Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Natural Wisdom Podcast

If the Taurus Full Moon energy brought you to a stop, you are not alone. Taurus reminds us to come back to the truth in our felt experience; plus, the lunar spotlight shared the stage with ongoing retrograde energies, including two personal planets, Venus and Mercury. This quality of time is very supportive of exploring and re-evaluating the stories that shape your perception of the world.

Next month, the very rare meeting of Jupiter, Mars and the lunar South Node in Leo, at the same time Venus and Mercury station to move direct again, brings up questions about your creativity: are you performing for an audience and seeking attention, or creating from your heart and attending to your self? What new way of being have you integrated after the intense shifts of this year?

Our podcast conversation explored a number of different ways of looking at these questions, including:

* Pushing is not supported;

* What and how you create may be shifting right now;

* The division we see out there points us back to the work we need to do on our inner conflicts;

* So many of the current alignments support the need to express your own genius.

Is it time for a reading? Kristine is offering a 20% discount on readings through November 8th using the discount code SCORPIO2026 when you book.

Book with Emily on her website: https://embodiedaquarian.com/

Subscribe to Reclaim Your Natural Wisdom to receive new posts and discounts on readings with Kristine.

While we may know Saturn as “the greater malefic” now, in earlier times it was heralded as the ruler of the Golden Age. As you listen, you may wonder how your life would change if you viewed Saturn through a new lens.

I invited Saturn to speak in the planet’s own words, sharing what came to me several weeks ago as I tuned in to Saturn.

I offer Saturn readings and Saturn coaching. Is it time to take a fresh look at Saturn in your life? Find out more.

Mario Garza went deep and wide about Saturn in conversation with me on The Natural Wisdom Podcast. Mario, founder of Symbolic Studies, artist, and graphic designer shared his considerable research and wisdom about symbolism in general as well as Saturn in particular.

Mario began by explaining the problems we see in so many conversations about symbols, and why his research is founded in a traditional approach: there is a great deal of picking and choosing associations between things “out there”, as at the circumference of the circle, with no reference to a center of origin. To truly understand a symbol (and life), we need to know the center around which we orient ourselves.

Among other topics, we discussed -

* Symbols as bridges;

* The importance of finding your own sacred center;

* The main principle of Saturn as the return to center, and how it has become the scapegoat in so many places today;

* The association of Saturn with Judaism, Zionism and Israel in today’s politicized world;

* The “solidification of the world” and fall from grace behind so many crises today.

The author Mario recommends for a deep study of symbolism is René Guénon, including his book “The Crisis of the Modern World”.

You can find links to all of Mario’s publications on his website, including his wonderful podcast Symbolic Studies, which offers sweeping episodes covering the Zodiac signs each month: https://www.symbolicstudies.com

In our online program starting next week, Reclaim Your Life with Saturn, Tammy Roth and I will be guiding people into a direct connection with Saturn. We’ll combine astrology and family constellations to support re-writing the stories creating tension and limitation, and preventing us from fully honoring ourselves. Registration closes Sunday night, October 4th and we begin on Friday, October 9th!

Mario Garza is a lifelong artist and graphic designer of twenty five years currently living in the Pacific Northwest. Over the decades Mario developed a serious interest in visual, archetypal and esoteric symbolism. Mario has integrated a number of topics in his research including: The tarot, mythology, astrology, etc. His passion project, Symbolic Studies, was created as an outlet to explore these topics starting with the signs of the zodiac as a loose foundation.

Watch our first conversation about Saturn here:

Watch Mario’s conversation with his (then-fiancé) wife Michelle on “The Lost Lore of Saturn” that first piqued my interest in Mario’s work:

Reclaim Your Natural Wisdom is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Friend, mentor and astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me today on The Natural Wisdom Podcast to talk about the unprecedented planetary configuration of the moment. With all three outer planets in harmonious cooperation with each other, and Jupiter in direct opposition to Pluto, the “basket” or “cradle” pattern is initiating us into a crisis point, and the possibility of a quantum leap in co-creating a “splendid relaunch of civilization".

We looked at the chart of the alignments, plus the activation by next week’s Aquarius Full Moon. One major takeaway from our conversation is that the astro-energies are asking us to get in the game and unleash our creative power. We touched on a number of topics, including:

* The historical rarity of the planetary patterns of 2026;

* The emphasis on the sign of Leo and the invitation to create from your heart as you did as a child;

* Why you might feel “in-between” or stuck at the moment;

* The bottom-line necessity to find real trust and faith, especially in your creative ability to respond to the moment.

“May what I do flow from me like a river, no forcing and no holding back, the way it is with children.” Rainer Maria Rilke in “The Book of Hours”, I.12

Emily and I each have a time-sensitive offer for you to check out. Registration closes today for Emily’s program on Chiron in Taurus: An Astrological and Shamanic Initiation. The journey begins tomorrow, July 22nd.

And Kristine is offering a 10% discount on Saturn readings with the code CANCERSEASON through Thursday, July 23rd.

Find out more about Emily and her monthly new and full moon deep dives at

Subscribe to Reclaim Your Natural Wisdom with Kristine to get access to workshops, community gatherings, and more.

Despite the Sun's move into Taurus, we are all still operating under extreme Aries energy. Emily Trinkaus joined me for another episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast as we hurtle along in the wake of the Aries New Moon last week.Find Emily's offerings here, including her course on astrological transits: https://embodiedaquarian.substack.comBook a reading with Kristine here: https://kristinebackes.com/work-with-kristine/

Friend, mentor and sister astrologer Emily Trinkaus and I had a lively conversation about the astrological alignments of the moment on The Natural Wisdom Podcast.

This month, February, brings us the most significant planetary combination since 2020: the conjunction of Saturn (reality, structure) and Neptune (dreams, dissolution). The transition from Piscean energy to that of Aries feels, at the moment, like the “end of the end” prior to emergence of the new.

