Big Sky Astrology Podcast

307 | Podathon Day 2: Vedic Astrology, with Kenneth Miller!

It’s the second day of our Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! In today’s sky, Mercury enters Virgo and the Moon in Capricorn teams with the Sun in Virgo for accomplishing practical, long-term plans. And in a special Podathon interview, April talks about Vedic astrology with Kenneth Miller! Including: Square charts with triangles, the sidereal situation, and how a Leo could possibly be a Cancer!
Plus all the Podathon news, including how to make your donation, receive special gifts, and be enrolled in a drawing for one of six fabulous prizes! Tune in tomorrow for Day Three of the Podathon!
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
[0:35] It’s Day 2 of the 6th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon, with five daily episodes, all the week’s planetary news, some special podathon segments, and a chance to win prizes!
[2:28] Donate $25 or more to be entered in the drawing!  One grand prize winner will win a 90-minute reading with April, two lucky listeners will win a 60-minute personal astrology reading with April, and three lucky donors will win a copy of April’s Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report, to help you prepare for three years of eclipses!
To be entered in the drawing for a chance to win one of these prizes, you need to make your $25 donation at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than midnight (11:59 pm PDT) on Monday, September 8th. The drawing will be held on September 9th, and winners will be notified by email.
[3:37] Can't contribute $25 or more? That's ok!  Donate $10 or more to gain access to April's special series of YouTube videos!
[4:04] If you can’t contribute financially, here are some free ways to help the show! Please subscribe or follow the BigSkyAstrology Podcast on your app of choice. Enthusiastic 5-star ratings and reviews are welcome, and please share the show with your astrology-loving friends.
[5:57] Mercury enters Virgo today, Tue. Sep. 2 (6:23 am PDT).  Mercury is in its rulership in Virgo and will be in this sign until Sep. 18, 2025.  Mercury is the planet of communication, and when it's in Virgo, we’re especially adept at analysis, editing, and making informed choices.
[6:44] If you’re in business, it's a good time for updating your office systems, breaking in new software, or hiring help.  At home, while Mercury is in Virgo, get your animals to the vet for their checkups, get your own annual exam, catch up on dental work, take your car in for maintenance, and organize your closet.
[7:23] The Moon trines the Sun on Tue. Sep 2 (3:23 pm PDT) at 10°42’ Capricorn and Virgo.  This transit supports Mercury in Virgo, making the day an excellent time for accomplishing practical, long-term plans.
[7:55] Interview with Vedic astrologer, Kenneth Miller, MA.
[9:25] What is the biggest difference a person will notice when they look at a Vedic chart for the first time?
[12:16] An explanation of the aspects in Vedic astrology.
[14:12] An explanation of the Sidereal Zodiac.
[14:56] Why does Vedic astrology have a reputation for being a more predictive branch of astrology?
[18:19] What draws clients to the Vedic style of astrology?
[19:33] The Moon, lunar mansions and nakṣhatras in Vedic astrology.
[25:30] The North Node (Rahu) and the South Node (Ketu) in Vedic astrology.
[31:10] Eclipses in Vedic astrology
[33:09] Final thoughts on Vedic astrology.
[34:30] Check out Kenneth’s offerings and sign up for his newsletter here or email him at kenneth (at) celestialintelligencer (dot)net.
[35:58] Recommended resources on Vedic astrology:  James Kelleher and James Braha.
[38:10] A salute to some of our financial donors. And that's a wrap for the second day of The Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com, and join April again tomorrow morning for another episode!

306 | Podathon Day 1: Evolutionary Astrology with Dabney Lawless!

