In Episode 65 of Show Me Your Deck, hosts Dean Sage and Jack Kervin dive into the concept of "Prioritize Your Polish," discussing the value of intentionally refining your skills by creating inviolable sessions and eliminating distractions. They caution against over-refining or striving for an unhealthy level of perfection, noting that hyper-focusing on one single area can lead to burnout. To illustrate the need for balance and a diverse set of life skills, they explore how different personality traits—categorized in this episode as Eagles, Parrots, Doves, and Owls—influence the specific areas we choose, or are forced, to polish.

As the oracle reading progresses, the hosts draw a few direct connections to traditional tarot cards to deepen their insights. They pull "The Creator," linking it directly to the number three in the major arcana, also known as the Empress in the tarot, which embodies generativity and the idea that "what you imagine you can shape". Later in the draw, they reveal the "Sovereign of Flames," which they explicitly identify as the tarot's King of Wands. This card brings a powerful message about releasing shame—a feeling that ultimately blocks you from taking creative action—and prompts a conversation about maintaining proper discernment and self-trust when receiving harsh feedback.

The episode concludes with a joyous call to action: "Gush your brilliance". Dean and Jack encourage listeners to celebrate their accomplishments, brag in their journals, and express positivity without the fear of judgment. They remind the audience that true freedom comes from letting go of the guilt of not being able to do everything perfectly at once. Ultimately, the hosts invite you to fully embrace being average at some things, noting that you don't need to be an expert in every aspect of life to be successful and happy.

In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of sudden inspiration and the heavy, deflating physical sensation of grief. When profound loss leaves empty spaces in your life—described as missing "standing stones"—that negative space must be intentionally filled to keep you from sinking. We discuss how acting as a "lightning rod" or obelisk allows the electric strike of creative inspiration to flow smoothly from the crown chakra down to the root, offering a way to stitch together a new lattice of active creativity and positive space in the wake of profound loss.

Our reading brings up several specific connections to the tarot to guide this journey of healing and expression. The Sovereign of Storms is directly linked to the King of Swords in the tarot, echoing the broader suit of swords' themes of loss, grief, and finding balance on the cutting edge of life, much like the Page of Swords. We also draw parallels between the Four of Seeds and the tarot's Four of Pentacles, serving as a warning that the "cupboard can only hold so much harvest" and a reminder to share your psychic energy and ideas rather than hoarding them in fear. Finally, the fiery process of refining these creative ideas is mirrored in the Eight of Flames, which connects to the Eight of Wands in the tarot, representing the crucial moment when raw fire is internalized into a furnace to harness creative pressure.

Ultimately, true healing and inspiration require a constant process of active engagement and refinement, much like adding water to clay to keep it supple, moldable, and safe from cracking. We remind you not to be overly precious with your creative output; whether you are writing fanfiction, philosophizing on camera, or simply putting a "five out of ten" idea into the world, your work needs to be shared to have a life of its own. Releasing your grief means letting your ideas flow back out into the community, trusting that dynamic balance and shared inspiration are far more valuable than static perfection.

Welcome to episode 63 of Show Me Your Deck, where hosts Dean Sage and Jack Kervin sit down with Joey Stocks, the Creative Director of Summoners Ensemble Theater in New York City. The trio dives deep into the power of the second chakra when Joey shares a profound story about witnessing a vibrant, spinning wheel of orange energy during a family crisis. This visceral, "I feel" energy sets the tone for a fascinating conversation about trusting our visceral sensations, the danger of ignoring our inner truths, and Joey's upcoming haunted house production of an Edgar Allan Poe play featuring a psychic medium.

During the oracle reading, Joey opens up about a personal solo storytelling project he has been putting off for over 30 years out of self-doubt. Through a series of insightful card pulls—including reminders to be mindful of self-inflicted words and to find lift from within rather than relying on external storms—Dean and Jack encourage Joey to finally bring his project to life. The reading culminates in a beautiful discussion about exchanging "juicy juju," emphasizing the deep, energetic gratitude and joy that is shared between a storyteller and their audience.

Tarot Mentions in this Episode: Traditional tarot makes several distinct appearances throughout the conversation. Early on, Joey shares that his husband is an avid tarot practitioner who has taken formal classes and practiced readings on him. Additionally, Dean reminds listeners that his original oracle deck was designed with a direct one-to-one correspondence to the traditional tarot. During Joey's specific reading, Dean draws two cards with direct tarot equivalents: "The Source of Storms," which he notes is the Queen of Swords, and "The Primal," which represents the ultimate call to action of The Magician.

