New Moon Magic with Risa Dickens and Amy Torok

The elements are foundational in astrology. They form the "ecology" of your chart. In this episode, Rebecca Gordon joins me to talk about elements in the natal chart and what it has to say about your personality. She also shares info about her upcoming class. 

Episode 172. Why are past lives important, and what do the lunar nodes have to do with them? In this episode of Astrology Bytes, Kim Woods joins me to teach about Nodal Past Lives. Learn what the nodes have to say about previous incarnations - and how this info can help you live better now.

Episode 171. Pluto takes about 248 years to cycle through every sign in the zodiac, which means it spends anywhere from 14 to 30 years in a sign. Pluto transits show where transformation is taking place.  Keep in mind there is a destruction phase before the evolution happens. Pluto is never easy, but it always leaves things better than where it found it so to speak. Because Pluto spends so long in a sign, it represents generational shifts. Let’s go through each sign: Aries - When Pluto is in Aries, the focus shifts to individualism. It’s a time when the bold step forward to blaze new trails. It’s a fantastic period for exploring and experimenting. Because of the impulsive nature of Aries, it’s also possible mistakes can be made. Carelessness and selfish motives need to be avoided as much as possible under this transit. Taurus - When Pluto is in Taurus, resources go through massive changes. It can be a time of great monetary gains and losses. The shadow side is exploiting others for gain. That includes pillaging the earth. During this transit, great care must be taken to protect the earth as well as oppressed people from the privileged few. Gemini - When Pluto is in Gemini, our way of communicating changes. We might see great advances in transportation as well. The last time Pluto was in Gemini, the telephone was developed, which changed the way we connect with each other. It’s possible teleportation, or new forms of technology may be developed that could end pollution the next time Pluto moves through this sign. Cancer - When Pluto is in Cancer, security is the theme. Countries could go through periods of economic uncertainty, which could find people making major adjustments to how they handle their resources. The way we live is also up for review. Families and homes could look much different by the end of this transit. Leo - When Pluto is in Leo, the focus is on youth. There could be a lot of babies being born or a generation of young people who start making waves. How we do leisure may change too. Different forms of play or sports may emerge. This transit could also see bold new artists emerge. The shadow side is “me me me,” something that characterized the boomers who were born during the last Pluto in Leo transit. Virgo - When Pluto is in Virgo, working conditions go through massive changes. The old way gets dismantled so new technological advances can be built. Virgo is associated with service, so how we take care of marginalized people can also change. Of course, that isn’t necessarily a good development, especially if the ones in charge have a “pull yourself up by the bootstraps” philosophy. (So Virgo!) Libra - When Pluto is in Libra, issues around law and fairness become center stage. New laws could be written, which could create better equity. This is a time for social justice, so there could also be unrest. Relationships may also undergo a complete transformation. The old way is over, and people may choose to be together in nontraditional ways. Scorpio - When Pluto is in Scorpio, our feelings about sex change. This could mean a sexual revolution or a time when people become more cautious. Either way, something happens that makes people question issues around consent, monogamy, and free love. The last time Pluto was in Scorpio brought the AIDS epidemic, which drastically shifted the way we behaved in casual encounters. Sagittarius - When Pluto is in Sagittarius, it can mean more travel. The world suddenly becomes smaller and global. We can see how the other half lives and learn from them. Education trends could shift too. For example, we saw the rise of more online learning the last time Pluto was in Sagittarius. Religion and spirituality can also become hot topics. We might see the collapse of some institutions and the rise of fanatical cults. Capricorn - When Pluto is in Capricorn, governments, and corporations undergo changes. For example, some governments could fall while other, newer leaders emerge. The battle between the old way and progress is fierce during this transit as the few try to cling to power, even if they have to resort to unfair tactics. Corporations can rise and fall as well. This is a tense transit, but when it comes to a close, some political parties could die off, which may end up being a good thing. Aquarius - When Pluto is in Aquarius, technological advances are possible. Innovation can pave the way for new ways of living, working, and communicating. Communities are also undergoing changes. There could be gentrification or different ways of living in harmony with each other. Pluto in Aquarius can signal rebellion too. If society is unjust, revolution is possible. All for one and one for all! Pisces - When Pluto is in Pisces, artists are going to influence the way we live. New artists could emerge at this time, inspiring us all to make necessary changes. Spirituality is also ready for new leaders. We might see the rise of different belief systems as the old ones begin to fade. It’s also possible the ocean could undergo a significant change, especially if we don’t adopt different habits. Water supplies could become contaminated or dry up. However, this could inspire people to finally start caring about climate change, sparking a new effort to heal Mother Earth.

