Episodes
Episodes



Sunday Aug 06, 2023
190 | The Sun Meets Venus: Intoxicated with Love!
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
This week: The Taurus Last Quarter Moon finishes up the lunar cycle that began at the July 17th Cancer New Moon. Venus is in the spotlight with a brilliant Solar conjunction and an exciting aspect to Uranus. And April answers a listener question about what she calls a Venus retrograde loophole: Can we happily buy used or sale items while the planet of money is retrograde? Plus: Making our own mistakes, feeding the ducks, and a debonair chapeau!
The fourth annual Big Sky Pod-A-Thon begins September 4th, with special episodes Monday through Friday! We’d would love to feature your beautiful voices in the upcoming celebratory shows! Tell us how you found us and why you listen!
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have your question answered on the show - Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:52] Moon Report! The Last Quarter Moon (Aug. 8, 3:28 AM PDT) at 15º38’ Taurus conjoins Jupiter and Uranus, with all square Sun-Venus, trine Mars.
[3:24] Consider this Last Quarter Moon a sneak peek into next year’s Jupiter/Uranus conjunction (April 20, 2024, 21º49’ Taurus). This Last Quarter’s Sabian symbol is 16 Taurus, Old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries.
[5:25] This is the last critical point in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began at the May 11, 2021 New Moon. The First Quarter in the cycle was on Feb. 8, 2022 and the Full Moon (a lunar eclipse) was Nov. 8, 2022.
[7:46] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. Aug. 9 (3:38 AM PDT), Moon in Taurus trines Pluto. It's VOC for about 1 ½ hours, then enters Gemini (6:05 AM PDT). Do you feel secure enough to expand your reach into other and more powerful connections?
[9:29] On Aug. 11 (10:27 AM PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It’s VOC for about 5 ½ hours before entering Cancer (3:52 PM PDT). Spend some quality time with a book and a water feature.
[10:41] Retrograde Venus meets Uranus (Aug. 9, 4:08 AM PDT) at 22°54’ Leo-Taurus, in the second of three squares (the others on July 2 and Sep. 29).
[12:19] Uranus’ Sabian symbol at this square is A jewelry shop. All that glitters is not gold. Look to the inner qualities that really shine, if given a chance.
[12:55] Also on Aug. 9 (5:47 PM PDT), Mercury trines Jupiter at 14º31’ Virgo-Taurus. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 15 Virgo, An ornamental handkerchief, and Jupiter’s is 15 Taurus, A man muffled up with a rakish silk hat. Make the very basic things useful, and then elegant and lovely.
[15:04] On Aug. 13 (4:15 AM PDT), the Sun and Venus come together in a conjunction at 20º28’ Leo. When a planet is exactly conjoined the Sun, it’s said to be cazimi.
[15:34] The Venus/Sun conjunction is also called the Venus Star Point. Follow these links for more about this powerful point: this article and a video interview. The Sabian symbol for this conjunction is 21 Leo, Chickens intoxicated. Let go of the negative internal chatter and get drunk on love.
[16:20] Arielle Guttman, a specialist on the Venus Star Point, says the first 20 days after Venus turns retrograde is for emptying out what has been collected since the last retrograde. The last Venus-Sun conjunction near this degree was Aug. 15, 2015 at 22º39’ Leo.
[18:27] Listener Dora asks about purchasing used and sale items while Venus is retrograde.
[24:03] If you’d like to have your question answered on a future episode, leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[24:34] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Anastasia Molnar, Carrie LaRoche Sinay, and Kayla Grant!
[25:43] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!



Sunday Jul 30, 2023
189 | Aquarius Full Moon: Let’s Play Hooky!
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
This week: The Aquarius Full Moon brings the hope of a new day; both the Sun and Mars connect with big-thinking, optimistic Jupiter; Saturn helps Mercury get down to business; and April answers a very helpful listener question about using astrology to make healthier choices and stick to them! Plus: Silver linings, playing hooky, and looking the part!
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Want your question answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:08] Moon Report! Beginning with an Aquarius Full Moon (Aug. 1, 11:32 am PDT) at 9º15’ Aquarius-Leo, featuring a T-square of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter (Sun opposed Moon, both square Jupiter).
