Shows
Fortune’s WheelhouseINTERVIEW EPISODE! Mel's Telos Tarot (bonus: Susie on 'Dreaming the Decans')Happy Holidays everybody! For the first time in a couple of years, we are delighted to bring you a brand-new episode of Fortune’s Wheelhouse! As you probably know, Mel released her Telos Tarot deck this year, so we thought we’d have a conversation about the magical labor that went into the deck and its unique take on decanic imagery. At the end, we also talked a bit about my own 2024 production, the Dreaming the Decans book, and how that came to be. Enjoy!
Mel's products
All decks (Rosetta, Tabula Mundi, Pharos, Telos) and book...2024-12-031h 15
Fortune’s WheelhouseSERIES FINALE: A reading for Mel, a reading for Susie.Friends, we have arrived at our destination. After completing the planetary, numeric, zodiacal, and elemental series, Mel and Susie decided to record one final episode to mark the conclusion of the Fortune's Wheelhouse podcast: we decided to give the gift of divination to each other, reading about what turned out to be similar concerns for each of us.
Fortune's Wheelhouse will remain available on all podcast streaming services, for anyone to refer to whenever they like. Our books and decks will still be out there. You’ll still be able to find Mel at tabulamundi.com and me...2021-09-231h 10
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 103: The Sign of Leo in Tarot [zodiacal]We continue our zodiacal series with the radiant and illuminating sign of Leo, the Lion. We explore the characteristics of the sign, its associated planetary dignities, its magical and natural correspondences, its astronomy and related constellations and myths, its magical uses and more; all considered in terms of its expression in the tarot.
Cards considered in this episode:
- Strength/Lust (zodiacal major of Leo).
- The 5, 6, and 7 of Wands (minors of Leo)
- The Knight/Prince of Wands and King of Pentacles/Knight of Disks (court cards of Leo)
Music: "...2020-08-2046 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 102: The Sign of Cancer in Tarot [zodiacal]We continue our zodiacal series with the moonstruck sign of Cancer, the Crab. We explore the characteristics of the sign, its associated planetary dignities, its magical and natural correspondences, its astronomy and related constellations and myths, its magical uses and more; all considered in terms of its expression in the tarot.
Cards considered in this episode:
-The Chariot (zodiacal major of Cancer ). -The 2, 3, and 4 of Cups (minors of Cancer) -The Queen of Cups and the Knight/Prince of Wands (court cards of Cancer)
Music: "Moonlight Ride" by Jumpsuit Records
To learn...2020-08-0646 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 101: The Sign of Gemini in Tarot [zodiacal]We continue our zodiacal series with the sign of Gemini, the Twins. We explore the characteristics of the sign, its associated planetary dignities, its magical and natural correspondences, its astronomy and related constellations and myths, its magical uses and more; all considered in terms of its expression in the tarot.
Cards considered in this episode:
-The Lovers (zodiacal major of Gemini). -The 8, 9, and 10 of Swords (minors of Gemini) -The King/Knight of Swords and the Queen of Cups (court cards of Gemini)
Music: "Zero-Gemini" by Trills
To learn more about the...2020-07-2344 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 100: The Sign of Taurus in Tarot [zodiacal]We continue our zodiacal series with the sign of Taurus, the Bull. We explore the characteristics of the sign, its associated planetary dignities, its magical and natural correspondences, its astronomy and related constellations and myths, its magical uses and more; all considered in terms of its expression in the tarot.
Cards considered in this episode:
-The Hierophant (zodiacal major of Taurus).
-The 5, 6, and 7 of Pentacles/Disks (minors of Taurus)
-The Knight of Pentacles or Prince of Disks and the King/Knight of Swords(court cards of Taurus)
Music: "Taurus"...2020-07-0944 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 99: The Sign of Aries in Tarot [zodiacal]A new beginning! With this episode we begin a new series on the 12 zodiacal signs and their relationship to cards in the tarot.
First, of course, is the sign of Aries, the Ram. We explore the characteristics of the sign, its associated planetary dignities, its magical and natural correspondences, its astronomy and related constellations and myths, its magical uses and more; all considered in terms of its expression in the tarot.
Cards considered in this episode:
-The Emperor (zodiacal major of Aries).
-The 2, 3, and 4 of Wands (minors of Aries)
...2020-06-2549 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 98: Patron One-Card Readings, part 2 [May 2020]Fortune's Wheelhouse brings you part 2 of a readings episode that illustrates how the correspondences are applied in real time when reading a card. Esoteric tarot reading is both an art and a science, in which the correspondences form a support for the intuitive oracular moment.
We put out a call for questions from Fortune's Wheelhouse patrons, and we are happy to say that we were able to read for every patron who submitted a question. However, we had to split the episode into two separate parts in order to do so. If your question wasn't addressed in...2020-06-1139 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 97: Patron One-Card Readings, part 1 [May 2020]Back by popular demand!
Fortune's Wheelhouse brings you part 1 of a readings episode that illustrates how the correspondences are applied in real time when reading a card. Esoteric tarot reading is both an art and a science, in which the correspondences form a support for the intuitive oracular moment.
We put out a call for questions from Fortune's Wheelhouse patrons, and we are happy to say that we were able to read for every patron who submitted a question. However, we had to split the episode into two separate parts in order to do so...2020-05-2847 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 96: Number 10 [numeric]In this tenth and final episode of our numeric sequence we explore the replete and fulsome! number 10, and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Malkuth, our own kingdom of the senses and last of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Tens
- Numbered majors: Card 1, the Magus/Magician; Card 10, the Wheel of Fortune; card 19, the Sun.
- Majors associated with paths from Malkuth: The Moon, Aeon...2020-04-301h 02
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 95: Number 9 [numeric]In this ninth episode of our numeric sequence we explore the potent and magical number 9, and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Yesod, lunar archetype of life's mysteries and the 9th of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Nines
- Numbered majors: Card 9, the Hermit and card 18, the Moon.
- Majors associated with paths from Yesod: Temperance/Art, the Star (RWS) or the Emperor (Thoth), the S...2020-04-1654 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 94: Number 8 [numeric]In this eighth episode of our numeric sequence we explore the systemic, systematic, and very real number 8, and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Hod, mercurial archetype of rational thought, the 8th of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Eights
- Numbered majors: Card 8, Strength (RWS) or Adjustment (Thoth) and card 17, the Star.
- Majors associated with paths from Hod: The Hanged Man, the Devil, Towe...2020-04-0248 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 93: Number 7 [numeric]In this seventh episode of our numeric sequence we explore the mystical, elusive and profoundly magical number 7, and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Netzach, archetype of inspiration and emotion, the 7th of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Sevens
- Numbered majors: Card 7, the Chariot and card 16, the Tower.
