all ages. All supplies and tools will be provided, although you're welcome and encouraged to bring a special rock or seashell for your tree's base. Please make sure your rock or shell is at least 2.5"-3" and can sit flat on one side!
  Wire Wrapped Rings
Do you like rings on your fingers? Or toes? Come make your own with me! Each participant will make 1-2 rings. Lots of beads to choose from including gemstones, lava rocks, and various colors of Evil Eyes. All tools, supplies, and instruction provided. Bonus: Besides being a beautiful piece of wearable art, the beads will spin when you're done! Endless fun at your fingertips!

Oberon and Rhiannon Zell
Oberon is a renowned Wizard and Pagan Elder. He was first to claim the identity of “Pagan,” incorporated the Church of All Worlds in 1968, and published Green Egg magazine for 55 years. His signature sculpture is “The Millennial Gaia.” Oberon is founder of the Grey School of Wizardry and author of GaeaGenesis: Conception & Birth of the Living Earth. Rhiannon has been a Wiccan Priestess teaching the Craft for over 50 years, and is co-founder of the eclectic SerpentStone tradition. For 25 years, she helped organize grassroots Pagan gatherings throughout North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia, with attendance up to 2,000. With a Masters degree in Counseling, she is a certified Master Herbalist, Sound Therapist, and Energy Healer, and works as a Psychiatric Nurse. She is also Chant Mistress for the Ouroboros Drum Circle in Candler, NC. She is married to Oberon.
  Sharing Water Ritual
Founded in 1962 by Oberon Zell and Lance Christie, the Church of All Worlds (CAW) became the first explicitly “Pagan” church to achieve full legal recognition in the US (1968) and Australia (1992). Through the publication of Green Egg magazine over a 56-year span, CAW has been a major catalyst in the growth and unification of the worldwide Pagan community; its influence acknowledged in Drawing Down the Moon and over 100 other books on the history of the modern Pagan movement. Join Oberon and Rhiannon for a free-form oral history and a moving Water-Sharing Ceremony with the Founding Elder!
  Messages in a Bottle
Oberon’s most recent book, Handbook for My Future Parents (with Haleigh Isbill), looks to the future and our next incarnations. For all the millions of us modern Pagans now alive – with more coming out every day – eventually it will come our time to leave this life; perhaps to return to begin a new one down the road. As the fastest-growing religion in the Western world, we will comprise entire generations to come. What advice and counsel do we want to offer our future parents to guide them in raising us? And what advice do we want to give our future selves? This workshop is interactive, so come prepared to speak your “messages in a bottle.”
  Games of Chants
Chanting is one of the earliest known ways of raising power. Whether it be a simple tone keyed to a particular purpose (such as opening a particular chakra) or a more complicated chant using rhythm and words or harmonies, chants are a powerful tool in any Pagan’s arsenal. We will explore some of the uses of chants and introduce you to chants for creating sacred space, raising energy, calling Deities, consecration, divination, and grounding, among others. Bring your favorite chants to share, and feel free to bring drums or other instruments!

Zenobia
Zenobia is a 3rd degree Alexandrian High Priestess trained out of Western Australia, Elder to Fairhaven Coven, Ontario, Canada, and Initiated Crone of Circle Sanctuary (PSG 2012). She is also the North American Representative for the Boskednan Clan (Lady Tamara/Witch of OZ). Zenobia has been a Reader at various Renaissance Festivals for the past 35+ years and her methods include Lithomancy, bones, Turkish coffee, Third Eye, Tarot, and photographs. “I am a Door Opener - I give people a chance to realize their potential and move beyond their hesitations.”
  Create Your Own Tattwa Cards 
Introduction to the Hindi Tattwas, an opportunity to make your own set for Meditation and elemental workings.
  Bones: A Hands-on Method for Use in Readings
How to start your own bone set for use in readings and meditation. What bones you are attracted to and how to combine them to do a reading. Start collecting your set and be prepared for a “show and tell.”

Zentra El
Zentra El is a long time practitioner of ceremonial magick with over 20 years experience in various forms of group ritual, a former member of the IOT, and co-founder of Emergent Magick. Active in the Order of Emergent Magi (OEM), this will be his 6th year presenting at Starwood. His main magical goals are creating non-toxic magical environments and working with like-minded individuals on healing and positive community building among occultists from all backgrounds.
Group Ritual
Join us for this hands-on workshop focused on creating and performing group rituals. We welcome all experience levels to attend. Emergent Magick provides the framework for people from varying belief systems and magical paradigms to work together in a cohesive and meaningful way. We will explore the basics of ritual construction, discuss logistical considerations, and provide suggestions to manage group dynamics. Together we will develop and perform a ceremony in a supportive environment.
Ritual: Hey Barbie!
Embark on a whimsical journey led by Zentra El and Katy Love as we explore themes of the recently released Barbie movie. Participants will engage in open discussion about their perspectives of the Barbie movie with a focus on empowerment for women and a dismantling of the Patriarchy. The workshop will end with a lighthearted ritual to honor the energy of Barbie that we wish to nurture. Bring your own Barbie for this ritual. Gently used Barbies available for participants.