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Our interview with the fabulous Manifesting: A Beginner’s Guide Author Nicole Weiss doesn’t disappoint as we got to catch up and discuss all things Manifestation and Magick!

Make sure to take part in our Witchy Type Give Away to be in with a chance to win yourself a copy of Manifesting: A beginners Guide #WitchyTypeGiveAway Details at the bottom of this post.

If you wish to learn more click here Witchy Type book club or visit witchytype.com.

About Nicole Weiss – a modern-day magic maker and a leading voice in manifesting and modern witchcraft. With a passion for empowering others, Nicole has helped countless individuals unlock their inner power and create the life they desire. Through Tiktok, Instagram, and YouTube she has built a thriving community of like-minded souls, inspiring and guiding them on their journeys of self-discovery and manifestation.

Interview by Emma Carney

You describe yourself as a ‘modern-day magic maker’—how do you blend ancient manifesting techniques with contemporary witchcraft?”

For me it’s about taking old, powerful practices and making them work in a modern way. I use things like intention-setting, journaling, visualization, and working with the moon. Tools people have used for centuries, but I combine them with things like mindset shifts, affirmations, and raising your vibration through daily habits.

Visualization and vibration are huge parts of how I manifest, I believe that what you see in your mind and feel in your body creates your reality. Contemporary witchcraft, to me, is about tapping into energy, using simple rituals to connect with yourself, and building trust in your own inner power. It’s magic that feels grounded, intentional, and real.

What inspired you to write Manifesting? Was there a pivotal ‘aha!’ moment in your own journey?

The pivotal moment for me happened in New York. I was in this old, run-down bookstore and came across a book on energy. The message was simple but life-changing: the way we live each moment, the energy we carry, is what shapes our reality.

At the time in my life I had checked all the boxes—I was married, had kids, a stay-at-home mom with a career on the side. From the outside, everything looked “right.” But deep down, I knew it wasn’t the life I truly wanted. It was the one I was taught to want. That moment in the bookstore cracked something open in me.

Manifesting came from that place, from realizing we don’t have to live out someone else’s version of happiness. We get to create our own. The book is everything I wish I had known when I first started waking up to that truth.

How would you convince a skeptic that manifestation isn’t just wishful thinking?”

I’d start by saying manifestation isn’t about sitting around hoping things magically appear. It’s about the relationship between your mindset, your energy, and your actions. There’s real science behind it too, your beliefs shape your perception, your perception shapes your behavior, and your behavior creates your results.

Most of us are already manifesting all the time, we just don’t realize it. We’re constantly reinforcing stories about what we can or can’t have, what we’re worthy of, what’s possible for us. Manifestation is about becoming conscious of that process and learning how to direct it.

So no, it’s not just wishful thinking. It’s about aligning your energy, beliefs, and choices with what you actually want, instead of what you’ve been programmed to settle for.

“What’s one simple ritual from the book that beginners can try today”

One of the simplest rituals I love and one anyone can start today is a shower manifesting ritual. As the water runs over you, imagine it washing off all fear, doubt, stress, and anything that’s weighing you down. Feel it all being rinsed away.

Then, shift into visualizing that you’re showering in your dream reality. Maybe it’s your dream home, a luxury hotel, or somewhere you deeply desire to be. Imagine every detail, the space, how it feels, even the scent of the products you’d use. Let yourself feel like it’s already real.

When you step out, hold that energy. Move through the rest of your day as if that version of you already exists

You talk about overcoming self-doubt—how do you confront the ‘inner critic’ during the manifesting process?

The inner critic will always have something to say, especially when you’re trying to grow or ask for more. I’ve learned not to silence it, but to question it. When that voice comes up, I pause and ask: Is this actually true? Or is this a fear I’ve picked up from the past?

I also reconnect with the version of me I’m manifesting into. I ask myself, Would she believe this? Would she let this thought stop her? Usually, the answer is no. And from there, I shift. I’ll use affirmations, visualization, or even just a deep breath to come back to my power.

Your book spans global traditions—which culture’s approach to manifestation surprised you the most?

When I was a child, I loved exploring different religions and spiritual traditions, curious about how people around the world understand energy and intention. What surprised me most was the Buddhist tradition.

Unlike the typical idea of manifesting as “wishing” for something, Buddhism emphasizes mindfulness and being fully present. It teaches that how we think and perceive the world shapes our reality, but in a gentle, non-forcing way. The focus is on creating a calm, clear mind that naturally attracts what aligns with you.

