Church of the Oak

About Church of the Oak

The Church of the Oak is a spirit led weekly sermon weaving together the threads of the natural world, the Divine and the human spirit delivering inspiration, guidance and deep connection to the sacred from a Magical, Druid, Buddhist and Christopagen wisdom nourishing our souls and community. www.creationspaths.com (https://www.creationspaths.com/s/church-of-the-oak?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

Charlie Dorsett

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

30 Aug 2024

Latest episode

2 Apr 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Apr 2026

   The Water Communion: Tasting Deep Time

   The water you hold right now carries a story that began before the earth existed. In this Holy Week gathering of Church of the Oak, Charlie and Brian lead a contemplative Water Communion through deep time, moving from the first flare of creation through dying stars, ancient seas, and the waters of the womb, to the glass in your hands. The liturgy is grounded in Creation Spirituality's Via Positiva: the practice of blessing, of tasting and seeing that the world is good. There is a lot bearing down on the world right now. This gathering holds space for gratitude anyway. Not as denial, but as a form of faithfulness to the original blessing that is still here, still moving, still good. This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

2. 

   19 Feb 2026

   Stardust that knows it is loved- An Ash Wednesday Gathering of the Church of the Oak

   Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. Ash Wednesday is often framed as shame and mortality. This gathering begins instead with awe. The dust we are is stardust, forged in supernovae and carried through deep time into bone and breath. From that cosmic wonder, we move into release from false guilt, into verdure, into a pause that restores the dry lands within us. This is not an escape from injustice or anger. It is a return to the One Life so that when we say no, we do so from rootedness rather than reaction. Ash that knows it is loved can grow green again. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

3. 

   12 Feb 2026

   It should be Easy to be Green- Church of the Oak Livestream

   Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. What if joy isn’t earned, but already alive within you? Verdure is not fragile. It is waiting to be tended. There is a way of being that feels green, alive, and at peace. Not forced. Not performed. Simply present. In this gathering of Church of the Oak, we explore verdure as the state of right relationship, joy, and steady aliveness that is already moving within us. This is not something to achieve. It is something to notice, relax into, and say yes to. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

4. 

   5 Feb 2026

   The Four Freedoms protect Life- A Church of the Oak gathering

   Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

5. 

   29 Jan 2026

   Brigid is coming

   This episode of Church of the Oak sits with a winter that is both natural and unjust. We name the grief, the harm, and the ways power has failed the vulnerable, without turning away from truth or from love. As Imbolc approaches, we turn toward Brigid: protector of the hearth, keeper of justice, and witness to suffering that must not be ignored. This is not an episode about easy hope. It is about tending the fire, mourning together, and choosing what kind of life we are preparing to grow when the thaw finally comes. Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

6. 

   22 Jan 2026

   Wisdom from Living in Troubled Times

   What does it mean to live faithfully in a time of confusion, danger, and awakening? In this gathering of Church of the Oak, we sit with the final public words of Martin Luther King Jr., not as history to admire, but as wisdom that still knows our name. We name the world as it is wounded, volatile, and restless, and learn how contrast itself can reveal enduring truths. This is not a practice of gratitude, but of clarity: how to sit with the wound, recognize the stars, and discover why this troubled time may also be a glorious one. Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

7. 

   19 Jan 2026

   Make room for the Shekhinah, the Presence of God

   Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. For more read: Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

8. 

   15 Jan 2026

   The State of the World: Church of the Oak Livestream

   In this gathering of Church of the Oak, we open a space for meditation, conversation, and shared grounding in a time when words themselves feel unstable. Drawing from Christopagan tradition, we reflect on the loss of shared language, the exhaustion of repeating cycles, and the quiet work of becoming human together again. This is not a replacement for action or protest, but a hearth where courage, clarity, and delight can be restored so that we can carry on. Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe (https://www.creationspaths.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

9. 

