March 15, 2001: Natural Magic - Dr. Evelyn Paglini

Art Bell welcomes Dr. Evelyn Paglini, a practitioner of natural magic rooted in the ancient Italian Strega tradition. Initiated at age four by her grandfather, Paglini describes a lineage she claims stretches back tens of thousands of years, predating Egyptian and Greek civilizations. She distinguishes her practice from Wicca, noting that while Wiccans follow a creed to harm none, Strega practitioners believe in justified retaliation against those who attack them or their families.

The conversation covers psychic self-defense in detail, including cleansing rituals using black salt, sea salt, sulfur, and herbs like sage and rosemary. Paglini explains how practitioners can set up protective shields and mirror spells to reverse negative energy back to its sender. She discusses the use of familiars, particularly cats, as spiritual guardians and watchers prized for their heightened sensitivity.

Art and Paglini examine the darker aspects of organized ritual magic, including secret societies that use ceremonial practices to manipulate and control populations. They also address President Bush's controversial stance against recognizing Wicca as a legitimate religion and debate the growing influence of evil forces in modern society, from school shootings to institutional corruption.