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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more of Chad’s work:

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

Watch Chad’s recent talk on the Aries Point:

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

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

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

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

* The fallacy of staying informed to stay in control;

* And the power of living in the unknown.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some of the insights we discussed included:

* Why it is time for astrology to evolve;

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

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

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

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

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