2018 Guests and Presenters

With over fourteen full-length releases to her name and several more currently in the works, Tucker has received awards for both songwriting and performance, and has traveled the United States, Canada, and Europe with her music. S. J. (called “Sooj” by fans and friends) believes that there’s more than one way to be a rock star. If you’re chasing your dreams and living your life in a way that keeps you happy and healthy, Sooj believes you’ve got it made. You may often find her on tour with similarly hard-working artists and groups who believe in giving their fans all that they’ve got, such as Toronto’s Heather Dale Band, Seattle cellist Betsy Tinney (often with their shared project, Tricky Pixie), or Northwest Arkansas’ own Renée Janski.

Ben Waggoner is the author of 10 translations and current publications director for The Troth who has been studying Icelandic languages for over 10 years. He is a member of Black Bear Kindred of Central Arkansas, married to his gorgeous wife Mandy and has a lively son who is a born Thorsman. In his free time, he is a college professor.

Coyote Redeagle, author, medium, and artist currently resides in Oklahoma. His journeys have taken him down the paths of Christianity, Buddhism, Native American teachings, Voodoo, and energy healing. Coyote has been an active part of the local pagan communities for many years and continues to counsel and participate in events within many interdenominational communities. In Spring 2018 he graduated with his Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Northeastern State University and in Fall 2018 starts his Masters in Strategic Leadership at Oklahoma Wesleyan University.

A resident of Little Rock, Lauren has been involved with the Pagan community for over 20 years. She originally found Paganism while as a student at the Arkansas School for Mathematics and Sciences in the late 1990’s by browsing the shelves at the now closed Golden Leaves bookstore. She became a Heathen in 2002, and formed Black Bear Kindred of Central Arkansas in 2003. She currently serves as their Gythia and leader. She currently serves as a staff member for Heathens Against Hate and is the Troth Steward for Arkansas. She occasionally blogs at Feminist Heathen. She was previously heard on the podcasts Heathen Talk and SHEathenry, and will launch a new podcast later this year.

The Sha'Mehay dancers or, "The ones who dance with eternity," are a local belly dance troup from Hot Springs. In ancient times dance was more than just an art, but a scared practice. Priestesses would dance to ask the favor and blessing of the gods, as dance was a form of ritual, honor, praise, and prayer. The dancers of Sha'Mehay wish to continue this ancient tradition in their work. They are available for parties, events, group and private lessons at Kelley.naylor@me.com