It's the first day of our Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! In this week's special daily episodes, we'll cover the day's major astrological news and feature an interview with an astrologer about their astrological specialty! Today: Saturn backs into Pisces, a Void-of-Course Moon in Sagittarius, and an interview about Evolutionary Astrology with Dabney Lawless of Lawless Astrology! And all the Podathon news, including how to make your donation, receive special gifts, and be enrolled in a drawing for one of six fabulous prizes! Plus: Past lives, factual vs true, and The Pluto Thing!
Make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com, and tune in tomorrow for Day Two of the Podathon!
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
[0:37] It’s the 6th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon, with five daily episodes, all the week’s planetary news, some special podathon segments, and a chance to win prizes!
[2:54] Donate $25 or more to be entered into the drawing for a 90-minute or 60-minute reading with April, or a copy of April’s Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report, to help you prepare for the upcoming eclipses.
To be entered in the drawing for a chance to win, make your $25 donation at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than midnight (11:59 pm PDT) on Monday, September 8th. The drawing will be held on September 9th, and winners will be notified by email.
[4:04] Can't contribute $25 or more? That's ok! Donate $10 or more to gain access to April's special series of YouTube videos on New Moons, going in depth on big planetary transits and the New Moon symbolism.
[4:38] If you can’t contribute financially, here are some free ways to help the show! Please subscribe or follow the BigSkyAstrology Podcast on your app of choice. Enthusiastic 5-star ratings and reviews are welcome and please share the show with your astrology-loving friends.
[6:42] Saturn retrogrades back into Pisces on Mon. Sep. 1 (1:07 am PDT), until it returns to Aries on Feb. 13, 2026.
[7:35] With Saturn in Pisces, the focus returns to spiritual foundations, emotional boundaries, rather than that outer-focused, “let's get it done” quality of Aries. This return of Saturn to Pisces overlaps with eclipse season, which begins at the end of this week with a Full Moon lunar eclipse in Pisces, and the Solar Eclipse at 29 Virgo on September 21, making a close opposition to Saturn in Pisces.
[8:51] The Moon squares Saturn (Sep. 1, 6:38 pm PDT) and is then Void-of-Course (VOC) for 6 minutes, when it enters Capricorn (6:44 pm PDT). Use this brief VOC Moon period to get in the habit of being kind to others.
[9:45] Interview: Evolutionary Astrologer, Dabney Lawless. OPA and Anne Ortelee were mentioned.
[13:19] How does Evolutionary Astrology differ from other approaches to astrology, especially in how it looks at the birth chart? What sets it apart from other schools of astrology? Jeff Wolf Green and Steven Forrest were mentioned.
[15:32] The roles of the Nodes and Pluto in Evolutionary Astrology.
[21:40] What kind of an experience can a client expect from an Evolutionary Astrology reading? Why would someone choose to have this type of reading?
[26:16] What does Pluto bring to an Evolutionary Astrology reading?
[32:36] Final thoughts on Evolutionary Astrology.
[34:04] Make sure to check out Dabney’s website and YouTube channel!
[35:11] And that's a wrap for the first day of The Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! A tribute to this week’s donors! And be sure to make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com. Join April tomorrow morning for another Podathon episode, including an interview with Vedic astrologer Kenneth Miller!

305 | Venus in Leo's Big Week: Shadows in Your Champagne!