[1:40] The Moon’s Sabian symbol is 10 Aquarius, A popularity that proves ephemeral; the Sun is on 10 Leo, Early morning dew. Popularity comes and goes, but as long as we have breath in our bodies, there’s reason to hope.
[3:29] After the intense Cancer New Moon opposed Pluto (July 17), this milder Full Moon is welcome. Symbolically and literally, everything is visible at the Full Moon – in contrast with the dark nights around the New Moon.
[5:13] This is also the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began with the Jan. 31, 2022 New Moon at 12º18’ Aquarius. The First Quarter in that cycle was on Oct. 31, 2022, and the Last Quarter phase comes on May 1, 2024.
[7:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 31, the Moon in Capricorn conjoins Pluto (7:13 PM PDT). It’s VOC for one hour and 45 minutes before it enters Aquarius (8:58 PM PDT). This is a chance to rebuild habits related to our ambitions.
[9:06] The Moon in Aquarius opposes retrograde Venus in Leo on Aug, 2nd (2:15 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under six hours before entering Pisces (8:05 PM PDT). Don’t judge your insides by other people’s outsides.
[10:11] The Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto in Capricorn on Aug. 4th (6:21 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under two hours before entering Aries (8:19 PM PDT) for a chance to do something with all our Moon in Pisces imaginings.
[11:27] On Aug. 6th, the Moon in Aries squares Pluto (9:13 PM PDT). It's VOC for just over two hours, then enters Taurus (11:24 PM PDT). Time to slow down and look more deeply into what we've been rushing to get done.
[12:19] On Aug. 1st (1:44 PM PDT), Mars trines Jupiter at 13º46’ Virgo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for Jupiter is 14 Taurus, Shellfish groping and children playing. Go ahead…throw your cares to the wind and play hooky!
[14:17] Also on Aug. 1 (7:18 PM PDT), Mercury opposes Saturn at 5º38’ Virgo-Pisces. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 6 Virgo, A merry-go-round, and Saturn’s is 6 Pisces, Officers on dress parade. When it comes to getting noticed and receiving better opportunities, there’s a fine line between doing our best and being willing to play the game a little bit.
[16:55] The Sun squares Jupiter on Aug. 6 (5:03 PM PDT) at 14º16’ Leo-Taurus. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 15 Leo, A pageant, and Jupiter is on 15 Taurus, A man muffled up with a rakish silk hat. Ease up on the obstinance and lean into leadership flavored with heaping doses of generosity, inspiration and entertainment.
[19:10] Listener Joshua asks about how to use astrology to make healthier choices and stick to them.
[27:31] If you have a question you’d like answered on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[27:57] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Bernice Harmyk, Katie Serda, and Leslie Wade!
[29:01] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!



Sunday Jul 23, 2023
188 | Pluto Meets the Lunar Nodes: Defending Your Life!
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
The Scorpio First Quarter Moon encourages taking action on something that began at last October's Solar Eclipse. Mercury joins Venus to summon voices from the past, connects with the North Node to set an agenda for the coming 18 months, and enters Virgo for a longer-than-normal stay. Pluto squares the Lunar Nodes for the first time since 2015, on the degree of last spring's Aries Solar Eclipse. And April answers a listener question about Lunar Node returns, throwing in the oppositions for good measure. Plus: A haircut, pocket-dialing, and defending your life!
Full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:12] Moon Report! The Scorpio First Quarter Moon (July 25, 3:07 PM PDT, 02º43’ Scorpio-Leo) is on the Sabian symbol 3 Scorpio, A house raising, with the Sun on 3 Leo, Woman having her hair bobbed.
[2:03] The Scorpio First Quarter Moon is ruled by Mars, currently in Virgo. So that symbol of the “house raising” is a good example of taking practical action, especially toward things that will last.
[3:11] This is the First Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family cycle that began with a New Moon/Solar Eclipse on October 25, 2022 at 2º Scorpio. Other important dates in this cycle are April 23, 2024 (Full Moon) and Jan. 21, 2025 (Last Quarter).
[5:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On July 25, the Moon in Libra squares Pluto (8:05 AM PDT). It's VOC for an hour and 50 minutes before it enters Scorpio (9:55 AM PDT). A perfect time for changing emotional habits around relationships.