We offered our best advice on how to navigate these times gracefully:

* The rebirth we are undergoing at the moment is happening in three phases;

* We are undergoing a sea change around how we understand and wield our personal power;

* How you invest your life force has immense implications for the long term, both for you and for all of us;

* Mercury’s retrograde in Pisces, which last happened in March of 2020, supports us to listen more deeply to our intuition rather than try to figure out what’s going on;

* The Aquarius Solar Eclipse and the Virgo Total Lunar Eclipse, and the final months of the Lunar Nodes in Pisces and Virgo remind us to own our selves and our bodies; stay tuned in to the here and now while also envisioning the future we want to see.

Emily is leading a six week workshop series on aspects in astrology, beginning on February 20.

Kristine is offering a free workshop on Saturn as your spiritual ally and truth-teller of your soul next Friday, February 13th.

Let us know how it’s going in the comments!

I had the pleasure of talking with psychotherapist, Family Constellation facilitator, and quantum astrologer Tammy Roth on The Natural Wisdom Podcast today, just hours ahead of the Gemini Full Moon. I got to know Tammy and her work through a quantum astrology course she and Emily Trinkaus offered earlier this fall, and gained a whole new way to access and understand the planetary energies.

In our conversation, Tammy shared her wisdom and experience accessing the “knowing field” to help people, covering topics such as these:

* What does “quantum” mean and what is quantum astrology?

* How a 12-step recovery program gave her insight into true healing;

* Saturn and Pluto are never being mean;

* The energies of the cosmos are waiting to be invited in through your attention;

* The more you trust your intuitive knowing, the more it comes through;

* As these new inner technologies come more online, we need places and communities where we can practice.

Tammy referenced Barbara Hand Clow’s book “Alchemy of Nine Dimensions” as a useful reference for understanding 3D, 4D, 5D and beyond.

Find more of Tammy’s work on her website www.tammyroth.com

Learn more about Tammy and Emily Trinkaus’ Saturn Return Quantum Immersion here: https://www.tammyroth.com/copy-of-qa-for-astrologers

Learn more about the Lunar Grid course to connect with the Lunar Goddesses with Tammy and Kim Sales here: https://www.tammyroth.com/about-3-2

Find out about Kristine’s Renew Your Life Solstice Retreat here: https://kristinebackes.com/integrate-and-renew-at-the-solstice/

Tammy Roth, PhD is a holistic psychotherapist whose current quantum astrology coaching emerged at the crossroads of Family Constellation healing and the celestial intelligence of astrology. What began as a simple curiosity became a living pathway: a practice where ancestral patterns, cosmic codes, and embodied presence weave together to activate transformation.

A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Tammy now makes her home in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, where the land itself informs her work and continues to call her into ever-evolving layers of remembrance.

Become a paid subscriber to join Kristine’s quarterly astro-wisdom salons, get access to the full archive of posts and recorded workshops, and receive discounts on readings.

Emily joined me today for another episode of Cosmic Wisdom. We addressed the very busy week ahead as well as the longer term outlook of the next several months. A number of themes emerged from our conversation, including these gifts of the cosmic forces:

* We have the power to liberate our minds from the programming and entrainment so prevalent right now;

* We are in a concentrated period of endings in preparation for the new beginnings coming in 2026;

* We are supported to heal old childhood stories and ways in which we haven’t claimed our right (and duty) to be fully ourselves;

* The return of Uranus to Taurus plus Saturn and Neptune to Pisces reminds us of the spiritual dimension to the material realm;

* The number of planets in water signs encourages us to feel deeply, and use the power of our emotions consciously in service to what we desire.

Emily has a cool program coming in the new year to support people in their Saturn returns; make sure to join her mailing list to hear all about it.

My energy forecast for 2026 is this Saturday, November 8th, free for paid subscribers, or register here for only $22.

And, join me for an in-person Capricorn Solstice retreat to renew your life, December 19-22nd at a high desert hot springs, Ojo Santa Fe.

Daniel Giamario is the founder of the Turning of the Ages Mystery School, an astrology school dedicated to helping people navigate this time of the great turning through direct experience and participation with the earth and sky. As you may remember from my recent posts, I spent a week in September studying the night sky with TOTAMS at a desert hot springs in southern New Mexico, where Daniel had designed and co-built a stone circle on the hill. We talked about why that connection with the sky was so potent, and receiving direct transmissions from the sky and earth itself.

In our conversation, Daniel explained how the night sky tells us where we are in the 26,000 year cycle of the ages, and touched on many other topics, including:

* Your chart shows your purpose and intent in this lifetime, rather than a description of how you are;

* One of the shadows of Aquarius is a materialism of consciousness, as evidenced by AI and other technological efforts;

* TOTAMS teaches us to use technology after first apprenticing to nature;

* Use the three worlds approach to view life through the lenses of the celestial realm, middle world and underworld to understand what’s going on and how to navigate;

* We are in a period of greatest density right now, and we must use our spiritual will to perceive what’s really going on and respond.

Find out more about Daniel and TOTAMS on their website, https://turningoftheages.com/

Join Daniel and TOTAMS at one of their upcoming events, in person and online

In addition to two levels of membership in TOTAMS, the school has a number of individual offerings coming up, both online and in person:

This coming Monday, November 3rd, join a free call with the water element branch of the school .

In December, the school offers two days of online teachings and ceremony for the Solstice.

