The Archetypal Tarot Podcast

To close out Pride Month, this vibrant episode celebrates queer voices in tarot through the lens of Tarot in Other Words, a newly released anthology edited (and contributed to) by Cassandra Snow. In this intimate conversation, Cassandra shares the behind-the-scenes journey of curating this one-of-a-kind collection featuring personal, poetic, and powerful essays by leading queer tarot writers. This luminous episode offers a heartfelt exploration into queer tarot wisdom: ✨ How tarot offers radical personal agency and transformation—especially for queer people navigating oppressive systems✨ Why the title “Tarot in Other Words” speaks to “othered” perspectives and multidimensional storytelling✨ Personal stories of reclaiming identity, queering archetypes, and surviving spiritual trauma through tarot✨ How tarot can be grounding and galvanizing in our current sociopolitical moment—especially for marginalized communities✨ Cassandra’s favorite decks (like the Fat Folks Tarot and Next World Tarot) and the importance of inclusive imagery✨ A powerful vision of tarot as art, activism, legacy, and spiritual rebellion Plus, hear about Cyndera’s own intergenerational stone oracle deck, Story Through Stone and how imagery—whether ancient mineral or punk dystopian—can crack open new ways of seeing and being. About Cassandra Snow: Cassandra Snow is an author of Tarot & Occult books, full-time Tarot reader and creative witch about town. Their latest book project is Tarot in Other Words, out now! This book is an essay anthology on queer tarot topics that Snow curated, edited and contributed to. You can learn more about them at cassandra-snow.com, on Instagram, BlueSky or Threads at mx.cassandra.snow or on their patreon at patreon.com/cassandrasnow

On this captivating episode of the Archetypal Tarot Podcast, host Cyndera engages in an intimate conversation with Romani guests Paulina Stevens and Jezmina Von Thiele. Together, they explore the powerful intersection of Romani heritage and the world of tarot, discussing their bold decision to publicly identify as fortune tellers—a choice that invites both recognition and backlash. Amidst the complexities of their journey, Paulina and Jezmina reveal how their activism intertwines with their practice, confronting racism and the challenges of reclaiming their cultural narrative. This is a profound discussion on identity, resilience, and the transformative power of embracing one's roots in the face of adversity. Tune in for an eye-opening, thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional perspectives and celebrates the strength of Romani women in the mystical arts. For video and ad-free listening, support this podcast by becoming a paid subscriber at https://archetypalstories.substack.com/ Check out Paulina and Jezmina’s own podcast, Romanistan, and the Romani Art & Culture Festival in New Orleans this weekend! https://www.romanistanpodcast.com/romanistan-festival-neworleans You can follow them on Instagram @romanistanpodcast Paulina Stevens Jezmina Von Thiele

In this episode of The Archetypal Tarot Podcast, host Cyndera Quackenbush sits with Brigit Esselmont to dive deep into "intuitive manifesting." Brigit, a leading expert in tarot and personal transformation, shares insights from her newly released book Intuitive Manifesting: Align with Your Inner Wisdom and Attract Your Dream Life. She explains how manifesting goes beyond the surface-level pursuit of goals and dives into a powerful co-creative partnership with the universe. By tapping into the wisdom of tarot and other intuitive tools, Brigit reveals how we can manifest more meaningfully, authentically, and in alignment with our true desires. Whether you're seeking clarity in your desires or looking to build a deeper connection with your intuition, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on creating the life you truly want. Tune in for an inspiring chat about blending psychology, spirituality, and tarot to manifest your dreams.

I truly believe everyone has something unique to offer the Tarot world. If you’re a writer or artist or wise wanderer YOU have a unique perspective that will enrich this community. You can offer yet another bridge to self-understanding and inner illumination that no one else can. It has been my great joy to sit with and press “record” on over 100 conversations with wisdom seekers of the world. And then I met Mandy. When I had a chance to review Mystic Storyteller: A Writer’s Guide to Using the Tarot for Creative Inspiration, I had a moment to myself where I said, “THIS is the book I wish I could have written!” Truthfully, Mandy’s got the creds to speak thoroughly on tarot and writing. She has written over a dozen literary works and even has a couple pen names under her belt! Well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join em! And we do just that here on Substack in our latest Archetypal Tarot Podcast. I cannot even begin to describe how much this book offers writers, creatives and tarot enthusiasts alike. This book is CHOCK-FULL of guidance as Mandy takes you by the hand, weaving in her personal experience with the timeless wisdom of the tarot. If you’re like me, you might for the first time feel capable of writing that first great American novel! Her book covers: Enhancing creativity. Strengthening writer’s intuition. Inspiring ideas and composition. Improving storytelling proficiency through building confidence and encouraging authenticity of voice and style. Nurturing rich character- and world-building practices. Elevating plot and scene development skills. Troubleshooting writer’s block. Supporting self-discovery and wellness routines. Mapping out a memoir. The companion deck, illustrated by Roz Kazaz, is inspired by Rider-Waite-Smith but incorporates the modern visages and true diversity that reflect our world. Playfully, writing paraphernalia populates the tools of the tarot characters: Mandy’s fundraising campaign reached full support since we recorded this podcast. If you would like updates on the book’s release, join Mandy’s mailing list here: https://www.haintbluecreative.com/books/mystic-storyteller