“How has TikTok [and social media] reshaped the way people engage with manifestation? Any downsides?

Social media like TikTok has made manifestation more popular and easier to learn. People share ideas and quick tips that inspire a lot of people to try it for themselves.

But sometimes it can feel too fast or shallow like just saying a few words will make things happen right away. That’s not how it really works, and it can make people feel disappointed.

Manifestation takes time and real effort. Social media is a great place to start, but there’s more to it than what you see in short videos.

“What’s the funniest or weirdest ‘manifestation gone wrong’ story you’ve heard

One of the weirdest ones is actually from my own life. I had been manifesting a move to Florida. visualizing it, planning it, even took a trip there to line everything up. Everything was falling into place… until I came back home to pack, and my ex-husband suddenly decided to sue for full custody, even though he had already agreed to the move.

At first, it felt like the universe completely flipped on me. But looking back, I see it as a moment that asked, “How bad do you want this?” It tested my trust, my clarity, and my ability to keep going even when things got messy. So yeah, sometimes manifestation brings the exact thing you want… but with a twist just to see if you’re really ready for it.

What’s your advice for someone who feels too burned out to even think about manifesting?

If you’re feeling burned out, forget the big vision boards and routines for now. Just come back to something small. Pour yourself a glass of water and drink it with the intention of clearing out anything heavy. Or light a candle and imagine it warming up your energy, even just a little.

“What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects or secret spells?”

Manifesting isn’t about doing more, it’s about shifting your energy. And sometimes the smallest rituals are the most powerful when you’re in a low place.

Yes! I have a new book coming out on September 30th called Witches’ Altar, with Rachel Patterson and Lindsay Squire. It’s all about spells, rituals, and the personal side of your witchcraft journey.

Can you walk us through your personal morning or evening ritual for setting intentions? How has it evolved over time?

My mornings are really intentional. One of the most important parts is no phone or screen for the first hour, I need that quiet space to tune into myself before the outside world comes in.

I start by opening all the blinds and letting in natural light. Then I make my bed with intention. That part feels like a ritual to me, it’s not just about neatness. It’s about setting the tone for the day, inviting in good rest for later, and even setting energy for things like connection and intimacy.

After that, I meditate, then make my morning drink, coffee, tea, whatever I’m into at the moment. While I drink it, I set an intention for the day and really focus on the feeling behind it.

Then I light a candle, put on some deep focus music from YouTube, and sometimes I’ll pull a tarot card or rearrange something on my altar if I feel called.

This routine has definitely evolved over time. I didn’t start with all of this, I’ve slowly added things that felt good and meaningful.

How do you address the critique that manifestation can sometimes overlook systemic barriers or privilege? How can people work with this tension?

I totally get this critique because life isn’t always easy or fair. For example, I was manifesting a move to Florida, really clear on it—and just when everything was lining up, my ex-husband sued for full custody after we’d already agreed on the move. It felt like the universe throwing a curveball to test me.

That experience showed me that manifestation isn’t about things magically falling into place without obstacles. It’s about choosing to keep going, to hold onto what you want, even when stuff gets messy or unfair.

Manifestation doesn’t erase real challenges or barriers, but it can help you find your power inside those challenges. You can want big change for yourself and still see that the system isn’t always set up to make it easy.

Are there ethical boundaries when it comes to manifesting for others (e.g., love, career opportunities)? How do you navigate that?

This is one of those questions I think gets overcomplicated sometimes. I don’t personally believe you can override someone else’s free will just by wanting something for them. Manifesting is about aligning with energy, not forcing outcomes.

That said, I don’t try to manifest on behalf of other people, especially in love or anything super personal. I focus on how I want to feel, or the type of connection or opportunity I want to invite in, and trust that whoever or whatever matches that will come naturally.

To me, it’s less about ethics and more about intention. If your heart’s in the right place and you’re not trying to control someone else’s life, you’re probably fine.

What’s your advice for someone who feels like their manifestations ‘aren’t working’? How do you troubleshoot blocks?

First, I’d say, don’t panic. That stuck feeling is actually part of the process sometimes. When it feels like things aren’t working, I always check in with a few things:

Am I just wanting it, or am I also believing it’s possible for me?

Am I holding the energy of it in my body—or just repeating the words?