In August of 2026, travel to Spain to experience the solar eclipse and learn about sacred relationship with Daniel and members of the school: https://turningoftheages.com/event/spain/

Find all their events on the calendar: https://turningoftheages.com/events/

Join Kristine for an online 2026 forecast and/or an in-person Solstice retreat

Gain insight into the astrological shifts of 2026 next Saturday, November 8th, free for paid subscribers or $22 for the workshop only. Register here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/astrology-of-2026/

Join my Renew Your Life Solstice Retreat for magic, hot springs, deep relaxation, community and preparation for the coming year. Learn more and register: https://kristinebackes.com/integrate-and-renew-at-the-solstice/

More about Daniel:

Daniel Giamario has been an astrologer since 1969. After establishing his practice on a Rudhyarian foundation, he received a vision for this unique paradigm on a vision quest at Mount Shasta in 1981. The founding of TOTAMS is the natural evolution from the Harbingers of the Turning of the Ages and the Shamanic Astrology Mystery School.

The paradigm includes mythic, psychological, and spiritual elements inspired by numerous global traditions, synthesizing the most important ingredients that are applicable to contemporary global humanity.

This astrological system uses a Three Worlds Approach, inspired by global Shamanic traditions, offering techniques to navigate the Upper, Middle, and Lower Worlds. And above all, there is a strong emphasis on the experience and knowledge of the night sky.

The feeling I was left with after a very Neptunian conversation today with astrologer Chad Woodward was hopefulness.

I have been reading Chad’s newsletters and articles for several years, and was honored to have him join me on The Natural Wisdom Podcast. Chad shared his considerable insights into the archetypal forces at work in our world today, including:

* Chad’s historical research into activations of the Aries Point (0 Aries, the first degree of the Tropical Zodiac) led him to aptly name its energy as “pushing boundaries of reality”;

* The legacy of the previous conjunction of Saturn and Neptune at this point over 2500 years ago has lessons and resonance for our time;

* We are in an uncomfortable liminal space of growing into something new, and we won’t know what it looks like on the other side until we get there; and

* This is all part of a natural process - we know how to do this.

Chad Woodward is a professional astrologer and founder of Kosmic Mind Astrology, with nearly twenty years of experience exploring the symbolic language of the sky. His work combines psychological and evolutionary astrology with a profound appreciation for the rich history of astrology, integrating ancient techniques into a modern, integrative approach. Certified through Steven Forrest’s Apprenticeship Program and holding a postgraduate certificate in Cultural Astronomy and Astrology from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Chad also draws on his background in cultural anthropology and other social sciences in his astrological research, exploring the complex interrelationship between cultural evolution and planetary alignments. In his counseling practice, Chad uses astrology as a tool for navigating the interplay of choice, creativity, karma, and destiny. His consultations invite clients to see beyond the materialist worldview and engage with the archetypal forces shaping their lives, uncovering deeper meaning, purpose, and potential for spiritual growth.

For more of Chad’s work:

Chad’s website: https://www.kosmicmind.com/Kosmic Mind Newsletter sign up: https://www.kosmicmind.com/kosmicmindnewsletterSubstack page:

Watch Chad’s recent talk on the Aries Point:

Find out more about Kristine’s Capricorn Solstice Renewal Retreat:https://kristinebackes.com/integrate-and-renew-at-the-solstice/

On the eve of the Virgo New Moon, astrological counselor and sister Substacker Danielle Polgar and I explored the possibilities of this time together on The Natural Wisdom Podcast. Some of our favorite topics are the unpredictable energy of Uranus in Gemini and the shadows we are seeing of Pluto’s journey through Aquarius. We also covered a number of fun and interesting themes:

* The “whirlpool effect” of the Lunar Nodes in our consciousness;

* The power of building parallel structures rather than participating in mainstream narratives;

* The fallacy of staying informed to stay in control;

* And the power of living in the unknown.

The New Moon squares Uranus, bringing the likelihood of surprises and breakthroughs, and leading us into eclipse season. Curiosity and wonder are superpowers for thriving in this time.

Danielle will soon be offering an 8 week Initiation course; subscribe to her publication to be the first to know about it.

Danielle Polgar is a trauma-informed astrological counselor who helps people navigate life transitions, access their innate power, and free themselves from limiting beliefs. Her work integrates astrology, psychology, and somatic awareness, offering an approach that is both compassionate and transformative.

With a Master’s in Holistic Counseling Psychology and more than two decades of astrological study, Danielle bridges the roles of artist, healer, and teacher. She brings a creative and intuitive lens to her work, guiding clients to find meaning in their experiences, build emotional resilience, and align with the natural rhythms of life.

Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Danielle works with clients worldwide, supporting them through times of growth and change with clarity, empathy, and practical tools for integration.

Find out more about Danielle or book a session with her on her website: https://daniellepolgar.com

Emily Trinkaus joined me for another episode of Cosmic Wisdom on The Natural Wisdom Podcast today. In a wide-ranging and fun conversation, we explored some of the potential of the planet Uranus moving into Gemini, and the unprecedented alignment of the outer planets.

Some of the insights we discussed included:

* Why it is time for astrology to evolve;

* Understanding that your agency is part of a tapestry of agencies of all beings;

* How attuning yourself to the field (including your own) allows the right things to happen at the right time;

* The need to be conscious of the spells (or curses) you are casting with the power of your words.

Check out Emily’s new Quantum Astrology course for astrologers who want to evolve the practice of astrology to a new level: https://embodiedaquarian.com/quantum-astrology

Is it time for greater insight into cosmic timing in your life? Book a reading or energy alignment session.

Disorientation. Extreme surrender. The dissolution of the old in preparation for what wants to emerge. These are some of the words and phrases Emily and I used today in our conversation on The Natural Wisdom Podcast. No matter how much chaos and change you have felt this year, it is just getting started.

All the planets are moving direct for a short period of time now that the retrogrades of Mars, Venus and Mercury have come and gone. We have momentum for the first time this year to move forward on what we want to create.

Emily and I spoke about the current astrological patterns and what they mean for us as individuals, including:

* Neptune’s movement into Aries on April 30 for the first time in 165 years;

* Saturn’s impending move to join Neptune in Aries on May 24th, for the first time since 1999;

* The coming shift of Uranus into Gemini, and Jupiter’s departure from that sign;

* And the once in many lifetimes chance to dissolve the old structures of your identity and worldview to bring your dream into existence.