Join us on the Archetypal Tarot Podcast for an enchanting episode with Cyndera Quackenbush and special guest David DePasquale, the creative force behind the mesmerizing deck, The Storyteller’s Tarot. David, a seasoned animation art director and storyteller, delves into his latest tarot project, where mythology, history, and spirituality intertwine to craft a deck brimming with vibrant narratives from around the globe. Discover how David's deep-rooted passion for storytelling influenced the creation of this unique deck, filled with rich cultural references and literary nods—from Dante's Divine Comedy to ancient myths. Explore the intricate process behind the deck's creation, including David's intuitive approach to art and his commitment to cultural sensitivity. Whether you're a tarot enthusiast or simply intrigued by the fusion of art and storytelling (like I am!), this episode promises a captivating journey through the world of tarot and animation. Don’t miss out on this chance to uncover the magic of The Storytellers Tarot! To support the Archetypal Tarot Podcast, become a paid subscriber at https://archetypalstories.substack.com/

This is a book about Tarot, and it will scratch every itching question that asks, “Can I really ask the cards that?” Not only that, but this is a fiercely practical guide that will hold your hand as you face these questions. It will give you accessible understanding and WORDS in the face of life’s events that often rob us of speech. Plus, Theresa, aka the Tarot Lady, is just fun and comfortable to talk to. Her voice, as in all her books, comes through familiar and warm like a best friend. She shares herself and her true life experience so you don’t feel so alone. This podcast conversation delves into specific chapters of the book, such as dealing with death and dying, pregnancy loss, ends of relationships, and serious illnesses. Theresa provides examples of tarot spreads and exercises, like the "Words Left Unsaid" journaling exercise, to help individuals process their feelings and regrets. Additional topics include: How Tarot can be used for personal reflection, Tarot for caregiving, Tarot for coping with collective grief, finding empowerment and resilience with the cards, how to ask health related questions, and facilitating difficult conversations with children. Theresa explains that she wrote this book to fill a gap in Tarot literature, providing interpretations, spreads, and professional advice for readers dealing with challenging circumstances. I am sure you will treasure Theresa’s personal experiences and insights as they highlight the role of Tarot in processing emotions we may have hereto thought impossible to approach. You never know when you may need to pull this one off the shelf for some friendly help! You may purchase the book The Cards You’re Dealt: How to Deal When Life Gets Real here: https://redwheelweiser.com/book/the-cards-youre-dealt-9781578638031/ P.S. It's a big birthday and anniversary month coming up for the Archetypal Tarot Podcast! If you would like to support the podcast please consider becoming a paid subscriber on https://archetypalstories.substack.com/ or backing my new Story Through Stone card deck release. There are perks for contributions! Check out the details here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/story-through-stone-reflection-cards/x/24162339#/

This delightful dialogue with Kara Simons introduces her new book You Belong Here: A Story of Otherworldly Help in Finding My Place, which will launch its Kickstarter campaign on May 7th. Kara recounts her journey of breaking away from a restrictive and damaging belief system rooted in Mormon theology. Her experience of being torn away from deep family connections at a young age paved her path toward a direct connection with the other world. She found guidance from the forces and animals of nature, which lead to the creation of her Prairie Majesty Oracle and Song of the Grandmothers. Kara is a mother of 3 and a practicing lawyer too, so you get a well-grounded and practical perspective that is rare in the spiritual canon. Have you ever felt you might need a spiritual lawyer to come and draw up some contracts for greater self-awareness and boundary setting? With Kara’s guided questions at the end of each section of her book, search no further! This autobiographical book is not just a beautiful read but a gateway of encouragement and allowance for each person’s deeper access to spirit. Please join the Archetypal Tarot Podcast in celebrating the bravery of Kara’s work - you can sign up to receive updates at the following link: https://www.backerkit.com/call_to_action/46e707e0-76b3-4db2-8993-607cbd3d7eeb/landing