Episode 170. Neptune transits last about fourteen years, which means it takes 165 years to move through the entire zodiac. Neptune transits show where dream, create, and find faith. It also can shed light on where we may be delusional. Let’s go through each sign: Aries - When Neptune is in Aries, it’s time to find the line between individualism and the collective. While doing your own thing may seem like the ideal fantasy, it can also mean you’re ignoring how you fit into the bigger picture. Aries is a warrior, so this transit can also bring holy wars or foolish risks. Taurus - When Neptune is in Taurus, idealism around money and resources is possible. You may have get-rich-quick-schemes or feel like abolishing the patriarchy. This is an excellent transit for artists - you can apply practicality to your visions. Gambling should be avoided as much as possible during this transit. One minute you’re up; the next, you’re broke. Gemini - When Neptune is in Gemini, writers have the ability to convey their thoughts beautifully. Communication becomes transcendent, and there may be much originality in music, literature, and poetry. Spiritual teachers emerge, bringing new messages of hope to the world. The shadow side is a lack of focus or a feeling of disillusionment with the world. When that happens, apathy sets in, and not much gets done. Cancer - When Neptune is in Cancer, the psychic ties to the home, family, and past become stronger. Empathy is also elevated, giving everyone the opportunity to understand how the other guy feels. An ideal house or family may become possible. However, the ties to the family can also become addictive and clingy. Leo - When Neptune is in Leo, dreams become big and bold. Music, art, and cinema reach new heights. Life feels downright romantic and glittery too. However, you must exercise great caution during this period. If you’re spending like there’s no tomorrow, you could squander your resources. The Roaring 20s happened when Neptune was in Leo - a cautionary tale of too much of a good thing. Virgo - When Neptune is in Virgo, it’s not happy. The dreamy energy becomes brought down to earth. During this transit, you need to focus on practical matters. Instead of the extravagance of Neptune in Leo, thriftiness and saving are necessary. It’s time to get back to basics, including taking care of yourself. You’ll also want to watch out for excessive worry, which can quickly turn to hypochondria. Libra - When Neptune is in Libra, life seems to go back into balance after the extremes of Leo and Virgo. We can find the middle road, and peace prevails. Relationships could be idealistic - or you might find the rose-colored glasses get ripped off, revealing an unpleasant truth. This transit is excellent for artists and designers. Scorpio - When Neptune is in Scorpio, sex, drugs, and rock and roll are the mood. Intuition is elevated, and everyone wants to tune in, turn on, and drop out. Morals could become blurry, and what was once taboo may be out in the open. This is a marvelous time to develop your clairvoyance. Spiritual regeneration is also a possibility. The shadow side is secrets coming to the surface. That thing you want to stay in the dark is suddenly thrust out, and now everyone knows. Sagittarius - When Neptune is in Sagittarius, we’re all on a quest for truth and spirituality. We want to broaden our horizons through travel to distant places or exploring different religions. This is the time to question your place in the world. What’s it all about? Sometimes people can fall under the spell of dubious gurus or spiritual leaders during this time. The rise of cults and fanaticism could lead to the other extreme: cynicism. Capricorn - When Neptune is in Capricorn, we can build the dream at last. Dreams can become a reality, provided you’re ready to do the work. During this transit, governments and institutions can become unstable. Suddenly it’s revealed that the emperor doesn’t wear clothes. New ideas on how things should be run could emerge. This transit can bring problems with the stock market and financial institutions - you’ll want to invest carefully if you wish to avoid draining your resources. Aquarius - When Neptune is in Aquarius, technological advances are possible. New ideas on how to use technology can change the way we live. This is an amazing transit for science - many breakthroughs could happen. Neptune in Aquarius puts humanitarian causes front and center. Instead of “me me me,” an equitable world becomes attainable. Pisces - When Neptune is in Pisces, it’s at home because Pisces is ruled by Neptune. Spirituality, art, and intuition are elevated. Many spiritual leaders, mystics, activists, and artists will arrive on the scene. This is a lovely time to explore your creative side as well as your connection to something greater than yourself. The shadow side of this transit is addiction, religious zealotry, and a willingness to turn a blind eye toward oppressed people.

