Real World Tarot: Recent Episodes
Karen O'Grady
When mystical meets the mundane, there is magic and … real life. This podcast explores how the Tarot shows up in the real world - YOUR real world. When you remove the smoke and mirrors, what remains is a compass for clarity, guidance and empowered decision-making.
Hosted by Karen of Little Orchid Tarot, a Tarot Reader, Intuitive and Lightworker who offers readings on fiverr.com/litorchidtarot, this is a podcast for anyone who's ready to get real with the Tarot.
Innocent until proven guilty is the seven of swords. When this wiley deceiver appears in your reading, you may cringe and recoil. He's not all bad, if you can believe it, and he may be encouraging you to see him differently, especially if it's your own truth you're avoiding.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
After the battle of the Five, comes the peace and healing of the Six. The Six of Swords reminds us that it is possible to leave the past behind us, that peace, healing and prosperity does exist - it will take a conscious journey to get there. Tune into today's episode in our exploration of the Six of Swords.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Sometimes when we feel small, we feel we need to overcompensate to win. Those victories often feel good in the moment - we had the last laugh, we got the jab in - however, the win is short lived, shallow, and does more damage in the long run than we had likely planned. When the five of swords shows up in a reading, watch out - there's trouble, and egos, afoot. Tune in to today's episode to learn more about "little big man syndrome" and how to work with this energy if it shows up in your tarot reading.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
When the four of swords drops into your reading - you need a rest, my guy. In an always on, 'hustle every day' culture, the concept of work-life balance, sleeping on an issue or taking a pause often takes a back seat. The arrival of the four of swords brings us the wisdom of contemplation, rest, recovery and renewal. Check out today's episode as a reminder why a little you-time can go a long way.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Heartbreak, betrayal, grief and sorrow. The three of swords is neither a welcome nor desired card, and yet... it's my favourite card in the deck! Yes, as in all cards, there is positivity and lessons to work with. Find out more in today's episode on the dreaded three of swords.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Indecision. Paralysis. Riding the Fence. We have an important decision to make, and yet, we stall. Whether that's to ponder or because we fear, the Two of Swords reminds us we must make a decision, or face the consequences of being stuck and miserable. Nature abhors a vacuum, and so, join us as we explore the Two of Swords as it appears in questions surrounding love, career, and all that we desire.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
"I can see all obstacles in my way....". The Ace of Swords is all about new clarity and new vision. The path becomes clear, the action steps marked, triumph in sight. Tune in to today's episode to discover what this card means in your love, career, finance and wellbeing questions, learning how to forge a path to triumph, even if one has not been cut out for you.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Who do you call when there's an emergency? Hint: 911 doesn't offer emergency readers, and there's good reason. While we might think a Tarot reading in the heat of the moment is a good idea, there are a few very good reasons to press pause when speedialing your reader. Listen in on why I don't offer 'emergency' or 'one hour' readings, and why that's in your best interest as a seeker.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
When we think of a blade, we often picture the double-edged sword: its ability as a helpful tool, yet alternatively, as a deadly weapon. In Tarot, those swords relate to our thinking minds and our ego, the words we use and the thoughts we think, and whether that serves or harms us. How we wield the blade of our swords (and react to the swords of others), will determine the outcome of our questions. Tune in to discover what it means when this suit predominates your reading, and how you might use them to your benefit.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The King of Cups is kind, compassionate, and a 'port in the storm'. When he appears in your reading, you've hit the emotional jackpot, be it a friend, lover, teacher, or family member. Today we'll explore the ins and outs of this gentle soul, and what it means when he visits your reading.
Special shoutout on today's show goes to A Psychic's Story Podcast - check out Nicole's insightful and inspiring show!
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The Queen of Cups is kind, nurturing and empathetic, and tends to fill everyone else's cup before she fills her own. She's often a devoted partner, mother, friend and confidant. In today's episode, we'll explore how this lovely lady may show up in your reading, and how to embody her cuppy demeanor to manifest the future you desire.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
This knight is known for being the prince charming of the Tarot. Dashing, romantic, charismatic, a charmer. Those seeking love look forward to his arrival in a reading, but is he all he's cracked up to be? This episode will get to the bottom of this knight in shining armour, just to to see how deep his love goes -- or not.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The Page of Cups is the embodiment of playful, creative self-expression. His curiosity leads him, and he's not afraid to dive in with two feet. When he appears in our readings, like all pages, he can be an opportunity, a person, or an aspect of ourselves. In today's episode, we'll explore what makes this page so lovable, and what he has to teach us.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
When seeking a tarot reading, one very important element most seekers overlook, or fail to consider, is this: how do I develop and maintain a good working relationship with my reader? At the end of the day, your reader is human and how you show up and work with their energy, and visa versa, will absolutely affect the outcome of your reading.
