Astrology, Transformation, and Purpose: Avoiding Average with Susan Gates

✨ Episode Summary:In this special astrocartography episode of Avoiding Average, spiritual coach and astrologer Susan Gates shares the astrology behind the journey Carla Maldonado, a spirit baby channel, took from Germany to California. From overcoming postpartum challenges to rediscovering her soul purpose, Carla shares how moving across continents shifted her energy, supported her healing, and activated a deeper spiritual calling.They dive into astrology’s role in motherhood, career, family dynamics, and creative purpose — as well as the astrological signatures (like Pluto and Uranus) that shaped Carla’s decision to live non-traditionally. Whether you're called to move, create, or reconnect with your spiritual path, this episode is a deeply validating and expansive conversation.Susan Gates is a transformational coach, astrologer, and host of the Avoiding Average podcast. She blends strategy and soul to help clients break free from burnout, reconnect with purpose, and embody radical authenticity through astrology, coaching, and conscious self-discovery. Connect with her on Instagram/Threads/TikTok @soulcoachsusanExplore your own soul-aligned geography:🌍 Book an Astrocartography Reading with Susan → www.avoidingaverage.com/travel-astrology✨ Sign up for the email list to be the first to know about pop-up mini readings -> www.avoidingaverage.com📖 Connect with Carla Maldonado and learn about her Spirit Baby Deck → @iamcarlamaldonado

Episode Summary:In this powerful and soul-stirring episode of the Avoiding Average Podcast, host Susan Gates is joined by Candace Evalenko — nurse turned spiritual guide and the visionary behind The Fire Unleashed. Candace shares her awakening story, sparked during the pandemic, and how it led her to walk away from the conventional path in search of truth, authenticity, and spiritual healing.Together, they explore what it truly means to “see behind the veil,” why solitude is often part of the awakening journey, and how the collective transition into the Age of Aquarius is reshaping the way we live, lead, and connect.Whether you’re in the midst of a spiritual awakening or supporting others through theirs, this episode offers guidance, validation, and community to remind you: you’re not alone on this path.Candace Evalenko is a spiritual guide, mystic, and founder of the Fire Unleashed - a movement igniting sovereign awakening in a world built on illusion. After a profound spiritual transformation unraveled her former life, she stepped into her calling to help others deprogram from fear, reclaim their inner authority, and rise into the truth of who they are. With roots in holistic health, a background in healing, and a gift for decoding the unseen, Candace now speaks directly to those who know they were born for more than what the world told them they could be. She can be found on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@thefireunleashedand on TikTok at www.tiktok.com/@thefireunleashed🔑 Key Takeaways:Candace’s journey from healthcare to spiritual leadershipWhy the pandemic served as a mass awakening portalWhat it feels like to see behind the veil and lose old identitiesThe “hermit phase” as a necessary part of finding authenticityHow The Fire Unleashed supports others on their healing journeyWhat the transition into the Age of Aquarius really meansThe role of community support during deep transformationHow self-compassion and courage are essential on the spiritual pathSoundbites & Quotes:“I found a more authentic me.”“Let it burn, let it flipping burn.”“The fire is transformation.”“The Age of Aquarius is the rise of consciousness.”Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Spiritual Awakening01:55 – Transition from Nursing to Coaching05:57 – The Fire Unleashed: A Journey of Self-Discovery08:09 – Seeing Behind the Veil: Spiritual Experiences16:28 – Lessons from Hermit Mode23:01 – Awakening to Purpose and Mission28:15 – Overcoming Fear and Embracing Authenticity30:20 – Understanding Self Through Numerology and Astrology32:26 – Awakening to Purpose and Leadership34:55 – Transitioning from the Age of Pisces to Aquarius37:25 – The Rise of Consciousness and the New Age41:10 – Building Community and Supporting Each Other48:59 – Embracing Transformation and Self-Compassion🌟 Ready to embrace your own transformation?🌿 Book an Embodied Astrology Reading to align with your soul’s path: www.avoidingaverage.com/embodied-astrology✨ Apply for your own transformational Soulo Pilgrimage retreat: www.avoidingaverage.com/soulo-pilgrimage🔥 Learn more about Candace’s work at The Fire Unleashed or join her free online community: www.thefireunleashed.comthefire.circle.co✨ Tune in weekly for more episodes that support your growth and evolution. Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you feel inspired.Keywords: spiritual awakening, holistic health, personal transformation, community support, The Fire Unleashed, Candace Evalenko, self-discovery, age of Aquarius, healing journey, authenticity