[6:29] The Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto on July 27th (3:36 PM PDT). It is VOC for one hour and 48 minutes before it enters Sagittarius (5:24 PM PDT). Look for an opportunity to clear the air emotionally.
[7:42] On July 29, the Moon in Sagittarius trines Venus in Leo (4:51 PM PDT). It’s VOC for just under four hours, and then enters Capricorn (8:44 PM PDT). Notice and appreciate the little things that bring you pleasure!
[9:05] Mercury conjoins Venus at 28º11’ Leo on July 27 (8:16 AM PDT). Get in touch with someone from your past.
[11:10] Mercury trines the Moon’s North Node on July 27 (9:47 PM PDT) at 29°00’ Aries-Leo. Consider how to use your talents, charisma, and leadership skills to achieve long-term goals.
[12:32] Pluto squares the Lunar Nodes at 28°58’ Capricorn-Aries on July 28 (11:34 AM PDT). This is the last of three Pluto squares to the Nodes (July 22 and 25 were the others). Pluto squares the North Node at the degree of April 30's Solar Eclipse, 29º50’ Aries. Challenges from an important relationship could bring pressure to move forward on our own and in our own direction.
[15:38] On July 28 (2:31 PM PDT) Mercury enters one of its domiciles, Virgo. It'll spend more time than usual here (through Oct. 4) because Mercury is retrograde in Virgo from Aug. 23-Sep. 15.
[16:59] Virgo speaks to that dimension of Mercury related to how we master the physical world with skills and tools. And Mercury in this sign excels at analyzing information.
[18:38] Arrange your schedule in such a way that you have a little bit more time for the slow, methodical work of Virgo. And make sure to back up your computer and phone!
[19:41] April replies to Listener Hallie’s question about Lunar Node returns. (Movie: Defending Your Life)
[27:01] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[27:25] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Colleen Moffett, Susan Hubbard, and Cathy Sullivan-Thompson!
[28:30] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!



Sunday Jul 16, 2023
187 | Cancer New Moon, Venus Retrograde, and the Nodes Shift Signs!
Sunday Jul 16, 2023
Sunday Jul 16, 2023
All hail the last Cancer New Moon opposed Pluto in Capricorn in our lifetimes! In other news: The lunar nodes shift into Aries and Libra; the Sun aspects Neptune and Pluto before entering its brilliant Leo season; Mercury gains inspiration from Jupiter and Uranus; Mars is blocked by Saturn; and Venus turns retrograde through Sep. 3! Plus: Dark shadows, Leo as a national holiday, and the quality of the conversation.
For even more details about this action-packed week, purchase the replay of April’s July 16th Cancer New Moon Seasonal Webinar.
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Timestamps
[1:38] Moon Report! Cancer New Moon (July 17, 11:32 AM PDT) is at 24º56’ Cancer on the Sabian symbol 25 Cancer, Dark shadow or mantle thrown suddenly over the right shoulder.
[2:04] The Sun’s opposition to Pluto on July 21 (8:52 PM PDT) at 29°07’ Cancer-Capricorn. What kind of responsibility will we take on? How can we finish up old, heavy Pluto in Capricorn business?
[4:13] This important New Moon trines Neptune in Pisces, planet of healing and forgiveness. The Sun’s exact trine to Neptune is on July 20 (6:06 AM PDT), 27°35’ Cancer-Pisces.
[5:09] This New Moon begins a Lunar Phase Family Cycle, with critical points on April 15, 2024 (First Quarter), Jan. 13, 2025 (Full Moon), and Oct. 13, 2025 (Last Quarter). Themes of power and responsibility continue through the July 15, 2026 New Moon.
[7:23] The North Node enters Aries and the South Node enters Libra (July 17, 1:00 PM PDT) just hours after the New Moon.
[8:06] The Nodal cycle is 18 years, and their natural motion is retrograde. The nodes have been in Taurus/Scorpio since Jan. 18, 2022.
[8:38] The Nodes were last in Libra-Aries (Libra North Node) between Feb. 18, 2014 – Nov. 11, 2015. They’ll be in these signs (Aries North Node) until Jan. 11, 2025.
