Big Sky Astrology Podcast

311 | Gemini Quarter Moon Square Dance, and Mercury Cazimi!

A big THANK YOU to everyone who donated during last week’s 6th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Make sure to check out last week's special Podathon interviews - and it’s not too late to throw your name in the hat for a chance to win a reading or eclipse report! Just make your donation of $25 or more (or become a monthly contributor) by Mon. Sep. 8, by 11:59 pm PDT!
This week: Mercury and the Sun's latest conjunction means it’s cazimi time. The dynamic duo also oppose the lunar nodes and sextile Jupiter, in a gentle push toward the Pisces North Node’s forgiving nature and Jupiter's fortunate opportunities. The Gemini Last Quarter Moon do-si-do’s toward better communication as we approach next week's solar eclipse. And we replay an appropriate listener question about the week between eclipses. Plus: Caravans and gondoliers, masters and pupils, and an eclipse interregnum!
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
[2:50] On Wed. Sep. 10 (12:20 PM PDT), the Sun opposes the North Node at 18º20’ Virgo-Pisces, shining a light on a goal that may feel just out of reach. The Sabian symbols for this degree axis, 19 Virgo, A swimming race, and 19 Pisces, A master instructing his pupil. Lean into compassion, forgiveness, a release of harsh judgments.
[4:06] Mercury opposes the North Node on Thu. Sep. 11 (6:59 PM PDT) at 18º20’ Virgo-Pisces. Pay attention to a chance comment, a phrase you overhear, some kind of intuitive nudge that could spark your urge to grab for that North Node brass ring.
[4:56] The Sun sextiles Jupiter on Fri. Sep. 12 (12:30 AM PDT) at 19º48’ Virgo-Cancer. The Sabian symbols are 20 Virgo, An automobile caravan and 20 Cancer, Gondoliers in a serenade.
[7:27] Mercury sextiles Jupiter on Fri. Sep. 12 (2:53 PM PDT), 19°53’ Virgo- Cancer. This is an amazing transit for articulating your beliefs and dreams for the future.
[8:34] Mercury conjoins the Sun on Sat. Sep. 13 (3:52 AM PDT) at 20º54’ Virgo, bringing a potent cazimi moment. Check out the listener question from Episode 259 for more on the cazimi period. This cazimi period is between Fri. Sep. 12 (8:18 PM PDT) and Sat. Sep. 13 (11:28 AM PDT). These cazimi periods are times of clarity and insight. The Sabian symbol is 21 Virgo, A girl's basketball team.
[11:10] Moon Report! The Gemini Last Quarter Moon (Sep. 14, 3:33 AM PDT at 21º52’ Gemini-Virgo) emphasizes final action toward Virgo New Moon (Aug. 22) goals. This Last Quarter Moon highlights communication. This is an opportunity to clear up confusion, refine our intentions, and prepare for the big reset at the upcoming solar eclipse.
[14:25] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter (last action point) in an LPFC that began with a New Moon on June 17, 2023, at 26º43’ Gemini, and continues its themes over three years. The First Quarter Moon (first action point) of this LPFC was on March 16, 2024, at 27º03’ Gemini. The Full Moon (awareness point) was on December 15, 2024, at 23º52’ Gemini.
[15:53] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. On Mon. Sep. 8 (10:44 AM PDT), the Moon in Pisces conjoins Saturn. It's VOC for 53 minutes, then enters Aries (11:37 AM PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of not taking feedback personally, focusing instead on creating positive boundaries in relationships.
[17:43] On Tue. Sep. 9 (11:53 PM PDT), the Moon in Aries opposes Mars. The Moon is then VOC for 13 hours, 10 minutes before it enters Taurus on Sep. 10 (1:03 PM PDT). Practice diplomacy, and think about how your actions could affect other people, especially your partner.
[18:44] On Fri. Sep. 12 (1:14 PM PDT), the Moon in Taurus sextiles Saturn. It's VOC for 1 hour, 24 minutes, then enters Gemini (2:38 PM PDT).
[19:48] The Moon in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Sun. Sep. 14 (3:46 PM PDT). The Moon will be VOC for 1 hour, 44 minutes before entering Cancer (5:30 PM PDT). Compromise when it's necessary and set boundaries while being respectful, especially with authority figures in your life.
[20:52] Listener Scout asks about what we should focus on during the time in between eclipses, and what is the meaning for people who are born between eclipses? If you want to know more about eclipses and specifically eclipses in your own birth chart, order April’s Moonshadow Eclipse report.
[27:36] 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!
[28:27] A tribute to this week's donors - and another big thank you to everyone who showed support for the podcast during last week's Podathon! You still have time before 11:59 PM this evening, Sep. 8th, Pacific Time, to make your donation and be entered in the drawing tomorrow for a chance to win a prize!