✨ Episode Summary:In this deeply personal episode of Avoiding Average, Susan Gates opens up about her journey of self-discovery, healing, and what it truly means to live radically authentic. Sharing powerful insights from her spiritual path and coaching work, Susan challenges listeners to question the ways they’ve settled for average and to reclaim the truth of who they really are.If you've ever felt like you're living a life that’s too small for your soul, this episode will inspire you to embrace your uniqueness, break free from societal expectations, and step into the expansive life you came here to live. From generational healing to embracing individuality, Susan lays the foundation for what it means to live a life of true empowerment and soulful alignment.🔑 Key Takeaways:Discover the mission behind Avoiding Average and why it matters now more than everLearn how radical authenticity leads to deeper self-acceptance and spiritual freedomUnderstand how societal conditioning creates internal disconnectionExplore how embracing your individuality can heal generational patternsGet inspired to take aligned steps toward your most empowered self💬 Quotes:“You are a unique human being.”“You came here for a reason.”“Self-acceptance makes you less judgmental of others.”📌 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Avoiding Average03:14 – The Journey of Self-Discovery06:16 – Radical Authenticity and Its Importance08:42 – Embracing Your Unique Self11:10 – Empowerment and Breaking Generational Cycles13:01 – Closing Reflections and Invitation to Explore✨ Ready to take the next step in your own journey?Download the free Burnout Decoder to begin reconnecting with your intuition and power: soulcoachsusan.kit.com/burnout🌍 Book an Embodied or Travel Astrology Reading to discover your soul-aligned path: www.avoiding-average.com/travel-astrology🌀 Explore the Soulo Pilgrimage transformational program here: www.avoiding-average.com/soulo-pilgrimage

🎧 Episode SummaryIn this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates dives deep into the emotional and energetic roots of burnout and how it often stems from a misalignment with one’s purpose. Susan explains how burnout isn’t always loud and obvious—it can show up subtly as emotional numbness, physical symptoms, or a quiet sense of dissatisfaction, even when things look successful on the outside.By weaving in insights from astrology, Susan reveals how understanding your birth chart can illuminate your unique path, natural energy rhythms, and how to navigate personal challenges. This episode empowers listeners to reconnect with their authenticity, reclaim their energy, and reimagine success through the lens of self-awareness and soul alignment.🔥 Key TakeawaysIf you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or like something is "off," this episode is your reminder: you’re more than just one thing, and your path to fulfillment is written in the stars.Burnout can be a signal that you're disconnected from your true purpose.Success on paper doesn’t equal emotional or spiritual fulfillment.Emotional numbness and physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues are often overlooked signs of burnout.Your astrology chart can offer clues to how you uniquely experience stress and depletion.You are multi-dimensional—and honoring all parts of yourself is key to healing and wholeness.Different "burnout styles" call for different support and resources.🔊 Sound Bites“Your purpose is more than just one thing.”“Success does not equal happiness.” Episode Chapters00:00 – Understanding Burnout and Purpose04:32 – The Connection Between Astrology and Burnout07:29 – Finding Balance and Resources for Burnout🌟 Resources Mentioned📘 Download the Free Burnout Style Guide to uncover your unique burnout pattern and learn how to realign with your purpose: soulcoachsusan.kit.com/burnout🌌 Schedule Your Embodied Astrology Reading or Astrocartography Session: soulcoachsusan.as.me/embodied-astrologywww.avoiding-average.com/travel-astrology✨ Learn more about Susan Gates and transformational coaching: www.avoiding-average.com📲 Connect + ShareLoved this episode? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!Tag me on Instagram @soulcoachsusan with your biggest insight.💫 Final WordsBurnout is feedback from your body.Your body, your emotions, and your soul are asking for more alignment. Let astrology and self-awareness be your compass on the journey back to yourself.

