Without a Candle
Welcome to Without a Candle. A grounded, mystical, and slightly sassy space for spiritual seekers, witches, energy workers, and curious souls walking their own path. Hosted by Karlie Knoch and Carla Fortner of Appalachian Root Works & Rooted in Runes. This podcast is part conversation, part education, part ritual and all heart.
We talk about energy, intuition, spiritual practice, ancestral wisdom, personal growth, and what it really means to live a sacred life - without needing to be perfect, polished, or burning sage 24/7.
Here's what you'll find:
- Real talk on the messy and magickal
- Tools, traditions, and teachings from lived experience
- Honest reflections on healing, purpose, and power
- Guided rituals, journal prompts & deep dives into myth & meaning
Side Series inside the Candlelight...
The Raven's Records - Karlie's solo series exploring Norse mythology, rune wisdom, the Wheel of the Year, Sacred Cycles and other Pagan Paths. Each episode opens a "record" from the mythic or spiritual realm and invites you to walk deeper into your own knowing.
Coming soon: Carla's Series Reveal - A space for heart-led healing, spirit guided storytelling, and a deep-rooted remembrance. Keep watching the flame...
Whether you're rekindling your practice, reclaiming your path, or just need ap lace to land and listen - welcome. You don't need a candle to find your way here. The spark is already in you.
To connect with Karlie & Carla in other ways, visit: beacons.ai/rootedinrunes
Episodes

Friday Jul 11, 2025
Friday Jul 11, 2025
Keywords
spiritual journey, enlightenment, mindfulness, vulnerability, authenticity, personal growth, self-discovery, healing, community, spiritual practices
Summary
In this conversation, hosts Karlie and Carla explore the complexities and imperfections of the spiritual journey. They emphasize that spirituality is not a linear path but rather a continuous process of learning and growth. The discussion highlights the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and mindfulness in navigating one's spiritual path. They also touch on the significance of community and the need for self-acceptance in the face of life's challenges.
Takeaways
The spiritual journey is often misunderstood as perfect.Everyone is a forever student on their spiritual path.It's okay to not have everything figured out.Spirituality is a deeply personal and intimate practice.Enlightenment is a subtle shift in awareness.Small daily growth can lead to significant change over time.Mindfulness can be practiced in everyday activities.Vulnerability is essential for authentic connections.Your energy can influence those around you.It's acceptable to change your beliefs and practices as you grow.
Titles
The Imperfect Path of SpiritualityEmbracing the Journey: Spiritual Growth
Sound bites
"It's a feeling, not a lifestyle.""You get to do things, not have to.""Your energy change affects others."
Chapters
00:00 The Imperfect Spiritual Journey07:23 Understanding Spirituality13:01 The Subtle Shift of Enlightenment20:35 Consistency in Spiritual Practices28:17 Vulnerability and Authenticity in the Journey35:19 Gold Black Minimalist Feminine Round Handmade Candle Logo.mp4

Friday Jul 04, 2025
Friday Jul 04, 2025
Keywords
spirituality, everyday practices, mindfulness, intention, self-awareness, personal growth, meditation, energy, self-care, gratitude
Summary
In this episode, Karlie and Carla explore the integration of spirituality into everyday life, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and intention in mundane tasks. They discuss how simple actions can become spiritual practices, the significance of mindset shifts, and the power of presence in enhancing one's spiritual journey. The conversation encourages listeners to appreciate the sacredness of daily experiences and to recognize that spirituality doesn't always require grand gestures.
For contact info, websites, Facebook page & more, visit beacons.ai/rootedinrunes.com
Takeaways
It's important to listen to your intuition and guides.Spirituality can be woven into everyday tasks.Mindfulness can transform mundane activities into spiritual practices.Practice takes time and consistency to develop.Life and time shared are sacred.You are the tool in your spiritual journey.Every moment can be an opportunity for spiritual growth.Mindset shifts can enhance your spiritual experience.Gratitude for simple moments enriches life.Awareness is key to recognizing the sacred in the mundane.
Sound bites
"Practice takes time.""Everything is sacred.""You are the tools."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Everyday Spirituality01:18 Mindfulness in Daily Practices04:54 Nature as a Spiritual Connector08:42 Listening and Awareness in Spirituality10:06 Listening to Your Inner Voice12:31 Mindful Driving and Reflection15:00 Intentional Grocery Shopping17:43 Reframing Money and Abundance20:22 Creating Spiritual Practices in Daily Life22:47 The Sacredness of Everyday Moments25:30 The Power of Words and Self-Talk28:05 You Are the Tool30:39 Simplicity in Spirituality

Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Keywords
spirituality, gatekeeping, intuition, community, practices, personal growth, spiritual journey, healing, authenticity, self-discovery
Summary
In this episode, hosts Karlie and Carla delve into the topic of gatekeeping in spirituality, discussing its implications and the importance of community and personal practice. They emphasize that spirituality is a personal journey that does not require specific tools or titles to be valid. The conversation highlights the harmful effects of gatekeeping, including alienation and the pressure to conform to certain practices. The hosts encourage listeners to explore their own spiritual paths, trust their intuition, and create a safe space for exploration without the need for external validation.
Takeaways
Spirituality is a personal journey that varies for everyone.Gatekeeping can alienate individuals and hinder their spiritual growth.You do not need specific tools or titles to be spiritual.Trust your intuition as a guide in your spiritual practice.Community and open dialogue enhance the spiritual experience.It's important to honor your own beliefs and practices without comparison.Learning from others should not mean copying them.Spiritual practices can evolve over time and should be flexible.Creating a safe space for exploration is essential for growth.Reflection and self-discovery are key components of spirituality.
Find our contact info, Facebook Page, websites & more at beacons.ai/rootedinrunes
Sound bites
"Spirituality does have a price tag.""You are the tool. You are the intention.""May you dream about it."
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:40 Exploring Gatekeeping in Spirituality08:47 Understanding Spiritual Practices and Intuition14:42 The Harmful Effects of Gatekeeping22:47 Myths and Misconceptions in Spirituality29:20 Building Your Own Spiritual Practice35:22 Creating a Safe Space for Spiritual Exploration41:16 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Summary
In this episode, Carla and Karlie delve into the origins and evolution of their businesses, Appalachia Root Works & Rooted In Runes, sharing their personal journeys and the challenges they faced in establishing a community space that promotes spirituality and self-care. They discuss the importance of partnerships, the transition from hobby to business, and the creation of a safe environment for clients. The conversation also highlights the launch of their podcast as a new extension of their mission to connect with their community.
Takeaways
The journey of Appalachia Root Works began with a book.Finding spiritual roots can be transformative.Transitioning from a hobby to a business requires resilience.Community support is crucial for small business growth.Partnerships can enhance business dynamics and visibility.Creating a safe space fosters community connection.The podcast serves as an extension of their mission.Self-care and spirituality are central to their offerings.Navigating challenges is part of the entrepreneurial journey.There is always something happening in their community space.
Visit beacons.ai/rootedinrunes for websites, socials & more!

Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
This guided meditation invites you into a sacred journey benefit the World Tree, where you'll witness the powerful seasonal exchange between the Oak King and the Holly King. Ground yourself in the energy of the sun at its peak, reflect on what is ready to be released, and receive guidance for the second half of the year. Whether you're deep in your spiritual practice or simply seeking stillness and clarity, this episode is designed to help you reconnect with nature's rhythms and your own inner fire. Settle in. Breathe deeply. And let this sacred solstice moment hold you. Blessed Litha. Find our websites & socials at beacons.ai/rootedinrunes

Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Summary
In this episode, hosts Karlie and Carla delve into their personal spiritual journeys, exploring their early experiences, the role of community, and the significance of understanding one's spiritual gifts. They discuss the importance of eclectic practices and the concept behind their podcast name, 'Without a Candle,' emphasizing that spirituality doesn't require elaborate tools or rituals, but rather intention and personal connection.
Takeaways
Karlie and Carla introduce their podcast and share their spiritual paths.Carla recounts her early experiences with dreams and premonitions.The importance of community in spirituality is highlighted.Karlie discusses her journey into spirituality and the role of Reiki.Both hosts emphasize the significance of personal growth and understanding spiritual gifts.They explore the concept of eclectic practices in spirituality.The hosts discuss the importance of intention in spiritual practices.They emphasize that spirituality can be simple and does not require elaborate tools.The podcast name 'Without a Candle' reflects the idea that spirituality is about intention, not tools.The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their unique spiritual journeys.
Visit beacons.ai/rootedinrunes for our websites, socials & more

Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Summary
In this episode, Karlie and Carla introduce their podcast, discussing their motivations for starting it and the importance of sharing their conversations. They emphasize the value of community engagement and the authenticity they aim to bring to their discussions. The hosts express their excitement for the journey ahead and invite listeners to participate in shaping the content.
Find our websites and other socials at beacons.ai/rootedinrunes