In this episode of Archetypes and the Planets, we follow Hermes’ trail through history to rethink what Uranus in Gemini (c. 2025–2033) might signal. Instead of focusing on geopolitics, we track Mercurial patterns: dialogue, translation, dispersal of knowledge, trickster authorship, and sudden cross-pollination between disciplines. Stops on the journey include Plato’s formative years amid the Peloponnesian aftermath; Pythagorean/Egyptian influences; the Renaissance return of Plato via Cosimo de’ Medici, Marsilio Ficino, and the Corpus Hermeticum; the printing press and the Council of Florence (a Gemini-style East/West bridge); Paracelsus’ iconoclastic blend of alchemy, medicine, and folk knowledge; Rosicrucian pamphlets and networked secrecy; Shakespeare’s alchemical imagination (with a nod to The Winter’s Tale). The hour culminates with Isaac Casaubon’s linguistic redating of the Corpus (1614) and a reflection on our present: AI, translation at scale, cybersecurity, and the perennial need to converse with a living cosmos (à la Richard Tarnas). Part 2 will pick up with Jung’s late works and the 19th–20th-century occult revivals. Books mentioned (from the episode) Richard Tarnas — Cosmos and Psyche: Intimations of a New World View Thomas Moore — The Planets Within: The Astrological Psychology of Marsilio Ficino Thomas Moore — The Re-Enchantment of Everyday Life Frances Yates — Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition “Three Initiates” — The Kybalion C. G. Jung — Psychology and Alchemy C. G. Jung — Answer to Job C. G. Jung — Mysterium Coniunctionis Priscilla Costello — Shakespeare and the Stars Corpus Hermeticum (classical Hermetic texts; frequently published in book form) NOTE: Some spaces are still available in Jenny's course on family dynamics! Here is the info: Here is the link: https://caeli.institute/event/three-deep/ This six-week Zoom lab for those with a basic grasp of astrological synthesis explores the compelling presence of ancestors’ lives in the natal chart. We will survey ancient and modern techniques for identifying uncanny patterns within family lines. Chart your genogram, work in cozy breakout sessions, and consider rituals and remediations for working with genealogical sludge. Limited to 16 students.

In this episode, we explore James Hillman's book The Soul's Code, focusing on Hillman's "acorn theory," which posits that individuals are born with the full potential for their unique gifts—much like an acorn contains the pattern of an oak tree. We contrast this with compensatory psychological theories and argue that Hillman offers a more empowering perspective on adversity. The conversation also touches on astrological concepts as metaphors for understanding fate, destiny, and the human psyche, examining how Hillman's work challenges traditional empirical psychology by emphasizing meaning and purpose over causality. Finally, we look at Hillman's chart to see how it aligns with his revolutionary ideas.   Information about Jenny's course at the CAELI Institute: Here is the link: https://caeli.institute/event/three-deep/ This six-week Zoom lab for those with a basic grasp of astrological synthesis explores the compelling presence of ancestors’ lives in the natal chart. We will survey ancient and modern techniques for identifying uncanny patterns within family lines. Chart your genogram, work in cozy breakout sessions, and consider rituals and remediations for working with genealogical sludge. Limited to 16 students.  

In this episode we explore how writers—those mythic figures of our cultural psyche—embody astrological archetypes. From the enigma of Shakespeare’s authorship to the Neptunian dreamscapes of García Márquez, we ask: what patterns recur in the charts of those whose words reshape worlds? Jenny dives deep into the Shakespeare authorship debate through the lens of astrology, comparing the birth charts of Shakespeare and the fascinating Amelia Bassano—court insider, musician, and possible contributor to the plays. Together, we reflect on Neptune’s veil, Mercury’s signature, and the literary imagination as a mirror of the collective unconscious. Béa brings her own obsessions to the table: the mystical realism of Gabriel García Márquez, the witty social precision of Jane Austen, and the radical linguistic experiments of James Joyce. What do their charts reveal? And how do these planetary patterns resonate with the creative forces that shaped their genius?   🪐 Writers discussed: Shakespeare, Amelia Bassano, Gabriel García Márquez, Jane Austen, James Joyce

In this episode, we explore how eclipse placements and Scorpio themes in the British Royal Family’s charts reveal patterns of duty, sacrifice and buried tensions. We then turn to Tim and Jeff Buckley, tracing recurring astrological signatures of grief and abandonment back to their Irish immigrant roots and the trauma of the Potato Famine. By mapping family charts together, we uncover how generational wounds and strengths continue to shape personal destinies.    