💫 Episode Summary:In this deeply moving episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates sits down with Sarinea Meserkhani—a published poet and self-proclaimed "psychedelic sheep"—to explore the transformative journey of personal growth, ancestral healing, and cultural identity.From confronting the weight of familial expectations to embracing her path as an intuitive creative nomad, Sarinea opens up about the soul-deep healing that came through poetry, travel, and trusting her inner voice. After a near-death experience, she began to see life as a bonus and leaned into the unknown with courage and curiosity.Tune in to hear how astrocartography, ancestral grief, and the search for belonging have shaped her life across continents—from New Zealand to Australia. Her poetic lens offers listeners a raw yet uplifting look at what it truly means to face trauma, find community, and reclaim identity through art and intuition.How ancestral grief impacts personal and cultural identityWhy intuition and synchronicity matter on the healing pathThe powerful role of poetry in emotional and historical processingWhat it means to be a "psychedelic sheep" and live outside the boxHow travel and astrocartography guided Sarinea’s life transitionsWays to overcome fear, isolation, and writer’s blockThe importance of community, curiosity, and connection in healing"Everything I have now is a bonus.""I had to grow my wings again.""Home is where you're not alone."00:00 – Welcome & Sarinea’s Journey Begins01:46 – Redefining Success & Breaking Free from Expectations04:34 – How Facing Fears Sparked Transformation08:25 – Using Astrocartography to Navigate Change12:02 – The Power of New Environments & Building Community14:17 – Trusting Intuition While Traveling Alone19:16 – Moving to New Zealand: A Life-Altering Leap22:00 – Life in New Zealand vs. Australia24:19 – Finding Voice Through Artistic Expression26:04 – Entering the World of Poetry29:05 – Navigating Writer’s Block with Compassion31:43 – Exploring the Depths of Ancestral Grief35:12 – Cultural Identity & the Shadow of Trauma40:17 – Finding Belonging in New Spaces46:28 – Community, Curiosity, & Lasting Connection49:32 – Final Reflections & The Power of CuriositySarinea Meserkhani is an ethnically Armenian & German woman who holds Canadian & American citizenship whilecurrently living in Byron Bay, Australia after having spent a couple of years living in Aotearoa New Zealand.She describes herself as a lifelong poet, an avid traveler, a deep well of joy and sorrow in the shape of ahuman, and a dedicated Animist-in-training. She has also been a scholar of the Orphan Wisdom Schoolwith Stephen Jenkinson.Sarinea has had four poems accepted into publications since she was a teenager: "Gone" in The Silent Journey, a compilation by the International Library of Poetry; "Perfection, Unattainable; Vanity,Inevitable" in the literary journal Eclipse: Volume Twenty-One; "Cracked Open Heart" in MandarinMagazine's online literary publication out of Chico, California; and "Armenian" which was published in thevery first issue of Clarion Poetry Magazine based in the United Kingdom.After surviving a near-fatal car crash into a tree on Halloween, just days before her 21st birthday, thecompass by which she has since oriented her life is a firm commitment to exploring the unknown withcourage, kindness, and integrity.She can be reached on Instagram @YouSawRenee or via email at SarineaEM@gmail.com.About your host:Susan Gates is a Travel Astrologer & Transformational Soul Coach helping others align with their purpose through astrology, intuition, and radical self-awareness. Ready to live beyond the average?✨ Book an Embodied Astrology or Astrocartography Reading at www.avoiding-average.com 🎧 Subscribe & explore more episodes of Avoiding Average.

You are more than your sun sign.In this solo episode of Avoiding Average, host and astrologer/transformational coach Susan Gates takes you deep into the real magic of astrology—exploring how your moon sign, rising sign, and planetary placements shape your emotional world, behavior, relationships, and life path.Susan breaks down how to read your birth chart, why understanding the full picture matters for self-discovery, and how astro-cartography (the astrology of location) can illuminate opportunities for personal growth and alignment. She also shares how shadow work—guided by your chart—can help you heal and become more fully yourself.Whether you're new to astrology or already obsessed, this episode will expand your understanding of how the stars mirror your soul’s journey.📌 Keywords: astrology, birth chart, sun sign, moon sign, rising sign, astro-cartography, self-discovery, personal growth, planetary placements, shadow work🎙️ Subscribe to Avoiding Average for more episodes on astrology, intuition, transformation, and living a soul-aligned life.🌟 About Susan:Susan Gates is a Travel Astrologer and Transformational Coach who blends astrology, subconscious work, inner child healing, tarot, and soul coaching to help high-achievers break through limitations and live extraordinary lives. With a background in engineering and deep intuitive gifts, she helps clients merge structure with spirit for lasting change. She’s also the host of the Avoiding Average podcast and creator of immersive spiritual travel experiences for personal growth and transformation.Schedule a live astrocartography reading with Susan HERE Recorded Natal Chart Mini Readings can be purchased HEREAstro 101 Blog series can be found HERE👇 Let’s Connect🔗 Website: https://www.avoiding-average.com📸 Instagram:@soulcoachsusan @avoiding.average🎙️ More episodes: Avoiding Average Podcast

