This time we’re featuring a dynamic astro power couple, both devoted members of SDAS. Kenneth Miller and Shawna McGrath are in the process of becoming our new President and Vice President, and they are both excited about helping our organization reach new heights!
Kenneth Miller, MA
Kenneth D. Miller, MA, Jyotish Kovid, has been studying astrology all his life and practicing professionally since 2005. He sees clients as well as teaches astrology. Former president of Kepler College, he has also served on the boards of ISAR, NCGR (San Diego), Council of Vedic Astrology, and San Diego Astrological Society. Kenneth has taught internationally at various conferences including the last three UACs. He is the author of several articles and the forthcoming book Mars: Passion or Strife (2nd revised edition). He can be found at celestialintelligencer.net.
1. How and when did you get into astrology?
I remember my mom reading me the horoscope section of our local paper when I was little. That led me to buying (or rather getting my mom to buy me) the sun-sign predictions for the year ahead booklet that used to be available at the grocery checkout line. But it was at the age of 12 that I happened to open a copy of American Astrologer and saw an image of a natal chart for the first time. I remember thinking, “Of course you would look at all the planets, why didn’t I think of that?” :-) After that I would save my paperboy money and buy astrology books. At age 18 I took my first astrology class. After that, astrology was an avocation until the early 2000s when I decided to become a professional astrologer.
2. What’s your favorite planet in your chart, and why?
That’s like asking who your favorite child is! If the chart is some kind of representation of one’s being, then the love should be spread around, especially toward those planets we feel are.... problematic. :-) That said, I think Mercury is underappreciated by modern astrologers. It is the planet of astrology, it rules transformation, communication, and mercantile matters. What’s not to love?
3. What’s your least favorite planet in your chart, and why?
I had an astrology teacher once say, “There are no bad planets, just bad people who express their planets poorly.” I’d like to think it’s the astrologer’s job to help clients find healthy and productive ways to manifest that which is indicated by their planets.
4. What do you enjoy about SDAS? Any specific speakers/topics you’ve liked?
The camaraderie, the learning, the location of the meetings. And I prefer speakers who teach practical techniques, grounded in their client work.
5. What are you looking forward to in 2023?
I have two books that I am hoping to publish this year, one on the Fixed Stars (with Andrea Gehrtz) which is based on an ancient Greek text written in 379 CE; and another on Mars & Relationships that looks at Mars from an East/ West point of view.
Shawna McGrath, MA
Shawna Marie McGrath, MA, has been a consulting astrologer for nearly a decade and is the author of The Psychopomp Function which incorporates astrology techniques into qualitative research in counseling psychology. Her work is informed by her understanding that psyche (soul) communicates with us through symbol and synchronicity. Shawna studied astrology with Jessica DiRuzza (Archetypal & Psychological Astrology) and Demetra George (Traditional, Hellenistic, & Psychological Astrology). She can be found at TheAstroPsyche.com.
1. How and when did you get into astrology?
My grandma gave me a big astrology book for my birthday when I was 16. I was fascinated and deeply resonated with the elements, modes, and characteristics of the zodiac signs. During my first Saturn return, astrology helped me make sense of tough challenges around relationship, finances, and career. At the time, my entire world (inner and outer!) was changing quickly. Understanding my natal chart and transits helped validate my experience, put things in context, and spoke to my love of symbolism and deeper meaning in life.
2. What’s your favorite planet in your chart, and why?
Venus! Who doesn’t love luxury, love, beauty, friendship, and adornment? Venus being the symbol of relationships par excellence was a major factor in my decision to go back to school later in life to get my masters degree in counseling psychology. It’s symbol of my interest in working with folks relationally, symbolically, and psycho-dynamically.
3. What’s your least favorite planet in your chart, and why?
Pluto has been the biggest challenge for me as well as the greatest catalyst for my self-development. Pluto helped me realize my own inner strength and resilience. It was during a Pluto transit that I realized I wanted to become a psychotherapist! Through Pluto, I connected with intense emotional pain — but in that process I became more authentic and connected with my humanity. Pluto is challenging but I also see it as a doorway to deeply meaningful experience.
4. What do you enjoy about SDAS? Any specific speakers/topics you’ve liked?
I enjoy connecting with other astrologers and astro-enthusiasts. It’s fun to see new and familiar faces, chat about the month’s topic, and share my love for astrology with like-minded people. I most enjoy speakers who are passionate about their topic and dynamically engage with the group. Some past favorites that come to mind are: Diane Ronngren, Nina Gryphon, and Wade Caves.
5. What are you looking forward to in 2023?
I’m very excited to begin my work as a psychotherapist (AMFT) this summer. I’m also looking forward to warm summer days in the sun, learning new tricks on my roller skates, and speaking at the Astro Bash Evolutionary Astrology Conference this fall (www.astro-bash.com/). I’m especially excited to be more involved in SDAS this year!
Author: Simone Butler, San Diego Astrological Society's Recording Secretary