Episode 169. Uranus hangs around in each sign for about seven years. Uranus transits are associated with change and liberation. We want innovation and freedom in the areas each sign rules. We might also experience shake-ups and wake-ups. Let’s go through each sign: Aries - When Uranus is in Aries, we want to do our own thing. Aries is the pioneer and concerned with blazing trails rather than playing it safe. This is not the time for conformity. Instead, Uranus in Aries celebrates the rebels. However, taken too far, that rebelliousness could turn into selfishness. Taurus - When Uranus is in Taurus, finances tend to fluctuate. While some risk is okay, it’s best not to gamble. You could lose a fortune if you do. This transit can bring unstable economies, inflation, and unexpected job changes. However, it can also deliver unexpected wealth. Sometimes Uranus in Taurus can affect the earth as in unpredictable weather. Gemini - When Uranus is in Gemini, there can be amazing progress in technology, education, and transportation. Uranus likes being in the intellectual sign of the Twins. Here the mind is free to think, ponder, and learn. Get your science on, read a book, and take plenty of trips when this transit is going on. Cancer - When Uranus is in Cancer, changes to the home or family could happen. For example, there could be technological advances for the home. Or perhaps funky decor becomes all the rage. It’s also possible that the traditional family unit could become untraditional in some way. Leo - When Uranus is in Leo, innovations in art, music, or the performing arts are possible. This is a period where the new shakes up the old, and what was once “in” becomes “out.” Expect plenty of people getting their 15 minutes of fame now. Uranus in Leo may also lead to unconventional parenting. Instead of following the rules, the kids have room to breathe. Virgo - When Uranus is in Virgo, there may be lots of changes around the workplace. People may move away from traditional jobs, or technology could make some work obsolete. New diets or health fads may be in vogue now. Whether those stay or die off will depend on how effective they are. Libra - When Uranus is in Libra, relationships go through a revolution. For example, there could be large-scale cultural changes that impact the way people meet, marry, or live together. It’s also possible a desire for freedom may play a role in how folks feel about commitment. This transit can bring about divorces or sudden changes in long-term relationships. Scorpio - When Uranus is in Scorpio, what’s considered taboo comes out of the closet. Secrets are revealed, sexual liberation is hot, and everyone wants to get it on! This transit is ideal for testing out new technology for sex too. The economy could be somewhat erratic, so it’s best to keep an eye on your money if you want to avoid loss. Sagittarius - When Uranus is in Sagittarius, changes to travel, education, and spirituality are possible. New methods of traveling the globe, as well as education reform, could radically alter the way we see the world or learn. Radical religions could be on the uptick. During this time, you’ll want to explore new worlds and keep an open mind about other people’s belief systems. Capricorn - When Uranus is in Capricorn, there could be massive changes in government. Democracies could rise and fall. It’s also the time to question traditional values. For example, if you’ve always gone along with the customs of your family, maybe you’ll want to change that up. Transiting Uranus in Capricorn can also open the door for new types of businesses or innovations in corporations. Aquarius - When Uranus is in Aquarius, it is at home because Uranus rules Aquarius. You can expect bold ideas, revolutionary thinking, and massive technological advances. You might also experience sudden changes in your friendships. For example, you might move and end up with an entirely new circle of pals. This transit is favorable for humanitarian goals, but it can also bring about radical ideologies. Pisces - When Uranus is in Pisces, there is a war between logic and fantasy. While this could be an excellent transit for avant-garde art forms and music or sci-fi writing, it can also open up the door for far-out belief systems. We tend to do a lot more navel-gazing during this transit. Prison reform, as well as technological advances in hospitals, is also possible.