Episode Summary:What if your birth chart could tell you where you'd thrive—emotionally, professionally, even spiritually?In this powerful episode of Avoiding Average, Susan Gates is joined by soulful creative Autumn Martin to explore astrocartography—a transformational branch of astrology that maps the places on Earth where you’re cosmically wired to grow, expand, and feel like your truest self.From decoding Saturn lines and sun lines to understanding how location influences self-worth, career fulfillment, and creative expression, this conversation is rich with insight for anyone feeling the pull to move, travel, or align more deeply with their soul’s desires.Susan interprets Autumn’s birth chart and relocation lines to reveal how certain regions hold the key to emotional breakthroughs, spiritual alignment, and untapped potential.If you've ever asked, “Am I in the right place?”, this episode will help you answer that with clarity and purpose.Key Takeaways:Astrocartography reveals where your soul feels most at home.Saturn brings responsibility—and powerful growth—wherever it touches.Creative fulfillment and career clarity are often tied to where you live.Your birth chart is a roadmap to emotional and energetic alignment.Certain locations amplify your unique gifts, desires, and challenges.Travel can help you reclaim self-worth, purpose, and joy.Chapters You’ll Love:00:00 | What is Astrocartography?11:50 | Saturn: The Great Teacher in Relocation22:42 | Career Alignment through Your Chart27:29 | How Location Influences Emotional Growth42:46 | Magnetism, Mystique & Personal Power51:14 | Why Iceland? Following Energy, Not Logic55:24 | Should You Move? Astrology Has AnswersKeywords:astrocartography, birth chart, emotional fulfillment, astrology podcast, saturn return, personal growth, career alignment, spiritual travel, relocation astrology, soul coaching, astrology and travel, self-discovery, astrocartography readingAbout Your Host – Susan GatesSusan Gates is a certified soul coach, astrologer, hypnotherapist, Akashic Records practitioner, breathwork instructor, and travel guide for your inner and outer journey. With a background in engineering and a deep intuitive gift, she blends astrology, subconscious work, and transformational coaching to help clients break through limitations, reconnect with purpose, and find the places on Earth where their soul can thrive.Through her astrocartography readings and signature Soulo Pilgrimage, Susan empowers seekers to stop settling and start aligning—with clarity, confidence, and cosmic support.Ready to discover your aligned locations or dive deeper into your birth chart?📍Book a session with Susan at: ⁠www.avoiding-average.com/travel-astrology⁠📩 Questions? Reach out at: ⁠soulcoachsusan@gmail.com⁠🌍 Follow Susan on Instagram: ⁠@soulcoachsusan⁠ ⁠@avoiding.average⁠✨ Book Your Astrocartography Reading or Coaching Session

Navigating Parenting: Fear vs. Faith | Astrology, Control, and Conscious Self-Care🎧 Avoiding Average Podcast with Susan GatesIn this heartfelt solo episode, Susan Gates opens up about the emotional journey of parenting, exploring how fear, control, and deep love shape our experiences as caregivers. Reflecting on moments with her son, Susan shares how operating from fear can lead to control-based parenting—and how shifting toward faith, compassion, and self-awareness can transform the parent-child dynamic.She discusses how astrology provides a valuable lens for understanding personal triggers, communication patterns, and the emotional undercurrents of family relationships. From the weight of responsibility to the importance of self-care and asking for help, this episode offers a grounded, spiritual approach to modern parenting.🧠 Key Themes:The emotional weight of parenting and fear-based decisionsLearning to parent from love, not controlThe power of faith and emotional trust in the parenting processHow astrology reveals inner patterns and parenting challengesWhy self-care and support systems are non-negotiablePersonal growth through acknowledging your emotional triggersBeing kind, patient, and forgiving—especially to yourself✨ Takeaway: Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, patience, and love.📌 Keywords: parenting, fear, faith, astrology, self-care, love, control, personal growth, mental health, family🎙️ Tune in to Avoiding Average for soulful insights on parenting, astrology, emotional growth, and conscious living.---Susan Gates is a Travel Astrologer and Transformational Coach who blends astrology, subconscious work, inner child healing, and soul coaching to help high-achievers break through limitations and live extraordinary lives. With a background in engineering and deep intuitive gifts, she helps clients merge structure with spirit for lasting change. She’s also the host of the Avoiding Average podcast and creator of immersive spiritual experiences for personal growth and transformation.📌 Keywords: parenting, fear, faith, astrology, self-care, love, control, personal growth, mental health, family👇 Let’s Connect🔗 Website: https://www.avoiding-average.com📸 Instagram: @avoiding.average🎙️ More episodes: Avoiding Average Podcast

