In this episode of The Hermit Lamp Podcast, tarot legends Andrew McGregor and Mary K. Greer unravel the art, ethics, and evolution of tarot reading. Whether you're a beginner shuffling your first deck or a seasoned reader refining your craft, this conversation is packed with wisdom and guidance to elevate your practice.

The key?

Choose a deck that resonates with you. Dive in. Start using your deck immediately. Let the images speak to you. Have a conversation with the cards. Bring in your personal associations and experience.

Andrew and Mary share how to structure a reading. A well-crafted question guides the reading, shaping the narrative that unfolds in the cards. Start with a Three-card spreads. It is a simple way to start building story, and comfort with the cards. Tarot isn’t just about predictions; it’s about weaving meaning, insight, and personal truth.

The discussion also ventures into deeper territory. Covering ethics, legal responsibilities, and setting boundaries. Readers should always try to empower. Engaging clients in the process strengthens understanding, especially when working with court cards, which often mirror real people in a querent’s life.

They explore the evolving nature of tarot, reminding us that meanings shift and grow over time. Book definitions and keywords are helpful, but intuition and experience can play a vital role too.

Mary and Andrew also tackle the emotional side reading of tarot. Anxiety and obsession can creep into practice, and managing them is essential for a healthy relationship with the cards. Boundaries matter—not just with querents, but also with ourselves.

Ultimately, this episode is an invitation to explore, experiment, and trust your own connection with the cards. Tarot isn’t about getting it "right"—it’s about discovery, transformation, and the magic that happens when you truly listen.

You can find us on the socials. Or Mary is here and Andrew is here.

Episodes with drop biweekly going forward. Help me let the world know I'm back by sharing on socials and leaving review on the platform on which you listen to us.

Much love

Andrew

PS Mary's favourite late cretaceous animal is the stegosaurus

Full transcript on my website here.