In this episode, we uncover the secret history of the Rider-Waite Tarot, the world’s most iconic deck. Explore how the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a 19th-century occult society, shaped modern Tarot practices. Discover the fascinating lives of Arthur Edward Waite and Pamela Colman Smith, the minds behind the deck, and how their work unlocked deeper meanings within the cards.

Along the way, I’ll share my personal experience with Tarot—how I moved from skepticism to understanding it as a tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. Whether you're new to Tarot, a seasoned reader, or simply curious about its history, this episode offers insight, storytelling, and practical advice.

Listen now and discover:

• The hidden origins of Tarot and how it evolved from a card game to a spiritual tool.
• The influence of the Golden Dawn on modern occult practices.
• How the Rider-Waite-Smith deck became the gold standard for Tarot readings.
• Tips for using Tarot as a guide, not a prediction of fate.

🎴 Journal Prompts:

1. A Card That Speaks to You

Choose a Tarot card that resonates with you today—whether from a reading or simply one you feel drawn to.

• What emotions or memories does this card stir in you?
• If this card were a message from your subconscious, what might it be trying to tell you?

2. Your Relationship with the Unknown

Tarot is often about embracing the mysteries of life—the things we don’t yet understand.

• How do you feel about uncertainty and the unknown? Do you resist it, or do you lean into it?
• Have you ever had a moment where something felt intuitively right, even if you couldn’t explain why?

3. A Reading That Changed You

Think back to a time when a Tarot reading (or another form of divination) shifted your perspective.

• What was happening in your life at the time?
• What insights did you gain from the reading?

Stacy Piagno’s Links:

Website: https://inaspiritualsense.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stacypiagno/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQBgQnDQn0nXEcmYZqx8VgA

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OcwCBLZS26G4o2eXeyKHH?si=-CKEwuBGSNKqZmLFaOxMuA

E16: LET'S TALK TAROT: THE HISTORY & MAJOR ARCANA

CARDS

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3yBFqINRO9hxcOrzivqqnc?si=e8ogzjHwTM-W6gD2MkOIsA

E17: LET'S TALK TAROT: THE MINOR ARCANA & THE 4

ELEMENTS

Text Vanessa Your Thoughts!

Support the show

Music by Katie Coughran.

📩 Substack Newsletter
📚 Vanessa’s Books
🖥️ Website
🎥 YouTube
👥 Facebook Group
📸 Instagram