- Majors associated with paths from Netzach: Wheel of Fortune, Death, Tower, Emperor/Star, Moon.
...2020-03-1852 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 92: Number 6 [numeric]In this sixth episode of our numeric sequence we explore the harmonious sphere of Grand Central, number 6, and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Tiphareth, archetype of heart-centered purpose, the sixth of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the six Sixes
- Numbered majors: Card 6, the Lovers and card 15, the Devil.
- Majors associated with paths from Tiphareth: Priestess, Emperor/Star, Lovers, Hermit, Justice/Adjustment, Dea...2020-03-0539 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 91: Number 5 [numeric]In this fifth episode of our numeric sequence we explore the very disruptive! subversive! and trying! number 5 and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Geburah, archetype of divine restraint and correction, the fifth of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the five Fives
- Numbered majors: Card 5, the Hierophant and card 14, Art/Temperance.
- Majors associated with paths from Geburah: the Chariot, Lust/Strength, Justice/Adjustment, and the...2020-02-2045 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 90: Number 4 [numeric]In this fourth episode of our numeric sequence we explore the very stable, grounded, and generous number 4 and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Chesed, paternal divinity and source of matter, the fourth of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Fours
- Numbered majors: Card 4, the Emperor and card 13, Death.
- Majors associated with paths from Chesed: the Hierophant, Lust/Strength, the Hermit, and the Whe...2019-12-0550 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 89: Number 3 [numeric]In this third episode of our numeric sequence we explore the deep and restless waters of the number 3 and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Binah - the Great Mother, the Dark Sea, the third of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Threes
- Numbered majors: Card 3, the Empress; card 12, The Hanged Man, and card 21, The World/Universe.
- Majors associated with paths from Binah: the...2019-11-211h 01
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 88: Number 2 [numeric]In this second episode of our numeric sequence we explore the balanced, active, self-conscious number 2 - our only even prime! - and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Chokmah, the second of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Twos
- Numbered majors: Card 2, the High Priestess; card 11, Justice (in Rider Waite Smith) or Lust (in Thoth); card 20, Judgement (in Rider Waite Smith) or Aeon (in Thoth).2019-11-071h 01
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 87: Number 1 [numeric]In this first episode of our numeric sequence we explore the unique! the indivisible! the one and only! number 1, and all tarot-related topics relating to it. We touch upon numerology, Pythagorean thought, related shapes and symbols. We also comprehensively explore the concepts and correspondences of Kether, the first of the 10 sephiroth on the Tree of Life.
Cards covered in this episode:
- the four Aces
- Numbered majors: Card 1, the Magus/Magician; card 0, the Fool; card 10 the Wheel of Fortune; card 19, the Sun.
- Majors associated with paths from Kether: the Fool, the Mag...2019-10-241h 00
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 86 Patron One-Card Readings, Part 2By popular demand!
Fortune's Wheelhouse brings you a readings episode that illustrates how the correspondences are applied in real time when reading a card. Esoteric tarot reading is both an art and a science, in which the correspondences form a support for the intuitive oracular moment.
We put out a call for questions from Fortune's Wheelhouse patrons, and we are happy to say that we were able to read for every patron who submitted a question. However, we had to split the episode into two separate parts in order to do so. We assigned every...2019-10-1056 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 85: Patron One-Card Readings, Part 1By popular demand!
Fortune's Wheelhouse brings you a readings episode that illustrates how the correspondences are applied in real time when reading a card. Esoteric tarot reading is both an art and a science, in which the correspondences form a support for the intuitive oracular moment.
We put out a call for questions from Fortune's Wheelhouse patrons, and we are happy to say that we were able to read for every patron who submitted a question. However, we had to split the episode into two separate parts in order to do so. We assigned every...2019-09-2653 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 84: Saturn [planetary]This is the seventh in our planetary series covering each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. Featured in this show: the Great Timekeeper and Lord of Karma, Saturn - including his related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, Orphic hymn, and more.
Cards in this episode:
The World/Universe - planetary trump of Saturn
The Devil - zodiacal trump of Capricorn, ruled by Saturn
The Star - zodiacal trump of Aquarius, ruled by Saturn
2, 3, and 4 of Disks/Pentacles, decans of Capricorn
5, 6, and 7 of Swords, decans of Aquarius
7 of Disks/Pentacles: T...2019-09-121h 34
Fortune’s WheelhouseSPECIAL EPISODE: Tarot and the Decans, with Austin CoppockOn this week's special episode, we bring you a guest whose name will be very familiar to all Fortune's Wheelhouse listeners - Austin Coppock, author of 36 Faces: the History, Astrology, and Magic of the Decans
This episode is one half of a two-part production, the other half of which can be found on Austin's Eavesdropping at Midnight podcast. In this half, Austin and Susie talk extensively and specifically about the decans and their correspondence to the 36 numeric minor arcana. In the 'Eavesdropping' half, we cover a variety of more general subjects relating to tarot and astrology. You wil...2019-08-291h 31
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 83: Jupiter [planetary]This is the sixth in our planetary series covering each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. Featured in this show: our expansive all-Father and Big J himself, Jupiter! - including his related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, Orphic hymn, and more.
Cards in this episode:
The Wheel of Fortune - planetary trump of Jupiter
Temperance/Art - zodiacal trump of Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter
The Moon - zodiacal trump of Pisces, ruled by Jupiter
8, 9, and 10 of Wands, decans of Sagittarius
8, 9, and 10 of Cups, decans of Pisces
8 of Swords: Gemini...2019-08-151h 08
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 82: Mars [planetary]This is the fifth in our planetary series covering each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. Featured in this show: the Lord of the Hosts of the Mighty, indomitable Mars! - including his related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, Orphic hymn, and more!
Cards in this episode:
The Tower - planetary trump of Mars
The Emperor - zodiacal trump of Aries, ruled by Mars
Death - zodiacal trump of Scorpio, ruled by Mars
2, 3, and 4 of Wands, decans of Aries
5, 6, and 7 of Cups, decans of Scorpio
2 of Wands: Aries I2019-08-011h 29
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 81: The Sun [planetary]This is the fourth in our planetary series covering each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. Featured in this show: the Light of Our World, the shining Sun! - including his related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, Orphic hymn, and more!
Cards in this episode:
The Sun - planetary trump of the Sun
Lust/Strength - zodiacal trump of Leo, ruled by the Sun
5, 6, and 7 of Wands, decans of Leo
3 of Wands: Aries II
10 of Swords: Gemini III
8 of Pentacles/Disks: Virgo I
6 of Cups: Scorpio II
4...2019-07-181h 08
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 80 - Venus [planetary]This is the third in our planetary series covering each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. In this episode we talk about Her Loveliness the Fairer Benefic, Lady Venus - including her related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, Orphic hymn, and more!