Find Emily’s recent class all about Neptune in Aries here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/neptune-aries

Or become a paid subscriber to The Embodied Aquarian Age for her new and full moon transmissions and in-depth astrology classes.

For more of Kristine’s posts and workshops, subscribe below.

Reclaim Your Natural Wisdom is a reader-supported publication. Join live workshops; attend quarterly astro-salons; receive discounts on readings; and get access to the archives by becoming a paid subscriber.

We’d love to hear from you!

Caroline Lindon is the creator of The Saturn Seminary, a Substack that probes the depths of human consciousness and dismantles unseen barriers. Saturn serves as her celestial guide, urging introspection and growth. Her work plants seeds of transformation in those willing to confront their inner darkness.

Living with ADHD and dyslexia, Caroline brings a unique perspective to wider social dynamics by incorporating her training in fields such as astrology and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). She views these disciplines as tools for unlocking potential and reshaping reality. Her approach blends ancient wisdom with modern techniques to uncover hidden truths.

Caroline Lindon of Saturn Seminary joined me in a conversation about a wide range of topics, from Saturn to neurodiversity. I began following Caroline after reading and appreciating her realistic take on Pluto’s move into Aquarius:

and knew I wanted to have a conversation with her.

Caroline writes on a variety of topics, including astrology. She has a background in neuro-linguistic programming as well as teaching and business transformation.

As two “Saturn obsessed” people, we talked about why honoring Saturn as the traditional ruler of Aquarius matters; the need for taking back your personal authority; and how important it is to be in reality right now.

We dove into several other topics:

* Astrology as a way of revealing the patterns in your life;

* What Pluto in Aquarius seems to have in store for us;

* What “war” might mean in the modern world with Neptune in Aries;

* Why neuro-divergence does not need to be “fixed”;

* And the best advice for how to thrive in the midst of chaotic change.

Subscribe to The Saturn Seminary for more of Caroline’s work.

To receive Kristine’s posts and stay informed of my workshops, including “Reclaim Your Sacred Center with Saturn as Guide” on April 30th, be sure to subscribe to Reclaim Your Natural Wisdom:

This episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast is a reading of my Manifesto, part I, on reclaiming the archetype of Saturn as the truth-teller of the soul, previously published in written form.

Reclaim your Saturn to own your life.

Get to know your own Saturn with a special Saturn consultation with me.

Thank you for listening to The Natural Wisdom Podcast!

In this 25 minute talk, I shared what embodiment means and why it is so important in these times. The last ten minutes or so include a meditative process to become more rooted in your physical experience, that is, more deeply embodied.

Enjoy!

Astrologer, friend and mentor Emily Trinkaus joined me today for our first conversation of the year on the epic astrology of 2025.

We covered a lot of ground in our almost 90 minute talk, including:

* The slow start to the year of first Mars, then Venus and Mercury retrograde, and how to use these inward-looking times to prepare for what’s coming;

* The heavy emphasis on endings as well as new beginnings this year with so much happening at the juncture between Pisces and Aries, the respective last and first signs of the Zodiac;

* The shift of the Lunar Nodes, the axis of the eclipses, into Pisces and Virgo and the imperative of spiritual integrity and embodiment.

As always, the energies of the planets hold potential for conscious and empowered cooperation, as well as shadows. We talked about a number of practices for making the most of this exciting time in our lives. Plus, both Emily and I have a number of offerings to help you navigate and flourish.

If you want to be one of the twelve women joining Emily at her in-person Solstice retreat, check it out here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/summer-solstice-retreat

You can find more about Emily’s offerings, including her monthly New and Full Moon transmissions here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/

Join Kristine live (or by recording) on January 10th for more on the astrology of 2025, plus guidance and practices to thrive in the new age, open to all subscribers:

Kristine is also speaking at the Living from the Core Sacred Embodiment Convergence this week, live on Tuesday, January 7th at 11 am Mountain, or by recording. There is a wonderful line-up of healers, astrologers, coaches and others coming together to share wisdom and practices for coming back to your sacred center. Join the Facebook group here to watch and participate.

Both Emily and Kristine are available, too, for astrology readings through our websites.

We’d love to hear what’s going on for you, and how you are experiencing this new year!

One of the disciplines associated with the sign Aquarius is astrology itself. This art and science studies the patterns of the cosmos and their connections to people and events here on Earth.

Astrology has been growing in popularity for a number of years now, to the point that it is almost mainstream in many circles. But with that growth has come greater potential for abuse, as well.

Pluto’s move into Aquarius will show us the shadows of astrology so we can work with it more consciously. In particular, Pluto highlights the ways in which power is used consciously in cooperation, or unconsciously as a form of control.

In this podcast episode, I spoke about some of the ways astrology can be misused, and my commitment to sharing it as a way of supporting our/your power to co-create with the planetary energies.

Some specific topics I covered were these:

* Pluto’s shift from Capricorn to Aquarius won’t be all “rainbows and unicorns”;

* What Capricorn - and Pluto’s time in that sign - is really all about;

* How to work with Pluto in Aquarius in your own life.

Want a read on how to cooperate with Pluto’s energies in your life?

Book a reading with me!

To receive new posts and support the podcast, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Friday’s New Moon in Scorpio brings the tensions of the moment to a fine point. Scorpio is the season of both death and rebirth, as the light of the Sun begins to ‘die’ at the midpoint between the equinox and the solstice.

With three separate planetary oppositions at the New Moon, there is plenty of potential for projection and it is quite evident in the US presidential campaign.

Kristine explains the potential contained in the cosmic forces, and concludes with suggestions on how to exit the fear matrix in these intense times.