After some opening banter about highway speed limits, the hosts pull a card bridging the root and crown chakras that sparks a moving discussion about performing "unexpected miracles". Unlike the expected miracles we actively pray for, unexpected miracles are spontaneous acts of giving that catch people by surprise and inspire future generosity. Through a touching anecdote about a pizza shop that created a perpetual community fund for a local women's shelter, Dean and Jack illustrate how small, authentic moments of humanity can ripple outward to create a beautiful, generational footprint in the world.

The conversation then grounds itself in the "Three of Seeds," exploring how we must deliberately tend to the people and projects that support our broader community. The hosts use the metaphor of a garden to explain that while we should be generous, we also have limited energy; therefore, it is sometimes necessary to "weed out" toxic influences or misaligned relationships so that the rest of the garden can thrive. This focus on mindful energy management seamlessly transitions into a warning about the power of our words. Drawing an air-element haiku about "self-inflicted tornadoes," the hosts caution against the destructive nature of negative self-talk. They encourage listeners to speak truthfully and from a place of pride rather than arrogance, calming their internal winds to avoid tearing themselves apart with anxiety and obsessive thoughts.

Finally, the episode shifts into the realm of action and personal accountability. When pulling the "Eight of Flames" to discuss harnessing internal energy for a greater purpose, the hosts draw direct parallels to the tarot. They compare their deck's flame cards to the tarot's suit of wands, noting that just as the "Three of Wands" in tarot is about finding direction and setting stakes in the ground, and the "Two of Wands" is about choosing a path, their flames represent giving your internal fire a focus. They also mention the tarot's "Seven of Wands" to illustrate the danger of action, warning that engaging with other people's flames can sometimes leave you burned. The reading concludes with the empowering "kiln" card, declaring, "I profess that I am the architect who builds my life". Touching on the toxicity of cancel culture and the paralyzing nature of shame, Dean and Jack remind us that we are not fossilized by our past mistakes; we always have the power to heal, evolve, and rebuild ourselves.

In this episode the hosts kick things off by pulling a card centered on seeing our knowledge and ideas as valuable gifts to share. This sparks a deep conversation about overcoming the inner critic, finding the courage to speak your truth, and understanding when to use a filter versus when to be bold. During this segment, the hosts mention how the "lovers" card from the tarot inspired the "dreamers" card in their own deck as well as characters in an upcoming book.

As the reading progresses, the hosts discuss the importance of moving ideas out of the mind and manifesting them into the physical world. They pull the "two of seeds," which is directly connected to "the two of pentacles in the tarot," representing material value and the conscious choice of balancing our physical efforts. This transitions into a dialogue on the concept of "potlucking your gratitude," fueled by fire and solar plexus energy. The hosts emphasize freely giving from a place of joy and abundance rather than expecting a return, contrasting this with toxic forms of giving disguised as sacrifice. This shared community abundance is related back to the tarot by likening the food brought to a potluck to "seeds as coins" and physical wealth.

The episode builds toward taking collective action, highlighted by drawing major arcana number seven, which the hosts identify as "the chariot in the tarot" and call "the director". This card serves as a reminder to harness your will to guide others, even if you are simply finding the best vessel or medium to share a difficult truth. Finally, the reading concludes with a haiku about sensing your "innate north," urging listeners to trust their gut to navigate complex dilemmas. By leaning into an internal, intuitive guide, the hosts assure us that even when the specific path forward is murky, we can always align our actions with an encompassing sense of universal good.

In this episode of Show Me Your Deck, hosts Dean Sage and Jack Kervin explore the uncomfortable but necessary process of intellectual growth. After a brief detour into the numerological significance of the number 60 and why circles have 360 degrees, the conversation turns to the concept of true learning. Dean describes how integrating new information often requires destroying one's existing internal "honeycomb" of understanding. Drawing on Jack's experience in graduate school, the hosts discuss how deep learning requires you to consent to having your worldview "shattered" or dissolved so it can be rebuilt into something stronger. They apply this philosophy to modern political polarization, suggesting that rigid mindsets are currently cracking under the pressure of new information, forcing many to reorient their beliefs.

The episode is anchored by a series of tarot pulls using the hosts' original decks and a unique "tetrahedrin of rounded off edges doom" die. The reading begins with a card from Deck 3, "I profess that I love learning especially from the wisdom of others," which serves as the "contextualizer" for the episode, reminding listeners that they cannot know everything on their own. This is followed by the "Five of Seeds" (akin to the Five of Pentacles), which offers the message "The door to your storehouse is not truly locked," symbolizing that community support is available even when one feels destitute. Later, the "Two of Waves" (Two of Cups) appears with the instruction to "Merge your emotions. Make bigger waves," encouraging the hosts to find common ground beneath rational disagreements. The reading concludes with a profession from Deck 2: "I profess that I say what I feel knowing that sharing it will help me to mature".

