Phases of the Fool

This week is all about crystals here on Phases of the Fool- the ones we love, the ones we hate, and the ones that have changed our lives. Peyton and Mel also share a collective reading from the magical Crystal Keys Tarot by Dina Rosenberg and Amalia Drewes, out now from Weiser Books. Join us as we celebrate the new beginnings of spring and spill all the witchy tea!The Everyday Altar with MelMel's offeringsHealing House with PeytonPeyton's offeringsPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Hi Fools! This week, we got to sit down with author Meg Jones Wall to dive into the world of their newest book Tarot Spreads: How to Read Them, Create Them, and Revise Them. We talk about the gifts we offer to clients, finding our own political views after growing up religious and sheltered, and so much more.Keep up with Meg/3AM.TarotThe Everyday Altar with MelMel's offeringsHealing House with PeytonPeyton's offeringsPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Peyton and Mel are back! This week, we're breaking down the wands court cards and how to move past confusion in readings.  Whether you’re new to tarot or you’ve been reading for years, this episode will help you understand the fire court on a deeper level- and maybe recognize a bit of yourself in the process.The Everyday Altar with MelMel's offeringsHealing House with PeytonPeyton's offeringsPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, Mel and Peyton are exploring the dreamlike, compelling world of Tarot Chimera: a new deck from Weiser Books comprised of Odilon Redon's artwork and authored by Nitasia Roland. We ponder the cards' imagery and the guidebook's wisdom, while connecting it all to truths in our personal lives. We also do simultaneous readings based on Mel's personal "interview spread" as a way to understand what this deck will mean to each of us and why it entered our spiritual paths at this very moment.Tarot ChimeraNitasia RolandThe Everyday Altar with MelHealing House with PeytonPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week on Phases of the Fool, Peyton is highlighting the spiritual transformation that came along with becoming a first time mother. Mel and Peyton explore how to embody spiritual rebirths and discuss which unhelpful habits they're learning to leave behind, all while connecting back to the story of the Tarot.The Everyday Altar with MelHealing House with PeytonPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Mel and Peyton are BACK again- this time with a deep dive into not one, not two, but THREE tarot cards! Tune in as we unpack the meanings of the 8, 9, and 10 of Wands.The Everyday Altar with MelHealing House with PeytonPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Welcome back to Phases of the Fool! After a break following the birth of Peyton's baby boy, we are here and ready to get weird and witchy! In this episode, Peyton and Mel are catching up, discussing the spiritual places they're currently in and the development of their respective Patreon communities. The Fools also pull some juicy cards for where the podcast is headed in 2026. You don't wanna miss it!Peyton's offeringsMel's offeringsPhases of the Fool InstagramPhases of the Fool TikTok

Hi Fools! This week on the pod, Mel is joined by her dear friend, longtime client, and fellow tarot enthusiast Anna! This Sagittarius/Libra duo is here to talk through some of the most intense Wands cards in the deck: the five and seven.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, we're featuring the stunning Mystic Brew Tarot: an inclusive, vibrant, indie tarot deck forged through real-life moments and modern magical influences. Mellanie, the founder of Mystic Brew Healing, tells us about the process of developing all 78 cards, connecting with an illustrator, and finding the audience who needed the comfort her spiritual work provides.Mystic Brew HealingClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, we're grounding into our bodies and taking a look at how intuition shows up. Peyton and Mel talk about how to tell intuition apart from anxious thought patterns, physical signs that show up when something's off, and the importance of building self-awareness.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Our special guest this week is Cassandra Snow! We're discussing their latest book release, Tarot in Other Words: An Essential Anthology by Leading Queer Tarot Writers. Our conversation flows around themes of liberation, self-expression, family building, and so much more through an inclusive, spiritual, and trauma-informed lens.Purchase Tarot in Other WordsCassandra's WebsiteClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this special anniversary episode, Peyton and Mel reflect on the changes, tribulations, endings, and embodiment they've experienced since starting the Phases of the Fool podcast last November.  Using the Past Year Reflection Tarot Spread by Emerald Lotus Divination, they pull cards to look back on what’s evolved, what’s healed, and what’s still unfolding. It’s raw, real, and full of the Fool’s magic- celebrating the chaos, courage, and continuous becoming that defines every phase of our path.Check out the tarot spread we use in this episode hereClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week on Phases of the Fool, Mel and Peyton are covering their very first out-of-order Tarot pairing! Tune in to discover what the 4 and 6 of Wands cards have in common, and what sets them apart.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Hi there! In this special Samhain episode (which happens to be releasing on Mel's birthday!), Mel and Peyton are discussing the origins of Halloween, recognizing it as the witches new year, and indulging in a reflective tarot spread for the season.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Welcome, fools! Peyton and Mel's deep dive journey through the tarot has arrived at the 2 and 3 of Wands: cards of momentum and passion. Tune in as they pull collective messages for the listeners of this episode and connect these two wands cards to the greater story of the tarot.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, Peyton and Mel are chatting with Lori Lytle, author of Talismans & Tarot. While discussing her brand new book, we explore the difference between amulets, good luck charms, and talismans, how to join magic and tarot together, and share our personal stories of reading tarot for others and what we've learned along the way.A special thank you to Red Wheel/Weiser for sending these books our way and connecting us with Lori!Weiser BooksClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

