Big Sky Astrology Podcast

This week, Pluto stations direct to reveal what you've discovered about yourself over the past five months, and the Sun’s sextile to Jupiter offers an invitation to show the world what you’re made of. A Mars-Saturn trine helps you guide your passion to get things done, a driven Capricorn First Quarter Moon demands ambition, and a listener asks about ordering a special piece of jewelry while Venus is retrograde. Plus: Generation, regeneration, and degeneration; a brouhaha; and dogged determination (and possibly blood). Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:19] — The Sun sextiles Jupiter on Thu. Oct. 15 at 1:22 AM Pacific Time (22°00′ Libra–Leo); the Sun in Libra gets a bold push from Jupiter in Leo to ask for what it wants and show the world what it has. [3:04] — Pluto stations direct on Thu. Oct. 15 at 7:40 PM Pacific Time (3°04′ Aquarius), ending a retrograde that began May 6; what you've been working on internally about power, control, and personal agency now surfaces for all to see. [4:56] — Mars trines Saturn on Fri. Oct. 16 at 1:32 AM Pacific Time (10°22′ Leo–Aries); the two malefics cooperate in fiery signs, channeling enthusiasm and discipline into getting something done with focused, constructive energy. [8:03] — Moon Report: Capricorn First Quarter Moon on Sun. Oct. 18 at 9:13 AM Pacific Time (25°18′ Capricorn–Libra), the first action point in Oct. 10 Libra New Moon Cycle. Expect to feel completely absorbed in something you love to do with a keen ambition to do it the very best you can. [10:00] Lunar phase family cycle (LPFC). This is the First Quarter in the LPFC that began with the New Moon on Jan. 18, 2026 (28°43′ Capricorn), with a Full Moon revelation point on July 18, 2027 (25°48′ Capricorn) and a final action point, Last Quarter Moon, on April 16, 2028 (27°12′ Capricorn). [12:50] — Void-of-Course Moon (VOC) periods: Tue. Oct. 13, Moon in Scorpio squares Jupiter in Leo at 1:46 AM Pacific Time. It’s VOC for 16h 13m and enters Sagittarius at 5:59 PM. Practice being authentic and honest with yourself when new opportunities come knocking. [14:19] —Thu. Oct. 15, Moon in Sagittarius sextiles the Sun at 2:55 PM Pacific Time. It’s VOC for 15h 2m and enters Capricorn Fri. Oct. 16 at 5:57 AM. Cut loose, enjoy life, and spend time with people who make you laugh. [15:36] — Sun. Oct. 18, Moon in Capricorn squares the Sun at 9:12 AM Pacific Time. It’s VOC for 9h 28m and enters Aquarius at 6:40 PM. Balance pursuing your goals with consideration for how your actions affect others. [16:50] — Listener Beverly asks about ordering a new medical ID bracelet during Venus retrograde. [22:39] Got a question? 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! [23:57] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to our 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.

This week brings an action-packed sky: a Sun-Uranus trine sparks clarity, Mercury enters Scorpio and squares both Mars and Pluto, Venus stations retrograde for deep relationship and financial repair work, and a Mars-Pluto opposition ignites power struggles between the individual and the collective. A Cancer Last Quarter Moon pushes toward July 2024's New Moon intentions, while a Sun-Saturn opposition demands decisiveness to close out the week. Plus: Pointiness, breaking a bone, and which indulgences to choose? Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps: [1:42] Sun trines Uranus (Mon. Sept. 28, 9:22 am PDT, 5°33' Libra-Gemini). This trine opens a window for Libra to be its authentic self without constantly checking what others are doing. Uranus in Gemini offers a clarifying idea that cuts through Libra's people-pleasing tendencies. [3:32] Mercury enters Scorpio (Wed. Sept. 30, 4:44 am PDT). The planet of communication steps into a tense T-square with Mars in Leo and Pluto in Aquarius. This is a ruthless, penetrating Mercury with no patience for small talk or diplomacy. [4:11] Mercury squares Mars (Fri. Oct. 2, 2:14 am PDT). An aspect that speaks its mind and doesn't suffer fools gladly. April explores the Sabian symbols for both planets, including "a woman having her hair bobbed" at Mars's degree — a radical act of independence that echoes Amelia Earhart, who was born with the Sun at this degree. [6:41] Mercury squares Pluto (Fri. Oct. 2, 1:43 pm PDT). Pluto ups the ante beyond impulsive anger into particularly ugly territory: jealousy, contempt, trolls, and cold collective judgment. On the upside, this aspect sharpens Mercury's ability to see beneath the surface and discover what we've believed about ourselves that is flat-out wrong. [7:52] Mars trines Neptune (Fri. Oct. 2, 3:18 pm PDT, 2°48' Leo-Aries). After the Mercury squares and before the Pluto opposition, this trine offers a softening moment. Neptune says "I care" and Mars says "I'm going to do something about it" — a helpful day for volunteering, donating, or resetting Mars's strident Leo energy. [9:07] Venus stations retrograde in Scorpio (Sat. Oct. 3, 12:16 am PDT, 8°29' Scorpio, "dental work"). Venus urges deep repair in relationships, money, and self-worth — even if it hurts. April walks through the full retrograde timeline (back into Libra Oct. 25, stationing direct Nov. 13 at 