Subscribe to Kristine’s Substack community for posts and workshops on co-creating with the cosmos: ⁠https://kristinebackes.substack.com/⁠

Want personal guidance from the cosmos? Book a session with Kristine here: ⁠https://kristinebackes.com/work-with-kristine/⁠

We are in a concentrated period of change in the history of the world, and there is a whole lot of tension between our dreams and the reality we are living.

Are you feeling it?

But - you and I have the opportunity to cooperate with the cosmic forces to commit to the beautiful future we want to see IF we focus our attention on what we love, instead of fear, hatred, and dystopia.

In this workshop, find out why now is the time, why "The Secret" isn't enough, and take some practical tips with you to get started bridging the gap between your dreams and your reality.

To get access to more workshops like this one, live and by recording, become a paid subscriber!

Astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me on the podcast to shed light on the October 2nd Solar Eclipse in Libra. In this sign of relationship, balance, harmony and the other, the Libra Eclipse highlights how we relate - to each other as well as the world around us.

This eclipse has signatures of both endings as well as new beginnings. It may well bring up some of the shadow aspects of Libra, such as being more focused on what other people think and what we project onto others.

Prepare for a rebirth by slowing down, and spend time dreaming into the future you want!

Find Emily's offerings at https://embodiedaquarian.com/ and https://embodiedaquarian.substack.com/

Find Kristine at https://kristinebackes.com/https://kristinebackes.com/

We are in a concentrated period of change in the world right now. It kicked off in 2020 with the Saturn-Pluto conjunction, and culminates in 2026 with the Saturn-Neptune conjunction. The old ways are breaking down and we have the opportunity to co-create the new.

Lots of people are "prepping" for more chaos, more breakdown. Can you be available for what you really want, the dreams that inspire you?

In this episode, get the details on what is changing, and why your dream matters. Focus on the future you want and co-create a more beautiful world by working with the cosmic forces.

Watch Kristine's free workshop and learn more about the September intensive to co-create your beautiful future.

I've learned a lot from the beings of nature, from bears to trees. In this short bonus episode, I share some basic lessons, such as:

Be fully present

Mind your own business

Learn to share

Respect and honor everyone!

Want greater access to your natural wisdom? Book a session

Career coach and astrologer Aubrie De Clerck joined me on the podcast in a conversation about experiencing more joy, confidence and empowerment at work. Aubrie's journey with astrology began at her first Saturn return. One of the questions we considered was: how can we be human, and safely bring our whole selves to our work in a broken system?

Other topics and insights:

Astrology offers a framework for and deeper understanding of what we are experiencing in our lives;

Our 'threads' are basic aspects of ourselves that don't change;

Chiron and Vesta as key clues to what keeps us stuck and what propels us forward;

We can't do our lives "wrong"!

Aubrie De Clerck is a Career Coach and Astrologer who helps people open doors to fulfilling work. As a career coach, Aubrie has over 15 years of experience in corporate, non-profit, and education environments. She has been a student of astrology for 20+ years and has been supporting clients with career-focused astrology sessions since 2011. Aubrie is known for being highly inspirational and deeply practical, meeting clients with a spirit of open-mindedness, warmth, and possibility.

Find out more about Aubrie on her website: https://coachingforclarity.net/

Sign up for her July 17th, 2024 Threads workshop here: https://coachingforclarity.net/event/intro-to-threads/

Learn more about Kristine's offerings here: https://kristinebackes.com/work-with-kristine/

Just a few days after the Cancer Solstice, astrologer and teacher Emily Trinkaus shared her passion and growing knowledge of biodynamic farming, a way of working with the forces of the cosmos, the elements, and the earth to grow food that nourishes us physically as well as spiritually. In a culture that has long separated science and spirit, this was a refreshing and hopeful look at a discipline that reunites traditional and modern, scientific and spiritual to help us remember our natural wisdom and belonging to both Earth and Cosmos.

Biodynamic agriculture, based in the work of 'spiritual scientist' and founder of anthroposophy Rudolf Steiner goes beyond sustainable or regenerative farming by working with the metaphysical forces of the cosmos. Emily recommended the book "Agriculture Abridged", by Jeff Poppin as an accessible starting point to Steiner's course on biodynamic agriculture.

Emily inspired us with a number of her observations and experiences, including:

• As humans, we are here to bridge the energies of earth and cosmos;


• Why many people are stuck in such a materialistic consciousness today;


• Her next level understanding of the planets and their forces through biodynamic processes;


• Her experience of profound, practical earth magic in biodynamic preparations.

Find out more about Emily at EmbodiedAquarian.com

Relationship expert Bethany Nicole and I covered a whole lot of territory in our conversation on the podcast, appropriately recorded just as the Sun moved into Gemini, the sign of multiplicity!

Bethany shared expertise and stories from her work as a relationship astrologer, writer, and all around expert on what's 'behind the scenes' in our interactions with each other, and the world.

We talked about several astrology-related topics:

How astrology is a 'cheat code' for your life;

Your Black Moon Lilith placement shows the parts of you that you exile, as well as hidden gifts;

Why astrocartography (the astrology of location) can help you work with the world instead of against it.

Bethany is just about to publish her book "Secret Energetics of Relationships", and has written an e-book on working with your Black Moon Lilith. You can find her on Instagram as @bethanynicolelove or through her website:

https://www.bethanynicole.com/

Find Kristine or get in touch at https://kristinebackes.com/

What happens when two Capricorn women have a conversation about healing? We get practical. Michelle Lundquist, of Michelle's Healing Home and a podcast by the same name, is a 'home maker', herbalist, and wise woman in the primordial tradition. In our wide ranging conversation about plants, developing a relationship with nature, and becoming your own 'mad scientist', we touched on some fascinating topics, including:

How to face the programming to fear nature;

Practical ways of developing your relationship with plants, whether in your garden or the wild;

The folk medicine versus scientific approaches to herbalism;

Building trust in your intuition and direct knowing;

Michelle's experience and surprising results with urine therapy.