 This week, we’re diving headfirst into the red flags parade of the spiritual space. From shady practices and guilt-tripping “gurus” to the subtle ways communities can turn toxic, we’re naming the red flags you need to look out for. We’re also sharing our own experiences navigating the messy, magical, and sometimes manipulative corners of spirituality. Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe even cringe at a few familiar red flags.Think of it as your “spot the red flag survival guide” for spiritual spaces, with a side of humor and honesty. Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Hi fools! Peyton and Mel are back this week covering the first card of the tarot's minor arcana! As we begin our journey into the suit of wands, we discuss Peyton's birth prep, how we each indulge in our passions, the traditional imagery of the Ace of Wands card, and so much more.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

You asked, the cards answered!In this episode, Mel and Peyton team up for something extra fun, duel fool readings! We asked out listeners to send in their burning questions and together we pull cards, share insights, and offer guidance straight from the tarot. Tune in for double the intuition, double the magic, and the answers might just spark something for you too! Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, your favorite fools are basking in the glow of our last major arcana tarot episode! We talk all about The World and how the prior 21 cards of the tarot lead up to it. We're also doing readings for some listeners who submitted questions to us on Instagram!Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this episode, we sit down with Linnea, a lifelong witch and the visionary behind HAVEN, a beautiful community center and metaphysical shop in Havre de Grace, MD. She shares her journey growing up in the craft, the lessons and transformations along the way, and how it led to creating a space where witches, seekers, and the spiritually curious can come together. This conversation is full of wisdom, inspiration, and a glimpse into what it truly means to build a community through magic.Click here to keep up with LinneaClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Tarot can be used for so much more than predicting the future. This week, Peyton and Mel dish on all their favorite ways to use tarot cards outside of doing readings.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this episode, Mel and Peyton dive deep into the energy of the Judgment card. Judgment is a call to rise, awaken, and step fully into the truth. They explore how this archetype shows up not only in personal transformation but also in the collective energy right now. Join us as we unpack how this card can guide us through times of change, collective shifts, and our own inner reckonings. Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Hi fools! This week, Peyton and Mel’s conversation is focused on the cards of the tarot as living archetypes. They talk about which cards would be best friends, worst enemies, great partners, and even dream smoke buddies.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week on Phases of the Fool, we're basking in the light of The Sun card: how it ties to the Wheel of the Year, living joyfully, and receiving confirmation that you're on the right path. Peyton gets real about balancing the happiness of pregnancy with the current heaviness in her life, and Mel reflects on the freedom she's found after approaching relationships differently.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week on Phases of the Fool, we’re diving into tarot spreads: how we build them, how we use them, and why they matter. From intuitive one-card pulls to layered custom spreads, we’re breaking down how to create a layout that actually supports your questions and your growth. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned reader, this episode is full of tips, stories, and insights to inspire your next reading.Want more spreads? Head over to Mel’s Patreon for exclusive layouts and tarot magic! https://www.patreon.com/c/MelOfWands/postsClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this tarot themed episode, the fools tell all... what makes The Moon such a card of mystery? From analyzing traumas to sharing opinions on secrets, Mel & Peyton are bringing their listeners on a journey through the shadows this week.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Reversals, what do they mean? Do you have to read them when they appear? In this episode, Mel and Peyton dive into the art of reading Tarot reversals. What do they really mean, why they aren't inherently "bad," and how they can add layers of insight to a reading. Tune in to help you feel more confident the next time your cards decide to flip the script on you! Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this episode, Mel and Peyton are fully fangirling over The Star. The luminous tarot card that is here to remind us that hope is never lost. Following the crumble and collapse of The Tower, this card promises new beginnings and is a gentle reminder that you are on the right path. We unpack how The Star whispers healing after hardship, inspires self trust, and invites us to realign with our truest identities and dreams. Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