This week, Venus enters the glamorous sign of Leeeeeeoooo and makes inspiring aspects to Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, plus a highly charged opposition to Pluto. Uranus and Neptune connect in their first major aspect since 1993, and the Sagittarius First Quarter Moon focuses on teaching and moving forward into the future. And coming up next week, the 6th Annual Podathon! Plus: Futuristic drawings, things you can’t undo, and a little pizazz!
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
[2:20] Venus enters Leo on Mon. Aug. 25 (9:27 AM PDT), and will be there through Sep. 19, 2025. It is a sunny, life-affirming position for Venus, but it makes a lot of important aspects this week to heavy planets, bringing some shadows to Leo's sunshine.
[3:55] On Mon. Aug. 25 (5:56 PM PDT), Venus trines Saturn at 0º25’ Leo-Aries.  Saturn tempers Venus in Leo’s extravagant tendencies. Acknowledge your responsibility in choosing partners and cultivating relationships. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
[6:09] Venus sextiles Uranus (Tue. Aug. 26, 1:58 pm PDT) at 1°25’ Leo-Gemini. New ideas appear, especially related to money, values, or relationships. New people may enter the picture and shake you out of your routines.
[7:36] Venus trines Neptune (Tue. Aug. 26, 3:18 pm PDT) at 1°29’ Leo-Aries. This aspect invites us to see the beauty in others, regard the world with a little more tenderness. Neptune also elevates Venus' creativity with inspiration, even a touch of spirituality. Together, Venus' sextile to Uranus and trine to Neptune remind us that love, beauty, and creativity are best when they open doors to inspiration and into connection with others.
[8:49] Venus opposes Pluto (Tue. Aug. 26, 10:54 pm PDT) at 01°51’ Leo-Aquarius. Challenges in relationship and finances. Find value in what cannot be taken away. This transit can feel intense but fortunately, it passes quickly. Don't do things that you can't undo. It's only one day, and by tomorrow, things could look quite different.
[11:20] Uranus sextiles Neptune (Thu. Aug. 28, 5:14 PM PDT) at 01º26’ Gemini- Aries. This is the first of five exact sextiles that they will form to each other between now and June 2027. Uranus’ last major aspect to Neptune was a conjunction in 1993, between 18-19° Capricorn (Feb. 2, Aug. 20, Oct. 24, 1993).
[13:28] Uranus in Gemini sextile Neptune in Aries, blends inventive thinking with visionary drive. Think outside the box, not just for the sake of novelty, but to serve an inspired vision of the future. This energy is great for breakthroughs in language, technology, art, or activism. If you stay grounded, this transit is powerful for creativity, spirituality, social change and for taking those first steps toward a new world.
[15:45] Moon Report! The Sagittarius First Quarter Moon is on Sat. Aug. 30 (11:25 PM PDT) at 08º07’ Sagittarius and Virgo. This is our first action point following the Aug. 22 Virgo New Moon (the first of two; the second is on Sep. 21, and is a Solar Eclipse). You don't have to have everything figured out before you begin, just start the journey and trust that the road will open as you go. The Sabian symbol for this First Quarter Moon is 9 Sagittarius, A mother with her children on the stairs. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 9 Virgo, A man makes a futuristic drawing.
[18:16] This is the First Quarter (first action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began with the New Moon in Sagittarius on Nov. 30, 2024, at 9º32’ Sagittarius. The Full Moon (awareness point) of this LPFC will occur on May 31, 2026, at 9º55’ Sagittarius, and the Last Quarter phase (last action point) is on Feb. 27, 2027, at 9º22’ Sagittarius.
[19:46] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Mon. Aug. 25 (6:53 AM PDT), the Moon in Virgo sextiles Venus. It's VOC for only 15 minutes, and then the Moon enters Libra (7:08 AM PDT). Cancer likes comfort food, and Virgo likes efficient and healthy nutrition. This Void-of-Course Moon period begins around breakfast time on the west coast of the United States, so this is a great day to start a new ritual of eating a really delicious and nutritious breakfast.
[20:55] On Tue. Aug. 26 (7:06 PM PDT), the Moon in Libra sextiles Mercury. It's VOC for 23 hours and 21 minutes, then enters Scorpio on Wed. Aug. 27 (6:27 PM PDT). Leo gives voice to the desire for balance and equality that the Moon in Libra craves. Create a habit of making decisions by using equal parts mind and heart.
[22:06] On Fri. Aug. 29 (5:47 PM PDT), the Moon in Scorpio squares Mercury. It's VOC for 13 hours, 17 minutes, and enters Sagittarius on Sat. Aug. 30 (7:04 AM PDT). If someone gets under your skin during this VOC Moon period, try very hard to keep hurtful feelings to yourself. Funnel your anger into some other enterprise, such as vigorous exercise habits, which can help keep the drama at bay and your body strong.
[23:22] There will be a pause on listener questions this week and most likely next week due to the 6th Annual Podathon! They will return the week after the Podathon, though, so by all means, keep those questions flowing!
[23:50] If you’d like to have a 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. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[24:23] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor. The Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon is coming up during Labor Day week, with interviews with five great astrologers about their astrological specialties: Ronnie Gayle Dreyer (Astro*carto*Graphy), Margaret Gray (Psychological astrology), Dabney Lawless (Evolutionary astrology), Kenneth Miller (Vedic), and Patrick Watson (Hellenistic)!

304 | Virgo New Moon: Be Helpful, Not Perfect!

