Today, we introduce you to the wonderful Katie Polles, Tarot reader.
We can not say enough about Katie's kind, sharp, and warm presence. We love having her at the shop, and we know our customers always enjoy their readings with her! If you have never had a Tarot reading and are curious, we invite you to meet Katie because she will offer you a beautiful, clear, grounded experience.
- Hi! Where do we find you right now - how has your day unfolded so far?
Hi! I’m just wrapping up my morning routine. I’m a Taurus, so I love my routines! I start every day with a cup of coffee and a piece of peanut butter toast (seriously, EVERY day. I pack bread and a jar of peanut butter when we travel!). Then I meditate and do my daily tarot pull. I finished journaling about my card of the day, and here we are.
- Let's start at the beginning... What did you want to do/be as a child?
The first thing I remember wanting to be was a witch, like Samantha on “Bewitched” (didn’t we all?). Then an author. A teacher. A Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader (It was the 80s, we lived in Texas…). A lawyer. After seeing “Top Gun,” I wanted to be a fighter pilot (I was crushed when I found out that wasn’t an option for women at the time). A psychotherapist. A journalist. So many things!
- Do you see this childhood dream present in some shape or form today?
Absolutely! Other than the brief cheerleader dream, I knew I wanted to work independently. I love the freedom of having my own business (my family will tell you I’ve always had a “you’re not the boss of me” streak). I wanted to share ideas and be of service. That’s why I am a tarot reader now: to share insights and messages, and to help people in some way. Automatic writing is different from creative writing, but it does allow me to be in that flow. I love that part of my process, and what it brings to my readings. I teach classes related to my work, and I have written essays about it. So what I’m doing now feels like a blend of those earlier interests.
- How did you become a Tarot reader?
This is a whole story! But I’ll try to focus on the highlights. My interest in mystical things goes all the way back to my earliest memories. But the path to tarot opened up during Covid. I was looking for something to do, found an online tarot class, and signed up for it. I was instantly fascinated with tarot. The history, the meaning of the cards and how they offered insights and clarity. Loved all of it!
The connection to Jewelweed is my favorite part of this story. After things started to settle down, I went into Jewelweed just to look around. It was the first time I really paid attention to the tarot cards. I was casually picking up decks when I picked up The Wild Unknown, and it literally sent chills up and down my arms. That seemed like a sign that this was the deck for me. I started working with it and discovered that if I picked cards based on that same chill feeling, my readings seemed really on point. I started doing readings for friends, and they were accurate and helpful, which was all so encouraging. And it was really fun! A store nearby put out a post for readers, and my friends suggested I interview, so I did (I am so thankful for all their encouragement!). Then, when Jewelweed moved and there was more space, I started reading there as well. That was an amazing full-circle moment from buying that first deck at the original store.
- What are the foundational values of your work? What is really important to you?
It’s really important to me that my readings are helpful, hopeful, and healing. I want the people I read for to walk away with the sense of calm that comes from clarity and have a deeper trust in their own intuition. I want them to feel empowered.
- What are the most challenging and the most gratifying parts of your work?
The most challenging part of my work is the business piece. Marketing, social media promotion, and accounting are not my strongest gifts! Luckily, I have friends who do have those gifts and are always willing to help me.
The most gratifying part of my work is being of service. Whether it’s helping people build a relationship with their spirit guides, believe in their inner strength, or find clarity around their path and what’s next. Knowing that I made a positive difference is the best feeling.
- What can someone expect when working with you? How would you explain what it is about to somebody who has never had a Tarot reading?
It is so important to me to dispel the myths around tarot. I am quick to tell people it is not what you’ve seen in the movies. Tarot isn’t about fortune telling. The cards are a tool to connect you with your intuition and inner wisdom. They can be a tool for spiritual messaging. The cards are meant to guide you, but you always have free will. The messages that come through in a reading are intended for your highest good, so there’s nothing to be afraid of. When you’re working with me, you shouldn’t be shocked by anything we talk about. My readings are not meant to predict the future. They are meant to help lift the haze around your path and your truth.
- What brings you joy and inspiration?
I find joy in community. In connection. In sharing wisdom. And honestly, all things tarot bring me joy! The most inspiring thing about my work is seeing people light up when whatever they have been working on finally clicks because of our reading. Sharing those moments of illumination is so rewarding.
- What’s next on your Tarot journey?
I am all about following the energy and seeing where it takes us, but I also know we have to be active participants on our journeys, so I have some things brewing. I love teaching my classes and have a few new ones I’m hoping to roll out soon. My private practice is expanding, and I have started to teach at clients’ homes to small groups. I’m really drawn to helping people connect to their spirit guides through meditation and automatic writing. And, of course, I want to continue my work at Jewelweed! The Jewelweed community has been so supportive and integral to everything I do. I am truly beyond grateful for it, and for everyone I have been privileged to read for. Can't wait to see what's next!
Thank you, Katie, for answering our questions with such heartedness. We love your beautiful, positive energy!
You will find Katie at the shop regularly. Check our Events page here for the dates and details. We suggest you come early on the days Katie offers readings at Jewelweed to add your name to her list - slots fill up quickly!