Thelema NOW! Crowley, Ritual & Magick

On this episode of Thelema Now!, host Harper Feist speaks with Tom Banger, contributor to the new book The Occult Harry Smith: The Magical and Alchemical Work of an Artist of the Extremes, edited by Peter Valente. Tom offers unique insight into the esoteric dimensions of Harry Smith's life and work—exploring his deep engagement with alchemy, hermeticism, and ritual practice. Known for his experimental films, obsessive collecting, and avant-garde mysticism, Smith lived at the crossroads of art, magic, and madness. Tom unpacks how Smith's creative output wasn't just inspired by occult ideas—it was occult work in itself. Tune in as we discuss Smith's magical worldview, his influence on countercultural currents, and why his visionary legacy still challenges and inspires occult thinkers, artists, and practitioners today. (There's also a lot of cool punk rock talk too!!) 

On this episode of Thelema Now!, host Harper Feist welcomes musician Ailise Blake for a deep and evocative conversation about creativity, ritual, and the transformative power of sound. Ailise's work merges haunting melodies with esoteric inspiration, crafting sonic landscapes that explore magic, identity, and the sacred in everyday life. Together, they discuss how artistic practice can serve as a path of initiation, the role of intuition in composition, and what it means to bring Thelemic ideas into modern music. Tune in for an inspiring blend of art, philosophy, and the occult — where every note becomes an invocation. Listen to Ailise's music on her website which includes a video. 

In this special episode of Thelema Now!, host Harper Feist engages with artist Gast Bouschet, whose haunting, alchemical works blur the boundaries between ritual, landscape, and transformation. Because speaking is physically painful for Bouschet, this episode takes a unique form: a reading of a text conversation that unfolded between Harper and Gast on Instagram. Bouschet's words—brought to life by Frater Acher—reveal deep reflections on art as a living current, the role of resistance and decay in creative process, and the interplay between spirit and matter. Through this intimate exchange, listeners are invited into Bouschet's shadowed yet luminous world, where the borders between the seen and unseen dissolve. To see Gast's work, visit his website or Instragram page.

In this illuminating episode of Thelema Now, host Harper Feist welcomes renowned esoteric scholar and author Christopher McIntosh to discuss his latest book, The Call of the Old Gods: My Occult Journey on the Pagan Path. Drawing on decades of scholarship in Western esotericism, McIntosh explores how ancient deities continue to speak to the modern world, offering insight, connection, and a sense of sacred purpose in our disenchanted age. The conversation weaves through themes of mythology, personal gnosis, the revival of Pagan traditions, and the enduring presence of the gods in contemporary spiritual practice. Harper and Christopher also touch on his previous work, his experiences in the esoteric world, and how The Call of the Gods reflects a lifetime of mystical inquiry and devotion. Whether you're a practicing Magickian, a lover of myth, or simply curious about the divine voices echoing through time, this episode is sure to awaken your inner seeker. Find out more about Christopher McIntosh at his website https://ozgard.net