References Michelle mentioned include the book "Healing Wise" by Susun Weed; Dr. Amandha Vollmer; and author Barbara Walker on symbols.

Michelle is a folk herbalist, gardener and homemaker with a passion for plants and their

ability to heal deeply. An herbal enthusiast since 2013, much of Michelle's knowledge has

come from personal, hands-on experience and mentors of the wise woman tradition. A do-it-

yourself spirit permeates her work as she encourages folks to take their well-being into their

own hands.

Michelle creates and shares small batch, handcrafted remedies through her monthly

newsletter and offers her skills through tutorials, articles and more. She is also the host of

The Healing Home podcast which can be found on YouTube, Rumble & Spotify.

You can find Michelle and sign up for her monthly newsletter here: https://www.michelleshealinghome.com/

Listen to Michelle's Healing Home podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@michelleshealinghome

Find Kristine here: https://kristinebackes.com/

Founder of Symbolic Studies, artist and graphic designer Mario Garza joined me at the Scorpio Full Moon to explore his unique and profound interpretations of Saturn through the ages. We discussed the distortions and conflicts of our time as a consequence of losing our way, or 'giving away your pole', as well as:

• When our 'sky clock' was not the Zodiac but the constellations revolving around the Pole Star;


• Correspondences between the great ages and the Tarot


• Why returning to your sacred center is the key to reclaiming a new Golden Age


• How being fully present is the key to peace.

Mario Garza is a lifelong artist and graphic designer of twenty five years currently living in the Pacific Northwest. Over the decades Mario developed a serious interest in visual, archetypal and esoteric symbolism. Mario has integrated a number of topics in his research including: The tarot, mythology, astrology, etc. His passion project, Symbolic Studies, was created as an outlet to explore these topics starting with the signs of the zodiac as a loose foundation.

Having recently booked a Tarot reading with Mario, I can highly recommend him for his depth of understanding with the cards, as well as his compassionate presence.

You can find out more about Mario or book a Tarot reading on his website, Symbolic Studies.

Learn more about Kristine's Empowered Astrology workshop, or book a session.

Emily Trinkaus and I covered the astrology of the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction of April 20th, 2024, a continuation of sorts of the April 8th 'Great American' Solar Eclipse. With a strong feminine energy in the skies, we agreed there is 'no pushing allowed' right now. Our best advice was to get comfortable with being uncomfortable as we enter a new cycle of unexpected change; and rest!

We explained why Jupiter and Uranus are continuing on with the initiation of the Solar Eclipse;

Why now is not the time to be forcing anything;

And why it's so important to purify your motivation.

Here is the chart of the Jupiter Uranus conjunction: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Jupiter-Uranus-2024.pdf

And the Sabian symbol graphic we showed: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Jupiter-Uranus-Sabian-symbol.pdf

Join Kristine to reset your relationship with the cosmos and take the fear out of astrology - live or by recording: https://kristinebackes.com/product/astrology-for-empowerment/

Find Emily's 2 hour recorded class on the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/jupiter-uranus-2024

You can learn more about Emily and her work: https://embodiedaquarian.com/

Or find Kristine: https://kristinebackes.com/

In the run-up to Monday's Solar Eclipse in Aries, there was a whole lot of pop astrology coming from fear, with all sorts of end-of-world predictions. This is a misunderstanding, at best, and misuse at worst, of the power of astrology and other ways of working with the mystery behind the visible world.

Each one of us gets to choose - or at least stay curious about - whether we see the cosmic forces as friend or foe. In this episode, Kristine talks about astrology as a way of being in conscious conversation with the cosmos.

Get in touch or check out my services on my website.

On the eve of the Equinox, I had the pleasure of talking with Ally Leadbetter, creatrix of Wild Betty Healing Arts, on coming into heart coherence, knowing your 'station' - and re-membering your place as part of the wild world wherever you are. We talked about the soul loss many of us have experienced because of our disconnection with the natural world; how coming back to the true Self is the ultimate protection from and antidote to conditioning; the power of some special places on the Earth right here in Montana; our DNA as our antenna; and more.

Wild Betty Healing Arts is a holistic wellness approach to understanding the mind, body, soul, spirit connection to empower each client to reclaim their wholeness, holiness, and energetic sovereignty. Ally works at the intersection of the earth and energetic realms, specializing in channeling the subtle energies that are in a constant dynamic dance with the physical world. Working thru a variety of modalities such as energy transmission healings, channeled information, ancestral work, earth medicine work (earth attunements, crystal therapy, herbalism, animal guides), spirit guide connection, vibrational sound therapy, trance journey work, shadow work, home and land healing,  and tarot readings, she is able to help you remember your connection  to your most authentic and sovereign self.

Learn more about Ally's Reviving Eden retreat here.

Set up a time to chat with Ally about her Chrysallis spiritual alchemy course here.

Check out Kristine's work here: https://kristinebackes.com/

The upcoming New Moon in Pisces (March 10, 2024) opens the portal of eclipse season. We are immersed in chaotic motion and yet feeling stuck, a dualism that reflects the two Piscean fish swimming in opposite directions.

Kristine offers some simple practices to find your way in to your true source, and embrace the opposites of the time.

Find out more about Kristine and her offerings on her website: https://kristinebackes.com/

Emily Trinkaus joined the podcast for another of our Cosmic Wisdom conversations. As power planet Pluto hangs out at 0 degrees of Aquarius for weeks, all the personal planets - Mercury, Mars and Venus - pass over it.

Our conversation focused on what these current astro-energies mean on a personal level and how to use them to become more conscious, including: the importance of fully being ourselves; the power (and shadows) of astrology; allowing our minds to be blown; and trusting ourselves at all levels.

In true Aquarian fashion, we took questions from our live audience in this episode! And we didn't watch our language, thus the 'mature' rating.