   6 Oct 2024

   Sins of the Spirit, Blessings of the Flesh

   Sins of the spirit, blessings of the flesh—find balance in body and spirit today. --> Join and support the community: https://www.creationspaths.com/ In this episode of _Church of the Oak_, Christopagan Druid Charlie discusses the often-overlooked concept of "sins of the spirit and blessings of the flesh." They challenge the traditional Christian dichotomy of body and spirit, influenced by Neoplatonic and Augustinian thought, which vilifies the body and exalts the spirit. Instead, Charlie advocates for a balanced understanding, where both flesh and spirit are essential and neutral, with their ethical implications depending on how they are expressed in life. They emphasize that spirituality can be just as dangerous as fleshly desires when misused, urging listeners to avoid over-spiritualizing and stay grounded in both their bodies and the real world. Charlie's exploration touches on various religious and philosophical traditions, including Gnosticism, Neoplatonism, and early Christian thought. They argue against oversimplified black-and-white thinking and call for nuance in both spirituality and daily life. The episode also emphasizes the importance of discernment, accountability, and empathy in spiritual practice, warning against cult-like behaviors that demand isolation from loved ones or over spiritualizing illness in the hopes of miraculous cures. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community --> Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Guided Meditations Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0J2QAAlD1uaIJvQ3Sr9sIqO Christopagan Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0ISXDQkZBRB7EHrUUJgXlGN The Everything Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0Ln3eGW-tDk2R68PM6c182O Creation's Paths Podcast: http://www.creationspaths.com/podcast Church of the Oak Podcast: http://churchoftheoak.com/ Hallowstead Podcast: http://hallowstead.com/ Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ ## Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Earthly and Spiritual Realms 00:43 Meet Charlie: A Christopagan Druid's Perspective 00:54 Creation Spirituality and Matthew Fox's Influence 02:12 The Historical Context: Neoplatonism and Early Christianity 05:19 Augustine's Struggle and the Concept of Original Sin 06:44 Modern Implications: Body Positivity and Sexual Ethics 08:20 The Dangers of Over-Spiritualization 11:39 The Role of Providence and Divination 11:57 The Fallacy of Predicting Doom 12:19 Spirituality and Moral Responsibility 14:07 The Dangers of Black and White Thinking 15:11 The Complexity of Historical Narratives 16:14 The Persistence of Systemic Injustices 18:46 The Nuances of Spirituality 20:08 Reflections on Repentance and Atonement 20:32 Closing Remarks and Community Engagement

10. 

    29 Sept 2024

    Living in the Land of Milk and Honey

    The Promised Land is wherever you are—learn how to live in the sacred land of milk and honey. --> Join and support the community: https://www.creationspaths.com/ In this episode of _Church of the Oak_, Charlie Dorsett explores the profound concept of the "Promised Land" and challenges the traditional views that associate it with specific geographical locations. They emphasize that the holy land is not a distant place to be fought over but rather is found wherever we are, in the present moment, through right relationships with others and the land. Drawing on their Christopagan Druid perspective, Charlie discusses the importance of embracing diversity, rejecting exclusivity, and fostering unity to build the true land of "milk and honey." They contrast the damaging, imperialistic view of land ownership with a more sacred and inclusive approach, advocating for compassion, community, and the protection of the environment. The episode encourages listeners to create their own sacred spaces and live in harmony with the earth and each other. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community --> Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Guided Meditations Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0J2QAAlD1uaIJvQ3Sr9sIqO Christopagan Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0ISXDQkZBRB7EHrUUJgXlGN The Everything Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0Ln3eGW-tDk2R68PM6c182O Creation's Paths Podcast: http://www.creationspaths.com/podcast Church of the Oak Podcast: http://churchoftheoak.com/ Hallowstead Podcast: http://hallowstead.com/ Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ ## Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Discovering the Promised Land 00:32 Welcome to the Church of the Oak 01:48 Understanding Sacredness and Ownership 05:13 The True Meaning of Hospitality 07:55 Empire and the Manipulation of Sacred Spaces 10:46 The Dark Side of Exclusion 11:15 The Problem with Division 12:10 Unity Through Diversity 13:33 Embracing Differences 14:39 Holding Faith with an Open Hand 15:57 Building the Holy Land 17:59 The Legend of the Fisher King 19:21 Creating Your Own Holy Land 20:07 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

11. 