22°51' Libra, reentering Scorpio Dec. 4) and suggests looking back to October–November 2018 for echoes of this cycle. [12:55] Mars opposes Pluto (Sat. Oct. 3, 3:39 am PDT, 3°06' Leo-Aquarius). The week's pointiest aspect: the irresistible force meets the immovable object. April traces the Mars-Pluto story from their January 27 conjunction, through the May 25 square, to this opposition — and asks what proud Mars in Leo is trying to accomplish that Pluto in Aquarius doesn't appreciate. Expect power struggles for a few days either side. [16:07] Moon Report: Cancer Last Quarter Moon (Sat. Oct. 3, 6:25 am PDT, 10°21' Libra-Cancer). This Last Quarter carries the Mars-Pluto opposition, making it a powerful but not gentle push toward Virgo New Moon plans from September 10. April unpacks the Sabian symbols ("a clown making grimaces" vs. "a professor peering over his glasses") and traces the full lunar phase family cycle back to the July 5, 2024 Cancer New Moon; First Quarter (first action point) Apr. 4, 2025; Full Moon (awareness point) Jan. 3, 2026. [21:50] Void-of-Course Moon periods. Four VOC periods this week: Mon. Sept. 28, 2:50 am PDT (Aries Moon opposing Mercury — indecision vs. impulsiveness); Tue. Sept. 29, 4:36 pm PDT (Taurus Moon squaring Jupiter — overindulgence warnings); Thu. Oct. 1, 7:42 pm PDT (Gemini Moon sextile Jupiter — social fun and happy hours); Sat. Oct. 3, 8:08 am P

Hello, Invisible Friend, April here – and the date today is September 14, 2026. And I’m sorry to say there will not be a new podcast this week! Between the conference I went to, and getting the Podathon episodes finished, I just plain ran out of time. Rest assured, though, that I’ll be back next Monday with a new episode! Now, today is officially the last day of Podathon, meaning that if you’d like to be entered in my drawing to win an eclipse report or a reading, you need to make your donation of $25 or more by MIDNIGHT TONIGHT, Pacific time! I’ll be doing the drawing tomorrow, and winners will be notified by email. Best of luck! Let me just say how much I enjoyed bringing those Podathon interviews to you, and thanks to all of you who have sent kind words about them! If you haven’t had a chance to listen to all of them yet, you can catch up with them at bigskyastropod.com – just click on the orange “View All” button at the end of the page to see the full list. I’m putting up a column so you can catch up with the major aspects of the week. And as I said, I’ll return with a new podcast episode next Monday, Sep. 21. I hope you have a wonderful week. And keep your feet on the ground, and your eyes on the stars!

On Day 4 of the 7th Annual Big Sky Astrology Podathon, we cover a packed day of planetary news - with Venus entering Scorpio, Mercury entering Libra, Uranus turning retrograde, and the Virgo New Moon! And we welcome astrologer and author Donna Stellhorn for an in-depth conversation about money in the birth chart. Donna breaks down the four "money houses” and shares sign-by-sign patterns, as well as timing techniques for job searches and major purchases, how to tell whether someone is better suited as an employee or entrepreneur, practical strategies for leaning into your chart's strengths when finances are tight, and the often-overlooked Part of Fortune. Also: How to donate to the Podathon and be entered in a drawing to win prizes; and a preview of Podathon Day 5 with Dorothy Oja on Relationships. Timestamps [0:00] Podathon week announcement [0:36] April's welcome and Podathon fundraising appeal [2:50] Donation prizes: eclipse reports, personal readings, and donor-only Zoom calls [4:09] Free ways to support the show (subscribe, rate, review, recommend) [6:24] Today's topic preview: money in the birth chart with Donna Stellhorn [6:51] Venus enters Scorpio and upcoming retrograde preview [7:18] Mercury enters Libra [8:01] Uranus turns retrograde (through Feb 2027) [10:09] Virgo New Moon] service, home repairs, and family [12:13] April introduces guest Donna Stellhorn [14:01] Interview begins: reading the 2nd house for money [16:28] Why Donna prefers Placidus for money questions [18:00] Signs on the 2nd house: Sagittarius, Capricorn, Scorpio/Pluto, Cancer/Moon [21:24] The four money houses: 2nd, 5th, 8th, and 11th [23:05] Employee vs. entrepreneur] reading the chart for career direction [25:10] Timing money decisions with transits and the progressed Moon [27:24] Outer planet transits over the Midheaven and industry shifts [29:19] Practical advice by sign: leaning into your 2nd house ruler [33:18] Venus in the 2nd house and the Part of Fortune [35:18] Using downtime productively instead of worrying [36:02] Where to find Donna (YouTube) and interview wrap-up [38:51] Support the Podathon: Donate at bigskyastropod.com. Donations of $10+ get access to private Zoom calls and videos. Donations of $25+ are entered for a chance to win: A Followed by a Moonshadow Eclipse Report ($35 value), a 60-minute personal astrology reading with April ($195 value), a 90-minute grand prize reading with April ($245 value). Deadline: Midnight Pacific Time, Monday, September 14th. Drawing held September 15th. Coming Up Tomorrow: Dorothy Oja on relationships in your birth chart, and the 7th Annual Podathon wraps up!