Cards in this episode:
The Empress - planetary trump of Venus
The Hierophant - zodiacal trump of Taurus, ruled by Venus
Adjustment/Justice - zodiacal trump of Libra, ruled by Venus
The 5, 6, and 7 of Disks/Pentacles, decans of Taurus
The 2, 3, and 4 of Swords, decans of Libra
4 of...2019-07-041h 09
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 79 - Mercury [planetary]This is the second in our planetary series covering each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. In this episode we talk about the one, the only, thrice great Mercury! including his related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, Orphic hymn, and more!
Cards in this episode:
The Magus - planetary trump of Mercury
The Lovers - zodiacal trump of Gemini, ruled by Mercury (day sign)
The Hermit - zodiacal trump of Virgo, ruled by Mercury (night sign)
The 8, 9, and 10 of Swords, decans of Gemini
The 8, 9, and 10 of Pentacles/Disks, decans of...2019-06-201h 13
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 78 - The Moon [planetary]Fortune's Wheelhouse is back! with the first in our planetary series wherein we discuss each of the seven classical "planets" in the tarot. We shall begin with our satellite, the lovely Moon, along the way discussing the related astrology, Qabalah, powers, correspondences, the Orphic hymn, and more! (including a bit about the actual Moon card, which corresponds not to the Moon but Pisces)
Cards in this episode:
The High Priestess - planetary trump of the Moon
The Chariot - zodiacal trump of Cancer, ruled by the Moon
2, 3, and 4 of Cups (Love, Abundance, Luxury) - decans of C...2019-06-061h 18
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 77: Page of Pentacles / Princess of DisksIn this final episode of our journey through the cards, we meet at last the original Sleeping Beauty: the Page of Pentacles or Princess of Disks. Rose of the Palace of Earth, she is the ultimate destination and the ultimate source, the highest of the high and the lowest of the low. Engrossed in her talisman and silent in her repose, she is pregnant with possibility. When her Prince awakens her, 10000 things will be born.
In our conversation we discuss: the Summum Bonum and the Prima Materia, hills and mountains, the spring quadrant: theory/application/analysis, breaking the...2019-01-241h 43
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 76: Knight of Pentacles/Prince of DisksPresiding over newly-plowed fields, the sun warm on his back, the imperturbable Bull is the Prince of Disks or Knight of Pentacles. The airy part of Earth, he applies his methodical intellect and mechanical genius to problems of the land. The final decan of Aries and the first two decans of Taurus are his: Completion, Worry, Success. He is the slow and tender lover of the earth, which yields to his concerned touch.
In our conversation we discuss: fixed earth, Beltane, bulls and oxen, Mithras, Aldebaran the royal watcher of the East, the Emperor, the Hierophant, beauty in...2019-01-171h 04
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 75: Queen of Pentacles/DisksOur final Queen is the silent one, the thorny rose, the Queen of the Goats. Ruling over the final decan of Sagittarius and the first two decans of Capricorn, the Queen of Pentacles or Disks offers silence, the certainty of death, and the inevitability of life's renewal. The watery part of earth, she binds matter into new forms of Change and Work. She is tireless and prolific, and in her darkness light is born.
In our conversation we discuss: the descent and climb of the goat, gestation, sacrifice, and resurrection, mutable fire, cardinal earth, burial and rebirth of...2019-01-101h 01
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 74: King of Pentacles/Knight of DisksThe King or Knight of Pentacles/Disks is the fiery part of earth, associated with the 7 of Wands and the 8 and 9 of his suit: valor, prudence, gain. He has left behind his leonine warrior days for the hard work of peace; he is the sacrificial harvest king who ensures plenty for his people. Efficient and material-minded, he keeps a strong and steady hand on the threshing flail, ensuring every last grain is counted and consumed.
We discuss in our conversation: his devotion to agriculture, the Thoth Knight of Disk's confusing resemblance to the Waite-Smith Knight of Pentacles, gr...2019-01-031h 11
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 73: Ten of Pentacles/DisksIn this final card of the decanic minors, we arrive at the Lord of Wealth. Mercury governs the final decan of Virgo, sign of his rulership and exaltation. Therefore the 10 of Pentacles or Disks holds the culmination of our material realm: here our worldly goods reach their maximum accumulation, and our bodies come to rest. We return our legacies to the earth, a seed for the next generation. We have transmuted our corruptible flesh into alchemical gold, only to begin the cycle anew.
In our conversation we discuss: the final stage of the Virgo maiden's journey, her meeti...2018-12-271h 11
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 72: NIne of Pentacles/DisksPerfection and control produce beauty in the 9 of Pentacles or Disks, province of Venus in the second decan of Virgo. Here in the Lord of Gain, the perfectly ripened crop is gathered and organized, methodically, increasing in value at every step. The Empress, wearing a harvest crown, works side by side with the Hermit, solitary seed saver. Together they build a walled garden of self-sufficiency and comfort - a beautiful task, though sometimes a lonely one.
In our conversation we consider: Venus in her fall, and Mercury in his exaltation, Vindemiatrix the wine gatherer, Venus' consort Hephaistos, per...2018-12-201h 01
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 71: Eight of Pentacles/DisksTime is money and patience bears fruit in the 8 of Pentacles or Disks, the Lord of Prudence. The messenger god, at home everywhere, enters his rulership as we arrive in the sign of Virgo. The Sun governs this decan, ripening the grain and bringing in the harvest. Pantries and coffers fill even as the days shorten, ensuring another generation will thrive even if the previous one must pass onward. Here the Hermit makes the Sun safe in his lantern for its long journey through darkness.
In our conversation we encounter "harvest mothers, ladies of justice, and youthful vir...2018-12-131h 14
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 70: Seven of Pentacles/DisksAlas, it was too good to last! After the brief shining success of the 6, we arrive at the Lord of Failure in the 7 of Pentacles or Disks. The 5 posed problems of scarcity and Mercurial anxiety, while the 7 suggests Saturnine obstacles which must be overcome if our efforts are ever to bear fruit. Failure it shall be for certain, if we give up now when the going gets tough. But at the moment, perhaps it is only 'success unfulfilled' as yet. If nothing else, the bull of Taurus is steadfast. He may yet have hidden reserves of strength in his fin...2018-12-061h 02
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 69: Six of Pentacles/DisksNow that we've arrived at the auspicious 6 of Pentacles of Disks, Success is within reach! Here the Moon, exalted in the sign of Taurus, shines her kindest light. The steady earthen bull plows the fertile fields; all herds thrive, all crops bear fruit. Outer and inner mysteries reconcile, the earth and heaven smile at each other, and a generous spirit prevails.