Healing Through Burnout with Audrey Rose | Somatic Healing, Sound Therapy & Self-Care for High Achievers🎧 Avoiding Average Podcast with Susan GatesIn this powerful episode, holistic life coach and somatic healer Audrey Rose shares her personal story of overcoming burnout, anxiety, and depression after working as a nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic. Audrey joins host Susan Gates to talk about how she turned to somatic healing, sound therapy, and EFT tapping as tools to regulate her nervous system and reclaim her mental health.Together, they dive deep into the realities high-achieving women face—including the pressure to perform, the myth of productivity, and the need for accessible wellness practices. Audrey also shares her insights on podcasting, building a heart-centered business, and why self-care is one of the most productive things you can do.Whether you're navigating burnout, exploring holistic healing, or curious about sound healing and somatic practices, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical tools.🔑 In This Episode:Audrey’s burnout story from frontline nurse to holistic healerHow to recognize the early signs of burnoutThe role of somatic practices in healing and nervous system regulationBenefits of sound healing and EFT tappingWhy creating inclusive, accessible healing spaces mattersTips for balancing business, wellness, and creativityBehind the scenes of Audrey’s podcasting journey✨ Key Takeaway: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential, especially for high achievers.📌 Keywords: holistic healing, burnout, somatic practices, sound healing, EFT tapping, self-care, high achievers, podcasting, mental health, wellness🧘‍♀️ If you’ve ever struggled with burnout or felt disconnected from your body, this episode is for you.🎙️ Subscribe to Avoiding Average for weekly episodes on astrology, transformation, and soul-aligned living.----Audrey Rose is a Holistic Life Coach, Somatic Healer, and Registered Nurse. She is the founder of the RISE Sisterhood—a healing membership and sacred space where high-achieving women come home to themselves through nervous system regulation, somatic healing, and spiritual wisdom.Audrey blends her clinical background as a nurse with body-based healing tools like sound medicine, breathwork, and somatic practice. She leads with nervous system education, somatic tools, and sacred rituals—so women can find their true happiness again.Through immersive retreats, 1:1 coaching, and her top-ranked podcast Ready to Rise, Audrey is emerging as an inspiring voice in the nervous system and healing space.She’s not here to fix you. She’s here to remind you that you were never broken—and to help you feel truly alive again.If you'd like to get in touch with Audrey, you can find her here:Instagram: @helloaudreyroseFollow Audrey for daily inspiration and updates.RISE Sisterhood: Learn About Our CommunityJoin a supportive community of women dedicated to self-discovery and empowerment.Ready To Rise Podcast (Global Top 1.5%): Listen NowTune in for conversations that inspire and empower you to rise.RISE Happiness Summit: Get your FREE ticket here!

Is your need for control blocking your manifestations?In this episode of Avoiding Average, host Susan Gates gets raw and real about one of the most overlooked (and uncomfortable) parts of the manifestation journey: letting go.Through a personal story of unexpected tech failures, Susan unpacks how our urge to control everything—rooted in fear and perfectionism—can quietly sabotage our dreams. She explores how true manifestation isn’t about forcing outcomes, but about relaxation, self-awareness, and allowing life to unfold with trust.You’ll learn:Why fear of failure fuels controlHow emotional health improves when we stop pushingWhy letting go is a power move, not a weaknessHow to balance self-care with inspired actionHow stress impacts manifestation and personal growthIf you’ve ever felt stuck, stressed, or like you're doing “all the right things” but still not seeing results—this episode will shift your perspective.---Susan Gates is a Travel Astrologer and Transformation Coach who empowers others to reconnect with their authentic selves through the power of astrocartography and destination-based healing. With certifications in life and soul coaching, breathwork, and hypnotherapy, she merges ancient wisdom and modern tools to facilitate deep transformation.As the host of the Avoiding Average: Living Life Beyond the Ordinary podcast, she inspires others to rewrite the rules and live from soul, not script. Her signature program, The Soulo Pilgrimage, takes clients on a guided coaching and travel journey to a personally aligned location—chosen through astrological insight—to unlock healing, clarity, and inner wholeness.Known for her grounded presence, intuitive clarity, and ability to translate complex ideas into simple, powerful guidance, she’s supported clients from around the world. When not coaching or exploring new places, she’s a devoted mom of two, passionate about baking, outdoor adventures, and chasing life’s most meaningful moments.You can find more at www.avoiding-average.comFollow Susan on Instagram at www.instagram.com/soulcoachsusanor follow the show at www.instagram.com/avoiding.averageTo get email updates on new episodes, sign up here