Do you ever wonder how your family’s past might quietly shape your destiny? In this episode we delve into ancestral patterns hidden in astrology charts. From repeating family dramas to generational secrets and trauma, we explore how becoming aware of these unseen influences can empower you to rewrite your story. Tune in to discover how your ancestors' stories live on--and how you can consciously change the narrative. The books mentioned in the podcast episode are: The Astrology of Fate by Liz Greene Dynasty: The Astrology of Family Dynamics by Erin Sullivan The Family Legacy by Brian Clark The Ancestor Syndrome by Anne Ancelin Schützenberger Swamplands of the Soul by James Hollis Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel  

In this episode, Béa and Jenny consider the definition of “psychological astrology” and revisit a classic by Dr. Liz Greene, “Barriers and Boundaries: The Horoscope and the Defenses of the Personality.” What does each sign or planet fear most, and what are its defenses against these primal fears? How are such defenses adaptive, even creative, and when do they cross the line into pathology or self destruction?    We contrast 20th century psychological astrology with current trends in traditional astrology. Have efforts to recover Hellenistic, Islamicate, and Babylonian astrology in recent decades emphasized technique while often downplaying the voluminous psychological material implicit in traditional delineations? How do fate and remediation show up in each approach?    We look at the vibrant archetypal astrology movement inspired by Stan Grof which often employs holotropic/psychedelic depth work to “enter” and work directly with the deepest fears in the chart. Lastly, we consider the current Zeitgeist and how fears and defenses can play out on the national and global level.

In this episode, Jenny and Béa discuss dreamwork—how to get started, what to do if dream recall is challenging, and the catalytic role of dream groups in enriching our engagement with the unconscious. We look at vivid dream symbols that are rooted in powerful natal astrological placements as well as world transits. Finally, Jenny chats with John Temple, a dedicated student of Jung and creator of the Temenos dream app, which uses a sophisticated “workbook” format and AI to amplify dream symbols in unexpected ways. Join us for a far-ranging conversation that examines John’s personal journey with dreams, the psyche’s reaction to “contact” with AI, and a dream of Jenny’s that grapples with the arrival of this new technology in the realm of the unconscious.  Books mentioned: Jeremy Taylor, The Wisdom of Your Dreams Jeremy Taylor, Dream Work: Techniques for Discovering the Creative Power in Dreams Robert A. Johnson, Inner Work      

In our latest episode, we explore the life and work of one of Carl Jung’s greatest students and collaborators, Marie-Louise von Franz. We examine von Franz's considerable contributions to Jungian psychology, particularly in the areas of alchemy, fairy tales, and dream interpretation. We analyze von Franz's birth chart and look at her synastry with Jung. Additionally, we take a brief look at von Franz's collaboration with Wolfgang Pauli—a relationship we will explore in depth in a future episode. We recommend several resources for further exploration of Von Franz's work: "The Fountain of the Love of Wisdom" edited by Emanuel Kennedy-Xypolitas: A collection of anecdotes and memories about Von Franz. "The Way of the Dream": A 9-hour documentary featuring Von Franz interpreting dreams. "Number and Time": Von Franz's exploration of number and its psychological significance. "The Valley of the Diamonds" by J. Gary Sparks: A guide to understanding "Number and Time". "C. G. Jung: His Myth in Our Time": Von Franz's biography of CG Jung. Deciphering the Cosmic Number: The Strange Friendship of Wolfgang Pauli And Carl Jung: by Arthur I. Miller.  

In this episode we discuss the life and work of Emma Jung, Carl Jung's wife, challenging common misconceptions about her role in his career. We explore Emma Jung's contributions to Jungian psychology, particularly her research on the Grail myth, highlighting her intellectual independence and significant impact on his theories. Using their birth charts to guide us, we explore the complexities of their relationship, emphasizing both its challenges and enduring bond. Finally, we also touch upon Emma Jung's family background, her unique perspective, and her lasting legacy within the Jungian community.  Books Mentioned: Labyrinths: Emma Jung, Her Marriage to Carl, and the Early Years of Psychoanalysis, Catrine Clay The Grail Legend, Emma Jung and Marie-Louise von Franz

In this episode we discuss various issues related to astrological predictions regarding the outcome of the 2024 elections, including failed predictions, technique, philosophy, and ethics. Why do we seek certain knowledge of outcomes, and is this what astrology is “for?” Are we called to commit to our best guesses, as in dream interpretation? Our conversation ranges into speculation about Pluto’s era-defining journey through Aquarius, which will last until 2044, and how the feminine principle may show up as outer planets shift into masculine signs.   

In The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious, CG Jung wrote: "[I]n all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order, in all caprice a fixed law, for everything that works is grounded on its opposite”. In this episode, we discuss Dr. Bernadette Brady's book, Cosmos, Chaosmos and Astrology. This book explores the evolution of astrology from its origins in ancient creation myths to its modern-day interpretation. In that journey, Brady maps some of the philosophy and practices of astrology onto the findings of chaos theory and complexity. The work offers a view of astrology which is neither a pseudo-science looking for a causal agent nor a subject that requires a spiritual component. This is an important work and one which helps make sense of a subject that is all too often dismissed or misunderstood. Other books mentioned: The Moment of Astrology: Origins in Divination, Geoffrey Cornelius Cosmos and Psyche, Richard Tarnas Archetypes and Strange Attractors, John R. Van Eenwyk        

In this episode, we welcome Anita Ashland to discuss the connections between the Jungian typological model and the birth chart. Our conversation delves into the various typologies, with special emphasis on the "inferior function" - a critical aspect that simultaneously exposes our vulnerabilities and unlocks our potential for personal development. The books we mention include: Marianne Meister, The Key to the Self John Beebe, Energies and Patterns in Psychological Type Daryl Sharp, Personality Types Marie Louise von Franz & James Hillman, Lectures on Jung's Typology You can find Anita Ashland at AnitaAshland.com  She is on Instagram: @anita.ashland  Her blog: ReadingInDepth.com      

We're back after a short summer break exploring lunar cycles and their relationship to broader planetary movements. We examine the Moon's role in progressed charts, highlighting the significance of progressed Sun-Moon conjunctions that mark new 29-year cycles. Our discussion draws on insights from Dane Rudhyar, Robert Blaschke, Esther Harding, Nor Hall, and Irene Claremont de Castillejo.