In our discussion we consider: the point of harmony between worry and failure, the dynamic stability of the Bull, Aldebaran the royal watcher of the East, Mithras the lord of contracts, the Pleiades and Hyades, fertilization an...2018-11-291h 13
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 68: Five of Pentacles/DisksCue the blues: it's the 5 of Pentacles or Disks - otherwise known as the Lord of Worry, or the Lord of Material Trouble. It is the very disaster we thought we could forestall by stockpiling gold in the Four of Pentacles! Mercury (The Magician or Magus) presides over the second decan of Taurus (The Hierophant), the quicksilver psychopomp contending with the steadfast pontifex. Who will prevail, the Picker of Locks or the Keeper of the Keys?! In this celestial heist, bankruptcy is all but certain, and there's plenty of worry to go all around. And yet there is more to...2018-11-221h 08
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 67: Four of Pentacles/DisksPrison or protection? This week, we face the 4 of Pentacles or Disks, the Lord of Power (is that redundant?!) or Material Power. Here are tropes of kingship - the Sun as ruler of the decan, Capricorn as the zodiac's CEO, even Jupiter as the force governing all 4's. The power derives from the throne, and it is rooted, strongly fortified, solid gold, and immovable. In the fortress of the Old New Year, the embers of increasing light reflect treasures, amassed and hoarded. Does wealth buy freedom, or its opposite?
In our conversation we discuss: the summit of mater...2018-11-151h 19
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 66: Three of Pentacles/DisksThis week, the engines are running, the pistons are pumping, skyscrapers rise on the horizon. The 3 of Pentacles or Disks is the Lord of work! and the Devil himself ensures there are no idle hands at play here. Combined with the driving force of Mars and the power of the calendrical New Year, all manner of resolutions are taking form. Here is the glory of the built world and the promise of industry writ large. Through the power of collaboration, ambition turns into 3D, concrete reality.
In our conversation we discuss: the Devil and the Tower, the e...2018-11-081h 07
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 65: Two of Pentacles/DisksThis week on Fortune's Wheelhouse, we address the inevitable: the Lord of Change! With the 2 of Pentacles or Disks, we engage with the physical world, and the reality of trying to make our bodies, our works, our things bend to our will. First decan of the Saturn-ruled, Capricorn line-up, the 2 of Disks answers to Jupiter. The Greater Malefic and the Greater Benefic duke it out in this card, and their struggle moves mountains.
In our conversation we discuss many mysteries of the material: Capricorn the goatfish, the season of Yule, the increase and decrease of the light, Janu...2018-10-311h 13
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 64: Ace of Pentacles/DisksSilent, magical, and profound, the last Ace materializes on our earthly plane. Is it a pentacle? a disk? a coin? Even its name is a mystery! In this final suit, we finally encounter the world we know best: our round globe, the four directions, our five senses, our physical bodies and all creation. Whatever you call them - pentacles or disks, still or spinning - they stand encased and crystallized, set a little apart from the forces that produced them. Oblivious as they are to their origin, they are literally the whole point of the matter.
In our...2018-10-251h 33
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 63: Page or Princess of SwordsWe end the suit of Swords with a rush of wind and a whirling blade belonging to the Page or Princess of Swords. The earthy part of air, she freely inscribes her will on the astral plane - the "fixation of the volatile". With the power of the Gorgon's head, she concretizes choices, turning options into hard fact. She will tell you: what she doesn't know isn't worth knowing. Lotus of the palace of air, she floats and dances easterly - and woe unto anyone who tries to deprive her of her freedom!
In our conversation we touc...2018-10-181h 32
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 62: Knight or Prince of SwordsThis week we face a steady wind: the Prince or Knight of Swords. The airy part of air, he rushes through his encounters with an unflagging force. He fights for his ideals, but also just for fighting's sake. Associated with the first two decans of Aquarius (the 5 and 6 of Swords) and the last of Capricorn (the 4 of Pentacles or Disks), our Prince is a revolutionary - a master at navigating his way from defeat, and impatient with the powers that be. "I know!" he cries. Been there, done that!
In our conversation, we talk about Saturn's airy ruler...2018-10-1149 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 61: Queen of SwordsAnd here she is in all her INFJ glory: the Queen of Swords. Whether you call her the Ice Queen, the Wolf Queen, the Dancing Queen, she is as formidable as she is graceful. The watery part of air, she pierces through illusion and perceives patterns invisible to most. Associated with the final decan of Virgo and the first two decans of Libra, she borrows the Hermit's solitude and the measured symmetry of Justice. Peace and Sorrow, the 2 and 3 of Swords, are her familiars.
In our conversation we discuss the balance of night and day and the Thron...2018-10-0459 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 60: King or Knight of SwordsI fought the Law, and the Law won! Here comes that intimidating brainiac, the King or Knight of Swords. His is an incisive, restless mind, quick to take up pursuit and flexible to a fault - yet once he makes up his mind, no mercy will temper his decision. Representing the first two decans of Gemini (and the last one of Taurus) in court and everywhere else, he sees a world in black and white, one whose rules must conform to his will.
We discuss his relationship to the 7 of Pentacles and 8 and 9 of Swords, twins and t...2018-09-271h 05
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 59: Ten of SwordsThe 10 of Swords! the Lord of Ruin! (We had to get there sometime.) Who does not shudder to see this card, even in the cheeriest of readings? Here at the end of thought and reason, the Sun rules over the final decan of Gemini. The sky is black, but for a line of sunlight on the horizon. The contrasts of light and shadow are stark and brutal, and the consequences of choices made in the 8 and 9 of Swords are all too clear. Why does this Sun card contrasts so harshly with the others - Virtue, Pleasure, Prudence, and Power?
...2018-09-201h 10
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 58: Nine of SwordsBe afraid, be very afraid! We have arrived at the Lord of Cruelty (or if you like your fear extra crunchy, the 'Lord of Cruelty and Despair'), the 9 of Swords. In this swordsiest of swords cards, Mars governs the middle decan of Gemini. The portentous moment we faced in the 8 has reached critical mass, and something must be cut away. One twin dies that the other may live, but oh how cruel the choice!
In our discussion we look once again at Biblical and mythic twins, at the Tower and the Lovers cards, at stories of disastrous aff...2018-09-1357 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 57: Eight of SwordsWith this episode we arrive at the three cards of Gemini: the 8, 9, and 10 of Swords: dreaded by many and relished by few! Yet the cards of the twins are full of uniquely human dilemmas and insights. The questions they ask, and the challenges they pose, offer answers to the riddle of the human condition. The 8 of Swords, the Lord of Interference or Shortened Force, poses perhaps the biggest one of all. Its associated major arcana are the Wheel of Fortune and the Lovers - in other words, the potent confrontation of fate and free will.
We discuss the...2018-09-061h 09
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 56: Seven of SwordsNEW THIS WEEK - Be sure to check out Susie's new website at www.tsusanchang.com !