What happens when a nurse practitioner trades prescriptions for plant medicine? In this powerful episode of Avoiding Average, host Susan Gates sits down with her cousin, Nelofer Hussain, to explore her remarkable journey from traditional nursing into the world of holistic healing, ayahuasca, and nervous system regulation.Together, they dive deep into Nelofer’s experiences with spiritual journeys, plant medicine ceremonies, and healing ancestral trauma in sacred locations like Peru and India—including a profound moment with the Dalai Lama.Listeners will gain insight into:The role of ayahuasca and Kambo in trauma healingHow nervous system work amplifies spiritual growthThe power of trusting intuition on the path of self-discoveryThe emotional impact of ancestral patterns and how to release themDifferences between master plant medicines and their unique purposesWhether you're exploring meditation, curious about psychedelic healing, or walking your own path of personal growth, this episode offers real, grounded wisdom on the courage it takes to heal—and what it means to truly trust your soul’s evolution.Nelofer can be reached on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ne11ie.09If you liked this episode, please rate, share, comment, or follow the podcast! You weren’t born to play small — and deep down, you know it.Avoiding Average is your invitation to finally stop ignoring your inner calling and start living the wildly aligned, soul-expanding life you came here for.Hosted by Susan Gates — soul coach, astrologer, certified breathwork & hypnotherapy guide, and ex-engineer who walked away from the safe path — this podcast is for women who are done shrinking to fit into lives that don’t fit them.Each episode blends practical transformation tools with spiritual depth — from astrocartography and subconscious healing to intuition-strengthening, energy work, inner child integration, and soul-led travel. We’re not here to chase more, we’re here to feel more alive.Expect unfiltered conversations, potent solo episodes, and intuitive guidance that will shake your soul awake — and help you take bold, aligned action in your life, career, relationships, and beyond.If you're craving freedom, depth, and meaning — this is your portal.No more playing it safe. No more waiting for “someday.”This is your sign. Press play — and start avoiding average, for good.Susan Gates can be found at www.avoiding-average.com or on Instagram/Threads at www.instagram.com/soulcoachsusan

Happy Birthday to Me! In this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, I reflect on my journey as I turn 36, and share valuable lessons learned over the past year. From embracing change and trusting intuition to navigating emotions and understanding self-worth, I offer insights that resonate with personal growth and self-discovery, plus some interesting ah-ha's and surprises from the experiences in the year. My goal with this episode is to provide a reminder that each year, whether they feel productive or not, holds so many opportunities for growth and gaining valuable wisdom. Which of these resonate most with you? I'd love for you to share any in the comments!Susan Gates is a Travel Astrologer and Transformation Coach helping soul-led individuals align with their true selves through astrocartography and guided travel. She’s the host of the Avoiding Average podcast and creator of the Soulo Pilgrimage experience. You can find more information at www.avoiding-average.com

Curious how astrocartography and locational astrology can influence your life path? In this episode of Avoiding Average, I sit down with Evelin Banderas, a world-traveling ballerina originally from Brazil, whose intuitive journey across the globe is a living case study in following planetary lines and energetic flow.Evelin has lived and danced in places like Greece, Paris, and beyond. While she’s no stranger to astrology, this was her first deep dive into astrocartography. We explore how her birth chart reflects the energies she’s felt in different regions of the world—and how her intuition naturally aligned with her planetary influences. From romantic encounters to soul-deep experiences, Evelin’s story is a powerful reminder of how locational astrology can be a compass for your soul’s journey.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Evelin’s Mars/Saturn Paran Line and Pluto Line may have shaped her experience in Paris and GreeceWhy she felt magnetically drawn to certain places—and uneasy in othersThe power of intuition in choosing where to live, travel, and connectWhat her chart suggests about future travel to Barcelona, Berlin, and CroatiaHow astrocartography can be a healing tool for spiritual growth and decision-makingWhy This Matters:Astrocartography isn’t just for planning your next vacation—it’s a map of your soul’s invitations around the globe. If you’ve ever felt “off” in a place others loved, or felt inexplicably at home somewhere new, you’ll love this rich and relatable conversation.Links + Resources:✨ Book your own 1:1 Astrocartography Reading (limited June spots available!) → www.avoiding-average.com/travel-astrology🎧 Listen to other case studies, travel astrology tips, and insights your soul is aching for → Avoiding Average Podcast