Ultimately, the hosts argue against the "othering" that dominates current discourse, urging listeners to realize that most people share the same core desires for safety and stability. They emphasize the importance of engaging in good-faith conversations where one assumes good intentions rather than looking for a fight. By focusing on shared emotions rather than political talking points, they suggest we can find the "common waters" that connect us all. Listeners interested in the decks or extended discussions can find the hosts on Patreon or at their website.

In this episode, Dean and Jack explore the powerful intersection of the Sacral chakra ("I feel") and the Throat chakra ("I say"), focusing on the courage required to give voice to guttural instincts. The conversation begins with a "Context Card" (Profession 11) that affirms, "I profess that I feel that my expression of myself is powerful". The hosts discuss the concept of the "second brain" located in the gut and the vital necessity of allowing visceral reactions—even those rooted in trauma or raw emotion—to be spoken aloud rather than letting them "curdle" inside,.

The reading progresses into a dynamic conversation about the creative process, explicitly referencing the Tarot. Dean draws the "Seeker of Flames," which he identifies as the Page of Wands, representing the moment of "hot inspiration" where one decides to take an idea into the forge of creation,. Later, the "Ace of Storms"—identified as the Ace of Swords—introduces the concept of la petite mort (the little death),. This card serves as a reminder of the necessary peace, and sometimes grief, that follows the lightning bolt of creativity, emphasizing that the actual work of art often happens in the quiet moments after the initial frenzy,.

Finally, the episode concludes with a "Capstone Card" (Card 27) that bridges the Heart and Sacral chakras, offering the affirmation: "I profess that I love all my experiences because they have made me stronger". The hosts reflect on the idea that the ultimate goal of expression is connection; just as a tree grows around rusty nails to become stronger, we grow around our painful experiences by sharing them. The discussion challenges the listeners to move beyond the fear of being heard, asserting that art and performance require witnesses to truly exist.

The reading begins with an intersection card between the third chakra (doing) and fifth chakra (saying), delivering the profession: "I profess that I do that which I claim and that which I advise". The hosts emphasize that true transparency is more than just honesty; it is the act of "walking your talk" rather than merely spouting "hot air". By moving ideas out of the imagination and into the physical world, individuals avoid the trap of hypocrisy and instead build an "enacted truth" that serves as a role model for others.

The episode draws several significant parallels to the tarot, beginning with the Director card, which corresponds to The Chariot. This archetype highlights the power of will and visualization to influence oneself and others toward a specific goal. The hosts also discuss the concept of accountability through their Defend card, which is the equivalent of the Justice card in the tarot. They argue that living a "defensible" life means being accountable for your actions so that you don't have to be reactive or defensive when challenged. This theme of integrity continues with the Balance card, identified as Temperance in the major arcana, which reminds the listener that truth is not static; it requires a constant, mindful mixing of different perspectives and experiences to maintain harmony.

The discussion concludes with a focus on communication as the primary tool for growth, illustrated by a haiku describing a "maturing jungle". Using the metaphor of plant respiration, the hosts explain that just as air helps plants grow, spirited conversations—ranging from a "gentle breeze" to a "hurricane"—are necessary to nourish complex relationships. The sequence of "ask, affirm, converse, critique" serves as a capstone for the episode, urging listeners to be open to feedback and to stand bravely in their truth. Ultimately, building a life of enacted truth requires the courage to engage with the world, answer questions, and allow your principles to be refined through genuine human connection.

Living with integrity is like building a bridge from both sides: your internal will and your external actions must meet perfectly in the middle for the structure to hold.

The episode centers on the theme of being a "Life Architect," a concept derived from a reading that emphasizes the importance of letting people disagree while staying grounded in truth and the heart. The hosts delve into the friction of modern discourse, suggesting that while we may vehemently disagree with others' ideologies, leading with human instinct and the "heart center" allows for a more civil and constructive existence. They share personal anecdotes ranging from awkward Thanksgiving dinners to religious deconstructions, illustrating that focusing on common humanity is often more vital than winning an ideological "sport" or political battle.

The episode provides several insightful mentions of the tarot as the hosts compare their original cards to the traditional major arcana. When drawing "An Awakening" (Number 20), Jack notes that it corresponds to the Judgment card in the original tarot, symbolizing a resurrection where one is finally ready to embrace what they have become. Similarly, Dean highlights that "The Creator" card in his deck is the equivalent of The Empress, though he notes a distinction in energy; while some see the forge and fire as masculine, he views the act of creation as a profoundly feminine energy. These archetypes serve as a framework for the "Life Architect" theme, urging listeners to observe the world through the third eye while maintaining a spiritual connection through the crown chakra.

