This episode of Pagan’s Witchy Corner features a heartfelt and powerful conversation with author Moss Matthey about their groundbreaking book, An Apostate’s Guide to Witchcraft. Host Pagan praises the book for its honest, insightful, and healing approach to navigating the path from toxic religious upbringings—especially Christianity—into Paganism and witchcraft.
The purpose of the interview is to explore the themes of Moss’s book and their personal journey, offering listeners a compassionate space to reflect on their own transitions and spiritual reclamation. Pagan highlights the book’s value to the broader Pagan community, especially those healing from religious trauma.
Moss Matthey’s Journey to Writing the Book
Moss shares their personal transition from a Christian background to a Pagan path, rooted in a pivotal moment of discomfort at a Pagan gathering where Christian language was used. This experience sparked deeper introspection into the lingering trauma of their upbringing.
With the support of their partner, Brett, Moss began diving into witchcraft and folk magic—finding healing, liberation, and a sense of spiritual authenticity. The book emerged from a desire to give voice to others with similar backgrounds, and to open up much-needed conversations around deconstruction, healing, and rebuilding a practice that truly fits.
Themes & Insights from An Apostate’s Guide to Witchcraft
Moss explores how cultural Christianity continues to shape Pagan practices, even when practitioners have left the faith. Key themes in the book include:
Reclaiming spiritual language (like prayer, devotion, and ritual) in ways that feel empowering rather than triggering.
Navigating trauma while rebuilding a spiritual identity.
Creating inclusive Pagan spaces that welcome those deconstructing their faith without compromising boundaries.
Challenging dogma and embracing a path of authenticity, fluidity, and joy.
Moss emphasizes that this work is deeply needed, as many in the Pagan community are quietly carrying religious trauma without support or guidance.
Moss’s Personal Practices & Beliefs
Moss shares some of their daily and magical practices, such as using candle rituals to support focus during writing sessions and integrating folk magic into modern life. Their approach is rooted in joy, sovereignty, and connection rather than rigid tradition.
They discuss the importance of crafting a practice that feels alive and meaningful—whether that means adapting ancestral techniques, reclaiming stolen traditions, or blending folk customs with personal gnosis.
Future Projects & Community Engagement
Moss is currently working on multiple upcoming book projects, with four titles under contract set to release over the next few years. They are also an active speaker, with appearances including the Salem Witchcraft and Folk Festival.
Moss is passionate about amplifying diverse voices in Paganism and encourages others—especially those with marginalized experiences—to write, speak, and share their truths. Their relationship with Brett, who is also an author, reflects a collaborative and supportive partnership that enriches both of their creative and magical work.