And… am I trying to control how it happens, instead of letting it unfold?

Sometimes we’re unconsciously blocking things because deep down, we don’t feel safe receiving them yet. When that happens, I slow down. I focus on feeling good again, reconnecting to why I want it, and letting go of the pressure.

Manifestation isn’t just about forcing something to show up, it’s about becoming a match for it, and that includes patience, self-trust, and sometimes a little pause to shift your energy.

Do you incorporate ancestral or hereditary practices into your work? How can beginners explore this respectfully?”

Yes, I do, but it’s more about feeling connected to where I come from than following specific rituals. I think of the women in my family, the energy they carried, and I bring that into my work in a way that feels personal and grounding.

For beginners, I always say start with your own roots. You don’t need to copy other cultures to feel spiritual. Light a candle, talk to your ancestors, or learn about your family’s history. Keep it simple and honest and let it grow from there.

What was the most surprising or unexpected discovery you made while writing this book?

How much I changed in the process. I went into it thinking I was just writing down what I already knew, but the deeper I went, the more I had to face my own patterns, doubts, and places where I still didn’t fully trust myself.

It pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. Writing Manifesting didn’t just help me teach others, it helped me become more of the version of myself I had been trying to manifest all along.

Are there any TV shows, books, or films that you think nailed the concept of manifestation (or got it totally wrong)?

Yes! The OA really shows how powerful belief and energy can be. It’s not about wishing for things, it’s about trusting something deeper, even if it doesn’t make sense. It’s strange and beautiful and honestly feels like a visual version of how manifestation works on an energetic level.

And Eat Pray Love is a great example too. She doesn’t just hope for a better life, she takes a leap, follows her intuition, and creates something completely new. That’s what real manifestation looks like sometimes: uncomfortable, emotional, but completely transformative.

What’s the most powerful manifestation success story you’ve heard from someone in your community?

One story that really stands out is about a woman I worked with who was going through an incredibly tough time. Her dad had just passed away, and the family company was trying to push her out. She was feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about her future.

I helped guide her through manifestation techniques. focusing on mindset, clarity, and energy work, and she ended up not only winning the company but also receiving two million dollars in the process.

She even sent me some money to thank me for the support, which was so touching. That story reminds me that it can be a real tool for reclaiming power, especially in hard moments.

What’s one ‘witchy’ habit or superstition you can’t quit, even if it’s a little irrational?

I talk to my plants and sometimes trees as if they’re old, wise friends. I ask for their energy, healing, and guidance because I believe they carry ancient magic. Connecting with them helps me stay grounded and in tune with nature’s rhythms.

At the same time, I’m always on the lookout for omens, like certain birds, animals, or signs that feel like messages from the universe. These habits remind me that magic is everywhere if you’re open to it, even in the smallest things.

What’s your biggest pet peeve when it comes to how people talk about or practice manifestation?

What really gets to me is when people just make a wish or say “claim” on a video and expect things to magically show up right away. Manifestation isn’t like a quick spell or a checkbox you can tick, it takes time, focus, and real effort.

I wish more people understood that it’s about doing the inner work, shifting your energy, and taking aligned action, not just hoping or typing a comment.

What songs or music do you listen to when you’re in ‘manifestation mode’?

I stick to music that feels uplifting and positive, either songs with good vibes and positive words or instrumental tracks with no words at all. I want the music to match the energy I’m putting out.

Sometimes, I listen to songs that make me feel like I’m already living my dream life, that feeling of abundance and joy right now. It’s like setting the mood for what I’m calling in.

If someone told you, ‘Manifestation is just placebo effect,’ how would you respond?

I get why some people think manifestation is just the placebo effect, and I can see where they’re coming from. But I also think that explanation misses a big part of what manifestation really is. It’s not just about belief or mindset; it’s about energy, intention, and how we connect with the world in ways that go beyond what science can easily measure.

So while the placebo effect might explain part of it, there’s something deeper happening that many people feel and experience that can’t be reduced to just that.

What’s the one lesson about manifesting you wish you’d learned sooner?

I wish I’d learned sooner to really appreciate where I am right now and trust that what I want is already on its way. When you can feel that gratitude and belief in the present moment, it actually speeds things up, it’s like the universe can’t wait to deliver.

Manifesting: A Beginner’s Guide by Nicole Weiss (£15.99, Leaping Hare Press) is available now.

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