The final movement of the episode focuses on the continuous nature of creation and the necessity of balance. The hosts use the metaphor of a cerebral kiln, where individuals must fire their own bricks to build a stable foundation for their lives rather than simply using the "bricks" handed to them by society or religion. They caution that being an architect requires both intense action and intentional rest, comparing soul-work to physical muscle growth; without periods of "simmering" and recovery, the fires of creativity and spirit can lead to a "supernova" collapse. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to nourish thriving energy and share their "ripe fruits" with the world, reminding us that we are the consequence of our own choices and that our unique "magic" lies in how we perceive and act upon our experiences.

Building a life is much like masonry: you must gather the raw clay of your experiences, fire them in the kiln of your own truth, and carefully set each brick yourself, for no one else can inhabit the structure you build.

The conversation begins with a repeat appearance of card number 11, Gush your brilliance, which connects the orange and aqua cycles—intersecting "I feel" with "I say". This card encourages listeners to brag in their journals, belly laugh daily, and express positivity. The hosts discuss the importance of reflection and the "marinating" of ideas, noting that while physical pen-to-paper journaling has unique psychological benefits, the core goal is to organize bubbling emotions into a coherent and productive form of expression.

The heart of the episode focuses on the necessity of transformative "goopiness" as a precursor to growth, inspired by card number 13, Transform. This card is a direct reference to the Tarot’s Major Arcana Death card, which signals the need to leave the old self behind to become something new. Drawing on Tarot imagery like the Death Moth, the hosts use the metaphor of a caterpillar deconstructing into a "moosh of proteins" before becoming a butterfly to describe the disorienting but vital process of deconstructing rigid beliefs. They share personal stories of how breaking down "stone-like" structures of thought into a "primordial soup" allows for the eventual reconstruction of a more authentic identity.

As the journey progresses, the focus shifts to finding a malleable structure—a way to be grounded and organized without becoming so crystallized that one can no longer adapt. This is highlighted by card 14, the sensuality card, which celebrates the physical self and the joy of being in one's body without shame. The episode also calls out the Knight of Swords, referred to here as the Sentinel of Storms, which encourages listeners to "ride the wind for the joy of the journey". This Tarot archetype represents taking decisive action after transformation, utilizing malleability as a form of strength—much like a palmetto tree that bends in the wind rather than breaking. The episode concludes with a look at the Third Eye, urging listeners to use their new-found wisdom to view the world and others with grace and vision.

This episode begins with the hosts navigating a particularly chaotic Saturday morning, leading into a numerological discussion of the number 55, which is viewed as having energy relating to change, movement, and sometimes conflict, but also being a "super cool" superposition number. The initial reading focuses heavily on the interior self, prompted by the mantra: "You are a progress in work. Compliment yourself. Brag about yourself," which intersects the crown and root chakras. The hosts delve into the critical role of setting both internal and external boundaries and explore the degrees of public, semi-public, and private emotional space. This sets the stage for a discussion on the relationship between authenticity and performativity, especially in the age of social media, prompting the central question: where are you compromising your core self, your "you in private," for the views of others?

The core concept of "Authentic Defense" emerges with the second card, Defend, which is explicitly identified as the Justice card of the tarot. The hosts explore defense not as an act of guilt, but as an opportunity to align oneself, defending the contributions one makes to the world, much like a dissertation defense. They emphasize the need to understand the 'why' behind actions rather than being purely reactive. The discussion highlights that a defense is a collaboration, necessary to challenge one's views and arrive at a deeper, more refined truth. The hosts use past experiences with problematic academic committees to illustrate the necessity of being in charge of who is on one's "personal committee" and avoiding collaboration with those who are more performative than real, thereby ensuring that the defense truly helps the individual realize their own truth.

Building upon the defense of the true self, the readings shift toward exchange and intuition. The third card, Exchange Juicy Juju, encourages listeners to share thriving energy, offer specific affirmations, and engage in the cyclical process of receiving and sharing light, thereby removing the zero-sum game mentality from life. The fourth card, Intuition, is identified as the Moon card in the tarot. This card reminds listeners that when navigating uncertainty, they must trust their well-informed instinct, which is built upon the collective wisdom gathered from past discussions and interactions. Finally, the Seven of Storms, also known as the seven of swords in the tarot, cautions against the sunk cost fallacy, urging listeners to recognize that there will always be other opportunities ("another wind to ride"). The key takeaway is to embrace change and realize that you don't have to pursue everything with the same vigor or win at everything; selective action and prioritization are essential.