In this week's episode we look at the 7 of Swords, the Lord of Futility or Unstable Effort - and oh, so much more! Here a divided mind brings both skill and sabotage; here dwell actors, diplomats, tricksters, politicians, and the spirit of wily Odysseus, beloved and scorned by the gods. The moon's rulership of this final Aquarian decan brings flexibility, inconstancy and a familiarity with exile.
In our discussion, we talk about the "accomplishing of will and giving of of...2018-08-3055 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 55: Six of SwordsThis week we arrive at a welcome point of harmony in the suit of the mind with the 6 of Swords, the Lord of Science or Earned Success. Here are journeys of the spirit and the body, problems solved and refuges reached. Mercury, world traveler and expert decoder, rules over this middle decan of starry Aquarius, interpreting its distant guidance and plotting a course toward its light.
Along the way we encounter St. Brigid and the feast of Candlemas/Imbolc, and Nuit, weather divination, Aquarius rulers Saturn as discipline and Uranus as innovation, and swift Mercury exploiting the gi...2018-08-231h 03
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 54: Five of SwordsThis week we confront the 5 of Swords, the Lord of Defeat - an uncomfortable place at best and a dangerous no man's land at worst. Here Venus rules over the first decan of Aquarius, but the combined peaceful natures of that planet and that sign are no match for the harsh power of a 5. The truce of the 4 of Swords has fallen; winners gloat and losers suffer.
In our conversation we discuss the contrast of Venus' warm close opulence with the remote stylings of Aquarius, and the ways in which motion comes to the aid of matter an...2018-08-161h 07
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 53: Four of SwordsThis week we explore the Lord of Truce or Peace Restored; the 4 of Swords represents a moment of sweet relief between the sorrows of the 3 and the Pyrrhic battles of the 5. Benevolent Jupiter rules over this decan of measured Libra, allowing cooler heads to win the day. For a moment, all the forces of the Wheel are in alignment. All parties agree, though their détente may not be destined to last.
In our episode we discuss what conflicts precede and follow this truce; what greatness of mind allows it. We consider St. Andrew and the saltire cro...2018-08-0955 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 52: Three of SwordsThis week, as one must do eventually, we visit the Lord of Sorrow in his rainy palace. The 3 of Swords is a card few rejoice to see, and yet in its depths lie jewels worth mining despite their cost. Here Saturn rules over the middle decan of Libra, in the sign if not the degree of its exaltation. As he grinds the harvest of late September, the burden of his inevitability sits heavy on our hearts. Even as we seek Justice in our lives, we carry the weight of the World.
Here we discuss contracts and chains, hea...2018-08-021h 00
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 51: Two of SwordsIn this episode we welcome the 2 of Swords, the Lord of Peace or Peace Restored. What is Peace doing in the suit of warfare, we ask? What mental or intellectual capacities contribute to Peace? the 2 of Swords is the first of the three Libra cards in the minor arcana. The Moon rules this decan of the Scales, lending her changefulness and resilience to the avatar of Justice.
We consider the conflicted nature of the mind, restorative justice, equal and opposed points of view, and the uses of silence, the mind in motion, the wisdom of Chokmah. We look...2018-07-261h 07
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 50: Ace of SwordsWith a crack of thunder and a whoosh of air, the Ace of Swords cuts through the clouds! In this episode we introduce the most turbulent suit in tarot, where geniuses and madmen reside and brilliance and doom go hand in hand. Swords represent our own human minds: they solve puzzles, plan and organize, attack and defend; they govern thoughts, conflicts, and words. Of the four suits, Swords are the most profoundly dual in nature. They cut both ways, for good and evil. Why, how, and in what ways they do so are the subjects of our inquiry.
W...2018-07-191h 21
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 49: Page or Princess of CupsAs our finale to the watery suit, we bring you the Page or Princess of Cups. The earthy part of water, she is the world's dreamer, and her air of distant rapture belies her power. She is a scryer, an oracle, a romantic, and a helpmate. The talking, wish-granting fish speaks to her even when none else can hear! Flower of the Ace of Cups' promise, the Crystal Princess brings back secret wisdom from the western shores of death. As Jung did with his Red Book, she grounds her dreams in this world's reality.
In our conversation we s...2018-07-121h 19
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 48: Knight or Prince of CupsThis week we bring you the Knight of Cups (RWS) or Prince of Cups (Thoth) - a subtle, secretive and magnetic creature; fall for his charisma if you dare! The airy part of water, he acts as a bridge from emotion to intellect, and his feelings speak still louder than his words. He is a consummate storyteller; his words weave spells and snares for the heart. His fictions are full of truth - and his truths can equally be full of fiction - so listener, beware!
In this episode, we talk about Truce, Disappointment, and Pleasure - as w...2018-07-0554 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 47: Queen of CupsMystic, empath, archetypal anima - the Queen of Cups is veiled in feminine mystique. Most sensitive of queens, she is associated with the watery part of water. The Moon governs her tides, so while she is by nature nurturing and compassionate, storms can rack her moods as well. In her watery domain are the last decan of Gemini and the first two decans of Cancer - love among the ruins.
In this episode we discuss sacrificial maidens, prophetesses, and femmes fatales - Circe, Helen of Troy, Cleopatra, Polyxena, Delilah, Princess Diana, and the Lady of the Lake. The m...2018-06-2854 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 46: King or Knight of CupsHere is the Lord of the Waves and Waters! It's the King of Cups, as he's called in Rider Waite Smith - or the Knight of Cups, as he's called in Thoth. (For a broad overview of the courts be sure to check out Episode 32, the King/Knight of Wands episode.) Associated with the 'fiery' part of water, his is an ephemeral and brilliant nature, a reflected charisma. Of all the heroic leaders of the courts, his calling is the most spiritual. What is the nature of his mystical quest? What rainbows does he chase as he races over the sp...2018-06-211h 03
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 45: Ten of CupsBe Careful What You Wish For! for here is the 10 of Cups - and it's even more special than you think. Also known as the Lord of "Satiety" or "Perfected Success" it's associated with the final decan of Pisces - the end of the zodiacal year. Fiery Mars rules over this watery final decan, and fiery Mars will rule over the first Aries decan as well. Where fire and water meet, we find rainbows - like the one crowning the Rider Waite Smith version of this card. Here are strange combinations of desire and dissolution, the powerful drives of th...2018-06-1459 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 44: Nine of CupsCongratulations! You win! Well done! Welcome to the 9 of Cups, the Lord of Happiness or "card of wishes" - a card so perfectly delightful you just want to kick back and bask in its good fortune. The card is associated with the middle decan of Pisces, which is ruled by Jupiter (who is also the classical ruler of Pisces). The greater benefic thus brings twice the blessings. And because 9 is a number of immense power and potential, it does so in the most magical of ways - as you would expect of a card whose associated major arcana are the...2018-06-0745 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 43: Eight of CupsAbandon success all ye who enter here! It is the 8 of Cups, the becalmed and benighted Lord of Indolence. Lead-footed Saturn governs the first decan of Pisces; dark clouds and eclipses rule the sky. Emotional baggage burdens the intellect, and in this dark night of the soul a journey towards redemption begins.