310 | Podathon Day 5: Astro*Carto*Graphy with Ronnie Gale Dreyer!

It’s the final day of the 6th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! In five big daily episodes this week, we’re bringing you the day’s major astrological news, along with an interview from one of five wonderful astrologers in five different specialties! Today: Uranus turns retrograde, and we look at Sunday’s Pisces Full Moon/Total Lunar Eclipse! And today’s interview is with Ronnie Gale Dreyer, who shares her knowledge and perspectives on Astro*Carto*Graphy, including: beyond Venus and Jupiter lines, remote activation, and how your planetary lines sometimes come to you! Plus, all the Podathon news, including how to make your donation, receive special gifts, and be enrolled in a drawing for a chance to win one of six fabulous prizes! Don't forget to make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com!
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 Sixth 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!
Donate $25 or more, or become a monthly donor, to be entered into 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 worth of eclipses in your birth chart!
To be entered in the drawing, make your $25 donation or become a monthly donor at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than 11:59 pm PDT on Monday, Sep. 8. The drawing will be held on Sep. 9, and winners will be notified by email.
[1:55] Can't contribute that much? That's ok! Donate $10 or more to gain access to April's special series of YouTube videos for donors only, released over the next twelve months!
[3:49] 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.
[5:28] Uranus turns retrograde (Fri. Sep 5, 9:51 pm PDT) at 1°27’ Gemini. Uranus will re-enter Taurus on Nov. 7, and turns direct on Feb. 3, 2026 (6:33 pm PDT) at 27°27’ Taurus, finally returning to Gemini on Apr. 25, 2026. A transiting planet that’s retrograde sometimes appears to behave contrary to its usual mode – in the case of Uranus, seeming to toe the line and go along with the crowd. Note, “seeming to.”
[7:14] The Moon trines Mars (Fri. Sep 5, 1:51 pm PDT) at 19°05’ Aquarius and Libra. It’s VOC for 19 hours, 3 minutes before it enters Pisces (Sat. Sep. 6, 8:54 am). This is an energizing transit for social commitments.
[8:03] The Pisces Full Moon (Sun. Sep. 7, 11:08 am PDT) is a total lunar eclipse at 15°22’ Pisces and Virgo. The Full Moon reveals what’s working in our lives and what isn’t. Eclipses represent a crisis or turning point, and Lunar Eclipses are especially important for relationships. The Sabian symbol for the eclipse is 16 Pisces, “The flow of inspiration,” and the Sun is on 16 Virgo, “An orangutan.” Together, they suggest something about letting our inspiration be inspired by wildness and lack of refinement.
[9:54] Previous eclipses near this eclipse point: March 9, 2016 (solar); Sep. 7, 2006 (lunar); Sep. 6, 1998 (lunar); March 9, 1997 (solar). Themes from those time periods might be important to you now.
[10:39] If you need a little help figuring that all out, ORDER APRIL'S MOONSHADOW ECLIPSE REPORT! For the years 2025, 2026, and 2027, this report will show where all the eclipses are falling in your chart, the aspects they’re making to your birth planets, and most importantly, the previous years in their cycles! You can order the report at eclipseastrology.com.
[11:21] INTERVIEW: Astro*Carto*Graphy with Ronnie Gale Dreyer.
[12:40] What is Astro*Carto*Graphy, and how does it add a new or different perspective to a natal chart?
[15:54] An explanation of the planetary lines on an Astro*Carto*Graphy map.
[19:28] Interpreting an Astro*Carto*Graphy map alongside a natal chart.
[22:07] Looking at planetary lines on an Astro*Carto*Graphy map versus actually experiencing a location.
[23:52] Is Astro*Carto*Graphy only useful for deciding where to move or where to travel?
[27:24] What is remote activation in Astro*Carto*Graphy?
[29:56] What is the first step Ronnie would recommend for someone who is curious about Astro*Carto*Graphy? Does she recommend that people visit their planetary lines in person or activate them in other ways? What are some Astro*Carto*Graphy resources? The Psychology of Astrocartography, Martin Davis, Kepler College, Astro.com were mentioned.
[34:25] Make sure to check out Ronnie’s offerings on her website! She will be giving a presentation on Astro*Carto*Graphy for OPA in November.
[36:13] And that's a wrap for the Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com and to be entered in our drawing for a chance to win a reading or report, donate $25 or more, or become a monthly donor, no later than 11:59 pm PDT!