[9:18] During this nodal transit, release codependence and people-pleasing and embrace independence, pioneering, moving in new directions.
[10:21] On July 22 (9:37 PM) transiting Pluto squares this nodal axis at 29º06’ Capricorn-Aries. Important relationships changes provide an encouraging shove toward independence.
[12:37] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On July 17 (8:06 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto. It's VOC for about 1 ½ hours. Revisit emotional patterns related to safety and control.
[13:26] The Moon in Leo conjuncts Venus on July 20 (7:08 AM PDT). It’s VOC for about three hours. What lights you up inside?
[13:53] On July 22, the Moon in Virgo trines Pluto (9:06 PM PDT). It's VOC for just under two hours. Virgo conscientiousness is rewarded by higher-ups.
[15:22] Mars opposes Saturn on July 20 (1:39 PM PDT) at 06º20’ Virgo and Pisces. Feeling stymied in getting things done? Try to go with the Pisces flow.
[17:31] The Sun enters the sign of its rulership, Leoooooo, on July 22 (6:50 PM PDT). Over the next month, it squares Jupiter and Uranus and conjoins Venus.
[20:25] Mercury squares Jupiter on July 17 (5:49 AM PDT) at 11º53’ Leo-Taurus. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol, An evening lawn party.
[20:55] Mercury squares Uranus on July 23 (2:39 PM PDT) at 22º32’ Leo-Taurus
[21:54] Venus turns retrograde (Rx) on July 22 (6:33 PM PDT, 28º36’ Leo). When planets are Rx, go within for guidance in matters related to that planet (for Venus, that’s love and money). Venus is Rx through Sep. 3.
[23:32] Venus was last Rx in Leo between July 25-Sep. 6, 2015. Venus has an eight-year Rx cycle, so look back at eight-year intervals to find when Venus was Rx in this same part of the zodiac and in the same area of your chart.
[25:10] Venus is Rx every 18 months for 40 days. Consider checking out April’s webinar for more details concerning Venus retrograde period.
[25:41] Have your question answered on a future episode! Leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[26:41] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Natori Moore, Francine Parling, and Liga Sirona!
[27:53] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!



Sunday Jul 09, 2023
186 | Mars in Virgo: Untangling Knotty Problems!
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
This week: A busy Aries Last Quarter Moon finds us leaping from our hammocks and scratching for resources; Mars enters Virgo, whose high standards make for excellent work and a touch of crankiness; Mercury opposes suspicious Pluto, then enters expressive Leo; a bright sextile between the Sun and Uranus offers reinvention. And April answers a couple of listener questions about what it means when the sign on a house cusp seems to contradict the meaning of the house itself. Plus: Bowling, odd bedfellows, and knotty problems!
SIGN UP FOR APRIL'S CANCER NEW MOON WEBINAR! DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Timestamps
[1:17] Moon Report! The Aries Last Quarter Moon (July 9, 6:47 PM PDT) is at 17º35’ Aries and Cancer, on the Sabian symbols 18 Aries, An empty hammock and 18 Cancer, A hen scratching for her chicks.
[1:46] This is the Last Quarter Moon in the Gemini New Moon cycle that began June 17, 2023, with the Sun and Moon square Neptune and a certain amount of friction between clear and practical thinking versus what our intuition says is true.
[3:15] It's also the Last Quarter in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began on the April 11th, 2021 Aries New Moon. We have seen results and can take final action on something that we conceived then.
[4:44] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On July 10 (4:11 PM PDT) the Moon in Aries squares Mercury in Cancer. It's VOC for 44 minutes before it enters Taurus (4:55 PM PDT). More conflict between the mind and the gut.
[6:41] On July 12th (11:11 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus trines Pluto. It’s VOC for about 1 ¼ hours before it enters Gemini on July 13 (12:26 AM PDT). This is a wonderful aspect and a really effective VOC Moon period for manifesting something in your life!
[8:33] On July 15 (5:35 AM PDT) the Moon in Gemini squares Neptune. It's VOC for about 4 ½ hours before it enters Cancer (10:13 AM PDT). Contemplate what it is to verbalize versus experience our feelings.
