Phyllis Curott, born in 1954 and known within the craft as Aradia, is an American Wiccan priestess, attorney, and author. She established the Temple of Ara, recognized as one of the earliest Wiccan congregations in the United States, and has held significant leadership roles in the Parliament of the World's Religions since 1993. Curott has authored several books exploring modern witchcraft and Goddess spirituality, aiming to clarify misconceptions about the practice. Her background includes a liberal upbringing that encouraged independent thought and a strong moral compass. Curott pursued higher education, earning degrees from Brown University and New York University School of Law. Her career has spanned legal work, including lobbying for Ralph Nader and practicing various forms of law, as well as advocacy for religious minorities, notably securing rights for Wiccan clergy to perform legally binding ceremonies. She also has a background in film production and acting.

Curott's spiritual journey led her to be initiated into Wicca in 1981, adopting the craft name Aradia. As a High Priestess and founder of the Temple of Ara, she has been a prominent figure in the Neo-Pagan community. Her interfaith work is extensive, including participation in numerous Parliament of the World's Religions events, where she has served as a keynote speaker and held various leadership positions. Curott has also been involved with organizations like the Covenant of the Goddess and the United Nations' NGO Committee on the Status of Women, advocating for women's spirituality and religious equality. Her efforts have been recognized, including an honor from Jane magazine.

Phyllis Curott is a central figure in modern Wicca, serving as the founder and High Priestess of the Temple of Ara, one of the United States' oldest Wiccan organizations. Her initiation into Wicca in 1981 marked the beginning of her significant contributions to the spiritual community. Beyond her directorship of the Temple of Ara, Curott has been a dedicated participant and leader within the Parliament of the World's Religions. Her involvement dates back to 1993, where she co-chaired the Women's Task Force, and she continues to be active in planning major interfaith gatherings. Curott has also served as a guest minister at Unitarian Universalist churches and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, demonstrating a commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Her public advocacy has included challenging religious discrimination, notably securing the right for Wiccan clergy to perform legally recognized ceremonies in public spaces and advocating for the inclusion of diverse spiritual voices in global dialogues.

As an author, Phyllis Curott has authored several influential books exploring the depths of modern witchcraft and Goddess spirituality. Her memoir, "Book of Shadows: A Modern Woman's Journey into the Wisdom of Witchcraft and the Magic of the Goddess," chronicles her personal path into Wicca and aims to demystify the practice for a wider audience. Curott's writings often focus on practical applications of magic and spiritual awakening, as seen in titles like "WitchCrafting: A Spiritual Guide to Making Magic" and "Wicca Made Easy: Awaken The Divine Magic Within You." Her work also delves into themes of personal transformation and erotic spirituality, as explored in "The Love Spell: An Erotic Memoir of Spiritual Awakening." These works have been translated into multiple languages, extending their reach and impact globally, and have contributed significantly to the discourse on contemporary Paganism and feminist spirituality.

Before her prominent role in spiritual circles, Phyllis Curott established a career in law and public advocacy. After earning her Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law, she began her professional life as a lobbyist for Ralph Nader in Washington D.C. Upon returning to New York, she practiced law in fields such as labor, entertainment, and real estate. A significant aspect of her legal career involved championing religious liberties for Wiccans and other minority faiths. Curott was instrumental in securing legal recognition for Wiccan clergy to officiate marriages and conduct rituals in public settings, a testament to her commitment to religious freedom. Her background also includes experience in film production, having produced independent films and appeared as an actress.