Day 2 of the 7th Annual Podathon! April welcomes astrologer Samuel Reynolds to discuss how astrology guides career decisions one of the most common client questions. Sam shares his approach to vocation vs. job, key chart factors, and timing tools for career transitions. Plus, planetary news and Podathon fundraiser details! To be entered in a drawing for a chance to win an eclipse report or a reading, make your donation by midnight PDT on Sep. 14, at https://www.bigskyastropod.com ! And tune in tomorrow for Day 3’s interview with Kira Sutherland! Show Notes [0:00] Podathon week intro & fundraiser announcement [2:47] How to donate & prize giveaways (eclipse reports, readings) [4:04] $10 donor bonus videos & free ways to support the show [6:33] Planetary news: Moon in Leo, trine Saturn (8:04 AM PT), conjunct Jupiter (11:36 AM PT) [7:44] Guest intro: Samuel Reynolds [10:34] Where to start in a career reading: purpose before job title [12:15] Vocation vs. job: vocare = calling; the Big Mama analogy [14:51] Start with the Sun what lights up your life [15:36] Whole sign houses & the floating Midheaven (vocation vs. 10th house career) [18:27] Part of Spirit (intention) vs. Lot of Fortune (things in your orbit) [19:15] Chart example: Jeffrey Dahmer missed medical career potential [24:53] Idealism vs. career fit; "follow your talent, not just your bliss" [26:37] Chart example: Bill Clinton eastern hemisphere, self-directed, character [29:52] Western hemisphere emphasis & why AI can't replace workplace relationships [32:42] Character development over karma; Sam's book Consider Your Movement [34:44] Sam's top 3 timing tools: Profections, Solar Returns, Progressions [37:34] Client example: tech to insurance shift during a balsamic phase [40:27] Advice for young people: experiment and be reflective [41:10] Where to find Sam; UAC conference in Chicago [43:08] Donation reminder & prize recap [44:07] Tomorrow: Kira Sutherland on health & the birth chart

This week, Mars is in conflict with, and Jupiter makes a soothing aspect to, serious Saturn. Mental faculties and manual skills get a supercharged boost with the sextile between Mercury and Mars, and the Gemini Last Quarter Moon manages to express the ideas that the Virgo Sun has given a lot of detailed thought. We have a pretty busy week at the Big Sky HQ as April gets ready for a conference and the Podathon, which starts next week, so we will keep things relatively brief and put off a listener question until after the Podathon! Plus: Raising the bar, an invisible super power, and default crankiness! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:34] Jupiter trines Saturn (Aug. 31, 3:17 pm PDT) at 13°41’ Leo and Aries. This is the first of three trines that they will make. The other two will come on Apr. 3 and Jul. 11, 2027. Jupiter's Sabian symbol is 14 Leo: The human soul awaiting opportunity for expression. Saturn is on 14 Aries: A serpent coiling near a man and a woman. This aspect balances Jupiter’s expansive optimism with Saturn’s realistic restraint. Ideal for goals requiring both ambition and discipline. [4:28] Mars squares Saturn (Sep. 1, 2:59 am PDT) at 13°39’ Cancer and Aries. Mars' Sabian symbol is 14 Cancer: A very old man facing a vast dark space to the northeast. Treat this transit as a lesson in how to impose more control and discipline over your temper, impulsiveness, and physical drives. [7:51] Mercury sextiles Mars (Sep. 1, 6:21 am PDT) at 13°44’ Virgo and Cancer. Mercury is on the Sabian symbol 14 Virgo, A family tree. Be mindful of your words. Great transit for projects that require being good with your hands and having attention to detail. [9:43] Moon Report! The Gemini Last Quarter Moon (Sep. 4, 12:51 am PDT) at 11°48’ Gemini and Virgo. This Last Quarter wraps up that New Moon solar eclipse in Leo (Aug. 12, 2026). Consider letting go of the sadness and regret that this eclipse season may have brought. [12:39] This is the Last Quarter phase (last action phase) in a lunar phase family cycle that began with a New Moon on Jun. 6, 2024 (16°17’ Gemini). The First Quarter (first action phase) was on Mar. 6, 2025 (16°21’ Gemini). The Full Moon (awareness point) occurred on Dec. 4, 2025 (13°3’ Gemini). [14:29] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Aries opposes Venus in Libra (Aug. 31, 12:47 pm PDT). It's VOC then for 12 hours, 14 minutes before it enters Taurus (Sep. 1, 1:01 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon to get in the habit of balancing your desires with somebody else's needs, so that a happy compromise can be reached. [15:57] The Moon in Taurus trines Mercury in Virgo (Sep. 2, 3:47 am PDT). It's VOC for 1 day, 1 hour before it enters Gemini (Sep. 3, 4:47 am PDT). This is a great VOC Moon period to get to the root of an unhealthy habit or issue, so that healing and recovery can take place. [16:57] The Moon in Gemini trines Venus in Libra (Sep. 5, 1:40 am PDT). It's VOC for 5 hours, 50 minutes, and then enters Cancer (7:30 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon to get in the habit of connecting with your neighbors during communal events. [18:54] No Listener Questions this week, but keep those questions coming in for future episodes! Got a question? 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! [20:16] 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. [21:24] The Big Sky As