In this episode, we explore dreams from both ancient and modern perspectives. We discuss how dreams can be viewed subjectively and objectively, considering personal experiences alongside universal symbols. We also look into possible connections between astrological elements and dream content. The conversation covers the potential healing effects of dreams and how they might aid in emotional processing and problem-solving. Finally, we examine the practice of group dreamwork, considering how sharing dreams with others can benefit individuals and communities. Books mentioned include: The Interpretation of Dreams, Artemidorus; Works of Sahl & Masha’Allah [translated by Benjamin Dykes]; Healing Dreams, Marc Iain Barasch; The Way of the Dream, Marie-Louise von Franz; Where People Fly And Water Runs Uphill, Jeremy Taylor; Your Secret Self: Illuminating the Mysteries of the Twelfth House, Tracy Marks.

In this episode, we delve into the impact of illness on the narrative of one’s life by examining the contributions of Marion Woodman and Monika Wikman. Both are Jungian analysts whose extensive commentary on the topic stems from their own paths to healing. Particularly noteworthy is Woodman’s focus on the body, marking her as a key figure in the dramatic integration of this theme into broader discussions. The literature reviewed includes Woodman’s works “Bone” and “Addiction to Perfection,” Monika Wikman’s “Pregnant Darkness,” and the writings of Dr. John Sarno.    

In this episode we take a look at the phenomenon of projection through the lens of the birth chart. Projection is a term increasingly being thrown around in the current political climate but what is it exactly? Why do we project and how do we retrieve our projections? Books mentioned include: 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘙𝘦-𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘑𝘶𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘗𝘴𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺, Marie Louise von Franz; 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘌𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵, James Hollis; 𝘙𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, Liz Greene; 𝘛𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘴, Richard Idemon.    

In today’s episode, we delve into a pivotal phase of the life cycle: the journey into adolescence. This coincides with two planetary cycles, the first Saturn opposition to itself, and the first Mars 15-year cycle. The weight of this transition is echoed in our cultural lore and legends. We dissect the progression of this metamorphosis through the lens of the Parsifal narrative and discuss strategies to support youths during this transformative era. To conclude, we reflect on the role of mentorship and the imperative to assume the mantle of mentor as we cross the threshold of midlife.  

In this episode we explore the lives of the Brontë sisters—focusing primarily on Emily Brontë and her groundbreaking work, Wuthering Heights—and how it connects to trauma, the animus, the discovery of Neptune, the Gothic, vampires, and so much more! We both love the Brontës and had a glorious time discussing their lives and work!   Links to the charts discussed:   Emily Brontë:   https://www.astro-seek.com/birth-chart/emily-bronte-horoscope   Charlotte Brontë:   https://www.astro-seek.com/birth-chart/charlotte-bronte-horoscope

In this episode we discuss the work of Jungian analyst and Clinical Psychotherapist, Donald Kalsched, author of two powerful books---The Inner World of Trauma and Trauma and the Soul.  In his work, Kalsched  shows how "depth psychotherapy can open both analytic partners to "another world" of non-ordinary reality in which daimonic powers reside, both light and dark." Using Carl Jung's chart to explore Kalsched's approach, we focus on two periods of Jung's life where he experienced a "descent of the soul" and explore how these traumatic years shaped his work and life.    Link to Donald Kalsched's talk at Pacifica: Donald Kalsched – Glimpses through the veil: Encounters with the numen of clinical work (youtube.com)    

In this episode, I introduce my new co-host, Jenny Montgomery [www.Jenny-Montgomery.com] ​​Jenny is a consulting astrologer who specializes on readings with an emphasis on developing the authentic self. Her approach is based on traditional techniques and informed by themes in Jungian psychology: shadow dynamics, soul health and purpose, and reconciling the spirit of our depths with the chaotic spirit of our times. In this episode, we talk about how we were both introduced to astrology, her PhD dissertation on an 11th century Islamic astrologer, and the resistance we both felt about discussing this language with those who are inclined to dismiss it. Jenny also provides us with a great example of astrological remediation for the upcoming Jupiter-Uranus conjunction in Taurus [April 16 - 23]. Here is the link describing it: Garments (jenny-montgomery.com)   For those looking for Andre Kahr, you can find him on his YouTube channel [ProActive Astrology] here: ProActive Astrology - YouTube I will be dropping by there from time to time to continue our conversation!