At the kitchen table with Melissa Cynova of Kitchen Table Tarot

I heart Melissa Cynova. I really do. She’s good people. I interviewed her for my Talkin’ Tarot with series back in in 2011. (That long ago? OMG!) She’s come a long way since then. In fact, she’s now a published author!

Melissa just released her fab new book, Kitchen Table Tarot – a straight-talkin’ no b.s. book that illustrates how to read the tarot cards with zero fluff…or stress. It’s a clear guide for those of us who prefer a streetwise interpretation of the cards. I’m so stoked about this book that I knew I had to bug her again for another interview. Thankfully, this busy card-slinging author had a little time to kick back at her kitchen table, pop a brew, and answer a few questions!

Q: First things first: how did you get started with tarot?

Melissa: I got a deck of cards from a friend in school. I remember we talked about automatic writing, ghosts and other things like that. He gave me the deck I still use – it’s a 1971 Rider Waite Smith. It came with a book by Eden Gray. I read that book until it was held together with prayers and masking tape.

Q: One of the things I love most about you is your tarot voice. It’s straightforward, caring, and you’re funny. What is your advice for newbie readers on how to find their own tarot voice?

Melissa: Thank you! Honestly, the best advice I can give is to be yourself. You can succeed as a reader if you are the you-est you that you can be. I tell my clients from the beginning that I’m honest, I’m direct, and I swear a lot. I’m not everyone’s cup of tea, but I can’t be a good reader if I keep changing my approach to match everyone. Consistent originality is better than generic banality any day.

Q: What is your biggest tarot pet peeve?

Melissa: “Can I have a free reading?” No. No, you can’t.

Q: Which tarot misconception can we all be done with once and for all?

Melissa: People are still talking about that silly ass rumor that you can’t buy your first tarot deck. I don’t get that at all.

Q: If you are stranded on a desert island, which tarot deck would be with you?

Melissa: I do love my original RWS deck. I’ve had it for 27 years. I don’t think I could be without it.

Q: I’d love to hear your advice for people who want to learn how to read tarot but think they’ll never “get it.” What would you tell those folks?

Melissa: Practice, practice, practice. I used my books while giving readings for at least a decade. I worry that readers go to quickly to wanting expertise. I think it can be gained in its own time. Use the tools that you have on hand – that’s what they’re there for! Tell your friends that you’re still learning. There is no shame in that.

Q: Lastly, if I were at your kitchen table right now, what would you be serving for dinner and which tarot card might show up?

Melissa: I would be serving whatever Joe feels like cooking – you know I don’t cook, sis! I’d talk him into grilling some steak and veggies for us. With you at the table – the High Priestess would be sitting tall. Love you lady!

Super grateful that Melissa took time out of her busy schedule to chat with me. If you’re looking for a savvy and sassy guide to tarot, get your copy of Kitchen Table Tarot, yo.

Oh – and you can learn a lot more about Melissa Cynova and grab a nifty tarot reading with her at Little Fox Tarot.

Blessings,

Theresa

images from Melissa Cynova