This week begins with a busy Monday, as angry Mars faces off with compassionate Neptune; Mercury trine Saturn offers mental discipline and seriousness; and Venus sextiles Jupiter, bringing opportunities for collaboration. The emotionally charged Scorpio First Quarter Moon deals with the aftermath of the Leo eclipse, and relationships and finances get a realistic review as Venus opposes Saturn. The Sun enters its practical and analytical Virgo season. And in this week’s mini-lesson, April revisits a listener question about how to use eclipses from the past to instruct, rather than terrify us! Plus: Balancing Leo’s razzle dazzle; sweating out your grievances; and the zoomies! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:28] Mars squares Neptune (Aug. 17, 2:52 AM PDT) at 3°59’ Cancer-Aries. Mars is on Sabian symbol 4 Cancer: A cat arguing with a mouse. Neptune is on 4 Aries: Two lovers strolling through a secluded walk. It's not a great day for constructive arguments, with both sides trying to make points the other completely misses. [3:18] Mercury trines Saturn (Aug. 17, 8:27 AM PDT) at 14°20’ Leo-Aries. Cut through the noise, stay organized, and get the most critical tasks across the finish line [4:48] Venus sextile Jupiter (Aug. 17, 9:15 AM PDT) at 10°37’ Libra-Leo. Dress to impress and lead with charm—a little polish and sweet persuasion will go a long way with the people who hold the keys. [6:14] Moon Report! Scorpio First Quarter Moon (Aug. 19, 7:46 PM PDT), at 27°07’ Scorpio-Leo is an action point for the New Moon Solar eclipse (Aug. 12, 20°01’ Leo. Look deep within and acknowledge frailties. [8:26] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the First Quarter Moon (first action phase) in an LPFC that began on Nov. 19, 2025 at 28°11’ Scorpio. The Full Moon (awareness point) is on May 20, 2027, at 29°13’ Scorpio. The Last Quarter Moon (last action phase) occurs on Feb. 17, 2028, at 28°10’ Scorpio. [10:08] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Libra sextiles the Sun in Leo (Aug. 17, 4:30 AM PDT). It's VOC for 10 hours, 16 minutes, then enters Scorpio (2:46 PM PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to tackle creative and romantic endeavors that will brighten someone's day and give you a sense of well-deserved pride. [11:09] The Moon in Scorpio squares the Leo Sun (Aug. 19, 7:46 PM PDT). It’s VOC for 5 hours, 44 minutes, then enters Sagittarius (Aug. 20, 1:30 AM PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of sweating out your grievances. [12:09] The Moon in Sagittarius trines the Leo Sun (Aug. 22, 1:31 PM PDT). It's VOC for 28 minutes, then enters Capricorn (1:59 PM PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to institute a habit of taking a pause in your day to soak up some rays and appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors. [13:32] Venus opposes Saturn (Aug. 21, 5:43 AM PDT) at 14°11’ Libra-Aries. Venus is on Sabian symbol 15 Libra, Circular paths. Relationships and finances get a reality check. [16:06] Sun enters Virgo (Aug. 22, 7:19 pm PDT). The Sun will be in Virgo until Sep. 22, 2026. Virgo season is when we gear up for new challenges and figure out step by step how to manage them. [18:19] Mini-lesson: April revisits a previous listener question about scary eclipse repeats! [24:01] Got a question? 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! [24:35] 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 contribut

This week: Another episode that covers a two-week period while April is on vacation, so we’re covering a lot of ground. The Sun converges with the recent basket configuration and trines Neptune, sextiles Uranus, conjuncts Jupiter (and trines Saturn); Venus swing-dances with Mars; the Aquarius Full Moon pits the Moon and Pluto against the Sun and Jupiter; Venus enters Libra, a sign that loves how things work; and Mercury enters creative Leo! And a listener question about types of astrology. Plus: the Sun’s exclamation mark, a frosty peak, a daunting descent, and fame that is fleeting. It is a lot, so buckle up for the ride! The annual Podathon is coming Labor Day week, with guests and prizes! Mark Sep. 7 on your calendar! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:23] The Sun trines Neptune (July 27, 12:36 am PDT) at 4°18' Leo-Aries and sextiles Uranus on the same day (2:36 pm PDT) at 4°52' Leo-Gemini. The Sun is on the Sabian symbol 5 Leo, Rock formations at the edge of a precipice. Neptune is at 5 Aries, A triangle with wings, and Uranus is at 5 Gemini, A radical magazine. Embrace Leo’s confident energy; break routine and lift off. [4:15] Venus squares Mars (July 29, 12:10 am PDT) at 21°14’ Virgo-Gemini. Venus is on the Sabian symbol 22 Virgo, A royal coat of arms, and Mars is at 22 Gemini, A barn dance. [6:06] Moon Report! The Sun conjuncts Jupiter (July 29, 5:18 am PDT) at 06°24’ Leo, then a couple of hours later the Aquarius Full Moon (7:36 am PDT) is at 06°30’ Aquarius-Leo. This Full Moon looks back not only at the recent Cancer New Moon (July 14, 2026, at 21°59’ Cancer), but back to the New Moon in Aquarius (Feb. 17, 2026), which was a solar eclipse. Reflect on what looks different now than it did in February. [9:42] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in an LPFC that started on Jan. 29, 2025 at 9°51’ Aquarius on Sabian symbol 10 Aquarius, A popularity that proves ephemeral. The First Quarter (first action point) of this LPFC was on Oct. 29, 2025 at 6°30’ Aquarius. The Last Quarter phase (final action point) is on Apr. 28, 2027. [11:07] Venus enters Libra (Aug. 6, 12:13 pm PDT, through Sep. 10). Take a closer look at the people that you've chosen to teach you within the realm of important relationships. [13:42] Moon Report #2! The Taurus Last Quarter Moon (Aug. 5, 7:21 pm PDT) at 13°40’ Taurus-Leo. This is the final action point for the New Moon in Cancer from July 14, 2026. Show support in tangible, practical ways. [16:10] The Sun trine Saturn (Aug. 6, 7:44 pm PDT) at 14°38’ Leo and Aries. The Sabian symbol for the Sun is 15 Leo, A pageant; Saturn is on 15 Aries, An Indian weaving a basket. Put your skills and talents to work and make something. [18:17] Mercury enters Leo (Aug. 9, 9:28 am PDT, until Aug. 25). Mercury in Leo invites us to lead by example: share your story gracefully, and create space for others to do the same. [21:31] Listener Sousa asks about the different types of astrology. Check out April’s book, The Essential Guide to Practical Astrology. The upcoming Big Sky Astrology Podathon (Labor Day week) will feature interviews with specialized astrologers as well! [26:57] 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! [27:26] 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. We’re publishing on a reduced schedule this month, so join us again

This week, Mercury begins its latest retrograde period, followed by a hard-working Full Moon in Capricorn. A few hours later, Jupiter enters sensational Leo. And over a few busy days, Mars in Gemini makes a conjunction with unpredictable Uranus, a friendly sextile to Neptune, and a trine to powerful Pluto. Plus: A family story; where you're stale; and there's Leo, and then there's Leo. Heads up: We're publishing on a lighter schedule in July with two episodes, on July 13 and 27. So enjoy a little July break and join us on the 13th! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:59] Mercury stations retrograde (Jun. 29, 10:36 am PDT, until July 23) at 26°15’ Cancer, on Sabian symbol 27 Cancer, A storm in a canyon. It's a time for reflection, especially about family, heritage, and community matters. Keep your schedule light and flexible. [5:44] Moon Report! The Capricorn Full Moon (Jun. 29, 4:56 pm PDT) at 8°14’ Capricorn, on Sabian symbol 9 Capricorn, An angel carrying a harp. This Full Moon is also square Saturn, for a double dose of responsibility, maturity, and seriousness. [8:21] This is the Full Moon (awareness point) in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC) that began with a New Moon on Dec. 30, 2024, at 9°43’ Capricorn. The First Quarter (first action point) in this LPFC was on Sep. 29, 2025, at 7°05’ Capricorn. The Last Quarter (final action point) comes on Mar. 29, 2027, at 9°06’ Capricorn. [12:21] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Capricorn opposes Mercury in Cancer (July 1, 4:51 am PDT). It’s VOC for 7 hours, 42 minutes, then enters Aquarius (12:33 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to establish a routine or a habit of talking about what you're feeling without being overwhelmed by your emotions. [14:23] The Moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo (July 3, 10:27 am PDT). It’s VOC for 13 hours, 3 minutes, then enters Pisces (11:30 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to build stronger, mutual connections with others by practicing the art of give-and-take. [15:22] The Moon in Pisces trines Mercury in Cancer (July 5, 10:21 pm PDT). It’s VOC for 9 hours, 46 minutes, then enters Aries (July 6, 8:07 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of releasing strong emotions through artistic means and bringing joy and inspiration to others. [16:38] Jupiter enters Leo (Jun. 29, 10:52 pm PDT), and it will be in this joyous sign until July 25, 2027. Jupiter was last in Leo between July 16, 2014- August. 