Local to Livingston? Join Kristine's course to Learn the Language of Astrology: https://kristinebackes.com/product/chart-interpretation-2024/

Check out Emily's astrology mentorship here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/mentorship

This episode comes on the heels of the ancient cross-quarter holyday of Imbolc here in the northern hemisphere, and as the archetype of the wounded healer approaches the North Node of the Moon in Aries, the sign of I AM.

This configuration in Aries offers an opportunity to reclaim your sense of yourself as sacred, and heal the wound of separation from your sense of belonging here, now.

The practitioner I mentioned who specializes in healing your birth wound is Charlotte Kanyi, of Birth Essence. She was my guest on the podcast in October of 2022.

In this first episode of 2024, Kristine shared a preview of some of the energetic shifts coming our way, and some practical guidance on how to stay centered and healthy in the midst of the chaos.

Slow-moving, intense planet Pluto moves from Capricorn to Aquarius on January 20th, changing the very nature of power dynamics, especially in our relationship to technology, information, and society.

Stay grounded an centered by tapping into your unique frequency and building your subtle awareness.

Want more detail about the astrology of 2024? Check out Kristine's workshop The Shock of the New or book a reading.

Sign-up for the Natural Wisdom Newsletter on Kristine's website to get a discount on all of Kristine's recorded workshops.

Astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me today to talk about the unique energies of this Capricorn Solstice on December 21st, and using the power of your mind to create the world and life you want to live in. Some of the alignments we discussed include these:

This is the last Solstice for nearly 250 years with Pluto in Capricorn, bringing forward the question of how we use our power;

Mercury is exactly conjunct the Sun at the Solstice, a rare occurrence emphasizing the need and opportunity for 'mental ownership' and sovereignty, as well as the power of our attention;

Venus has a great deal of influence at the Solstice, and the alignment with Uranus offers a chance to break free from old trauma stories and resentments.

We also discussed, explained, and shared a rant about the ever-recurring and unnecessary debate over the difference between the tropical (with the seasons) versus sidereal (with the stars) Zodiacs. We shared our views on why they both work, they are both accurate, and each Zodiac has its own form of elegance.

Chart of the Capricorn Solstice

Graphic of the equinoxes, solstices, and their correspondence to the Zodiac

Find out more about Emily's work

Learn more about Kristine's online Solstice retreat

From the white lions of Timbavati, to the asteroid Chiron, to the importance of spiritual practice to health, today's conversation with psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, astrologer, and holistic healer Dr. Judy Tsafrir bridged many dimensions. We discussed Judy's new book, "Sacred Psychiatry: Bridging the personal and transpersonal to transform health and consciousness", and its combination of personal stories, practical guidance, and deeply felt commentary on the state of medicine and health in today's world.

We met on the eve of the New Moon in Sagittarius, calling on its atmosphere of expansiveness and imagination.

Judy's accessible, helpful and fascinating book is available for pre-order now, and will be published on Jan. 2nd, 2024. Find out more here: https://judytsafrirmdauthor.com/

Find out more about Kristine's ritual and celebration at the Solstice (live or by recording): https://kristinebackes.com/product/solstice-ritual-retreat-2024/

I had an enlightening and timely conversation with Joel Young, creator and custodian of Non-Personal Awareness, as we close out the 2023 eclipse season with a volatile combination of energies. Mars, planet of action and assertion faces off with unpredictable change-maker Uranus on November 11th, and their intense relationship continues through the Scorpio New Moon on Monday, November 13th.
Scorpio is an intensely emotional sign, and deep fear is one way of experiencing Scorpio themes of loss and renewal. In this episode, Joel shared his perspective on how we can shift our relationship with fear and other experiences that cause us suffering through the Non-Personal Awareness process.

Get Joel's free download of the NPA process

Learn more about Joel's Fear Dissolver workshop

For healers, coaches, therapists - check out the NPA Mastery course (and join me in it in 2024!)

Friend and colleague Belinda Noakes joined me for this episode, in which we held forth on joy as a power move; why we sometimes get lost in trying to heal endless trauma; and why it's so important to design a joyful life.

Kristine gave an overview of the Taurus Lunar Eclipse of October 28th, and its themes of power, desire and letting go of control. With Venus carrying overtones of Leonine joy for the next 19 months, now is a perfect time for a joy practice!

Join Belinda for her free call on October 30/31st "Once upon an apocalypse"

Learn more about Kristine's six month journey into Power, Passion and Purpose

At the Aries Full Moon, I had the pleasure of examining the astrology of leadership with Beth Cavagnolo, leadership and human resource expert, witch, and sister astrologer. Some of the key points we covered were:

everyone leads in one way or another;

astrology can give us great insight into our styles of leadership;

understanding each other's differences allows us to work together with more ease.

One of Beth's guiding principles is to give each other the benefit of the doubt!

Find out more about Beth through her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/winterwitch1221

Or LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethcavagnolo/

Kristine's website: https://kristinebackes.com

Emily Trinkaus joined me a few days before the Libra Equinox to talk about the current cosmic forces, including the October eclipses and Saturday's Equinox in Libra. Themes of self-love, joy, and understanding the difference between your innate power and its shadow of manipulation were all part of our discussion.

The inner planets (Mercury and Venus) are moving forward again, but the outer planets are still in retrograde motion, offering us time to integrate what we have discovered these past weeks.

We also touched on the US Pluto return, a transformational turning point for our country!

Find more about Emily and her bi-weekly Moon updates here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/moon-updates

Connect with Kristine here: https://kristinebackes.com/

Charts we used in the podcast: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Libra-Equinox-2023.pdf, https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Solar-Eclipse-10-23.pdf, https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Lunar-Eclipse-10-23.pdf

How do you know what you know? The Virgo New Moon is tomorrow, September 14th, and Virgo's ruling planet, Mercury, the planet of facts, information and perception is extra strong right now. The New Moon comes at a time when there is a lot of information - human-generated and artificially created - out there, and we need to discern what feels true.