Yet although Crowley called this card 'the apex of unpleasantness,' it also sponsors acts of power and empowerment. Here those who have reached their limits find the wherewithal to walk away into the unknown. The labyrinth of the imagination is a realm of questions, not...2018-05-311h 03
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 42: Seven of CupsIn this episode we explore the 7 of Cups, a card of debauchery - or is it illusionary success? The 7 of Cups is a hologram, a trick of the light, a mirage. Here Venus rules the second decan of Scorpio, as well as ruling the 7th sphere on the Tree of Life. She is powerful here, but also in detriment as she passes through the house of Mars. Here Eros meets Thanatos; the drive meets the death drive. When Death meets the Maiden, expect secret corruption, glamor and fairy gold.
Beauty is strong here, but the magic mirror of Ve...2018-05-2459 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 41: Six of CupsThis week, we explore the 6 of Cups, a doubly solar card. As a Six it is associated with the sphere of the Sun, Tiphereth, and astrologically it corresponds to the Sun's rulership of Scorpio's middle decan. Here we find Pleasure in the heart of Death! This is a sacred sacrifice, where in the dying glow of yesterday the Sun bargains for tomorrow. The glint of light on water offers a promise of redemption, but also a guarantee of change.
Here on the other side of time, the spirit is liberated. Our conversation ranges over the islands of the b...2018-05-171h 05
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 40: Five of Cups...in which we brace ourselves for Disappointment and, if that's not enough, Loss in Pleasure. In this first decan of Scorpio, Mars rules thrice over - governing the decan, the sign (in classical rulership schemes), and the number 5. His fiery ferocity unleashes a searing wind over the watery suit of cups, blasting everything in its path. The Tower meets Death, and devastation ensues.
In this conversation we talk about the phases of death - the violent curtailment, the freeing of the spirit, the new growth that follows. We consider the five rivers of Hades, the thinning of the...2018-05-1058 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 39: Four of CupsIn this week's episode, we look at the super-lunar 4 of Cups, where the moon presides over the final decan of Cancer, waning and waxing to the full. A high tide of luxury washes into shore, amplified and reflected by its silver mirror. Yet there are also "seeds of decay in the fruit of pleasure" - the grit that causes the pearl to form, layer by layer.
Here we consider blue nuns and vehicles of conveyance, emotional peaks and troughs, the sea as nurturer and destroyer. We consider First World Problems, and the contest of dissatisfaction and adequacy. We c...2018-05-0347 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 38: Three of CupsThemes of enclosure reflect and refract in the abundant 3 of Cups, where the messenger god brings his quicksilver tongue to the world of emotions. Mercury rules this second decan of Cancer; festivities and games preside over the hour, and all good things. Yet there is an undercurrent of danger; the most tempting fruits may be those that are forbidden.
In this episode we also speak of Demeter and Persephone, Mercury as psychopomp, Dionysus, the threefold nature of women - the three Graces and the nine Muses. We consider grapes and pomegranates, grains and gourds, journeys of safe an...2018-04-2639 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 37: Two of CupsAh, the 2 of Cups! The most welcome of sights in readings on many subjects, particularly romance. But the so-called Lord of Love is more than just a pretty face. Associated with Venus and the second decan of Cancer, it is the beginning of a story of passion, sacrifice, and surrender.
In this episode we speak of many kinds of love: maternal love, love under will, divine love, romantic love. We speak of the Chariot and the Empress, the mirror of Venus in which we catch the gaze of the Other, the red lion of alchemy, crabs and door...2018-04-1952 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 36: Ace of CupsHere we begin the suit of Cups, watery and full of feeling. The Ace of Cups is the complement of the Ace of Wands: the Grail to its Lance, the Form to its Force, the lunar yoni to its solar phallus. It is Kether, the Crown, in Briah, the world of Creation. It is the West, white brilliance, and the second letter or primal Heh of the divine name, the ה of יהוה.
In this episode we speak of holy water, the power To Dare or To Love, the mysteries of the Holy Spirit, the "unmoved mover" and the Cup of Stol...2018-04-121h 08
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 35: Page or Princess of Wands / Page-Princess OverviewIn this episode we begin with an overview of one of the best kept secrets of the Western esoteric tradition: the power of the Daughter, the final letter of the Tetragrammaton or Divine Name.
We then move on to the Page or Princess of Wands: Make way for the Rose of the Palace of Fire! the princess disguised as a humble page. Is she the beginning or the culmination of the suit? Is she sleeping in potential or established in might? She is the "throne of the Ace," the lowest in the highest, Kether in Malkuth. Here we fin...2018-04-051h 17
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 34: Knight or Prince of WandsWhether you call him the Knight of Wands (RWS) or the Prince of Wands (Thoth), he is as bright as the sun and as bold as the lion! A creature of the last decan of Cancer and the first two decans of Leo, he is the heart of fire, fixed yet on the move. We consider his relationship to the 4 of Cups, the 5 of Wands and the 6 of Wands - how he glories in strife and victory, reveling in the spotlight, passionate in his voice, carried away by his own charisma! We speak also of the geomantic figure Fortuna Maj...2018-03-2944 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 33: Queen of WandsWelcome to the Queen of Wands, a palace of mirrors in which flames leap and multiply! Forthright and frank, sensual and feline, she possesses a magnetism that makes her the center of attention wherever she goes. We release this episode just as the Sun rounds through her domain, the last decan of Pisces and the first two decans of Aries. We consider her relationship with the 10 of Cups, 2 of Wands and 3 of Wands - her quest to dominate and her yearning to surrender. We speak of war queens and the thyrsus wand of Bacchus, the pine cone and the sunf...2018-03-2148 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 32: King or Knight of Wands / Overview of the CourtsWelcome to the courts! the most complex, enigmatic, and at times maddening cards in tarot. But here at Fortune's Wheelhouse we love the court cards in all their hard-to-grasp humanity, and we hope our discussion will help you in your own quest to come to terms with them. In this episode we discuss the esoteric structure of the court card system and its relationship to the face cards of the familiar poker deck. We talk about the ever-so-unfortunate divergence in nomenclature between RWS courts and Thoth courts, and about all the fourfold systems represented in the courts.