This week, the planets are on a bit of a summer hiatus, with only a few major and minor aspects. The Sun enters earthy Virgo, tries to compromise with Saturn, Neptune, and Pluto, and squares off with unpredictable Uranus - and it all plays a role in the first of two consecutive Virgo New Moons. And a listener question about how to choose the best time to launch a business, astrologically speaking. Plus: Making lists, shaking things up, and a gentle shove toward reinvention!
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
[1:19] The Sun enters Virgo on Fri. Aug. 22 (1:34 pm PDT), and is in this sign through Sep. 22. The Sun in Virgo, ruled by Mercury, represents giving the self in service. The Sun in this sign unites creativity and craft, and Virgo's perfectionism can overwhelm creativity if we're not careful. Focus less on doing things perfectly and more on how being helpful and useful.
[3:17] Moon Report! Beginning with the first of two consecutive Virgo New Moons on Fri. Aug. 22 (11:07 PM PDT, 00º23’ Virgo. Let go of criticism and excessive perfectionism. And eclipses are coming: on Sep. 7, a Lunar Eclipse at 15°31’ Pisces, and the Sep. 21 New Moon/Solar Eclipse at 29°05’ Virgo. Information on a Live Q&A and a 2025 Eclipses replay are on the way!
[5:17] Virgo is associated with health, work, animals, craft. Set New Moon intentions related to service, good health, organization, learning new skills, and cultivating work that suits your talents.
[5:49] The New Moon point is quincunx Saturn (Sat. Aug. 23, 4:04 AM PDT) and Neptune in Aries (Sun. Aug. 24, 3:58 AM PDT), and Pluto in Aquarius (Sun. Aug. 24, 1:06 PM PDT). The 150º quincunx aspect separates planets are in signs of very different signs and modalities, and compromises must be reached - in this case, between Virgo’s practicality and attention to detail and Aries’ urge to just get moving; and between Aquarius’ interest in the future and Virgo’s focus on the here and now.
[7:15] The Sun squares Uranus (Sun. Aug. 24, 12:15 am PDT,  1°23’ Virgo-Gemini). What happens when quirky, unpredictable, and nonconformist Uranus meets the Sun in Virgo's affection for order, lists, and knowing what comes next? This is a great opportunity, though, to appreciate the qualities that make you unique.
[9:20] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). The First Quarter Moon (first action point) of this LPFC is on May 23, 2026 at 2º20’ Virgo. The Full Moon (awareness point) is on Feb. 20, 2027, at 2º05’ Virgo, and the Last Quarter Moon (last action point) is on Nov. 20, 2027, at 28º27’ Leo.
[11:25] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Mon. Aug. 18 (4:53 AM PDT), the Moon in Gemini sextiles the Sun. It's VOC for 7 hours, 12 minutes before it moves into Cancer (12:05 PM PDT). Promote what’s near and dear to your heart.
[13:12] On Wed. Aug. 20 (5:27 AM PDT), the Moon in Cancer conjoins Venus. It's VOC for 10 hours, 50 minutes, then enters Leo (4:17 PM PDT). The Moon and Venus in cozy Cancer lobby for comfort and security. Show appreciation to those you value.
[14:36] On Thu. Aug. 21 (11:13 AM PDT), the Moon in Leeeeooo conjoins Mercury. The Moon is VOC for 1 day, 11 hours, and 11 minutes before the entering Virgo on Fri. Aug. 22 (10:24 PM PDT). Communication with healing, joy, and Leo sunshine.
[16:14] Listener Yvonne asks about how to choose the best time to launch a business, astrologically speaking. A helpful resource: Rex Bills’ The Rulership Book.
[22:13] What are some good personal transits for business?
[24:36] If you’d like to have a 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. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[25:10] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor. The Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon is coming up during Labor Day week – stay tuned for details!

303 | Venus Joins Jupiter: Indulge!

