In this episode, Jennifer Emick, the guide to alternative religions on About.com joins me to discuss the Alternative Religions web site, her interest in the esoteric and mystical side of spirituality, the importance of tolerance concerning religious views and practices, and the positive and negative aspects of spirituality. Her balanced perspective is appreciated as promoting both understanding and reasoned analysis. Of particular interest are the ideas about the degeneration of spiritual ideas and groups after the teachers depart, as well as the humanity and flaws of these teachers. This is usually illustrated by the advancement in the significance of dogma. Jennifer describes the struggle by witches for mainstream acceptance versus identification with past persecution. She discusses how this acceptance and recognition can result in a loss of freedom. We also touch upon the concept that most, if not all, religions originate from a teacher well-versed in the ancient Mysteries. Less