[10:50] Mars enters Virgo on July 10 (4:40 AM PDT). The Red Planet will be in Virgo until Aug. 27. Mars in Virgo says that we’ll rely on our skills and our wit for survival.
[11:52] Mars is a planet of work, and while it's in Virgo, pay great attention to detail. Precision is valued in our work, and it's a great time to acquire a new skill. But don’t let the small stuff get to ya!
[13:35] Mercury opposes Pluto at 29º23’ Cancer-Capricorn on July 10 (1:48 PM PDT). Suspicions are high but should dissipate when Mercury enters Leo. Try not to say anything that you’ll later regret.
[15:32] Mercury enters Pizzazz Master Leeeeeooooo on July 10 (9:11 PM PDT) and will remain until it enters one of its domiciles, Virgo, on July 28th. Mark your calendars now: Mercury's next retrograde period is Aug. 23-Sep. 15!
[18:05] The Sun sextiles Uranus at 22º15’ Cancer and Taurus on July 14 (4:02 PM PDT). The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 23 Cancer, A meeting of a literary society, and Uranus is on 23 Taurus, A jewelry shop. If we're willing to share our thoughts in an honest way, but equally willing to listen to the feedback from others, then we stand to gain something valuable.
[20:44] Listeners Scout and Teresa ask about how to interpret contradictory house and sign combinations.
[27:38] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com; put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[28:13] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Jacinta Armstrong and Marina Vasilic!
[29:14] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the donors-only Cancer Solstice bonus episode!



Sunday Jul 02, 2023
185 | Capricorn Full Moon and Mercury Outside the Box!
Sunday Jul 02, 2023
Sunday Jul 02, 2023
This week, the Capricorn Full Moon grooves to the deliberate pace of Jupiter in Taurus; Mercury’s connections with Uranus and Neptune emphasize brilliant thinking and imaginative, lyrical self-expression; and April answers a listener question about how long a transiting planet influences your birth chart. Plus: An offer from Pluto that is difficult, but not impossible, to refuse; waiting for your ship to come in; and Mercury is out-of-bounds (and outside the box)!
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:14] Moon Report! A Full Moon in Capricorn (July 3, 4:39 AM PDT) emphasizes Capricorn and Cancer and marks the midway point of the current Gemini New Moon cycle, as well as the halfway point of the year.
[3:26] This Full Moon answers the “call” of the Dec. 23, 2022 Capricorn New Moon, which squared Jupiter in Aries and was packed with ambition and enthusiasm. This Full Moon, trine Jupiter in Taurus, is a lot more relaxed. How can we actually tackle the intentions we made at that Capricorn New Moon?
[5:10] This is the Full Moon in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle that began at the January 2, 2022 New Moon (12º20’ Capricorn). Other important dates in this cycle are Oct. 2, 2022 (First Quarter) and Apr. 1, 2024 (Last Quarter).
[6:23] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Capricorn Moon conjoins Pluto on July 4 (9:45 AM PDT). It’s VOC for about 45 minutes before entering Aquarius (10:30 AM PDT). If you’re in the United States and have to work on the 4th of July holiday, see if you can't get that work done in the morning. Enjoy the rest of the day, after the Moon enters Aquarius, having fun celebrating with people close to you.
[8:47] On July 6th (6:42 AM PDT), the Moon in Aquarius opposes Mars in Leo, then is VOC for about 3 ¼ hours before entering Pisces (10:32 AM PDT). Watch out for heated online discussions about friends, the future and technology.
[10:17] The Moon in Pisces sextiles Pluto on July 8th (11:22 AM PDT). It’s VOC for just under one hour before entering Aries (12:19 PM PDT). Will you accept an invitation to step into powerful emotions and a more powerful role?
[11:30] This is Mercury’s week! In Episode 184, we learned that transiting Mercury is out-of-bounds through July 7th. Think and communicate outside the box but be mindful of others’ feelings.
[12:42] On July 6 (9:54 PM PDT), Mercury sextiles Uranus at 21º57’ Cancer and Taurus. Mercury’s Sabian symbol is 22 Cancer, Woman awaiting a sailboat. Uranus is on 22 Taurus, White dove over troubled waters. Do a little bit of brainstorming to tackle a creative, work or home project. Brilliant ideas could arise!