Ready for a reading or some karmic clearing work? Check out Kristine's website to learn more or connect: https://kristinebackes.com/

We are fast approaching the cross-quarter holyday of Lughnasadh, or Lammas, the mid-point between June Solstice and Autumn Equinox. The Sun's light is beginning to wane here in the northern hemisphere.

There are other significant energy shifts going on, including the completion and rebirth of Venus' 19 month cycle and the shift of the eclipse axis into the signs of Aries and Libra. 

Venus has been retrograde in Leo, sign of the heart, since July 22nd, offering us a period of re-evaluating what we want, what we value, and what matters to us. Venus will be reborn in a new cycle as a morning star in late August. 

At the same time, the shift of the eclipse axis offers new challenges and opportunities for seeing through collective programming, especially around desire and having what we want. I created a whole workshop on this topic, which you can find here: ⁠⁠https://kristinebackes.com/product/lunar-nodes-karma-2023/

On the second anniversary of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, Dr. Kristian Strang and I talked about the many paths to uncovering our innate natural wisdom. One subject we came back to several times is the danger of getting stuck in 'finding our tribe' by seeing differences instead of common values. We also talked quite a bit about the power of fiction and stories to convey wisdom.

Kristian is a mystic, metaphysical psychologist and an Amazon bestselling author. She’s written 12 books in the genres of visionary fiction, paranormal romance, and channeled message Oracles.

Kristian has been featured in a variety of publications and as a featured speaker on a number of podcasts and summits, including her own podcast, Awakening: The Podcast. When she’s not doing all of that, you’ll find her dance-walking on the Oregon Coast or baking it up in the kitchen for her high-vibe nutrition blog, Metaphysical Menu. You can also receive free meditations and transmissions from Dr. Kristian at: www.Sacred-Spirituality.org. 

Kristian's latest book, The Angelics: Wildest Dreams is now available for pre-order. Go on "a wild ride of destined lovers, magic, divine counterparts, Angels and so much more (inspired by IRL events)".

Find out more about Kristine and her work at kristinebackes.com

In this episode, recorded just a few days after the Cancer Solstice, I talk about cycles of light and dark, and especially the experience of dark times. One of the gifts of astrology is greater perspective on the timing of and cooperation with the heavier times of our lives. I shared some of my thoughts and experience with depression and the 'dark night of the Soul'.

The book I mentioned is "Learning to Walk in the Dark" by Barbara Brown Taylor.

The other author I mentioned who has written authentically about his experiences of depression is Parker Palmer. One of my favorite books is titled "Let Your Life Speak".

Book a consultation with Kristine:

https://kristinebackes.com/work-with-kristine/

The Goddess Astrologer Jude Hotep joined me for a wide-ranging conversation about the return of Divine Feminine energy; healing the split between Soul and body, and more. Jude and I met as presenters at the Aquarian High Council online summit, and found a common interest in undoing some of the dominator distortions of astrology. One of my favorite quotes from Jude: "Saturn restricts to catalyze", just as contractions are part of the birth process.

Jude Hotep is The Goddess Astrologer, a Professional Astrologer, Master Soul Coach and emotions expert, and host of the Light Goddess Podcast.

Learn more about Jude and Download the Understand Your Astrology FREE Mini-Course Here:http://www.thegoddessastrologer.com

You can also connect with her through her Light Goddess Podcast, as well as on YouTube and other social media channels as The Goddess Astrologer.

Learn more about Kristine's work on kristinebackes.com

In the final week of the first eclipse season of 2023, we are in the midst of a strong dose of feminine, or yin, energy. This episode is devoted to reclaiming the balance of yin and yang in a culture that over-values doing, thinking and productivity and dismisses the value of stillness, quiet, and rest.

As Mercury finishes its retrograde journey in slow, sensual Taurus and we approach Friday's New Moon in that earthy sign, give yourself permission to do nothing, nap, and daydream.

The book I referenced on the show is titled "Rest is Resistance: A manifesto", by Tricia Hersey, creatrix of The Nap Ministry: https://thenapministry.wordpress.com/

Learn more about reclaiming your natural wisdom with Kristine at kristinebackes.com

Astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me again today to talk about topics from the current eclipse season, to relationship astrology (and her upcoming course!) and finding our power within. As always, we had a lively discussion about how to work with the astro-energies in our lives.

The first eclipse of 2023 was at the very last degree of Aries, sign of the courage to be yourself; the next eclipse, on May 5th is a completion of the eclipse pattern begun in January of 2022. The eclipses come at a pivot point in this great time of transition initiated in 2020.

Learn more and sign up for Emily's course on relationship astrology here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/synastry-workshop

Find out more and register for Kristine's workshop on the shifting karma of the eclipses here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/lunar-nodes-karma-2023/

The body is an expression of the Soul, and how you treat your body is a direct reflection of how you treat the Earth. But our dominator culture teaches us to control our bodies, rather than learn to deeply listen. The Libra Full Moon on April 5th/6th invites us into co-creation in all of our relationships, in particular our bodies. This Full Moon also opens the portal into eclipse season of 2023. With Pluto squaring the eclipse axis throughout most of the year, one of the major karmic lessons is about how we use our power: will we give in to authoritarianism, or learn cooperation?

Learn more about Kristine and her work here: https://kristinebackes.com

The Aries Equinox and New Moon of 2023 come in the midst of a huge shift of energies in our world. Many Aquarian themes have come to the foreground over the past few years: information and technology; social patterns and agreements; science; astrology; and even what we think of as 'truth' are increasingly subjects of deep conflict.
This New Moon and Equinox are turning point in the story, and present the opportunity for each of us to commit to new beginnings.

Join Kristine on March 21st for her workshop on Transformation of Humanity: First look at Pluto in Aquarius
Or catch the recording of Time of Transition 2023: Between paradigms