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Exploring EsotericaPlanetary Conditions in AstrologyIn this final episode of my series on traditional astrology, we examine a few of the basic planetary conditions that determine the strength of planets in a chart. This is the fourth and final part of the framework of astrology. Correction: at 7:13 it shows Sun and Moon are square if Sun in Leo and Moon in Virgo. It should read Scorpio, not Virgo. I’m blaming Mercury currently being Retrograde, haha. Previous episodes in this series: Episode 12: Hellenistic AstrologyEpisode 14: Planets in Ancient AstrologyEpisode 15: The 12 Signs of the ZodiacEpisode 16: The 12 Houses in Astrology Timest...2025-07-2521 minExploring EsotericaThe 12 Houses in AstrologyDisclaimer: you will hear faint chirping in the background. The birds were busy that day and I’ve tried to minimize it as much as possible. Apologizes if this is too distracting for you. This is the third part of the framework of astrology. I discuss the 12 houses in traditional astrology and how they fit together with the planets and zodiac signs. Previous episodes in this series: Episode 14: Planets in Ancient AstrologyEpisode 12: Hellenistic AstrologyEpisode 15: The 12 Signs of the ZodiacTimestamps: [01:42] Part 1: The Principles[11:14] Part 2: The 12 Houses [27:05] Part 3: Putting It TogetherKey T...2025-06-1528 minExploring EsotericaThe 12 Signs of the ZodiacThis is the second episode in my astrology series. I go over the 12 signs of the zodiac and a few ways they are categorized in ancient astrology. Previous episodes in this series: Episode 14: Planets in Ancient AstrologyEpisode 12: Hellenistic AstrologyTimestamps: [00:00] Intro[05:58] Part 1: A Brief History[10:57] Part 2: 12 Signs of the Zodiac[20:10] Part 3: Planetary RulershipKey Takeaways: The planets signify themes and circumstances in our lives, while the zodiac signifies how they are expressed. In the tropical zodiac, the signs are defined by season, mode, and element. This further explains the expression of each s...2025-04-2647 minExploring EsotericaPlanets in Ancient AstrologyThis is the first episode in my astrology series. I go over a brief history of this practice and dive the most important component, which is the planets. This is in terms of ancient astrology, which is slightly different than the popular modern version. Timestamps:[00:00] Welcome [02:34] Part 1: A Brief History[19:31] Part 2: The Planets[38:36] Part 3: A Modern PerspectiveKey Takeaways:Most of the development can be attributed to the Mesopotamians and Egyptians. Hellenistic Greece refined these components. Astrology became shunned and outlawed due to the spread of Christianity. The planets signify external circumstances more than...2025-03-2841 minExploring EsotericaWelcome to Exploring EsotericaIn this podcast I explore the culture, history, and framework behind different esoteric practices and philosophies. Previously called Merwin's Philosophy. 2025-02-1200 minExploring EsotericaWestern Esotericism Western Esotericism is the new focus of this podcast. Let’s explore the basics of this field of study. References Useful Charts “Western Esotericism Family Tree”Western Esotericism: A Guide for the Perplexed by Wouter J. Hanegraaff2024-11-0725 minExploring EsotericaHellenistic AstrologyAn introduction into astrology and its importance. We start off during the Hellenistic period of Ancient Greece. Reference: Hellenistic Astrology: The Study of Fate and Fortune - Book by author Chris Brennan2024-09-2427 min
Exploring EsotericaWhat is Resilience? - Strength CardThe strength card represents our ability to withstand hardships and adversity. This is also known as resilience. In this episode I explore the misconceptions of this word and why it’s so important today. References:Building your resilienceAPA - Resilience2024-05-0419 minExploring EsotericaFinding Your Path Again - The ChariotIn this episode we explore the Chariot card and how it feels to be on the right path versus feeling lost. We also explore how this relates to an emotional crisis and what to do. Midlife CrisisSurviving Your Quarter Life Crisis: Strategies and SupportWhy Do I Feel Lost? What it Means and 6 Things to Do About It2024-03-1825 minExploring EsotericaThe 7 Types of Love, Part 2 - The LoversIn this final episode on Love, I discuss the 3 types of romantic love and the important of separating fantasy from reality. 2024-01-0528 minExploring EsotericaThe 7 Types of Love, Part 1 - The LoversIn this first episode on Love, I discuss the 4 types of platonic love and the important of self-awareness and honesty. 2023-10-1230 minExploring EsotericaFinding Yourself When You Feel Lost - The HierophantWhen we are having a major issue in our life or going through a transition, it’s best to reach out to others for help. However, there are caveats to consider when doing so. Part 1: Group Support [05:07] Part 2: Leaving the Group [06:21] Part 3: Discovering Yourself [11:03] References: Very Well MindPsych Central2023-08-2717 minExploring EsotericaUnderstanding Empowerment - The EmperorThe Emperor in Tarot represents empowerment. Empowerment is the other side of self-care. It is one of those easily misunderstood concepts especially when considering it on a more societal scale. Join me as I explore this concept in a deeper way in this episode. Transcript available here: Understanding Empowerment2023-08-0310 minExploring EsotericaThe True Meaning of Self-Care - The Empress Some of us may have misconceptions when it comes to self-care. Let’s explore the true meaning and the nuances of it. This is represented by the Empress tarot card, as part of the Life Journey Series. https://www.merwinmccrady.com/blog/the-true-meaning-of-self-care2023-07-0211 minExploring EsotericaSpirituality Versus PsychologyI explain the difference between spirituality and psychology, and how they both affect our lives on a deeper level. This episode is the basis of this podcast. https://www.merwinmccrady.com/blog/spirituality-versus-psychology 2023-06-2008 min