For...2018-03-1452 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 31: Ten of WandsFeeling tired? overburdened? weighted down and leaden-limbed? welcome to the Lord of Oppression! In the 10 of Wands, cold, dry Saturn governs the final decan of the fire sign Sagittarius. The embers are fading here at the northern Hemisphere's winter solstice; a mere pinpoint of southern light at the darkest time of the year. Here the associated majors, Temperance and the World or Universe, combine in an uneasy duet of aspiration and enclosure.
In this episode we speak of the burden, the barrier, and the weight; the perils of "lust of result," and the 99% perspiration that goes into all...2018-03-0837 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseBONUS EPISODE: The Occulture podcast interviews Mel and SusieMel and Susie get interviewed for the first time! about the Fortune's Wheelhouse podcast. Our host is Ryan Peverly of the Occulture podcast, which is - as you might guess - a show about the culture of esotericism. It's a wildly diverse production that includes magicians, alchemists, writers, bloggers, creatives and practitioners of all stripes. Ryan's style is probing yet irreverent, and you'll see that he has a gift for asking questions that draw out thoughtful answers.
If you've ever wondered about how we got started in tarot, or how Fortune's Wheelhouse began, our theories about what's go...2018-03-051h 49
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 30: Nine of WandsIn any suit the Nine is where the power of that suit is strongest, and in fact the Nine of Wands is known as the Lord of Strength. But it is a fluctuating, tensile strength, not a rigid one - the strength of our Moon who rules this second decan of Sagittarius. She can be said to rule all nines, in fact, making the 9 of Wands doubly lunar.
In this episode we speak of magic mirrors and equilibrium found in motion, the wisdom of adversity, the quiver and the bow, the arrows of Artemis and the justice of...2018-03-0138 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 29: Eight of WandsLord of Swiftness, Lord of Speed, the 8 of Wands comes rushing in! Fast as the flight of the arrow, fleeting as the rainbow, it is here and gone. First decan of the mutable fire sign Sagittarius, it is ruled by Mercury, the speediest of planets. It is associated with the Magus/Magician and Temperance/Art, and there we detect the presence of that other messenger, the rainbow goddess Iris. Mercury, it can be said, also rules all eights, making the 8 of Wands doubly mercurial. The messenger is on the move: catch him - or her - if you can!
2018-02-2240 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 28: Seven of WandsHere is the renegade, the rebel heart, the iconoclast! Fearless and hotheaded, the 7 of Wands corresponds to the third decan of Leo, ruled by Mars. He is the lord of Valor, and his courage is that of the uphill battle. The adversaries are many - six against one! but glory and individual heroism are within grasp of his brute force.
This is our first experience, in the minor arcana, of the creative and off-kilter energy of the number seven. Since the seventh sephira belongs to Venus, we explore her in her warrior aspect, as well as in the g...2018-02-1543 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 27: Six of WandsAnd...after Strife comes Victory. The battle is over, the competition has concluded, and we have a winner! As with other sixes, the 6 of Wands finds us at a moment of harmony and recognition, poised between the intemperate trials of the 5 and the restless quests of the 7.
The 6 of Wands is associated with the Wheel of Fortune and Strength/Lust, and here we find the King of the Beasts astride the top of the Wheel, proud in his reign. It won't last forever, but for now we dwell in the heart of fixed fire, basking in the heat...2018-02-0826 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 26: Five of WandsNobody ever said it would be easy, right? After the sweet respite of the 4, we now pass into the heat and fire of the 5 of Wands, where cold dry Saturn contends with the first flaming degrees of Leo. Here we find discomfort of volcanic proportions, the crust cracking over pyroclastic flow, the pressure cooker, the glass alembic taking form in the furnace.
We explore themes of war and war gods, the constructive and creative side of contests, the necessity of chaos, and the Mesopotamian, leontocephaline deity Zurvan, snakebound Lord of Time.
If this card makes yo...2018-02-0139 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 25: Four of WandsWith the 4 of Wands we arrive at the final Aries card of three: from the ruthless drive of Dominion to the forthright rulership of Virtue to this, the sweet respite of Completion. Here Lady Venus (the Empress) reposes in her guest wing at the House of Aries (the Emperor), which is ruled over by her consort Mars. It is not her favorite house, but you can't deny there is a certain . . . chemistry at work on the premises.
We explore themes of completion, safe havens, the natural world in harmony with the built world, the ecstatic union of ma...2018-01-2531 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 24: Three of WandsAh, the 3 of Wands, the 'Lord of Virtue.' But what even is virtue?
Here we find the Sun ruling the second decan of Aries, a place of exaltation for that golden sovereign of the sky. The ruthless initiative of the Two of Wands gives way to something better-regulated and altruistic in the Three. In this episode we talk about the formative aspects of Threes, the manner in which 'Will' evolves into 'Established Strength,' and what it means when the self comes into a sense of community. We talk about waiting, and the guest-host relationship.
...2018-01-1834 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 23: Two of WandsEnter the Lord of Dominion! With the 2 of Wands we enter the first of the "decanic minors" - the cards numbered 2 through 9. Associated with the planet Mars, it is a card of unequaled force, assertiveness, and dare I say, masculinity. Mars presides over both the last degrees of Pisces and the first degrees of Aries (as well as ruling the whole sign of Aries): the spark that keeps in motion the engine that turns the wheel of the year.
We also discuss how the energies of the Emperor and the Tower blend in the 2 of Wands, there at th...2018-01-1138 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 22: The Ace of WandsHappy New Year! Fortune's Wheelhouse is back with the first of the minor arcana, the effulgent, the scintillating, the ineffable and radiant Ace of Wands! The pulse of the Universe, the will to live, the hunger and the drive. The fuel is stacked and ready, the spark is deep within and waiting. Will you strike the match with us?
To learn more about the suit of Wands, the world of Atziluth, the creator gods of Kether, the color schemes of the cards, and so much else, be sure to visit us at www.patreon.com/fortuneswheelhouse. You can a...2018-01-0448 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 21 - The World or The UniverseAnd here we are at last, at the Cosmic Dancer, the Anima Mundi, the Spirit of the World. Here we discuss themes of completion and rebirth, the many names of angels, the architecture of reality and the limits of our perception. We talk about the mystic return of the Daughter to the Mother, and the four creatures once again depicted on the corners of the cards.
With this episode, our conversation about the Major Arcana concludes. But thanks to our brilliant and beautiful patrons, we have met our Patreon goal! and will be continuing on through the min...2017-11-011h 05
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 20 - Judgement or AeonSome call it Judgement. Some call it the Aeon. One thing's for sure - the next-to-last card in the major arcana is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma. On one card we see an angel and the dead, arisen. On the other we see god-forms, emerging and dissipating.