309 | Podathon Day 4: Hellenistic Astrology, with Patrick Watson!

It’s Day 4 of the 6th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! In five big daily episodes this week, we’re bringing you the day’s major astrological news, along with an interview from one of five wonderful astrologers in five different specialties! Today, a sobering conjunction from Moon to Pluto, and the drive and impatience of the evening’s Mars-Jupiter square. And today’s interview is with Patrick Watson, who gives an overview of Hellenistic Astrology! Including: Hellenistic astrology as Latin, a case for determinism, and reading the room! Plus, all the Podathon news, including how to make your donation, receive special gifts, and be enrolled in a drawing for one of six terrific prizes!
Tune in tomorrow for Day Five of the Podathon! And make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com!
 
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 the Sixth 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!
[2:50] Donate $25 or more or become a monthly donor to be entered into 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 for a chance to win one of these prizes, make your $25 donation or become a monthly donor at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than 11:59 pm PDT on Monday, September 8th. The drawing will be held on September 9th, and winners will be notified by email.
[3:27] Can't contribute that much? That's ok! Donate $10 or more to gain access to April's special series of YouTube videos for donors only!
[3:39] If you can’t contribute financially, here are some free ways to help the show! Please subscribe or follow the Big Sky Astrology Podcast on your app of choice. Enthusiastic 5-star ratings and reviews are welcome, and please share the show with your astrology-loving friends.
[5:15] Mars squares Jupiter (September 4, 7:58 pm PDT) at 18°35’ Libra and Cancer. The Moon enters Aquarius (3:31 am PDT), sextiles Neptune in Aries (5:51 am PDT), trines Uranus in Gemini (6:12 am PDT), then conjoins Pluto (6:40 am PDT).
[6:08] A lunar aspect is generally influential for a couple of hours, in this case between about 5:40 - 7:40 am PDT. You may have a hard time getting moving when you wake up, but with the Mars-Jupiter square already coloring the mood of the day, you could also feel a rush of excitement and enthusiasm for something that you want to get done.
[7:28] Interview with astrologer Patrick Watson about Hellenistic Astrology.
[9:02] What distinguishes Hellenistic astrology from other types of astrology? Why is Hellenistic astrology Patrick’s astrology of choice?
[14:36] When compared to modern astrology, does Hellenistic astrology focus more on fate?
[19:30] How does Patrick work with the idea of fate during consultations?
[22:12] Thoughts on putting a positive spin on difficult transits.
[25:12] Are techniques such as profections, zodiacal releasing and sect a part of Patrick’s astrological toolbox? Are there any other techniques in Hellenistic astrology that give insights that a modern astrological technique might not?
[36:30] The importance of journaling and tracking personal transits.
[37:41] Recommended resources for learning more about Hellenistic astrology: The Astrology Podcast; Adam Elenbaas of Nightlight Astrology; Demetra George’s Ancient Astrology Volume 1, Ancient Astrology Volume 2 and Astrology and the Authentic Self.
[39:30] You can find Patrick Watson’s offerings on his website PatrickWatsonAstrology.com. He is also the president of CAPISAR.
[41:25] And that's a wrap for the fourth day of the Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com, and join April again tomorrow morning for one FINAL Podathon episode!