This week, Mercury turns direct and enjoys not one, but two sextile opportunities with Mars. Saturn makes the second of three liberating sextiles to Uranus, and Venus and Jupiter make a delicious conjunction in Cancer. The Taurus Last Quarter Moon is a time to make some final decisions on those Leo New Moon wishes, and April answers a listener's question about the Midheaven in the Whole Sign House system. Plus: On the precipice, breaking chains, and overeating at dinner!
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
[1:22] Mercury stations direct on Mon. Aug. 11 (12:30 AM PDT) at 4º14’ Leo. Mercury began its retrograde period on July 17, 2025, at 15°34’ Leo. While communication and travel may start to smooth out now, it's probably a good idea not to let your guard completely down just yet. Mercury also rules merchants and trade, so this can be a day when something shifts in your business or financial matters. Mercury turns direct on the Sabian symbol 5 Leo, Rock formations at the edge of a precipice.
[3:51] Saturn sextiles Uranus on Mon. Aug. 11 (8:33 PM PDT) at 1º12’ Aries-Gemini. This is the second of three sextiles that Saturn will make to Uranus. The first was back on April 4, 2025, and the final one in the series comes on Jan. 19, 2026. Saturn is a rule maker, Uranus a rule breaker. Uranus presents an opportunity for liberation.
[5:52] Venus conjuncts Jupiter on Mon. Aug. 11 (10:30 PM PDT) at 14º03’ Cancer. Jupiter is exalted (especially strong) in Cancer, and the Sabian symbol for this degree couldn't be more perfect: 15 Cancer, A group of people who have over eaten and enjoyed it.
[7:55] This week, Mercury will make two separate sextile aspects to Mars. The first is on Thu. Aug. 14 (7:05 PM PDT) at 5º05’ Leo-Libra. Energetic Mars has your mind working overtime. Watch out for arguments.
[10:53] The second Mercury-Mars sextile Mars is on Sunday, Aug. 17 (10:33 PM PDT) at 7º04’ Leo-Libra. Mind your words, channel any anger or frustration constructively. These Mercury-Mars sextiles bring sharp, energized, focused communication.
[11:58] Moon Report! The Taurus Last Quarter Moon is on Fri. Aug. 15 (10:12 PM PDT) at 23º36’ Taurus-Leo. It's the last action point following the Leo New Moon on July 24, 2025. This is a terrific Last Quarter Moon to take concrete steps toward your goals. Take stock, focus on what matters, and use this time to bring something meaningful into reality.
[14:10] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter (final action point) in an LPFC that began on May 19, 2023, at 28º25’ Taurus. The First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC came on February 16, 2024, at 27º25’ Taurus. The Full Moon (awareness point) in this LPFC was on Nov. 15, 2024, at 24º00’ Taurus. This is the time to bring this LPFC to completion and place it into context.
[16:22] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The first VOC Moon period began last week on Sun. Aug. 10 (11:55 PM PDT), when the Moon made a trine to Jupiter and was VOC for 1 day, 3 hours and 38 minutes. It enters Aries this week on Tue. Aug. 12 (3:33 AM PDT). This is an emotionally healing time. Initiate a habit of expressing kindness and nourishment to all, and that includes yourself.
[17:33] On Wed. Aug. 13 (3:54 PM PDT), the Moon in Aries trines the Sun. It's VOC for 14 hours, 28 minutes, and enters Taurus on Aug. 14 (6:22 AM PDT). Initiate a habit of practicing gratitude just for being alive on the planet.
[18:37] On Fri. Aug. 15 (10:12 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus squares the Sun. It's VOC for 10 hours and 49 minutes, then enters Gemini on Aug. 16 (9:01 AM PDT). The Moon in Taurus and the Sun in Leo share an appreciation for the finer things in life, but not everyone has millions of dollars to spend on fancy trinkets. Embrace the concept of “quiet luxury”, meaningful but inexpensive indulgences.
[20:40] Listener Catherine asks about the Midheaven in the Whole Sign House system.
[28:37] If you’d like to have a 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. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[29:10] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor. The 2025 Big Sky Astrology Pod-a-Thon is coming up during Labor Day week – stay tuned for details!

302 | Aquarius Full Moon: Find Your People!

