July August 2025 Snake Oil/Dimming our light

 Snake Oil

 Dimming our light and becoming a good turtle dad

I was focusing on purposeful nothingness and was flipping through some channels on television recently on a Mother’s day afternoon. My six siblings were texting back and forth in a group chat about different things like they typically do on most holidays. While for years I almost always joined in, I have gotten into the habit of putting far less time and energy into these conversations. I dutifully mentioned a brief Happy Mother’s Day message to the sisters who are Mom’s but maintained some detachment about joining in the lengthy conversations that day. Instead I actually got caught up in watching some episodes of the show Everybody Loves Raymond. I had already seen every episode years ago, but decided on another visit. Both my Mother and Father loved the show while they were alive. It was based on a Long Island family with a few similarities to our own. When the show originally ran, my parents really got excited when “Raymond was on.” After about the third episode my practical mind thought “What are you doing wasting most of an afternoon on this?” My spiritual and emotional parts felt something very different. After a few episodes the vibe of my living room shifted and I could feel my parents in the room with me. It felt like they had joined me in spirit, or even nudged me a bit to watch the show. I had the sensation that they were happily sitting with the son they loved, and part of that connection was watching a show we all really enjoyed. We did similar things like this when I was a child. We often watched television in the evenings as part of our family bonding time and had favorite shows. It was a magical feeling to feel them in the room with me after so many years and I felt blessed to experience a wonderful way to spend some time on Mother’s day. It was like a bridge was created and they briefly joined me in the physical world.

We will put a pin in this and come back to it in a bit.

Like so many old souls, I was a bit of a weird child. I experienced many similar events like this, saw ghosts, communicated wordlessly with animals, remembered some past lifetimes, and had all kinds of spiritual experiences that to me seemed normal. I didn’t have to work at it, all of this came naturally to me. I also fine tuned some skills when I was a child. I quickly developed a wicked sense of humor, partly as a defense mechanism for attacks I received from some of my siblings and the bullies of the neighborhood and in school. While challenging, this focus was definitely part of my road to being a writer and public speaker; I needed to develop a sharp mind and wit. While many people loved my sense of humor, some found it irritating. Another developed skill was that I could also be very charismatic. I learned early on how to get a bit more love and attention from my mother (no easy task). This spread into work and other areas of life where I used this like-ability and charisma to be more successful with working with others. Both of these skills became increasingly polished as I got older. The problem for me was many of my siblings either ignored both of these notable skills or often seemed to resent me for them. I was often told things like “Stop being such a wise ass.” “How come Jimmy gets everything and manipulates Mom?” And the most common one of all; “What is wrong with you?” Like any child in a family I needed acceptance, love, and support, and to be appreciated even a little bit, but that experience was truly a rarity. It unquestionably damaged my self esteem.

Throughout my lifetime every time one of my siblings got married, engaged, had a child, got a promotion, celebrated anniversaries, their kids graduated, my brother celebrated years of being sober, etc.. I joined in and sent gifts or simply verbally patted them on the back for a “job well done.” I did my best to be a good supportive brother and to show that I was proud of them, because I was. Over the years, the problem for me was my accomplishments were rarely, if ever acknowledged or celebrated. While two of my sisters have actually been very supportive, my four other siblings handled the thoughtful support and healthy acknowledgment from my two cool sisters by saying things like “God it’s sickening how much you love Jimmy.” “Stop making his head even bigger.” My two brothers were both especially horrible to me. My other two sisters on occasion were thoughtful but for the most part were minimally supportive, and frequently got annoyed (stopped talking to me) at me for various reasons, usually something I said or “shouldn’t have said.” I often wasn’t even sure what exactly triggered their disdain.