The reading begins with the intersection of Svadisthana (instinct/sensation) and Vishuda (expression/communication). This combination delivers a powerful message urging positive self-expression: "Gush your brilliance. Brag in your journal. Belly laugh every day. Express something positive". This "little voice" guidance serves as a reminder to be honest about your inherent goodness, even if you can only write it down in a private journal. The central philosophical underpinning introduced is that you speak your existence into being, as what you say informs what you believe, which dictates what you perceive, and ultimately, perception is what is real. This focus on positive self-talk establishes the foundation for meeting subsequent life challenges with better footing.

The reading then shifts to the inevitability of change with Tarot Major Arcana Number 10, The Wheel of Fortune. This card highlights that both good times and bad times will change, prompting gratitude during highs and optimism during lows. Coupled with the first card’s theme of perception, this pairing emphasizes the intersection of action (solar plexus) and perception (third eye). The crucial insight is that if a situation remains unchanged for a long time, it is due to a stagnant perception, and reality can only change when you shift the way you perceive it. This implies the listener holds responsibility for changing their reality, though it must be genuine growth and not delusion.

The metaphorical core of the episode, and its title, is derived from the third card—Earth on Earth (I am on I am)—which centers on identity and stability. Its haiku states: "Me, life's vase, birthing diamonds". This metaphor illustrates that the pressures of life crush memories and experiences down into gemstones, meaning that the ups and downs—the cycles of creation, destruction, and recreation—are necessary for forming these diamonds. This cycle of opportunity is reinforced by the next card, the Five of Seeds, which is the Five of Pentacles in the Tarot. This card affirms that "The door to your storehouse is not truly locked," confirming that abundance is accessible if you create and take opportunities. The reading concludes with a profession card urging action: "I profess that I do that which I claim and that which I advise". Ultimately, this full reading serves as a holistic reminder that your hopes, ideas, and intentions do not truly exist until you act on them, bridging the gap between positive inner vision and outward manifestation.

The first card, "I profess that I feel no obligation to drink the poisonous thoughts of others," an intersection of the visceral chakra (Orange metal: I feel) and the Third Eye (Blue water: I see). This card acts as a warning against "the mill spilling toxicity into the river", urging listeners to use their instinct to examine information that doesn't feel right, especially when consuming news or disinformation. The hosts discuss the dangers of algorithms creating isolating echo chambers and the critical need to "train yourself to look outside" and gather facts independently, distinguishing truth from conjecture.

The reading then shifts to the Ace of Waves, representing the Second Chakra (Sacrum/Water), which emphasizes returning to the "very very base state of the second chakra" and the source of intuition and emotion. This card, "The tiniest of drops that can become the mightiest of waves," reinforces the theme of avoiding contamination and seeking clarity, urging listeners to recognize whether their emotional responses are authentic or manufactured by external influences. The episode introduces a mediating card, the intersection of the Crown Chakra (Purple/Akasha/Ether: I know) and the Sacrum (Orange/Metal: I feel), which brings in the concept of morality and purpose. This combination forces an examination of actions through the lens of utilitarianism: choosing the path that causes the least harm. The hosts explore how adherence to strict, context-less rules ("lawful good") can lead to devastating conclusions, noting that this mindset is tragically shared by historical figures like Hitler. The discussion stresses the importance of empathy, urging listeners to connect to the cosmic sense of self and ask: "Would I want this for myself?".

The urgency of this message is underscored by the Eight of Waves, drawn immediately after, which reiterates the need to "Free yourself from the shallows. Flow to the source". The hosts label fear, anger, and greed as "shallow emotions" that lead to "muddy waters" and make people susceptible to manipulation. The reading concludes with the final profession: "I profess that I am the architect who builds my life," an intersection of the Root Chakra (Red Earth: I am) and the Solar Plexus (Yellow Fire: I do). This serves as the ultimate takeaway, reminding listeners that despite external influences and systemic flaws, they are responsible for their beliefs, feelings, and the way they construct their own lives.

The exploration of action and energy intensifies with the second card, the Five of Flames. This card, which is recognized as the Five of Wands in the tarot, addresses conflict and tension. The accompanying message, "Do not fear the flames of others because they burn," suggests that engagement and disagreement can be healthy, leading to refinement and stronger outcomes. Competition and ambition do not have to be negative; being near someone else's fire can offer light and warmth. Following this theme of action and energy management, the third card shifts focus to boundaries and resource allocation (Fire intersecting with Earth). The sassy mantra for this card is "No. No. No. No. No. No. You don't have to. No, you don't want to. And no. Because No". It serves as a reminder to be choosy and mindful about actions and motion, recognizing that human energy is limited. Saying no to one thing reserves the fire needed to say yes to something else, finding a balance between "burning bright" and "burning long".