Episode 168. Saturn spends about two years in a sign. Saturn transits show where we might feel limited. This is where the hard work and discipline need to happen. Let’s go through each sign: Aries - When Saturn is in Aries, we must be willing to take responsibility for ourselves. This is not the time to point the finger. Instead, you must look at your choices with care and find the courage to do the right thing. You might take on more work - or start working more on yourself. You can find success now, provided you take calculated risks. Taurus - When Saturn is in Taurus, you can get your finances in order. This period requires great fiscal responsibility, but if you’re willing to knuckle down, you can create lasting security. The economy could be a bit stressful during this time, so it’s best to be prudent with investments. This transit may also find your values going through a shift. Gemini - When Saturn is in Gemini, you can learn new things, master a subject, and excel at communication. Focus on your studies and you can get that degree. Words hold power now, so you’ll want to choose them thoughtfully. If you don’t, your words could get you in a lot of trouble. Cancer - When Saturn is in Cancer, matters around the home and family need your attention. This could be a time when you’re fixing your nest, purchasing real estate, taking care of a loved one, or setting boundaries with family. Security is on your mind now, so it’s best to save for a rainy day. Leo - When Saturn is in Leo, you can get serious about your creativity. This is an excellent time to master your artistic skills through study or practice. Saturn in Leo also brings lessons about the ego. If you’re too self-involved, you may get a nudge to focus on others. Put others first now, and you’ll continue to get plenty of applause. Virgo - When Saturn is in Virgo, work becomes a god. You may be taking on a lot of responsibility on the job or entering into a new position that requires more from you. During this period, you’ll feel as if you’re doing nothing but working. Learn to take breaks because the shadow side is burn out. This is also the time to upgrade your healthcare practices. Libra - When Saturn is in Libra, relationships are front and center. This period may find you entering into serious partnerships or dismantling the ones that no longer fit your life. Compromise will be important if you want harmony. Saturn in Libra will shine a light on what kind of partner you are - and can be if you are willing to do the work. Scorpio - When Saturn is in Scorpio, themes of power,  shared resources, sex, and intimacy are up for review. Mostly, how you handle these topics. Are you able to share yourself completely? Or do you hold back? At times you will be forced to let go of the need for control. If you can surrender, you’ll master yourself and experience true power. Sagittarius - When Saturn is in Sagittarius, you can expand your horizons through serious study, travel, or spiritual practices. Examine your beliefs. Are they grounded? What is your connection with spirit - and the world at large? You can start to see your part in the bigger picture during this transit. It’s also fantastic for going back to school. If you want to complete a degree, go for it! Capricorn - When Saturn is in Capricorn, it’s happy as can be. Saturn rules Capricorn, so the themes of responsibility, hard work, and ambition sit well here. This period is ideal for chasing your ambitions and solidifying your place in the world. You can achieve anything you put your mind to. No mountain is too steep if you’re willing to commit. Aquarius - When Saturn is in Aquarius, the focus shifts to personal goals, friendships, and the collective. If your social circle is filled with superficial associations, it may be time to shed some of these folks. It’s also an excellent period for examining your goals - and upgrading them if they no longer satisfy you. Getting involved in good causes will keep you centered. Pisces - When Saturn is in Pisces, you can expect plenty of navel-gazing. This is your time to look within and let go. Look yourself squarely in the mirror and ask, “am I happy with who I am right now?” If not, there is no better time to change. Clear the skeletons out of your closet, sign up for therapy, and shed the old. Once you emerge, you’ll feel like a completely new person.  

Episode 167. The Moon is powerful - and it is an essential part of magic. In this episode of Astrology Bytes, Risa Dickens and Amy Trok of Missing Witches, share their best tips for working with the Moon in a practical way. We also talk about their upcoming book, New Moon Magic: 13 Anti-Capitalist Tools for Resistance and Re-enchantment. 