In this episode, we'll explore 8 ways you might be ticking off your tarot reader without even realizing it, and the impact that could have on your reading and reader.
To learn more about Karen and the Podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Ah, the ten of cups! It's the fairy tale ending, the calm after the storm, the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. This card is the quintessential example of the 'happily ever after' so many of us seek, yet it comes with a few gotchas. Listen in to discover what the ten of cups might mean for your reading.
To learn more about Karen & the podcast, visit:
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Andrew Jackson once said 'You must pay the price if you wish to secure the blessing.' In the nine of cups, hard work, faith and commitment have paid off and now to the victor goes the spoils. This card is often referred to as the 'Wish' card, and is a welcome visitor in any reading. In today's episode we'll explore the ins and outs of its energy, including a reminder why it's always important to be careful what you wish for (because you might just get it!)
To learn more about Karen & the podcast, visit: littlorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
There are moments in life when we sense ourselves at a crossroads. Do we stay where we've invested our time, energy and emotions? Or, do we venture out in search of more? Do we stay in the comfort of what is known, or press our luck and go beyond? Like the Kenny Rogers song 'The Gambler', there's a wisdom in knowing when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em.
To learn more about Karen & the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Referenced in today's show: Who Was the Buddha?
Like the classic Pixies song, 'Where is my Mind?', the Seven of Cups challenges us to examine what is illusion and fantasy, distraction & ephemeral, versus real and worthy of our time and attention. All sorts of temptations beckon us when this seven visits our reading, and it's our job to know what's real and what's fantasy -- where we need to keep our head on straight. In today's episode, we'll explore how the seven of cups shows up in 2023, with a pop culture reference that I guarantee will be all to relevant to your daily life.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
"No matter how dreary and gray our homes are, we people of flesh and blood would rather live there than in any other country, be it ever so beautiful. There is no place like home.” - Dorothy Gale, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
The Six of Cups is all about memories, nostalgia, innocence, safety, comfortable spaces and people. When this card comes up, you're being asked if this is what you need now -- or -- are you looking to the past with rose coloured glasses?
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
We're reading your questions LIVE on the show. I'm joined by Sharon Courtot of Grace and Gratitude, a professional tarot reader, intuitive, medium and Spiritual Coach. Join us we sling the cards and provide live readings to listener-submitted questions.
You can reach Sharon on Facebook or by her website.
Check out Sharon's Podcast Getting Unstuck
The Five of Cups is not easy. When this card shows up in your reading, there's bound to be sorrow, loss and mourning. The important thing is to feel into the moment, but not stay there. There is hope in this card, when you seek to find it.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The blahs. The four of cups is all about them - when we're bored, disillusioned, apathetic. Why, when we're in this state, do we feel like the world owes us something? Explore the weight (and the lesson) of the Four of Cups, and how it all comes together in a 'show about nothing'.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The three of cups is all about your tribe - your community, your kin, your squad, your people. Celebrations, holidays, good times. A perfect card to explore for the Holiday Season, let's dig into this party-hardy card, shall we?
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
“Life is pain, highness. Anyone who says differently is selling something.” - The Princess Bride.