    22 Sept 2024

    Finding Life’s Purpose The Quest for the Tree of Life

    Join the spiritual quest for the Tree of Life and find true meaning and purpose in our lives. --> Join and support the community: https://www.creationspaths.com/ In this episode of _The Church of the Oak_, Charlie invites listeners on a symbolic spiritual quest to find the "Tree of Life," a concept deeply connected to interconnectedness and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the myth of the Voyage of Bran, Charlie explains how disenchantment in modern life has distanced us from our mystical roots and the vital tools our ancestors used to cope with the mysteries of existence. They explore the idea that true meaning comes not from power or wealth but from relationships, community, and the shared journey toward enlightenment and purpose. By reconnecting with symbols like the Tree of Life, Charlie encourages the audience to find their path and help others in a cooperative, compassionate way. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community --> Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Guided Meditations Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0J2QAAlD1uaIJvQ3Sr9sIqO Christopagan Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0ISXDQkZBRB7EHrUUJgXlGN The Everything Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV0C8kiTKv0Ln3eGW-tDk2R68PM6c182O Creation's Paths Podcast: http://www.creationspaths.com/podcast Church of the Oak Podcast: http://churchoftheoak.com/ Hallowstead Podcast: http://hallowstead.com/ Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ ## Chapters: 00:00 A Vision of Bran's Voyage 00:33 Introduction and Welcome 01:45 Understanding the Tree of Life 02:34 The Disenchantment of Modern Life 04:08 The Power of Interconnectedness 07:01 Lessons from the Tree 09:36 The Quest for the Tree of Life 11:44 The Power of a Dream 11:58 Seeking the Tree of Life 12:48 Living a Better Life 14:39 The Meaning of Life 16:00 The Quest for Life vs. The Quest for Gold 16:49 Rejecting the Fire of Moloch 18:23 The Path to the Tree of Life 18:59 The Voyage of Bran 20:33 The Importance of Relationships 21:35 Conclusion and Call to Action

12. 

    15 Sept 2024

    Rising Above Fear: Building a Stronger Community

    In today's world, fear and division dominate the headlines, from climate change and war in Gaza to political instability and economic uncertainty. However, amidst these challenges, there is hope. In this episode of Church of the Oak, Charlie, a Christopagan Druid and priest of Brigid, discusses how we can rise above fear by building each other up and finding strength in faith, compassion, and action. Through the lens of Creation Spirituality and Druidry, Charlie emphasizes the importance of addressing the real fears that divide people and the systems of control profiting from this division. Compassion, patience, and genuine understanding are key to guiding others away from misinformation and fear, and toward a future rooted in justice, peace, and community. While it may be slow and challenging work, Charlie reminds listeners that we have the power to tap into the "One Life" and the "Awen," sources of wisdom and strength. Together, through acts of compassion, mindfulness, and addressing others' concerns, we can transform our world, building a brighter and more just future for all. Listen in for an inspiring message on how to embrace faith in action, challenge the status quo, and become part of the change we wish to see. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Creation's Paths Podcast: http://www.creationspaths.com/podcast Church of the Oak Podcast: http://churchoftheoak.com/ Hallowstead Podcast: http://hallowstead.com/ Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ Chapters: 00:00 The State of the World Today 00:22 Finding Strength in Faith 01:06 Introduction to the Sacred Space 01:23 Facing Global Fears 02:18 The Power of Faith and Action 05:23 Building Each Other Up 06:11 Effective Advocacy and Change 09:34 Connecting with People 11:20 Understanding the Impact of Fear 12:15 Building a Stronger Community 13:51 The Power of Compassion 15:28 Addressing Deep-Rooted Issues 16:47 The Role of Fear in Society 18:12 Strategies for Change 19:47 Personal Stories and Experiences 20:54 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

13. 

    8 Sept 2024

    Wake Up, Life is Calling

    Join Charlie, a non-binary Christopagan Druid, as they discuss the importance of waking up and embracing life's fullness. This powerful message explores overcoming societal systems that hold us back, rediscovering childhood joys, and achieving a state of flow. Through personal stories and spiritual insights, Charlie encourages us to reconnect with joy and enthusiasm to truly experience the life we're meant to live. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Creation's Paths Podcast: http://www.creationspaths.com/podcast Church of the Oak Podcast: http://churchoftheoak.com/ Hallowstead Podcast: http://hallowstead.com/ Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ Chapters: 00:00 Wake Up to Life's Calling 00:59 Introduction to the Speaker 01:23 Challenges and Systems of Control 02:46 Embracing Life Fully 05:43 Finding Flow and Overcoming Challenges 09:34 Reconnecting with Childhood Passions 12:30 Rediscovering Childhood Joys 14:33 Embracing Silliness and Resilience 16:02 Finding Enthusiasm and Spirituality 21:17 Connecting Through Shared Joys 23:06 Supporting the Mission

14. 

