What it's All About:
This episode explores the unique landscape of Pagan entrepreneurship. I discuss the challenges and rewards of balancing spiritual beliefs with the demands of running a business. From incorporating Pagan values into business models to finding work-life harmony, I delve into the world of these innovative individuals. Tune in to discover how Pagan entrepreneurs are making a mark while staying true to their spiritual paths.
Songs Featured:
Dream Symbol Background Music by Toby Smith from Pixabay
Meditation Background Music by Jerome Chauvel from Pixabay
Links Mentioned:
Poll:
Choose an Old Episode for Mabon:
Get in Touch Through Social Media:
Spirit Guide of the Week:
There is no image of the goddess Kalma that I can find.
Dream Symbol: (There are three)
Engine
Escalator
Escape
Transcript:
(03:24)
Welcome to another episode of the Music from the Goddess’ Vault Podcast. I am your host, Midnight Starr. You just heard, Spiral Rythm with I am Pagan. The topic of today’s show is all about Pagan Entrepreneurs. Alright, let's get started. But first, a few brief updates. Choose a past episode to revisit for September. Cast your vote in the Choose an Old Episode Poll for Mabon poll. Find it in the show notes or by scanning the QR code on the blog or Substack. Next, You have two questionnaires awaiting your attention! I need your help brainstorming awesome perks for Patreon supporters of the Music from the Goddess Vault. To help shape the most exciting rewards possible, please share your ideas by clicking the "Perks for the Show" link in the show notes. Want to help shape the future of the Music from the Goddess Vault? Here's your chance! Head to the show notes, where you'll find the link to Podcast Suggestions. Or do you crave knowledge about Spirit Guides or dream symbols? Or maybe you have a completely different musical exploration in mind? Let me hear it! You can also share your ideas on social media (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon) or drop by my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home. Let's keep the conversation flowing! Love the show and want early access? Subscribe for FREE at musicgoddessvault.substack.com to hear new episodes first. Plus, you can show your extra support with paid subscriptions of $7/month or $70/year. Now for the topic: Pagan Entrepreneurs. I know of a few, and you probably know some too. I am not going to interview anyone for this show, but I will be talking about Pagan Entrepreneurship in General. And by the way, I am not a Pagan Entrepreneur. As a content creator, I don’t get paid to do this. For now, let’s continue with some more music. How about Pagan Purity by Elvenking.
(09:50)
Before the commercialization of Witchcraft in the 80s, Pagans used to go out in nature to find what they were looking for. But, of course, if they wanted a candle or incense, they would have to buy it at the store. Now, we have tons of "How to Become a Witch" books, and we don’t have to go out in nature to find what we need, which is unfortunate. Part of the reason for this commercialization is the growing number of Pagan-owned businesses that are not only local but also online. Now, there are many Pagan entrepreneurs out there. And like any other entrepreneur, there are challenges and rewards to being your own boss. While I won't get into that in this podcast, I will discuss what to expect if you want to open your own Pagan business. But first, I’ll play Candle Flame by Crow Women.
(13:40)
I’m going to Finland to talk about the goddess Kalma. She is a significant figure in this ancient lore, known for her connection to Tuonela, the shadowy realm of the dead. Kalma is the assistant to her father, Tuoni, the god of death who reigns over this underworld. Her role is both powerful and haunting. Kalma’s name alone is chilling: 'corpse', 'grave', or 'grave of rotting corpse'. It's a stark reminder of her connection to death and decay. In Finnish mythology, Kalma is revered as the goddess who oversees the final stages of life, guiding souls to their resting place. She is also believed to be responsible for deaths caused by illness. This makes her presence even more formidable and feared. Her role is a key part of Finnish culture and beliefs about life and death. That is it for now. Stay tuned to another spirit guide of the week.