308 | Podathon Day 3: Psychological Astrology, with Margaret Gray!

It’s Day 3 of the 6th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! In five big daily episodes this week, we’re bringing you the day’s major astrological news, along with an interview from one of five wonderful astrologers in five different specialties! Today, Mercury squares Uranus – look for a breakthrough in a project – and the Moon squares Mars and opposes Jupiter, all before your morning coffee. And today’s interview is with Psychological Astrologer, Margaret Gray! Including: psyche and the soul, what to expect from a psychological astrology reading, and April finally “gets” Chiron! 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 Four of the Podathon! And make your donation at BigSkyAstropod.com!
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
[0:36] 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!
[2:34] Donate $25 or more to be entered into the drawing! One grand prize winner will win a 90-minute reading with April, two lucky donors 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 be entered in the drawing for a chance to win one of these prizes, make your $25 donation or become a monthly donor at BigSkyAstropod.com no later than 11:59 pm PDT on Monday, September 8th. The drawing will be held on September 9th, and winners will be notified by email.
[4:00] 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.
[4:24] 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.
[5:27] Mercury squares Uranus on Wed. Sep. 3 (12:40 AM PDT) at 1°27’ Virgo- Gemini.  If you've been looking for a breakthrough in any project you're working on, it will probably show up today.
[7:06] The Moon squares Mars on Wed. Sep. 3 (4:19 am PDT) at 17°31’ Capricorn-Libra. There’s a high probability of waking up on the wrong side of the bed this morning.
[7:30] The Moon opposes Jupiter on Wed. Sep. 3 (5:50 am PDT) at 18°19’ Capricorn-Cancer. Grumpiness is in the air and this transit can make mountains out of molehills. If you can get through the morning unscathed, the rest of the day looks productive and inspirational.
[7:57] Interview with Psychological Astrologer, Margaret Gray. Check out Margaret’s first appearance on the podcast in Episode 142.
[9:55] What is Psychological astrology?
[12:10] How is Psychological astrology different from conventional therapy?
[16:05] What kind of training or certification should we expect of someone who calls themselves a Psychological astrologer?
[17:38] How might a typical Psychological astrology reading differ from a regular astrology reading?
[19:53] What do you think regular astrologers should do when we find ourselves in an intense consulting situation?
[24:09] What are some helpful astrological tools that come from the Psychological branch of astrology?
[25:57] What would an astrologer get from Chiron that they are not getting from other planets?
[31:04] Resources for people at the beginning of their journey of learning more about Psychological astrology: Howard Sasportas, Liz Green, Melanie Reinhardt, Erin Sullivan, Lynn Bell, Marcia Ferreira, Alejo López, Yvonne Smith Tarnas, and Barış İlhan. (April also got a very kind shout-out, but she is not technically a Psychological astrologer.)
[33:20] Margaret can be reached at Relationshipsandastrology.com. Check out Margaret’s Centre for Relationship Astrology and the new program, Astrology of the Heart. Alex Trenoweth was mentioned.
[36:07] And that's a wrap for the third day of the Sixth Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon! Make your donation at BigSkyAstropod!

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!
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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!