This week, Mars enters the diplomatic sign of Libra and mixes it up with Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The Aquarius Full Moon calls for a review of social alliances and Leo New Moon goals. And in the spirit of this very Mars-oriented week, a listener question about the Mars return. Plus: Powering through, underdogs, and cats that want what they want!
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
[1:21] Mars enters Libra (Wed. Aug. 6, 4:23 PM PDT, through Sep. 22, 2025), which is not exactly its favorite sign. The themes of Mars in Libra are about balancing action with ideals and making sure that what you do reflects what you believe, especially when it comes to fairness, justice, or the people that you care about.
[3:38] Mars trines Uranus (Fri. Aug. 8, 11:45 AM PDT) at 1º07’ Libra-Gemini. This combination can spark breakthroughs, but also impulsiveness and recklessness. Assert yourself, but be cautious.
[5:45] On Fri. Aug. 8 (7:52 PM PDT), Mars opposes Saturn at 1°20’ Libra-Aries. This can bring resistance, but don’t give up. Use this aspect to take one small strategic action that can help move you forward.
[8:20] Moon Report! The Aquarius Full Moon is on Sat. Aug. 9 (12:55 AM PDT), 16º59’ Aquarius-Leo. Ask yourself how you can influence the world in a meaningful way. Gather with those who share your ideals to further your Leo New Moon creative goals. The Sabian symbol for this Full Moon is 17 Aquarius: A watchdog standing guard, and the Sun is on the symbol 17 Leo, A non-vested church choir. Find your people, raise your voice, and shape the future together.
[12:09] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in an LPFC that began with the New Moon on Feb. 9, 2024, at 20º40’ Aquarius. The First Quarter Moon (first action point) of this LPFC was on Nov. 8, 2024, at 17º19’ Aquarius. The Last Quarter Moon (final action point) is on May 9, 2026, at 19º14’ Aquarius.
[13:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Tue, Aug. 5 (8:29 AM PDT), the Moon in Sagittarius squares Mars in Virgo. It's VOC for 1 hour 35 minutes, then enters Capricorn (10:04 AM PDT). Get in the habit of thinking before you speak.
[15:27] On Wed. Aug. 6 (10:40 AM PDT), the Moon in Capricorn opposes Jupiter in Cancer. The Moon will be VOC for 1 day, 7 hours, and 38 minutes (!!!) before it enters Aquarius on Aug. 7 (6:18 PM PDT). During this VOC Moon period, monitor how you cope when things get difficult. Are there more effective tactics you could use?
[17:28] On Sat. Aug. 9 (12:55 AM PDT), the Moon in Aquarius opposes the Sun in Leo. It's VOC for 22 hours 55 minutes (!!!), then enters Pisces (11:50 PM PDT). Evaluate what you want versus what society wants. Consider how your desires and needs can affect the others around you and also help you clarify what you want.
[18:49] Mars opposes Neptune (Sat. Aug. 9, 3:13 PM PDT) at 1°50’ Libra- Aries. Slow down, soften your approach, and consider how to use Mars energy on behalf of others. Bring spiritual and artistic influences into daily routines. Practice flexibility; get rest, reflect, and connect. Think less about what you can achieve and more about what you can contribute.
[21:35] On Sun. Aug. 10 (5:29 AM PDT), Mars trines Pluto at 2º12’ Libra-Aquarius. This is a powerful aspect for pushing through limits, especially in the areas of partnership, justice and progress. But if your efforts don't seem to make a difference, resist the temptation to just give up. What matters most is how you handle your weakness, your anger, and your frustration.
[24:09] Listener Emily asks about the Mars Return.
[28:47] If you’d like to have a 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. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[29:19] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.

301 | Scorpio First Quarter Moon: Slaying Dragons!