The reading ascends to the upper chakras, moving toward ultimate realization. The fourth card, "You are ready to embrace what you have become" (Crown chakra intersecting with the third eye), is identified as Judgment (20) in the tarot. This card represents the moment before enlightenment, standing on the threshold after having completed the necessary journey and gathered all lessons. It is the culmination, the moment before removing the heat or stepping across the doorway. The hosts warn against letting fear turn you aside right when you are ready to cross that threshold. The final card integrates this realization back into interpersonal life (Heart intersecting with Throat), advising listeners to "See both sides of the board. Play yourself at chess. Listen as much as you speak. Let people disagree". This provides a lesson in empathy and balance, urging listeners to recognize the validity of others' perspectives and anxieties while still preserving their own energy and choosing not to play games that are stacked or involve missing pieces.

The reading began with the Haiku Deck, focusing on the perceptions of joy, where the heart (Anahata) and third eye (Ajna) chakras intersect. This initial draw emphasized the importance of collaboration and sharing knowledge, likening it to capillarity—the process of roots bringing water and nourishment up into a plant. The conversation quickly turned to the necessity of flowing knowledge, noting that water that does not flow becomes stagnant, and information must keep moving to be fresh. Following this, the hosts drew the Nine of Storms from Dean's deck, which was specifically noted as The nine of swords in the tarot deck. This card addresses processing the pain, suffering, and grief endured, reminding listeners that attention must be sharpened on the here and now. Crucially, the card advises not weathering adversity alone, urging the seeker to find new people or community to help contend with pain.
The reading then moved into the realm of pure instinct and feeling, drawing a card from The Bouquet deck focusing on Metal on Metal, which represents sensation, sensuality, and gut feelings. This segment stressed the need to trust one's gut and inner voice, particularly when dealing with trauma or adversity. The discussion introduced the powerful metaphor of handbells and sympathetic vibrations, suggesting that individuals should surround themselves with people who resonate with their natural frequencies, or literally, "look for the good vibes". To achieve this, the next card, the Ace of Flames, provided the necessary impetus, representing the first spark of the third chakra. This card serves as a powerful reminder that change and improvement require action, not merely pondering or feeling. This moment of ignition was compared to "activation energy," the initial spike needed for transformation, such as when two elements become a compound.
Finally, the hosts drew a Haiku card connecting expression (Vishuddha/Aqua/Air) with connection (Anahata/Heart/Wood). This card offered a caution: when speaking your truth, you may not receive 100% approval, but that does not mean the action taken is wrong. However, the card also warned against mistaking vile underpinnings for true heart expression, suggesting that if what you say would get you into "bad trouble," it is likely tainted. Overall, the spread underscored that the way we express ourselves is dependent on the connections we maintain. By choosing the right people and listening to the inner resonance of your bell, truth and community, coupled with the activation energy of action, can powerfully magnify healing and joy.

The episode begins with a focus on Sahasura (crown chakra, purple ether) influenced by Vishuda (throat chakra, voice, air, aqua), drawing the profession "I profess that I know my voice matters and that it can help others". This leads to a discussion on the power of communication, channeling universal inspiration, and the idea of truth being scattered and refracted through individual context, much like light or the Aurora Borealis. The hosts emphasize that while authentic expression is crucial, one must remember that others will "intuit things into it" based on their own experiences, highlighting the potential for misunderstanding in written or non-verbal communication.

The conversation moves into the importance of stillness and reception, catalyzed by subsequent readings from the hosts' respective decks. Dean’s deck draws the Four of Storms from the Heart chakra, bearing the quote, "Even the wind lies still for a time". This card is specifically identified as the Four of Swords in the tarot. The hosts note the history of the swords suit and emotionality, particularly the Three of Swords, and suggest the Four of Storms reminds the speaker to return to peace after intense communication. Later, Dean pulls the Six of Flames (the third chakra), which corresponds to the Six of Wands in the tarot. This card encourages the speaker to "Feel the warmth of those who celebrate you", reminding listeners to accept positive affirmation and allow others to share energy back. A third card intersection (Muladara/I am with Crown/I know) uses the image of the obelisk, prompting reflection on how one can be the source of both physical message and spiritual inspiration simultaneously, like the wave-particle duality of light, and the need to own what is shared.

The final concluding card is drawn from the Projections deck, merging Vishuda (I say) with Ajuna (I see). The call to action is: "A little scandal is essential. Read a provocative book. Debate yourself aloud. Now discuss it with others". This wraps up the theme by urging listeners to embrace challenging, flavor-filled dialogue that pushes against their own ideas and those of others, ensuring they truly understand and can defend their beliefs. The hosts remind listeners that if they are operating in good faith, engaging in constructive dialogue is essential for learning.