Life does not have to be pain, yet there is no silver bullet solution. We should never look to readers or the Tarot for an instant solution that requires no work or effort on our part. And yet, we sometimes do, don't we? In this episode, we'll explore how 'life is pain', and how anyone telling you differently, is probably trying to sell you something.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
"The greatest thing you'll ever learn is to love, and be loved in return" - Moulin Rouge. This episode is about deep, authentic, compassionate relationships. Some might call it true love, while others might point to the 'honeymoon phase'. No matter what it is, a two of cups connection is life changing. And it's not always romantic love where this card shows its hand. Tune into today's episode which is all about our deepest, most authentic human connections.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The Ace of Cups is the Cupid of the Tarot - its appearance means you're about to be shot through the heart, whether by romance, joy or inspiration. As it is with all aces, new beginnings are suggested - but it's not all puppy dogs and rainbows. Tune in and find out what this ace has to offer.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The suit of Cups is allllll about the feels - our emotions, our relationships, how we give and receive love, our creativity and self-expression. This episode digs deep into the Cups, and what means when this suit dominates a reading.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: https://www.littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Tarot Scams have been around for decades - from storefront deceivers to mail fraud, and now, the dreaded social media scam (not to mention 'personalized' readings on TikTok. Eyeroll) In this episode, we'll explore a handful of stories from the last 30+ years of every day people who have been duped into Tarot-related fraud. You'll learn what to look for in a scam, and how to avoid falling victim (hint: it's easier than you may think).
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
We've officially arrived at the last character in the suit of Pentacles, the King. And what a King he is! If you want top notch business advice, directions to the best steak place in town, or need a couch to surf on for the weekend, this King has you covered. And as always, we'll explore this figure in pop culture (who may be the most King of Pentacles you could possibly be).
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The Queen of Pentacles is a self-made woman who's a real momma bear. She loves all things big and small, and has a bleeding heart for those in need and those who are under-represented. This gal is my favourite queen in the deck, and I'm excited to introduce her to you. Let's dive in, shall we?
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Like the classic tale of the Turtle and the Hare, the Knight of Pentacles is a character who knows that a slow and steady pace wins the race. Join me as we explore the energy of this down-to-earth, dutiful and persistent character through the lens of some common questions. A Canadian Icon makes an appearance here - and he might just inspire you to start a journey with a single step.
To learn more about Karen or the podcast, visit: littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit: fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
We've arrived at our first Court card! In today's episode we'll explore who and what the Court Cards represent and how to interpret them, with a particular focus on the Page of Pentacles - and how he relates to the somewhat unknown origin story of the Queen frontman.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
10s in the Tarot represent the end of a cycle; the finish line, the last stop. In the Pentacles suit, this means legacy - financial prosperity, influence and power, reputation and lineage. The hard work has paid off, my friend. In today's episode, we'll explore 'The Good Life' through the lens of this card. Let's go!
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
A very wise reader once said, "people do not seek out a reading when all is well. It's when they're trying to get through the tough stuff". In today's episode, I am joined by Tarot Reader, Intuitive, Medium and Spiritual Coach Sharon Courtot of Grace and Gratitude to discuss tarot and addiction. If you've ever struggled or are struggling with self-sabotaging behaviour, feeling stuck in an endless cycle or helpless, this episode will shed some light on how a reading can be a beacon of light toward recovery.
About Sharon: Sharon has been a professional Tarot Reader, Intuitive, Medium and Spiritual Coach for 10 years. Utilizing her intuitive skills and connecting with your angels and guides, Sharon helps her clients bridge the gap between who they think they are, and who they really are, enabling them to live freely. She's dedicated to helping people find their groove and live a life of joy and ease. In addition to being a fabulous reader, Sharon is the host of her own podcast, Getting Unstuck, which aims to share stories of people, just like you, who were once stuck and overwhelmed, but have found their way.
You can reach Sharon via facebook.com/sharoncourtot or on her website at sharoncourtot.com
Check out Sharon's Podcast Getting Unstuck
The nine of pentacles heralds the approach of the finish line, obstacles overcome, life becoming easy breezy, the fruits of your labour paying off. This is the garden of your creation -- enjoy it, baby. In today's episode, we'll explore the energy of this card and how it appears in real world tarot readings.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Hustle, grit, rolling in the moolah. This card indicates that work is picking up, you're feeling the flow and it's time to get down to it. Join me as we explore the energy of this card and how it shows up in your real life tarot reading. Oh, and we have our first listener question! So let's dive in, shall we?
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Ever find yourself running through life on auto-pilot? Just today I made tea, but can't remember actually making it.
The seven of pentacles to the rescue!
In this episode, we'll explore when and why this energy shows up in our reading - as a reminder that pause, assessment and planning is required for ultimate success. And that slowing down doesn't mean failure, whether that's in your career, your love life or your well-being.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
In this bonus episode, I take part in the #10randomtarotquestions challenge. It's raw, it's real and it's perfect for Real World Tarot.