[15:25] On July 9 (4:57 PM PDT), Mercury trines Neptune at 27º39’ Cancer and Pisces. Neptune is on the Sabian symbol 28 Pisces, A fertile garden under a Full Moon. Mercury is at 28 Cancer, A modern Pocahontas. Head down to the beach with your musical instrument of choice and woo someone special under the bright, sparkling stars.
[18:20] Listener Kyle asks how long a transiting planet has influence over your birth chart. It depends, but April offers some rules of thumb!
[26:23] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[26:55] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Judie Ricciardi and Lori Rodefer!
[27:58] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!



Sunday Jun 25, 2023
184 | Libra First Quarter Moon: The True Inner Knowledge!
Sunday Jun 25, 2023
Sunday Jun 25, 2023
This week, the Libra First Quarter Moon prompts an equal exchange of views; Venus and Mars aspecting Uranus bring the unexpected in money and love; Mercury enters quiet Cancer; Saturn brings rewards; Neptune turns retrograde; and April answers a Listener Question about out-of-bounds planets. Plus: Zigging and zagging, well-dressed rabbits, and going rogue!
Read a full transcript
Want your question answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:13] Moon Report! The Libra First Quarter Moon on June 26 (12:50 AM PDT) at 04º29’ Libra is on the Sabian symbol 5 Libra, Man teaching true inner knowledge. Share what you’ve been planning, but don’t forget to listen as well.
[3:03] This First Quarter Moon makes an out-of-sign opposition to Neptune at 27°40’ Pisces. Have a conversation with a trusted person and rely on your gut.
[4:32] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Libra squares Pluto on June 28 (1:19 AM PDT). It's VOC for 36 minutes before entering Scorpio (1:55 AM PDT). Is it more important to please other people or to be truly yourself?
[6:34] On June 30 (7:20 AM PDT) the Moon in Scorpio sextiles Pluto. It's VOC for 39 minutes before entering Sagittarius (7:59 AM PDT). Keep an eye out for helpful and sensitive information; take this opportunity to gain mastery over strong emotions.
[8:04] On July 2, the Moon in Sagittarius squares Neptune (6:33 AM PDT). It's VOC for 4 3/4 hours, then enters Capricorn (10:20 AM PDT). Avoid getting so invested in being right that you overlook the things of faith.
[9:46] Mars squares Uranus on June 26 (2:23 AM PDT) at 21º29’ Leo and Taurus, on the Sabian symbols 22 Leo A carrier pigeon and 22 Taurus White dove over troubled waters. Move mindfully; embrace collaborations.
[11:43] Mercury enters Cancer (June 26, 5:24 pm PDT through July 10). Reach out to loved ones and err on the side of gentleness and caution. Enjoy creative writing projects and journaling.
[14:21] The Sun and Mercury trine Saturn on (June 28, 6:42 PM PDT/June 29, 11:23 pm PDT, respectively). The Sun and Mercury are on the Sabian symbol 8 Cancer: Rabbits dressed in clothes and on parade. Saturn is on 8 Pisces, A girl blowing a bugle. Get gussied up and prepare to be acknowledged for your achievements, your leadership and your maturity!
[15:14] What obstacles have you experienced since the Sun squared Saturn on May 28? Look for your efforts to be rewarded.
[17:01] Neptune stations retrograde on June 30 (2:06 PM PDT, 27º41’ Pisces, through Dec. 6, 2023). Look inside for faith and clarity and set aside time for devotional practices.
[19:58] The Sun and Mercury come together on June 30 (10:06 PM PDT) at 09º08’ Cancer and sextile Jupiter on July 1 (12.10 am PDT and 3:26 am PDT, respectively). The Sabian symbol for the Sun and Mercury is 10 Cancer, A large diamond, not completely cut. Go ahead and ask for things, even ones you’re not sure you're ready or qualified for.
[21:31] On July 2 (7:33 AM PDT), Venus squares Uranus at 21º46 Leo and Taurus. Will you get what you want or will those efforts be interrupted by the unexpected?
[23:23] Listener Deborah asks out-of-bounds planets via Speakpipe. Here is a link to Astro.com’s 9,000 year ephemeris.