(19:21)
That was Death and the Maiden by Magicfolk. I know we have a mix of pagan business owners and those considering starting their own businesses. This episode is primarily for the latter group. However, if you're a business owner, please feel free to share your insights and experiences. Before you dive headfirst into opening your own business, there are crucial steps you need to take to set yourself up for success. The first step to opening your own business is to do your homework. Study successful pagan businesses, both online and in-store. Talk to owners, ask questions. This research will shape your business plan. Before opening your pagan business, it's crucial to define your target market. While it might be tempting to think everyone is a potential customer, focusing on a specific group will help you tailor your offerings and marketing efforts effectively. Consider factors like age, location, interests, and spending habits when building your customer profile. Often, your ideal client shares your passions. A local clothing store owner found success by targeting her own demographic. Otherwise, she knows her target market because she is in the same age bracket and spending habit as her customer. If you're dreaming of a brick-and-mortar pagan shop, finding the perfect location is crucial. Understanding zoning laws and regulations is essential to ensure your business complies with local ordinances. Be prepared for paperwork, permits, and potential challenges during this process. It’s worth investing time in research to find a spot that aligns with your business goals and meets legal requirements.
Now, this advice is for those considering a brick and mortar pagan business. I know that online ones might be a bit different. Your physical shop could become more than just a retail space. Imagine hosting rituals, workshops, or classes in your store. It could be a gathering place for the community. You might even consider renting out your space to other practitioners for events or teaching opportunities. As a new business owner, building strong relationships is crucial for success. Networking with both pagan and non-pagan business owners can open doors to potential collaborations, partnerships, and valuable insights into the business world. That’s the most important thing to get more people interested in your business. You have to keep in mind the different types of customers who might come to your business. You’ll get the odd ones, pagans on different paths, and Alt-Right Christians who want you to become one of them. This happened to a friend of mine years ago. Nonetheless, you have to respect all of your customers. Did I miss anything? Please let me know. The song that I am going to play for you is Scenes from a Convenient Store by Cloud the Pagan Rapper.
(27:09)
Here's another dream symbol to interpret. These are the three: Engine, Escalator, and Escape Seeing an engine in your dreams may reflect your passionate and powerful nature.
A dream of a burning car engine might suggest you're enduring emotional pain. A disabled or blown engine in a dream may represent feelings of being betrayed. Dreaming of an escalator could represent a transition between various levels of awareness. If you dream of moving upward on an escalator, it could indicate that you're actively dealing with your feelings. Dreaming of going downward on an escalator could indicate a repression of feelings and a return to hidden thoughts. If you dream of someone ascending a downward-moving escalator, it could indicate that you're ineffectively dealing with your feelings.
Escaping from jail or captivity in a dream might reflect a desire to break free from limiting circumstances or mindsets. To escape unharmed from an animal or dangerous situation in a dream might symbolize good fortune and well-being. And a dream where escape is impossible could reflect a sense of helplessness in confronting life's pressures. If you want a dream symbol to interpret and maybe have a dream symbol featured, I will mention the contact information at the end of this show. So keep dreaming.
(30:25)
Again, if you are listening to this podcast in a moving vehicle, please skip ahead. This next meditation comes from the album Orisa-Focal Meditation with Iya Funlayo Volume 1 by Iya Funlayo. This track is called Ogun’s Treasures.
(40:28)
Before the meditation, you heard Hecate’s Wheel with Find the Cost of Freedom. Quick! Before you go, I have some news to drop. Want to call the shots? Become the podcast boss for a day! Head to the show notes or scan the QR code in my bio to vote for your favorite past episode. New listeners, this is your chance to explore the archives. Old friends, relive your favorite moments. Voting ends in a month. Do you want to help improve this show? Visit the show notes, my blog, or Substack! Just answer two quick questions to get started: what dream Patreon perks would you like, and what episode ideas do you have? Your feedback will shape the future of this podcast, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts! What pagan podcast topics do you have in the mind that I haven’t covered? Burning questions about dreams or spirit guides? Let’s talk! Head to the show notes, blog, or Substack to share your thoughts. Or, find me on Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram – I’m all ears! Don't miss a beat! Sign up for my newsletter at musicgoddessvault.substack.com to get new episodes delivered straight to your inbox. This way, you'll always be the first to hear the latest episodes. Let's end with a really uplifting song called Shining Self Arise. It's by a group called Assembly of the Sacred Wheel. Blessed be.
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