The episode's central theme, derived from a dice roll, is encapsulated in the profession: "I profess that I love learning especially from the wisdom of others". This message is linked to the Anahata (heart) chakra, influenced by the third eye (I see and I know), and underscores that learning is not a solitary endeavor. Dean associates love in this context with the element of wood, symbolizing exchange and interconnection, drawing parallels to how trees form communities and communicate.
The first card pulled for the reading is the Two of Storms, explicitly identified as "the two of swords in the tarot". This card, which Dean's system connects to the heart chakra and the element of air, carries the message: "Blown two different ways you seek direction". This imagery reinforces the idea that when faced with confusion or doubt, seeking wisdom from others can provide much-needed guidance. The hosts delve into the nature of control, highlighting that while many events are beyond individual influence, the choice lies in how one responds to them. They emphasize the importance of receptiveness to new information and finding "peace in the middle of joy and grief," rather than reacting immediately. In a practical discussion, Jack and Dean also extensively laud Obsidian, a local, scriptable database and notes archive, as an invaluable tool for creatives, for everything from character development in novel writing to managing complex information through customizable, color-coded hierarchies and powerful linking features.
The second card, from the sassy deck, advises: "You need a bubble bath. Don't argue with me. Run warm water. Dissolve crusty vibes". This card relates to the third eye (I see) and crown (I know) chakras, encouraging listeners to embrace mutability in their beliefs and shed "faulty notions and presumptions" to achieve deeper understanding. Jack interprets "crusty vibes" as rigid thinking, noting that while the brain's pathways become set with age, they can still be rewired through continuous learning. The third card pulled is the Four of Seeds, which is equivalent to "the four of pentacles, uh, four of coins in some people's versions of the tarot". This card signifies a "moment of fullness" but also cautions against hoarding, urging the sharing of excess resources like wealth, ideas, or time to foster community and ensure continued abundance. Finally, the fourth card, "I profess that I say contemplative words concerning my place in the universe," prompts reflection on one's purpose and responsibility, emphasizing that true enlightenment might come not from a "bigger cup" of knowledge, but from a "better elixir" of profound understanding.

The reading begins with Deck Number 3, "The Intersections," card number 30, representing Vishuda (throat chakra - I say) intersecting with the third eye (I see). This card prompts a reflection on how one's intellect influences communication, serving as a reminder that personal perception, while invaluable, is not the sole perspective. They recall an earlier reading featuring "the first sewing, the Ace of Seeds," emphasizing grounding. The discussion expands on the dangers of self-talk and "echo chambers" within oneself, where unhelpful messages can become noise and degrade clarity. This leads to an inward focus, encouraging listeners to examine their spiritual landscape and beliefs to ensure their expressions align with their true selves, performing a "reality check" on their internal and external reflections.
The hosts delve deeper into the cyclical nature of beliefs, suggesting an opportunity to let go of old ideas that no longer serve one's growth, likening it to a "sundown" cycle. They connect this evolution of thought to scientific understandings, including quantum mechanics, the observer effect (illustrated humorously with a cat anecdote), and recent breakthroughs in creating matter from energy, underscoring how belief and action can physically shape the brain and reality. The conversation transitions to the second card, The Seeker of Seeds, which is the Page of Pentacles in the Tarot and represents the root chakra. This card symbolizes curiosity, wonder, and the preparation stage of planting, emphasizing patience and the understanding that initial sprouts are not the full plant; success or failure cannot be immediately judged. It also highlights the importance of recognizing and working within limitations, much like understanding soil composition for gardening, to foster boundless creativity within given boundaries.
The final two cards expand on interpersonal and personal responsibility. Projections of Joy (Deck Number 1), card number 23, illustrates the Heart (I love) influenced by Air/Aqua (I say), with the message to "see both sides of the board, play yourself at chess, listen as much as you speak, let people disagree". This encourages honest self-assessment and empathy, contrasting with debate as "winning". The hosts discuss the importance of listening as much as speaking, even to oneself, to mature and understand reactions, citing cognitive behavioral therapy and systemic biases (like racism) as examples. They explore the concept of "tainted" perspectives, particularly from privileged viewpoints, and the necessity of owning one's fallibility and allowing for change and forgiveness rather than engaging in "performative purity tests". The discussion references Wicked as an example of sympathetic antagonists and the experience of being "othered". The final cards drawn are The Creator, a major archon in Dean's deck, equated to the Empress in Tarot, representing the third chakra's ability to shape what one imagines with responsibility and purpose. Alongside this, The Source of Waves, the Queen of Cups in Tarot, signifies being the authentic source of one's emotions, leading to freedom from guilt through acknowledgment and self-understanding. The episode concludes with a powerful message about shaping oneself and one's expression, owning one's context, and using one's creative "fire to light lights, not to burn forests".