Episode 166. Jupiter spends about a year in a sign. Jupiter transits show how we’re expanding, growing, and where we might be lucky. Let’s go through each sign: Aries - When Jupiter is in Aries, you can tap into your courage. This is the time to be yourself, take bold risks, and go where you’ve never gone before. You may encounter a few challenges this year, but these will help you grow. What’s important is that you be yourself rather than following the herd. Aries is all about going first - so why not set the next big thing trend? Taurus - When Jupiter is in Taurus, finances can thrive. It’s a great time to invest in the future, trim the fat, and find new ways of making money. Abundance is possible, but you’ll want to make sure you remain focused on security. It’s tempting to blow your cash on luxury during this transit. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the fruits of your labor, but the smart ones will keep some dough for the future. Gemini - When Jupiter is in Gemini, you can expand your mind. Sign up for classes, take short trips, update your tech skills, and read all the books. You can become scattered during this time because Gemini wants to explore everything. Indulge your curiosity, but don’t forget to finish what you start. This is also a fabulous time to expand your social circle, too. Cancer - When Jupiter is in Cancer, you might want to invest in real estate or update your living quarters. It’s also possible you may be opening your home to others or getting out of the house more. For some, this transit brings an expanded family. New in-laws or a baby bring fresh excitement to the home front. It’s also possible you may create your chosen family now. Leo - When Jupiter is in Leo, creativity blossoms. Original ideas demand attention - so let your muse thrive! Playtime is also on the front burner. There’s plenty of time to work when Jupiter is in Virgo, but for now, you should engage in fun activities that make you feel like a kid again. A few folks can get famous now. If you crave the spotlight, claim it! Virgo - When Jupiter is in Virgo, situations around work and health improve. New scientific breakthroughs could lead to important medical advances. Work may become more satisfying - or you might climb up the company ladder. This is also an excellent time to look for a new job or to update your skill set. A few lucky souls may be finally doing the work they always wanted to do. Libra - When Jupiter is in Libra, relationships become better. That may mean new partners or an improvement in a current relationship. This is a marvelous time to get married or to sign any sort of contract. It’s also possible the whole notion of what love and commitment means could expand to include different arrangements (polyamory, anyone?). Scorpio - When Jupiter is in Scorpio, finances could become mingled, benefiting both parties. For example, you may start a joint venture or get married and combine your resources. It’s also possible you may receive an inheritance. Because Scorpio is associated with sex, you might be “getting lucky” more often or with a wider range of partners. All of this is asking you to open up and learn to trust. Sagittarius - When Jupiter is in Sagittarius, it’s time to broaden your horizons through long journeys, higher education, and deep discussions about philosophy. You might feel lucky too - so don’t be afraid to roll the dice now and then. A few golden opportunities could come your way. If they do, take a chance. Above all, remember that life is an adventure and you only live once. Therefore, this is the best time to check things off your bucket list. Capricorn - When Jupiter is in Capricorn, you might want to update your structures and surroundings, especially around your work. This is the right time to start that business, ask for a raise, go for the promotion, or expand your current line of products. Be careful though - it’s too easy to work yourself to the bone during this transit. Don’t forget to put some fun on the calendar! Aquarius - When Jupiter is in Aquarius, your social life expands. Suddenly, you’re making connections with all sorts of interesting folks from different walks of life. You could get involved in new groups or worthy causes too. This transit favors innovation and rebellion. Shake up your industry. Ditch your old look and shave your head. Go buck wild! Pisces - When Jupiter is in Pisces, compassion rules. You can feel all the feelings like never before, which can awaken your empathy. This is the time for bleeding hearts, giving until it hurts, and forgiving. Creativity is abundant during this transit - make all the art your big, beautiful heart desires. Write poetry, complete that novel, and sing loudly. Remember to ground yourself so you don’t get swept away by your emotions.