When I published my first two books, my two supportive sisters were proud of me but the other four; nothing. When I bravely did my own public access show in the late nineties while in my twenties (the show was quite popular), nothing. When I began writing a successful column, I got nothing. They never acknowledged it, showed an interest in reading any of it or ever even asked about it. When I started a successful podcast radio show, nothing. From 2017-2021 I appeared 63 times on a popular, nationally syndicated televisions show on ABC. No one ever asked how they could see an episode, or even about what it was like to do something that amazing. My lifetime focus on exercise and fitness, being in really good shape, and still aging quite well now in my early sixties has never been acknowledged. At first I attributed this to many of them not understanding the work I do, and my priorities. Still, something always nagged inside about how strange it was that they wouldn’t show interest or be notably proud of a successful writer, television, and radio personality even if they didn’t understand the subject matter. It was odd, hurtful and felt like old childhood patterns continued to play out even though we were long into adulthood.

Over the years I found ways to deal with the emotional disappointments. My Higher Self nudged me. When I would brew too long on the uncomfortable neglect along came kidney stones, and a round of diverticulitus to “wake me up.” Disease painfully highlighted my need to heal these wounds and forgive. By healing those physical things (almost exclusively holistically, not surprisingly another thing I got no recognition of) I changed perspectives on how I viewed a lot of it. I recognized that because they were different soul ages and had different focuses and interests, spirituality was not something they prioritized. I realized they were in no way “bad people.” Not only did I choose this family (at a soul level) for the opportunity to grow through these wounds, but they all had some notable good aspects that I did appreciate. In sharp contrast I have had friends and clients with really horrible, even abusive families. The biggest realization was that my wanting them to act a “Certain Way” was my side of the problem. It was an uncomfortable mirror of what they often did to me!

Their discomfort and even annoyance for expressing my humorous side was also something I had to gain a new perspective about over the years. Humor has always been a big part of who I am; the philosophical, and often wise-ass storyteller. Being funny has been a highlight for so many of my friends over the years. My close friends laugh hysterically when I say funny, sarcastic things playfully about myself, or them from time to time. Many of my close friends even share my comments, texts, and messages with their friends and family members, who wish “they were in the club.” But from my family I mostly got things like “You shouldn’t say things like that. You’re not funny.” And more often than not they just ignored any commentary no matter how funny or even brilliant when I shared on group texts. It often feels like I am navigating in a completely different world (a truly supportive one) with my friends, co-workers, and many clients who love my sense of humor versus a family who is definitely not fond of it.

I am guessing for many of my readers similar themes may have played out within their own families. After a while you just start dimming your light to not cause a backlash. Minimizing expressing so many parts of yourself becomes a survival mechanism. The problem with this strategy is that you are not being who you were meant to be! This can inevitably becomes very uncomfortable. Over the years, rather than just get mad, angry or choose to theatrically cut some of my siblings from my life like many people inevitably do with family, I just adjusted my involvement with them. I simply communicate far less often. Dimming my light repeatedly just feels wrong. Doing this inevitably began to feel more and more like an imbalance in giving and receiving and an expression of a lack of self love. So, over the years, I adjusted the way, and amount of energy used to interact with some of them. I inevitably found a more balanced, healthier way that keeps my sense of personal integrity intact. Presently and in the future I will still occasionally attend family reunions, and chat with some of them on the phone, or through text from time to time, but this is something I just do far, far less. I can sometimes discuss gas prices, and vacations, trips, concerts, etc...the things they mostly focus on. Fortunately the approximately two thirds of me, my humorous and spiritual side still gets expression, just not with them. I share these aspects of myself with friends, clients, gym buddies, social media followers, people who read my books and columns, and a few close friends that became my chosen siblings, even if we weren’t born into the same families. I have so many people I don’t have to dim my light for and for this I am truly grateful.  