[29:09] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[29:42] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Shauna Hickey and Jolae Brocato!
[30:42] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Cancer Solstice bonus episode for donors only!



Sunday Jun 18, 2023
183 | Cancer Solstice, Jupiter and Saturn: Better Driving Through Sextiles!
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
This week, the Sun enters Cancer and reaches its Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Jupiter and Saturn make their first major aspect since their Dec. 2020 conjunction. The Sun takes a magic carpet ride but is diverted by a North Node wakeup call. And April answers a Listener Question about how to integrate the astrology you hear in podcasts, like this one, into your daily life. Plus: Farmland quilts, the cobbler’s shoeless children, and feeling safe in an unsafe world.
Read a full transcript of this episode.
Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here!
Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon!
Love the show? Make a donation!
Timestamps
[1:12] Jupiter sextiles Saturn on June 19th (8:53 AM PDT) at 07°12’ Taurus and Pisces. This is the first major aspect Jupiter and Saturn have made since they conjoined on the Winter Solstice, December 21st, 2020 at 00°29’ Aquarius.
[2:47] Jupiter-Saturn aspects in general are about how we calibrate the urge to expand with the need to be cautious and deliberate. We are driving with one foot on the gas and then one foot on the brake, coordinating back and forth between the two. Episode 61 covered the 2020 Jupiter-Saturn conjunction.
[5:26] The Sun enters Cancer on June 21st (7:58 AM PDT). This transit marks the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and the Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.
[6:09] We planted seeds at the Aries Equinox, gathered resources under the Taurus Sun, and cross-pollinated during Gemini season. Now, as the Sun enters Cancer, we sit in the nest and wait for things to hatch.
[9:02] Mercury sextiles Mars on June 21st (8:23 AM PDT) at 18°39’ of Gemini and Leo. Put ideas into dramatic and creative action!
[10:10] On June 23rd (8:55 AM PDT), the Sun makes a sextile to the North Node of the Moon at 01°56’ Cancer and Taurus. The Sabian symbol for the Sun at this sextile is 2 Cancer, A man on a magic carpet hovers over a large area of land. The Sabian symbol for the North Node is 2 Taurus, An electrical storm.
[12:09] A sextile aspect represents an opportunity, invitation, or a thought. It brings benefits if you make an effort to take advantage of opportunities. Use the reflective quality of Cancer season to get more perspective on what is available.
[13:22] Moon Report! There are no major lunations this week, so let’s focus on the Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On June 20th (2:43 PM PDT), the Moon in Cancer opposes Pluto in Capricorn. It will be VOC for 21 minutes before entering Leo (3:04 PM PDT). This is the first time the Moon in Cancer has made an opposition to Pluto since March 3, 2023. This is a time to go back and visit some emotional patterns that we might have thought we had worked through and gotten past.
[15:14] On June 22nd (10:00 AM PDT), the Moon in Leo squares Uranus in Taurus. This kicks off a VOC Moon period that lasts for 17 ½ hours (!!!). The Moon enters Virgo on June 23rd (3:35 AM PDT). Ask yourself during this VOC Moon period, “Am I willing to risk feeling uncomfortable in order to pursue my passion?”
[17:00] The Moon in Virgo trines Pluto in Capricorn on June 25th (3:54 PM PDT). It will be VOC for just a little over a half an hour before entering Libra (3:57 PM PDT). Think less about being perfect and more about being helpful.
[19:09] Listener Edna asks about how to integrate the astrology you hear in podcasts into daily life. You may want to consider an astrological journal such as the Honeycomb Collective Astrological Almanac. Check out April’s Working with the Moon workbook as well - free at each New Moon for subscribers!
[25:39] If you have a question you’d like April to answer on a future episode, please leave a message of one minute or less at speakpipe.com/bigskyastrologypodcast or email her at april(at)bigskyastrology(dot)com and be sure to put “Podcast Question” in the subject line.
[26:10] If you like what you’re hearing, please subscribe, follow, like and share! This episode is brought to you by donors Charlotte Benzinger and Priscilla Orta-Wenner!
[27:07] Love the podcast? You can offer much-appreciated financial support here! A donation of $5 or more will get you access to the Aries Equinox and Cancer Solstice bonus episodes for donors only!