What is your "why"?In this episode, Susan Gates explores the importance of understanding one's 'why' in life, particularly in the context of personal pursuits such as bodybuilding and coaching. She emphasizes what happens when the need for resilience and dedication challenge your 'why", encouraging listeners to reflect on their motivations and align their actions with their core values. Through her own experiences, she illustrates how embracing challenges can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself.To work with Susan, you can find her at www.avoiding-average.comKey TakeawaysUnderstanding your 'why' is crucial for success.A strong 'why' can drive you to achieve your goals.Coaching can help clarify your motivations.It's okay to not know your 'why' immediately.Courage is needed to ask yourself why you do things.Intuition can guide you towards meaningful experiences.Every experience contributes to your personal growth.Reflecting on your motivations can lead to alignment with your values.

In this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates interviews astrologer, tarot queen, and author Stefanie Caponi. They discuss Stefanie's transformative journey from being a hairdresser to embracing her spiritual path through tarot and astrology. Stefanie shares her insights on personal development, the importance of intuition, and how tarot can serve as a tool for self-discovery and manifestation. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing creativity and motherhood, the significance of support systems, and the power of letting go of control to allow the universe to guide us.Stefanie Caponi is an astrologer, tarot reader, illustrator, and author of Guided Tarot, which has sold over 175,000 copies. For over 20 years, her work has centered around exploring shadow work, healing, and creativity using tarot and astrology as a vehicle to access the hidden realms of the self. She established her business as a professional tarot reader after creating her first tarot deck, The Moon Void Tarot. She is a frequent tarot and astrology expert in the media and has appeared in Well+Good, The Everygirl, Refinery29, and Elite Daily, among others. She lives in Florida with her husband Kevin, their daughter, and three cats.Stefanie can be found on Instagram @moonvoidtarot and on her website www.moonvoidtarot.comHer new book, Tarot for Manifestation, is available for preorder and will be available on July 29th. Get it on Amazonbefore July 1st to get in on the Tarot for Manifestation workshop offered by Stefanie!Submit your receipt here to get your free ticket to the workshop!!

You may have heard of Astrocartography, but what is it really? In this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates pulls back the curtain on an astrocartography consultation with guest Shigorika. They delve into Shigorika's birth chart, discussing the influences of various planetary placements on her life, creativity, and emotional well-being. The conversation highlights the challenges of balancing personal passions with societal expectations, particularly in the context of Shigorika's writing aspirations. They also explore the significance of different locations, such as Paris and New York, in shaping Shigorika's experiences and future possibilities, including a potential move to Portland. Watch the video to follow along the birth chart and map. Susan Gates is an astrologer and transformation coach specializing in helping others transform through travel. She offers 1:1 astrocartography consultations and travel planning, and she coaches clients in their integration journey.Want to see where your map is guiding you? Schedule an astrocartography reading with Susan here: www.avoiding-average.com/travel-astrologyRead more about astrocartography here: www.avoiding-average.com/blog/what-is-astrocartographyChapters00:00 Introduction to Astrocartography05:11 Creative Endeavors and Financial Stability08:50 The Impact of Education on Creative Expression13:41 Finding Emotional Security Beyond Financial Stability17:40 Exploring Themes in Writing and Personal Growth23:45 Astrocartography Insights: Paris and Creative Growth30:23 The Challenges of Living in New York37:38 Transformative Energies: Embracing Change and Growth44:11 Navigating Subconscious Beliefs and Financial Stability46:39 The Challenge of Self-Discipline46:40 Understanding Your Birth Chart: Insights and Reflections47:53 Valuing Learning and Expression