11, 2015. When Jupiter is in Leo, there is a strong desire for more attention, self-expression, and fun. The Moon's South Node will also enter Leo on July 26, 2026, for about an 18-month stay. So, shine, but without making the spotlight the entire point. [19:53] Mars conjoins Uranus (Jul. 3, 11:08 pm PDT) at 3°52’ Gemini. Look to the Gemini house of your natal chart to see where you are stale and where you need to shake things up. [22:43] Mars sextile Neptune (Jul. 4, 5:44 pm PDT) at 4°24’ Gemini and Aries. Mars is on the Sabian symbol 5 Gemini, A radical magazine. Embrace artistic projects. Take a small action to improve somebody's life. Happy Fourth of July! [25:37] Mars trines Pluto (Jul. 5, 6:06 am PDT) at 4°46’ Gemini and Aquarius. Pluto's on the Sabian symbol 5 Aquarius, A council of ancestors. Let challenges inspire empowerment. [28:09] No Listener Question this week, but please keep them coming in for future episodes! [28:18] 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! [28:50] A tribute to this week’s donors! If you would like to support the show and receive access to April’s special donors-only vi

Venus, the goddess of love and money, is having a busy week. Her sextile aspect to Uranus offers an opportunity for radical change, and her trine to idealistic Neptune lends a pair of rose-colored glasses, at least until she opposes Pluto for a short but potent trip to the underworld. Embrace the Cancer Solstice, a moment to stop and contemplate where you're at and what lies ahead. A Libra First Quarter Moon initiates action in relationships, money, and getting life in balance. And a listener question about a jangly natal Sun and its impact on the annual Solar Return. Plus: A haircut, charm school, and feng shui! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:41] Venus sextiles Uranus (Jun. 15, 3:53 pm PDT) at 2°54’ Leo and Gemini. Venus' Sabian symbol is 3 Leo, A woman having her hair bobbed. New ideas may suddenly appear that are related to money, values, or relationships. The more equal two people are, the more united they can ultimately be. [4:13] Venus trines Neptune (Jun. 16, 8:41 pm PDT) at 4°18’ Leo and Aries. This aspect reminds us that love, beauty, and creativity are at their richest when they open doors to both inspiration and connection. [5:48] Venus opposes Pluto (Jun. 17, 1:38 pm PDT) at 5°7’ Leo and Aquarius. Love what and who we love, even when knowing that nothing lasts forever. Financial stress is possible, especially with the financial markets. [7:58] The Sun enters Cancer (Jun. 21, 1:24 am PDT) and it will remain in the sign until July 22, 2026. Happy Summer/Winter Solstice! This is a lovely season of the year to spend more time close to home with your family, with your loved ones, pets, and to let yourself be for a while. [10:23] Moon Report! The Libra First Quarter Moon (June 21, 2:55 pm PDT) at 0°32’ Libra and Cancer. This is the first action point for the June 14 Gemini New Moon. This lunation could bring awareness about what's really going on with the people in our lives and the things that we value. This is a nice time to focus on beautifying your home and bringing it into balance. Check out Simone Butler’s Astro Feng Shui book! [14:06] This is the First Quarter (first action point) in a Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC) that began with the New Moon Solar Eclipse on Sep. 21, 2025, at 29°5’ Virgo. The Full Moon (awareness point) in this LPFC is on Mar. 22, 2027, at 1°35’ Libra. The Last Quarter (last action point) in this LPFC is on Dec. 20, 2027, at 28°14’ Virgo. [15:42] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon conjoins the Sun (Jun. 14, 7:54 pm PDT), is VOC for 9 hours, 20 minutes, then enters Cancer (Jun. 15, 5:14 am PDT). Check out Ep. 348’s VOC Moon segment for more details. [16:32] The Moon in Cancer conjoins Jupiter (Jun. 17, 12:41 am PDT). It's VOC for 4 hours, 24 minutes, then enters Leo (5:05 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to research how to reasonably make your home safe and secure. [17:48] The Moon in Leo sextiles the Sun (Jun. 19, 4:30 am PDT). It's VOC for 3 hours, 7 minutes, then enters Virgo (7:37 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to appreciate the gift of today and the simple joy of your beating heart. [18:40] The Moon in Virgo sextiles Jupiter (Jun. 21, 10:33 am PDT). It's VOC for 3 hours, 22 minutes, then enters Libra (1:55 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon to catch up on household chores and repairs to make your home more comfortable and efficient. [19:36] Listener June asks about preparing for a Solar Return when the Sun has difficult placements in the Birth Chart. Check out Andrea Gehrz's book, Remediation: A Guide for the Modern Astrologer. [26:12] 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 a