The 10 Questions:
1) First tarot deck?
2) Greatest influence on your tarot practice?
3) Deck currently used most often?
4) What is the best question you’ve ever been asked in a Tarot reading?
5) What is the worst question you’ve ever been asked in a Tarot reading?
6) Your significator card?
7) Special technique you use with tarot?
8) Most imaginative reimagining of a card?
9) Favourite tarot book?
10) Favourite Minor Arcana card?
If you'd like to participate, use hashtag #10randomtarotquestions. Thank you to Mark Astrotarot on YouTube for the inspo!
Readers, Decks & Books mentioned in today's episode:
Lori Lytle of Inner Goddess Tarot
Sharon Courtot of the Getting Unstuck Podcast
'Holistic Tarot: An Integrative Approach to Using Tarot for Personal Growth'
Tarot of Mystical Moments
The Everyday Enchantment Tarot*
*I mistakenly refer to this deck in my episode as the "Everyday Tarot".
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
"Please, sir, may I have some more?" The Six of Pentacles conjures the meek and wanting voice of Oliver Twist. There's a real have-and have-not feel when this card appears in a reading. While there may be some strings attached, the card does foretell the energy of generosity, sharing, community and kindness. In today's episode we'll explore the juxtaposed energy of this card - power & control versus charity & kindness - and how its energy shows up in the Real World.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
"Now is the Winter of our Discontent" - Richard III, William Shakespeare. This is the card of feeling low; unseen, unloved and insecure, with no salvation in sight. Or is is that you simply cannot see the light? In this episode, we'll explore the Five of Pentacles, an often unwelcome card in any reading. But don't be glum, there's always a light at the end of the tunnel.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
In the first of a several part mini series, I pull back the curtain on the the process of finding, communicating with and booking a quality reader, including how to review their services, what questions to ask, and even what price you should be paying. We'll also explore five major red flags that, should you stumble upon them, cause you to run the other way, and quickly.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Miserly, cautious, tight-fisted, trying to keep it all together. Me, me, me. In this episode, we'll explore the energy of the Four of Pentacles, and how this card's energy shows up as lovers, employers, friends and foes.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Ok it's cheesy but, it's true. The three of pentacles is all about group collaboration, combining skill sets and recognizing each other's contributions. Today we'll explore how this card's energy manifests in your reading, including a personal story on how it showed up in Karen's life in a huge way.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The two of pentacles calls into question our flexibility, adaptability and what we're willing to juggle, (or not). In today's episode, we'll explore what it means when this jaunty juggler appears in a reading, in the context of popular questions (love, career, money and health).
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
The Ace of Pentacles is the first card in the suit, in which we see a god-like hand extending a shiny, golden coin from the clouds. What does that coin represent? And what does it mean if it appears in my reading?
In today's episode, we'll explore the meaning of this card, and how it shows up as people, situations and action steps you might want to take (or not take) to manifest your desires.
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
For the first suit exploration of this podcast, we'll be exploring the energy of the Pentacles; the energy of the Earth, the body, the tangible and the physical. If your reading is dominated by Pentacles, how does that show up in real life, and what does that mean for your question? Let's dive in, shall we?
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
In our first episode, we will explore a (very) brief history of the Tarot: its origins as a game and how it developed over time as the divinatory tool we know it to be today. We'll also explore 4 popular Tarot myths and bust them by addressing some 'unpopular opinions' that ground readings in reality. Finally, I'll reveal what you can expect from future episodes, with a sneak peek into our first suit...
To contact Karen or learn more about the podcast, visit littleorchidtarot.com/podcast
To book a reading with Karen, visit fiverr.com/litorchidtarot
Looking for a touch of universal guidance in your every day life? This podcast explores where the mystical meets the mundane. When you remove the smoke and mirrors, what remains is a compass for clarity, guidance and empowered decision-making. This podcast will explore each of the 78 cards and how they show up in your day-to-day; as people, situations and energy you may wish to embody. We'll also bust a tarot myth or two along the way. Hosted by Karen of Little Orchid Tarot, a Tarot Reader, Intuitive and Lightworker, this is the podcast for seekers, readers, and anyone who's ready to get real with the Tarot. Visit Karen at littleorchidtarot.com or book a reading at fiverr.com/litorchidtarot