Welcome to Show Me Your Deck, episode 46, titled "Go Stop Go: Finding peace in stillness and action," where hosts Dean Sage and Jack Kervin explore the intersections of oracles and chakras. This episode features special guest Kaelan Strouse, an influencer and author, who shares the journey behind his original oracle deck. Kaelan's deck, which became the topic of his third book, features 48 spiritual lessons he consistently revisits, evolving from an initial idea of deities to broader spiritual messages. His creative process was deeply personal, even unfolding while visiting his father during his last months, adding a card about reclaiming one's power, making it 48 cards from an initial 47.
The episode delves into a powerful reading using a combination of the hosts' and guest's decks, beginning with Dean's "sassy deck" where a tetrahedron and 50-sided dice determine card pulls. The first card pulled is card 40, "Prioritize your polish," representing the intersection of the third eye (blue) and solar plexus (yellow) chakras, signifying a blend of insight and action – "I see with I do". This card emphasizes refining one's expertise, creating inviolable sessions, and eliminating distractions. Kaelan then pulls his card, "Enjoy simplicity," which beautifully contrasts, advocating for quiet, stillness, and removing clutter to allow answers to reveal themselves. The reading continues with Dean pulling the 10 of Seeds, explicitly noted as a Tarot reference, tied to the root chakra, symbolizing completeness, generational impact, and the idea that "Your seeds given to others will grow for generations". This prompts a discussion on karma and the lasting effects of actions. Kaelan's next card, "Let your body move you," highlights somatic wisdom and learning through both stillness and motion, celebrating the inherent intelligence of our physical forms. The final card pulled is Dean's "Step to it, honey. You thought enough now. Define the milestones. Start walking last Monday," a clear call to action after contemplation, with inverse colors (yellow on blue) of the first card.
Throughout the discussion, a central theme emerges about the dynamic balance between stillness and action, emphasizing that both are crucial for effectiveness, not just productivity. The hosts and Kaelan challenge the societal pressures of constant busyness and the capitalist idea of "productivity," suggesting that true fulfillment comes from acting with peace and clarity rather than obligation. Kaelan particularly highlights his deck's universal approach to spirituality, deliberately avoiding terms tied to any single tradition to make spiritual truths accessible to everyone, emphasizing that wisdom can be accessed through personal experience without gatekeepers or appropriation. The episode concludes with the profound insight that wisdom and right action arise from integrating all aspects of oneself – mind, body, and spirit – in a beautiful, complex whole. You can find more information about the hosts and guest at their respective websites.

Today's log line, "Play the rest: Be as you are, in silence, ready for action," sets the stage for a deeply introspective reading focused on self-awareness and authentic being. The reading begins with Deck 4's 49th card, "Ozone Thunder, Hush, Electric Tension, Listen, Cascading Rain, Learn," which highlights the importance of introspection, quieting oneself to sense transformative insights, and constantly learning about strengths and weaknesses, much like the onset of a summer shower. This emphasis on personal context and internal resonance prepares listeners to discover what is important for themselves.
The reading continues with the Celestial card (number 0 in Dean's deck), which is identified as the Fool in the Tarot, representing a journey of being and becoming. This card underscores the idea that one is "new again, ready to be and to become," emphasizing that the celestial's journey through the chakras is deeply personalized and not tied to any single chakra. The conversation highlights that the Celestial's true purpose is to be, not to perform, drawing parallels between structured orchestral music and free-flowing jazz to illustrate the balance between prescription and improvisation in life. This theme is reinforced by Deck 4's first card, "Stars, dust, Salt, earth, clay. Me, life's face, birthing diamonds," a root chakra card reminding us that we are the "stuff of eternity" and must remain grounded in our physical being even while approaching the infinite. The Sage card (number 5), representing the throat chakra, reveals the powerful truth: "The hardest truth to admit is that you need help," emphasizing communal learning, the value of both harmony and dissonance, and the critical role of silence and internal reflection in the journey of self-discovery. The phrase "playing the rest" is used to describe the quiet, non-verbal moments of introspection crucial for true understanding.
Finally, the Bouquet of Flowers card (Deck 3, number 40), representing the third eye influenced by fire, serves as a powerful call to action. After the deep introspection and self-awareness gained from the previous cards, listeners are encouraged to utilize their understanding and ignite their "fire into the world". This card emphasizes that insights and realizations, while valuable, are incomplete without subsequent choices and actions in the world. The hosts stress the importance of not just having deep thoughts or experiences, but of examining these truths within one's own context and seeking community feedback to avoid falling into unexamined traps or perpetuating narrow perspectives. Ultimately, the reading encourages small, consistent actions that contribute to positive change, aligning perfectly with the episode's log line: to embrace one's present, cultivate silence, and be ready to act on resonant truths.