This week, the skies are pretty quiet, with no major lunation and only a few transits. Mercury enters the quiet sign of Cancer for a longer than usual stay. The Sun’s sextile to Saturn provides persistence for tackling serious projects, and Mercury squares Neptune for a clarifying dose of realism. We look at the week's Void-of-Course Moon periods, and I answer a listener question about which are the best charts to use when you're giving an astrology reading. Plus: The language of the past, the value of fog, and masters of small talk! Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:26] Mercury enters Cancer (June 1, 4:56 am PDT). Due to Mercury’s retrograde period (June 29-July 23, 2026), Mercury will be in Cancer until Aug. 9, 2026. Mercury enters Cancer on the Sabian symbol 1 Cancer, A furled and unfurled flag displayed from a vessel. Expect fluctuations in communication, travel plans, and even in the weather itself. Pay attention to feelings and what is being shared on a non-verbal level. [5:14] The Sun sextile Saturn (June 2, 3:49 am PDT) at 12°24’ Gemini-Aries. The Sun’s Sabian symbol 13 Gemini is: A great musician at his piano. Great transit for tackling overwhelmingly tedious projects or for mastering new technology. [7:39] Mercury squares Neptune (June 3, 5:18 pm PDT) at 4°06’ Cancer-Aries. Question assumptions, double-check information, and sit with uncertainty for a while. This aspect that can sharpen your mind and deepen your intuition at the same time. [10:10] Moon Report! No major lunations this week. Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. We begin the week on a VOC Moon that began when the Moon trined Saturn (May 31, 6:21 am PDT). It’s is VOC for 1 day, 11 hours, 58 minutes, then enters Capricorn (June 1, 6:19 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon to get in the habit of going after intimidating challenges with passion, confidence, and hard work. [12:14] The Moon in Capricorn opposes Jupiter in Cancer (June 3, 8:04 pm PDT). It's VOC for 10 hours, 41 minutes, then enters Aquarius (June 4, 6:45 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of noticing when the balance is off between the desire for material security and living an enjoyable and comfortable life. [13:40] The Moon in Aquarius trines the Sun in Gemini (June 5, 12:51 pm PDT). The Moon will be VOC for 1 day, 4 hours, 52 minutes, then enters Pisces (June 6, 5:43 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to consider the ways you can socialize while also supporting local businesses in your area. [15:22] Listener Marilyn asks about the best charts to use when giving an astrology reading. [22:38] 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! [23:11] 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.

This week, Mars leaves fast-moving Aries for the more leisurely pastures of Taurus. Venus enters nurturing Cancer and makes a romantic sextile to Mars. The Sun enters the curious sign of Gemini and is awakened by a conjunction with Uranus, and creativity are highlighted as the Sun sextiles Neptune. We are encouraged to loosen our grip on perfectionism at the Virgo First Quarter Moon. Plus: "A guy," a cat arguing with a mouse, and the love of a hot mess! (And this is another busy week, so we'll have to wait until next week to answer a listener question.) Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:35] Mars enters Taurus (May 18, 3:25 pm PDT until June 28, 2026), where slow and steady wins the race. Great for tackling projects that need patience and stamina to bring them to completion. [4:29] Venus enters Cancer (May 18, 6:05 pm PDT until June 13, 2026). Buy items for your home, and focus on the people who matter most: show them love, and look for ways to bring them comfort and joy. [7:02] Venus sextiles Mars (May 18, 10:37 pm PDT) at 0°13’ Cancer-Taurus. You may be willing to go after the things you want without apology or hesitation. The desire for more money motivates you to work harder. [9:16] The Sun enters Gemini (May 20, 5:37 pm PDT until June 21, 2026). This is the season of the butterfly, where we're curious and interested in everything, but not necessarily for very long. Great time for short road trips and summer reading. [11:59] Venus squares Neptune (May 21, 11:32 pm PDT) at 3°51’ Cancer and Aries. Venus is on the Sabian symbol 4 Cancer, A cat arguing with a mouse, and Neptune is on 4 Aries, Two lovers strolling through a secluded walk. Relationships and finances can struggle due to unrealistic expectations. [14:28] The Sun conjoins Uranus (May 22, 7:26 am PDT) at 1°30’ Gemini. The Sabian symbol for this conjunction is 2 Gemini, Santa Claus filling stockings furtively. Unexpected blessings and prosperity might come your way. Be open to new things and new ways of being. [16:21] Moon Report! The Virgo First Quarter Moon (May 23, 4:11 am PDT) at 2°20’ Virgo and Gemini. This is the first action point in the Taurus New Moon (May 16, 25°57’ Taurus) cycle. Release Virgo's tendency for hyper-perfection and overt criticism. Find something to fix, a job to do, or a problem to solve. [18:46] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the