Episode 165. Mars spends about two months in a sign. Mars transits show how we’re taking action, following our passions, expressing energy, or fighting. It can also give clues to how anger is manifesting. Let’s go through each sign: Aries - When Mars is in Aries, it’s in the sign it rules. This means it can express the energy freely. Mars in Aries puts an aggressive, fiery vibe into the air. It’s easier to find the courage to take risks now. Time flies quickly and you might be starting all sorts of new things. But this transit tends to make people hot-headed and impulsive. Taurus - When Mars is in Taurus, the pace is slower. You can achieve your goals but it may take more time. The good side of this transit: patience is on tap, which helps to keep the momentum going…slowly. Mars in Taurus can also bring out the stubbornness in people, which can lead to grudge matches. Gemini - When Mars is in Gemini, words are fast and furious. They can become sharp weapons as well, so you need to keep that in mind if you end up in a war of wits. This transit brings a short attention span. One moment you’re engrossed in a book, the next minute, you’re peeling onions for a new recipe. Be careful so you don’t scatter your forces to the wind. Cancer - When Mars is in Cancer, the energy is “mother lion.” We’re ready to defend our next of kin and protect our homes. Goals can change depending on moods. Mars in Cancer is also a bit cranky at times. If you’re feeling moody, be careful you don’t take it out on the ones you love. Leo - When Mars is in Leo, we can take the lead and inspire the masses! This is a fabulous transit for starting creative projects, taking command at work, and self-promotion. Toot your horn and make it loud! Set all the big goals and have faith you can attain them. This transit is more concerned with the overall picture, making it too easy to overlook the important details. Virgo - When Mars is in Virgo, work becomes a god. You’re ready to shut out distractions and get it done. This is a highly productive transit, best for handling projects that require concentration. Perfectionist tendencies loom large, which can be good or bad, depending on your mindset. A job well done feels great but if you don’t think anyone can do the job as well as you, a tendency to micromanage may set in. Libra - When Mars is in Libra, puts a great deal of focus on relationships. You might be driven to pursue a romantic partner or someone might be chasing you. Either way, this can add some excitement to your love life. Mars in Libra is not direct in other matters though. This transit brings out indecision and people-pleasing, which can make it hard to get things done or settle battles. Scorpio - When Mars is in Scorpio, it’s happy again because it rules Scorpio. Energy is intense and you can get to the bottom of anything. You can also rise to the top of a particular goal. Mars in Scorpio transits are excellent for exploring taboo topics and managing crises. However, it can bring out emotional extremes - and that could lead to explosive anger. Sagittarius - When Mars is in Sagittarius, we want to be free to do our thing. The day-to-day grind is less interesting. Instead, the urge to explore the world at large drives us. This can lead to restlessness, which needs to be kept in check. If it isn’t, it becomes too easy to chuck responsibilities in search of the next cool thing. That being said, it’s a fab transit for travel or hitting the books. Capricorn - When Mars is in Capricorn, the energy becomes grounded, making it possible to move mountains. Like Mars in Virgo, you can get a lot of things accomplished now. Set your goals high and like the mountain goat, keep going. Ambition is king during this transit. While this is one of the best transits for the red planet, it can also make folks a bit selfish. Aquarius - When Mars is in Aquarius, we’re all in the mood for change. This could lead to rebellion against the norm. Why do the usual when there are cooler things to do? This means the energy is somewhat funky. Instead of a straight line to the top, it’s more like a zig-zag. This Mars transit isn’t selfish though. All for one and all for one is the mode. Shared power and teamwork make the dream work. Pisces - When Mars is in Pisces, it’s not too happy. Instead, it’s like throwing a wet blanket on a roaring fire. Motivation is weaker and you might need a nudge to get going or to keep going. Emotions can get in the way of action. Be gentle with yourself and others now. Mars in Pisces has everyone in their feels. Rest up, stay hydrated, and keep your energetic shields high.

Episode 164. Do you ever travel somewhere and feel like it's "home?" Or how about the opposite - you arrive and want to leave as soon as you put down your bags? Astrology may have something to say about that. In this episode of Astrology Bytes, Rebecca Gordon talks about Astrocartography, a method of locational astrology that shows how the placements of the planets affect the vibe you might feel in one location versus another. Astrocartography is unique for each individual's chart - it's basically a "map" of where the stars were rising or setting at the time you were born. This creates "planetary lines" that show why you might love one place (Venus) and find another not-so-great (Saturn). It's also used in the Solar Return. Rebecca shares the basics you need to begin understanding this fascinating method!