This week, Venus enters cozy Cancer, but the nest is disturbed by tense aspects to Saturn and Neptune. Mercury retrograde cazimi in Leeeeooooo offers clarifying insights into your individual genius. The Scorpio First Quarter Moon encourages a passionate and determined move forward on those Leo New Moon wishes. And a listener question about the Progressed Ascendant moving into a new house of the birth chart. Plus: A fellowship supper, Saturn’s superpowers, and being the new kid in school!
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
[1:23] Venus enters Cancer (Wed. July 30, 8:57 PM PDT), for a season of enjoying and beautifying your home. Entertain loved ones at home. But with Venus and Jupiter both in Cancer, keep a handle on your spending.
[2:44] Mercury retrograde makes a conjunction with the Sun on Thu, July 31 (4:41 PM PDT) at 09º00’ Leo. A planet conjoined the Sun within 17 minutes of orb is said to be cazimi or in the heart of the Sun. Mercury will be cazimi period on this date between 12:41 PM and 8:42 PM PDT. Anticipate flashes of mental clarity, communication breakthroughs, and creative insights. Check out Episode 259’s listener question for a more detailed explanation of cazimi planets.
[4:47] Moon Report! The Scorpio First Quarter Moon (Fri. Aug. 1, 5:41 AM PDT, 09º31’ Scorpio) is an action point in the Leo New Moon cycle that began on July 24. This is a Moon that invites you to dig deep and address what is really going on. Be patient with others and gentle with yourself. The Moon is on the Sabian symbol 10 Scorpio, A fellowship supper. The Sun is on the Sabian symbol 10 Leo, Early morning dew.
[7:20] This is the First Quarter (first action point) in a lunar phase family cycle (LPFC) that began at the Nov. 1, 2024 Scorpio New Moon at 09º35’ Scorpio. The Full Moon (awareness point) in this LPFC is on May 1, 2026 at 11º20’ Scorpio. The Last Quarter (last action point) is on Jan. 29, 2027 at 09º17’ Scorpio.
[9:46] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods for the week. On Mon. July 28 (5:57 PM PDT), the Moon in Virgo squares Venus in Gemini. It's VOC for 4 hours, 46 minutes, then enters Libra (10:43 PM PDT). We could see some difficulty in self-expression in relationships at this VOC Moon period.
[10:57] On Tue. July 29, the Moon in Libra squares Jupiter in Cancer (8:59 PM PDT). It's VOC for 1 day, 13 hours and 26 minutes, then enters Scorpio on Thu. July 31 (10:25 AM PDT). Cultivate a more accepting attitude toward others who come from a different background than you do, and toward those close to you who struggle to be accepting.
[12:31] On Sat. Aug. 2 (6:07 PM PDT), the Moon in Scorpio sextiles Mars in Virgo. It's VOC for 4 hours, 53 minutes, and then enters Sagittarius (11:00 PM PDT). Make a conscious effort to be honest, but kind. Tackle projects that require intense focus and organization.
[13:32] Venus squares Saturn (Fri. August 1, 6:34 AM PDT) at 1°37’ Cancer-Aries. Time to get serious about love, money, and your home life. Take accountability, make a plan, set some boundaries, and take responsibility. Establishing better emotional boundaries at home, and consider needs vs wants.
[15:53] Venus squares Neptune on Fri. Aug. 1 (1:49 pm PDT) at 1°58’ Cancer-Aries. The thing or person that you suddenly feel drawn to might not be what they seem. With Mercury retrograde in the mix, old lovers or financial concerns might resurface, so that you have to take another look. You might come away with a clearer sense of what or who is worth your time, energy and love.
[17:04] Listener Kelly asks about the Progressed Ascendant moving into a new house of the birth chart.
[19:52] Progressed Ascendant in the first house.
[20:30] Progressed Ascendant in the second house.
[21:30] Progressed Ascendant in the third house.
[22:26] Progressed Ascendant in the fourth house.
[23:23] Progressed Ascendant in the fifth house.
[24:58] If you’d like to have a 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. Free ways to support the podcast: subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[25:33] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor. Heads up, the Sixth Annual Podathon is coming up during Labor Day Week!

300 | Leo New Moon: Razzle-Dazzle!

