When Your Robes Get You Directions: Adventures in Modern Witchcraft
In this week’s episode with Dr. Susan Harper, we explored the transformative power of witchcraft as both a personal practice and a tool for cultural change. As an anthropologist of religion and practicing witch of nearly thirty years, Dr. Harper offers unique perspectives on building magical communities, the importance of fair compensation for spiritual work, and the evolving nature of witchcraft in modern society.
Dr. Harper describes her witchcraft journey as beginning through feminist politics, drawn to the power of reclaiming a word historically used to harm women. She resonates with Starhawk's definition that "a witch is somebody who's paying attention," emphasizing how witchcraft helped her heal from "the wounds of living in a capitalist patriarchy." This political foundation hasn't diminished over time—in fact, it remains central to her practice and forthcoming book, "Feminist Witchcraft," which launches July 1st after seven years of writing.
The daily practice of witchcraft looks different for everyone, and Dr. Harper's approach has evolved significantly over the decades. While she once performed more formal circle rituals, her current practice centers on tarot reading, moon observation, gardening, and extensive reading. She beautifully articulates how witchcraft has become integrated into her entire way of being: "As I've gotten older, I realized that for me, my witchcraft is everything that I do. Moving through the world being a witch is a particular way of living in the world, and that has made my practice much more organic."
Among the most compelling aspects of our conversation was Dr. Harper's discussion of community building. Living in Iowa, she's found innovative ways to connect with other spiritually-minded individuals. One particularly successful approach has been offering tarot programs through public libraries, which creates accessibility while ensuring fair compensation for her expertise. "The people that come to the workshop don't have to pay... It's this really cool, democratic way of welcoming people in but also recognizing that the work I put into developing and teaching is work worth being compensated for."
This touches on one of Dr. Harper's passionate concerns: the need for more honest conversations about money in magical communities. She observes that while practitioners do "a lot of money magic," the reality includes "a clergy that is largely unpaid" and resistance to financially supporting community initiatives. Finding sustainable models that account for economic diversity remains a critical challenge within the pagan community.
Dr. Harper also shares delightful stories from her witchy adventures, including a memorable tale of getting lost in small-town Texas while wearing full ritual robes. When she reluctantly entered a gas station to ask for directions, the cashier immediately knew exactly where she was headed—a surprising moment that highlights how even in seemingly conservative areas, magical communities exist and are often recognized by locals.
For those seeking their own connections, Dr. Harper recommends exploring Unitarian Universalist congregations, particularly those with CUUPS (Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans) chapters. These provide structured entry points for newcomers and transplants alike, offering public rituals, workshops, and casual meetups like "Witches Brew" coffee gatherings.
The interview culminates with excitement about Dr. Harper's upcoming book release and the continuing evolution of her practice. Her story reminds us that witchcraft is not just about spells and rituals—it's about reclaiming authenticity, building supportive communities, and working toward a more equitable world. As she powerfully states, witchcraft is "one tool that we can use to change the way that we live in this world and with one another."