Along the way we encounter themes of sleeping and waking, of cleansing, redemption, and purification - and above all, of Fire, the element associated with this card in the same way that the Hanged Man was associated with Water, and the Fool with Air. But it also s...2017-10-261h 06
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 19 - The Sun⊕ Light, Love, Liberty, and Life!
After our travels through lightning-struck ruins, starlit waters, and lunar mists, we have arrived in the clear shining light of the Sun! Here we find many signs of completion, health, and wholeness: the 4 elements, the 6 of Tiphereth, the 12 signs, the 22 Hebrew letters, the 36 decans - all these numbers can be found coded into the imagery of the Sun cards.
Along the way we will explore the mystery of the solar child, or solar twins, the frontal lobe, the horses of the sun, the sacrificial gods, the solstices and equinoxes, and so...2017-10-1950 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 18 - The MoonRuler of Flux and Reflux! Silvery queen of the night-shadows! Mistress of Sleep and Dreams! We have come to the lunar mysteries, where magic and uncertainty mingle, and only the psychopomp gods know their way through to the other side. Fish swim back and forth in the waters of the unconscious, falling and rising with the tides.
In this episode we have much to explore: the dog, the wolf, the crayfish, the khephra beetle; the gods Anubis, Wepwawet, Artemis/Diana, and Mercury. Along the way we stop at the 8, 9, and 10 of Cups - Indolence, Happiness, and Satiety - a...2017-10-1258 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 17 - The StarStar of wonder, star of night, star of hope and sweet delight! After the storm and fury of the Tower, we come to the sweet clear air of the Star. What form of the feminine divine does she express? What possibilities does she open for those who gaze at her across the distance? And why is she always naked?!
In this episode we talk about the Inanna or Astarte myth, the Star's travels in the underworld, the fylfot cross, the mysteries of the heptagram and the number 7, the 5, 6, and 7 of Swords as Defeat, Science, and Futility, and wha...2017-10-0553 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 16 - The TowerThe Blasted Tower! The House of God! The Lord of the Hosts of the Mighty! If the Devil makes you recoil, the Tower makes you cower, shielding yourself from falling debris and karmic whiplash. But more importantly, what function does it serve, and for what freedoms do it storms clear the air?
In this episode we explore the awesome destructive - and creative! - power of Mars. Along the way we talk about Babel and Sauron and Abraxas and Dis; boars and wolves and lightning and thunder.
To learn more about the Tower, the planet Mars...2017-09-2840 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 15 - The DevilSniff, sniff. Can you smell it? I swear there's a whiff of brimstone in the air. Feared, reviled, revered by some, he goes by many names. The Devil is associated with the letter Ayin (meaning "eye") and Uriel, the "sharpest-sighted spirit in all of Heaven."
In this episode we turn our own sharp gaze on Old Nick, from curly horn to cloven hoof. We interrogate his gifts of knowledge and mirth and his connection to the goat of Capricorn. We examine the 2, 3, and 4 of Disks and how Change, Work, and Power might fall in his diabolical dominion.
2017-09-2147 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 14 - TemperanceTemperance, the Great Reconciler! The Bringer Forth of Life! Everything about Temperance is a paradox, starting with the name. Is it to moderate and hold back, as in the alcohol-shunning era of temperance? Or is it to strengthen by enduring opposite extremes, as one tempers a sword?
In this episode we explore how fire and water, the divine and the mundane, the sun and the moon come together in alchemical union. We chase rainbows and we hunt for crowns, we consider hybrids and hermaphrodites and the 8, 9, and 10 of Swords.
To learn more about Temperance, the sign of...2017-09-1446 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 13 - DeathThe Unnamed Card, the Reaper, the Scythe, the Lord of the Gates of...Death. When you first started reading tarot, didn't he make you a bit nervous? Even if everyone told you he just represented 'Change'?
In this episode we dig into what 'Change' really means, and wrestle with Death's awesome powers of transformation. What exactly is he reaping? We consider issues of black and white, Nun the Fish in the Waters of Mem, the different incarnations of the Scorpion, the vital task of the dung beetle.
To learn more about the Death card, the sign...2017-09-0749 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 12 - The Hanged ManStraight from the bottom of the deep blue sea, we bring you the inverted one, the drowned Phoenician sailor, Odin hung upon the tree, the dismembered Osiris...he's a traitor to some, a mystic to others, but in all his guises the Hanged Man hears a different drum. In this episode we consider his themes of sacrifice, stillness, and altered consciousness. What secret vision does he pursue? What does he surrender in the cause of redemption?
To learn more about the Hanged Man, the element of Water, the Hebrew letter Mem, the color schemes of the cards, an...2017-08-3139 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 11/08 - Justice or Adjustment"Justice" and "Adjustment"! - They may sound similar, but when you think about it, there's two very different ways of looking at the world hidden within those two terms. In this episode we talk about that difference, the special relationship of Justice and the Fool, and the dance of Venus (ruler of Libra) and Saturn (exalted in Libra) in the card. We talk about the 2, 3, and 4 of Swords, and we crack up over some double entendres that are barely this side of decency even for us!
To learn more about the Adjustment/Justice, the sign of Libra, th...2017-08-2453 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 05 - The HierophantThis week we bring you the Pontifex of Tarot, the Bridge Between Worlds, the Keeper of the Keys: the Hierophant, himself.
As we discover, the Hierophant is one of the most deep, layered, complex cards in the deck. We talk about the Dove and the Serpent (which, contrary to what you might expect, is not actually a pub for occultists), the Beasts of Ezekiel, that cryptic hand gesture, keys, wands, masks, and so much more. We consider his connection to the 5, 6, and 7 of Pentacles (and a hard lesson Susie learned from the 7!).
To learn more abo...2017-07-1347 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 03 - The EmpressCall her Venus, Aphrodite, Isis, Urania, Demeter, Gaea, or what you like - no matter what her name, she's still your Mother.
In this episode, we look at goddesses of love, beauty, fertility and generation. We talk about the moon, salt, the planting and the harvest. We consider themes of love and war, and the goddess as the Gate of Life.
To learn much, much more about Venus, Isis, the letter Daleth, the astrological terminology we use, the color schemes of the cards etc., be sure to visit us at www.patreon.com/fortuneswheelhouse. There yo...2017-06-2943 min
Fortune’s WheelhouseEpisode 00 - The FoolFortune's Wheelhouse is a podcast about esoterics and the tarot. The show is hosted by Susie Chang and Mel Meleen.
The first 22 episodes are devoted to the 22 Major Arcana of the Rider Waite Smith and Thoth tarot decks. We look closely at the symbolism in each card and help you decode the meanings hidden in its cryptic details.
Our pilot episode is dedicated to the Big Zero, the Original Air-head, the Fool himself, and we take a very very close look at His Feckless Majesty. (In fact, Susie has yet to recover from her examination of th...2017-06-1246 min