Welcome to the 300th Episode of the Big Sky Astrology Podcast! This week, the summer transits are heating up with the help of the Sun and Venus. Venus squares the Lunar Nodes and her cosmic lover, Mars. The Sun enters its happy place of Leeeeeooooo and aspects nearly everything - Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The week ends on a very dynamic and powerful Leo New Moon, complete with the Sun in opposition to Pluto. Plus: Strength, radical hairstyles, and razzle-dazzle!
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Timestamps
[1:19] Celebrating 300 episodes of the podcast, and thanking and remembering those who've helped the podcast flourish throughout the years!
[3:45] Venus squares the Lunar Nodes (Mon. July 21, 6:21 PM PDT) at 19°32’ Gemini, Pisces, and Virgo. Venus is on the Sabian symbol 20 Gemini, A cafeteria. The South Node is on the Sabian symbol 20 Virgo, An automobile caravan. The North Node's Sabian symbol is 20 Pisces, A table set for an evening meal. Choose the meal, not the buffet, and share it with others.
[6:18] Sun enters Leeeeeooooo on Tue. July 22 (6:29 am PDT, through Aug. 22). The Sun rules Leo and favors recreation, play, creative self-expression, and love affairs. The tarot card that's associated with Leo is Strength and the card is associated with the keyword compassion. In medical astrology, Leo rules the spine and the heart, fitting for a sign that is so associated with dignity, courage, and vitality. Leo season is a good time to tend whatever it is that keeps us strong and centered.
[8:43] On Tue. July 22 (10:32 PM PDT), the Sun sextiles Uranus at 00°38’ Leo and Gemini. The Sun, which represents ego, vitality, and awareness, is now spotlighting the themes of change, innovation and reinvention.
[10:36] Venus squares Mars (Wed. July 23, 1:23 AM PDT) at 21°00’ Gemini-Virgo. Venus and Mars are both symbols of relationship and in your personal life, this aspect might have you feeling a sudden spark or reconnecting with an ex.
[11:54] The Sun trines Saturn (Thu. July 24, 4:23 AM PDT) at 1°49’ Leo- Aries. It's a productive transit, when hard work begins to get some recognition. The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 2 Leo, An epidemic of mumps; Saturn’s is 2 Aries, A comedian entertaining a group.
[14:21] The Sun trines Neptune (Thu. July 24, 10:31 am PDT) at 2°04’ Leo-Aries. A wonderful day for creativity or spirituality, but remember, no one has all the answers. The Sun’s Sabian symbol is 3 Leo, A woman having her hair bobbed. Neptune’s Sabian symbol is 3 Aries, A cameo profile of a man, in the outline of his country.
[16:38] Moon Report! The Leo New Moon (Thu. July 24, 12:11 pm PDT) is at 2°08’ Leo on Sabian symbol 3 Leo, A woman having her hair bobbed. This is our moment to shine, express ourselves boldly, initiate something creative or romantic. Not all rules deserve to be followed, and sometimes we have to refuse to conform in order to claim freedom to be ourselves.
[19:14] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This New Moon begins a lunar phase family cycle that continues over the next few years, offering plenty of time to realize Leo New Moon ambitions. The First Quarter (first action point) is on April 23, 2026, the Full Moon (awareness point) is on Jan. 22, 2027, and the Last Quarter Moon (final action point) is on Oct. 22, 2027.
[21:35] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon Periods. On Mon. July 21 (12:52 PM PDT), the Moon in Gemini squares Mars in Virgo. It's then VOC for 16 hours and 34 minutes before it enters Cancer on Tue. July 22 (5:26 AM PDT). Communications from the past could come to the forefront, along with hurt feelings or anger. Forgive and move on; leave the past in the past.
[22:50] On Wed. July 23 (5:42 PM PDT), the Moon sextiles Mars. It's VOC for 14 hours and 46 minutes then enters Leo on Thu. July 24 (8:28 AM PDT). This can be a good day to organize your home.
[23:50] On Sat. July 26 (4:02 AM PDT), the Moon in Leo sextiles Venus in Gemini. It's VOC for 9 hours 53 minutes before it enters Virgo (1:55 PM PDT). This is a good spa day, so embrace some pampering.
[24:54] The Sun opposes Pluto at 2°35’ Leo-Aquarius on Thu. July 24 (11:33 PM PDT). This powerful alignment comes only once a year and it invites a kind of personal reckoning. Think of it as kind of an energetic cleanse. The Sun's Sabian symbol is 3 Leo, A woman having her hair bobbed. Pluto’s Sabian symbol is 3 Aquarius, A deserter from the navy. Let go, stand firm in your truth, and don't be afraid to challenge the rules that don't fit.
[27:08] Listener Questions will be back next week! If you’d like to have a 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. Free ways to support the podcast: Subscribe, like, review and share with a friend!
[28:15] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only videos, go to BigSkyAstropod.com and contribute $10 or more. You can make a one-time donation in any amount or become an ongoing monthly contributor.