    1 Sept 2024

    How To Do Church It's About Art and Practice Not Belief

    Join Charlie, a Christopagen Druid, as they explore the transformative concept of 'doing church.' This in-depth discussion delves into the true mission of faith communities: practicing works of healing, justice, and compassion. Instead of traditional notions of church as a place or a list of beliefs, Charlie invites us to see it as a living practice aimed at building a better world. Tune in to understand how collective action and spiritual growth intertwine, and how every act, from voting to smiling, is a form of prayer and devotion. Learn to embody the principles of faith in every aspect of life and contribute to a more just and loving world. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Creation's Paths Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creations-paths Church of the Oak Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/church-of-the-oak Hallowstead Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-hallowstead Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Faith and Church 00:45 Greetings and Blessings 01:06 Understanding 'Doing Church' 02:18 The Mission of the Church 05:22 Faith in Action 06:01 The Art and Practice of Faith 09:28 Supporting Each Other in Faith 11:34 The Role of Church in Social Justice 11:42 Unity in Diversity: Embracing Different Gifts 12:03 Protest and Justice: Beyond Politics 12:28 Equality and Respect: Building a Perfect World 13:01 Wealth and Responsibility: A Call for Generosity 13:49 Foundation of Faith: Building on Rock 14:04 Spreading Love and Glory: Our Mission 17:38 The True Word of God: Beyond Doctrine 19:32 The Uncontainable Word: Finding God in Everyday Life 21:46 Conclusion and Call to Action

15. 

    1 Sept 2024

    Let the Old Rugged Cross Bloom

    In this heartfelt episode, Charlie, a non-binary Druid, shares their deep connection to the old rugged cross and its significance in the Oak church. They reflect on the image of the cross, transforming from a symbol of torture to one of salvation and redemption. Through this transformation, Charlie addresses the responsibilities of modern Christians to live out their faith through action and compassion, touching on issues like poverty, homelessness, and environmental care. Join this profound conversation as they call for a return to the core values of love, sacrifice, and making a positive impact in the world. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Creation's Paths Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creations-paths Church of the Oak Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/church-of-the-oak Hallowstead Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-hallowstead Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Theme Song 00:20 Personal Connection to the Old Rugged Cross 01:52 The Symbolism of the Cross 03:00 Modern Reflections on Suffering 04:30 Critique of Contemporary Faith Practices 06:10 Call to Action and Social Responsibility 07:05 Reviving the True Christian Message 17:42 Final Thoughts and Blessings 19:14 Community and Additional Resources

16. 

    1 Sept 2024

    A Dream of an Oak Church

    In this heartfelt episode, join us on a spiritual journey towards the dream of an Oak Church, a place where ancient Celtic traditions and Christian faith coalesce. Discover the vision of a church rooted deeply in the earth, celebrating the old ways, and connecting with the one life that flows through us all. This episode explores the quest for a meaningful spiritual connection beyond traditional religious confines, invoking the spirit of the ancient Druids and embracing the teachings of Jesus. Engage with the vision that fosters justice, peace, and right relationships with all beings. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Creation's Paths Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/creations-paths Church of the Oak Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/church-of-the-oak Hallowstead Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-hallowstead Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Dream 01:10 Personal Journey and Background 02:46 Struggles with Faith and Discovery 03:56 Exploring Celtic Spirituality 05:51 The Concept of Original Sin 08:44 Vision of the Oak Church 10:54 Embracing Celtic Spirituality 11:27 The Dream of the Oak Church 12:08 Living in Right Relationship 13:18 The Call to Action 14:13 Critique of the Empire Church 16:00 The True Teachings of Jesus 17:54 Building a Community of Peace 19:35 Invitation to the Oak Church 19:57 Engage and Connect 22:08 Final Blessings and Farewell

17. 

    30 Aug 2024

    Church of the Oak Trailer Season One

    The Church of the Oak is a spirit led weekly sermon weaving together the threads of the natural world, the Divine and the human spirit delivering inspiration, guidance and deep connection to the sacred from a Magical, Druid, Buddhist and Christopagen wisdom nourishing our souls and community. Thank you for Liking and Subscribing to this podcast Thank you for sharing this episode with your loved ones, friends and community Thank you for Tips or Donations: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett https://patreon.com/cedorsett Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/ For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com For all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/ Social Connections: BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/

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Guest appearances

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.