In this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates speaks with Amelie Naegelen, a hypnotherapist who transitioned from a corporate career in the luxury jewelry industry to helping others through hypnotherapy. Amelie shares her journey of self-discovery, the misconceptions surrounding hypnotherapy, and the science of neuroplasticity. She discusses the benefits of self-hypnosis, the process of hypnotherapy, and how it can lead to personal fulfillment and balance in life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being gentle with oneself and the power of the mind in shaping our experiences.Amelie can be found at amelienaegelen.com or at @amelie_hypnotherapy on Instagram.00:00 From Jewelry to Hypnotherapy: A Life Transformation07:41 Understanding Hypnotherapy: Myths and Realities14:07 The Science of Hypnosis and Neuroplasticity17:42 Personal Journey: Overcoming Fears and Embracing Change19:10 Self-Hypnosis: A Tool for Daily Life26:36 Finding Balance: The Journey to Fulfillment

In this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates speaks with professional keynote speaker Tianna Soto about navigating imposter syndrome, self-care, and the power of storytelling. With a background in psychology, journalism, and wellness, Tianna shares her inspiring journey from a mental health internship to a full-time career in public speaking. Learn how she uses tools like astrology and therapy to stay grounded, embrace her multi-passionate identity, and connect authentically with diverse audiences.Tianna can be found at: www.tiannafaye.com and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tiannafayee/?hl=enChapters00:00 Introduction to Tiana Soto's Journey04:21 Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Public Speaking09:40 The Intersection of Psychology and Public Speaking14:00 Embracing Multi-Passionate Identities17:18 Key Themes in Tiana's Speaking Engagements19:32 The Power of Women's Empowerment23:33 Understanding Audience Dynamics29:06 Lessons from Audience Reactions31:50 Connecting Through Stories34:37 The Journey of Public Speaking38:33 Navigating Burnout and Self-Care42:09 Rituals for Preparation47:14 Tailoring Speeches to Audiences50:11 Exploring Self-Discovery Tools55:04 The Importance of Therapy58:48 Embracing Self-Compassion

Karmic astrologer Vika Bradford shares her journey through her dark night of the soul, the principles of karmic astrology, and the importance of understanding family dynamics and generational patterns on this episode of the Avoiding Average Podcast. She and Susan discuss the role of choice in personal growth, the significance of self-love, and the impact of family expectations. Vika shares insights on navigating relationships with family, the differences between ancestral and karmic astrology, and the ripple effect of choices in breaking generational curses. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living aligned with one's purpose and the healing power of astrology.Vika Bradford is a cosmic soul on a mission to empower and catalyze the awakening of radical self-love. As a karmic astrologer, energy healer, and teacher, she works with those ready to heal their karmic wounds, explore past life patterns, and reclaim their power in this life. Through understanding personal and generational karma, she guides souls to liberate from old cycles, align with their authentic selves, and embody their cosmic signature. She can be found at ⁠www.vikabradford.com⁠ and on Instagram at ⁠www.instagram.com/vikabradfordastrology⁠Chapters00:00 Introduction to Karmic Astrology01:18 Vika's Journey Through Darkness03:13 The Awakening: Discovering Spirituality05:36 Understanding Karmic Astrology07:30 The Role of Choice in Pain11:23 The Process of Healing and Acceptance15:38 Navigating Life's Challenges with Astrology18:35 House Systems in Astrology23:30 Finding Your Path: Vika's Calling30:40 The Journey to Spirituality33:56 Navigating Expectations and Identity42:22 The Father Wound and Self-Approval48:34 Generational Patterns and Ancestral Astrology55:10 Breaking Generational Cycles01:01:33 Living Authentically and Embracing Growth

In this episode of the Avoiding Average podcast, host Susan Gates interviews Erika Taylor Beck, founder of Authentic Foundations and host of the Leadership in Real Life & Stumbling Forward podcasts. Erika shares her journey of corporate careers to entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges of job loss, identity crisis, and the importance of self-discovery. She emphasizes the significance of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the need for supportive work cultures. Erika also reflects on her spiritual awakening and the lessons learned through her transition to starting her own business, highlighting the importance of community and networking in this journey.Erika can be found at Authentic.Foundations on Instagram and Threads, on LinkedIn at Erika R. Taylor-Beck, and on her website: www.authenticfoundations.podia.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Erica Taylor Beck01:14 Navigating Job Loss and Identity Crisis08:45 The Transition to Self-Discovery10:39 Spiritual Awakening and Self-Worth21:35 Connecting Spirituality and Leadership27:14 Developing Future Leaders29:10 Navigating Communication and Leadership Dynamics33:02 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship39:09 Lessons Learned from Starting a Business40:55 The Power of Podcasting and Networking48:03 Authenticity in Sharing Experiences