First Quarter Moon (first action point) for the LPFC that began with Aug. 22, 2025 New Moon at 0°23’ Virgo. The Full Moon (awareness point) in this LPFC is on Feb. 20, 2027, at 2°5’ Virgo, and the Last Quarter (last action point) is on Nov. 20, 2027 at 28°27’ Leo. [20:49] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Gemini sextiles Saturn in Aries (May 17, 12:35 pm PDT). It's VOC for 1 day, 6 hours, and 11 minutes, then enters Cancer (May 18, 6:46 pm PDT). Focus on using setting firm boundaries to prevent overwhelm. [22:13] The Moon in Cancer conjoins Jupiter (May 20, 6:27 am PDT), is VOC for 13 hours, 21 minutes, then enters Leo (7:48 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to establish the habit of learning about creature comforts from other cultures. [23:35] The Moon in Leo trines Saturn in Aries (May 21, 3:05 pm PDT). It's VOC for 1 day, 8 hours, 52 minutes, then enters Virgo (May 22, 11:57 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to bring structure and timelines to your creative projects. [24:41] The Moon in Virgo sextiles Jupiter in Cancer (May 24, 5:54 pm PDT). It's VOC for 13 hours, 40 minutes, then enters Libra (May 25, 7:34 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon to practice leaving people and places better than you found them. [26:04] The Sun sextiles Neptune (May 24, 7:22 pm PDT) at 3°55’ Gemini-Aries. Pay attention to your intuition and create without overthinking. This transit supports turning

This week, Mars in Aries squares Jupiter in Cancer, encouraging us to push our way through and demand to have things our way. Mercury squares Pluto, encouraging deep thought, just as the planet of transformation stations retrograde. The Aquarius Last Quarter Moon calls us to gather our friends to help us reach our New Moon goals. The Sun and Jupiter provide warm astrological weather for your Mother's Day brunch, and April answers a listener question about the Void-of-Course Moon. Plus: Swinging a hammer, a lavish brunch, and not everything is hard. Read a full transcript of this episode. Have a question you’d like answered on the show? Email April or leave it here! Subscribe to April’s mailing list and get a free lunar workbook at each New Moon! Love the show? Make a donation! Timestamps [1:29] Mars squares Jupiter (May 4, 7:08 pm PDT) at 19º30’ Aries-Cancer. It is fine to go after what we want, but it's equally important to practice good sportsmanship and to be generous toward others. [3:18] Mercury squares Pluto (May 5, 3:08 pm PDT), at 5º30’ Taurus-Aquarius. Look at anything that you haven't been facing up to, and make a resolution to deal with it. [4:49] Pluto stations retrograde (May 6, 8:34 am PDT, until Oct. 15) at 5°30’ Aquarius. Pluto's on the Sabian symbol 6 Aquarius, A performer of a mystery play. This could be a powerful time for ritual work and connecting with those who have passed on. Dramas within groups and with technology are more possible. [7:02] Moon Report! Aquarius Last Quarter Moon (May 9, 2:10 pm PDT) at 19º14’ Aquarius-Taurus. This is the final action point for the goals that you set at the Aries New Moon on Apr. 17. The Moon’s Sabian symbol is 20 Aquarius: A big white dove, a message bearer. Gather your true friends and allies close to you for reassurance and solidarity. [9:00] Lunar Phase Family Cycle (LPFC). This is the Last Quarter (last action point) in an LPFC that began with the New Moon on Feb. 9, 2024, at 20º40’ Aquarius. The First Quarter (first action point) was on Nov. 8, 2024, and the Full Moon (awareness point) was on Aug. 9, 2025. [10:52] Void-of-Course (VOC) Moon periods. The Moon in Sagittarius trines Mars in Aries (May 4, 2:33 pm PDT). It's VOC for 21 hours, 33 minutes, then enters Capricorn (May 5, 12:06 pm PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to get in the habit of making physical activity a fun and sociable outlet. [12:20] The Moon in Capricorn squares Mars in Aries (May 7, 7:19 am PDT). The Moon is VOC for 17 hours, 9 minutes, then enters Aquarius (May 8, 12:27 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period to get into a habit of monitoring your energy levels and using them effectively. [13:33] The Moon in Aquarius sextiles Mars in Aries (May 9, 10:09 pm PDT). It's VOC for 12 hours and 30 minutes, then enters Pisces (May 10, 10:39 am PDT). Use this VOC Moon period for finding different ways to find leads in your professional network. [14:33] The Sun sextiles Jupiter (May 10, 7:14 pm PDT) at 20º25’ Taurus-Cancer. Happy Mother’s Day! Nice opportunities can present themselves, especially in the realm of real estate. Excellent time to get recognized, but beware of overdoing things. [17:05] Listener Maria asks, “We signed our house contract during a Void-of-Course Moon in Gemini. Are we doomed?” [24:03] 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! [24:11] 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.