Hey fools! This week, Mel and Peyton are indulging in one of their favorite topics: finding magic in the mundane. More specifically, we're talking about the everyday items you already own that can be enchanted, worked with creatively, or otherwise used to support your spiritual practice. We reveal our own secrets and routines with the hopes of inspiring our listeners to make some magic with things they already have.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week on Phases of the Fool, Peyton & Mel are joined by Shawna, creator of A Truth Seeker’s Daughter, to dive into the most explosive card in the Major Arcana, The Tower. ️Together, we explore what it means when the universe tears it all down, how ego death can lead to soul liberation, and why chaos isn’t always a curse. The Tower teaches us that sometimes the only way out is through the fire. Let it fall. Let it free you. Tune in for sacred perspective shifts, Tower stories of our own, and a collective invitation to trust the divine unraveling. Plus: Shawna offers a special discount code for our listeners!Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokShop A Truth Seeker's Daughter products here! Use code "phases" at checkout! https://atruthseekersdaughter.com/ A Truth Seeker's Daughter Instagram

This week, Peyton and Mel are tackling one of the tarot's most understood cards: The Devil. We explore its themes of control, bondage, and vices through conversations about Pride, Labubus, moral superiority, pregnancy, and showing up in your imperfect truth.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, we’re exploring the listener-requested topic of the journey from Catholicism to witchcraft. So many witches we know (including ourselves!) started in the pews and ended up at our own altars. We unpack how religious symbolism and ritual shaped our early spiritual frameworks, what we reclaimed or rejected, and how the Catholic church differs from other religious structures we've experienced.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, Peyton and Mel are talking tarot and... simply doing our best! The card of Temperance represents themes of moderation and balance, which resonate with each of us as we consider our own mental health and how we're showing up in our lives currently. To put a fun spin on things, we're also asking our cards some RIDICULOUS questions created by faesighttarot on TikTok.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this lunar-lit episode, Mel and Peyton dive into the magic of New Moons and Full Moons. What each mean to us and how we work with their energies and some examples of rituals and practices we love to do underneath of them. We share a collective new moon message and (of course) take a detour into the Twilight Universe because.... you know why. Whether you're moon crazy or just moon curious, this episodes got something for you and your inner witch and perhaps your inner teenager. 

This week on Phases of the Fool, we're diving deep into one of the Tarot's most misunderstood cards: Death. This card teaches us about transformation and becoming. Peyton shares how these themes are showing up for her through her pregnancy, and Mel talks about experiencing a Death card moment through her divorce process.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week on Phases of the Fool, we're talking about the mindsets and magic that help us protect our energy. It's not all wards and wands though- we're also sharing the real-world changes we've made to honor our boundaries, even when it's difficult.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this short and sweet episode, Mel & Peyton explore the quiet power of The Hanged Man -- a card that invites us to release control, surrender to the unknown, find wisdom in stillness, and maybe look at things from a different perspective. Whether you're in the season of waiting, uncertainty, or deep inner recalibration, this is your reminder that the pause is NOT punishment, its transformation in progress.

This week, Mel and Peyton are diving into all things altars! We talk about different types of altars, how to choose meaningful items for them, ways to engage with your altar, and tips for keeping the energy clear and aligned. Plus, we share personal stories of what our altars mean to us and how they’ve evolved with our practices.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this episode, we explore the Justice card—not just as a symbol of fairness, but as a reminder that true balance doesn’t always look like equality or kindness. We talk about the difference between justice and fairness, and how the universe has a way of evening the score, even when we don’t see it right away, or ever. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is step back and trust that the scales will tip in your favor when the time is right.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, Mel & Peyton are setting the record straight on some of the most common myths floating around the present-day witchy and spiritual worlds.Click here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, Peyton and Mel are joined by Joseph of Ephemeral Visions Tarot to discuss the mystical nature of the Wheel of Fortune card. We cover its religious influences, what its meaning inspires in our own lives, and how it relates to our careers in metaphysics.Click here to keep up with JosephClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

This week, we’re joined by the incredible AstroBrit to dive into what’s happening in the stars right now and how astrology helps us navigate the signs the universe is sending our way. We talk about the truth of spiritual awakenings, what it really means to be aware of the world around you, and how to trust the cosmic knowledge leading us forward.Click here to keep up with BritClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with MelPhases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTok

In this episode, we dive deep into the energy of The Hermit—the tarot archetype of inner wisdom, solitude, and spiritual illumination. We discuss how this card shows up in readings, the difference between healthy introspection and avoidance, and why The Hermit isn’t about disappearing from the world, but rather returning with deeper insight. We also share personal experiences with The Hermit’s lessons and how to embrace solitude without isolation. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on self-trust, spiritual growth, and the light we all carry within.Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel

This week on Phases of the Fool, we’re diving into the origin story of our friendship- how the universe (and maybe a bit of fate) brought us together. We pull a tarot spread to read the energy of our connection and the deeper meaning behind our bond. Join us for a heartfelt, mystical, and sometimes hilarious reflection on what makes our friendship so special.Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel

This week on Phases of the Fool, we're chatting about the Strength card of the tarot. We explore how this card teaches us to heal, to treat others with grace despite our own wounds, and to cultivate true fortitude—not through domination, but from a place of empathy that can only be reached through true self awareness.Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel

This week on Phases of the Fool, Mel and Peyton dive into practical ways to incorporate magic into your daily routine, from simple spells to subtle mindset shifts. We unpack the power of daily rituals and how they can support emotional regulation and mental well-being.Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel

In this episode, we take the reins and dive deep into The Chariot—the card of momentum, willpower, and forward movement. But with great speed comes the question: Are we in control, or are we just along for the ride? We explore the delicate balance between discipline and trust, action and surrender, and how The Chariot teaches us to navigate life’s challenges without burning ourselves out. Whether you’re feeling stuck or racing ahead without direction, this episode will help you understand how to work with The Chariot’s energy in a way that empowers rather than exhausts.Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel

 Love magic isn’t just about casting spells for romance—it’s about aligning with the love you truly deserve. In this episode, Mel and Peyton dive into the magic of attraction, with a special focus on self-love as the foundation for manifesting fulfilling relationships. We’ll share practical ways to cultivate self-worth, energetic practices to magnetize aligned connections, and spellwork to call in love that supports and empowers you. Whether you're looking for romantic love, deeper friendships, or a stronger connection with yourself, this episode is all about creating love from the inside out. Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel

 The Lovers card is about so much more than romance! In this episode, Mel and Peyton dive into the deeper meaning of The Lovers—exploring its themes of harmony, balance, and alignment. We discuss how this card represents the choices we make, the relationships we cultivate (including the one with ourselves), and the importance of integrating duality. Whether you're navigating love, self-acceptance, or a major life decision, The Lovers reminds us to choose with intention and stay true to our values. Phases of the Fool | InstagramPhases of the Fool | TikTokClick here to keep up with PeytonClick here to keep up with Mel