Now: Back to my explanation of the experience with feeling my mom and dad magically joining me on Mothers day in spirit. When this happened I got the “bright idea” to maybe share this with my siblings. Old patterns sometimes die hard. They were still chatting away on some text thread that I had ignored for a few hours. When I tuned back into the chat they were comforting my oldest brother Richard. He has always had an angry chip on his shoulder about feeling criticized by his siblings, a big one being he never having married or had children. None of us judge him for this in any way. It is his own self created prison that he failed somehow. His coping mechanism was often getting into a weird competitiveness about proving how amazing he is, or better than everyone to get attention. My siblings were sharing a detailed discussion about how Richard was a really “great turtle dad.” He brought up the silly point to somehow compete as usual amidst the compliments to all the good mothers in the family. They took turns reminding him that “being a good turtle dad” was important and in this way he should celebrate his own version of Mother and Fathers day.

Was this conversation for real? I began to laugh hysterically. I nearly lost it. It was just so funny. I realized I had spent decades of my life wasting energy worrying about getting approval for some of the notable things I had accomplished from people who were now discussing the benefits of being a good turtle dad? I definitely have nothing against the importance of being a good turtle dad and I love all animals, but the silliness of this conversation was priceless. My laughter was just what I needed to complete my healing. It was an added reminder for myself, and why I use the benefits of humor to help shift perspectives with my clients and friends. Sometimes things are just so ludicrous that the laughter itself is what wipes away so much of the pain. And maybe this insight was a message from my Mom and Dad to see the situation differently. Of course I didn’t share my profound spiritual experience and message with my siblings about our parents joining me for a bit that late afternoon. They were busy talking about nonsense, and there is nothing wrong with that! In a weird way the silliness of their discussion almost made them more endearing to me. Still, I will stay on my more discerning course and wisely prioritize sharing my more profound insights and at times brilliant, weird sense of humor with those who can appreciate it.  
Jim Ventura 6-2025

  Notes

 

Summer 2025 is here. My Phoenix life for over 30 years now has trained me well at how to handle the uncomfortable hot temps. I typically head to the gym in the mornings, along with running any errands, and then I am pretty much in my home (working on writing and marketing, and doing personal sessions, often by phone) until after sunset. Thankfully my car has some covering during the day, but I still feel bad for it. I try to minimize how much I use it during the peak of the heat. Back in my early years here in Phoenix the bonus was a lot of people left the valley during the peak summer months (Snow-birds) but now it is almost as busy as the winter months. I miss the old quieter, less crowded summers in Phoenix.

I have temporarily shut down my website (JimVentua.com) but will build a new one this fall. The cost kept skyrocketing and it really wasn’t getting used enough to make it worth the high costs. Fortunately I have my BuyMeaCoffee site. A listing of all the session options can be found on the site, and of course you can just email me to request a session. I will send both the availability calendar and a list of the many types of sessions I offer. The Coffee site has grown quite a bit. It now even includes an audio tarot series explaining the meaning of all the cards including the reversed meanings. I am getting major positive feedback on this. Forty years of study and my ability to explain things clearly are making this a popular destination for Tarot readers and those learning the craft. I purposely keep about 60 percent of the options on the site accessible at no cost. But for the purchase of a ‘few coffee’s” this opens up a lot of extra insight with Feng Shui tips. meditations, manifesting, healing techniques, stories from my books, old columns, etc... The even more advanced option is purchasing a yearly subscription. This adds even more insight (only $60 a year) and gives subscribers the option of having sessions with me in-office or by phone anytime for quarterly regular client rates! There are many added benefits including allowing you to purchase up to four gift sessions for friends and family at the notably discounted rates, I am also building a shop on the site. Right now there are a number of session offerings at a good sized discount for anyone to purchase for themselves or to give as a gift. I will soon be adding metaphysical products to the shop as well!

It seems I am also getting more booking than ever with hotel and party events for mini readings. You can actually book a home party if you are in my area or do a virtual party by phone, face-time, or even zoom! I am adding this info later in this newsletter. You can also email me for information about how you can do this and the price. It can be a wonderful addition to any party or event you are having.
If it has been awhile since your last session check-in remember subscribers to Snake Oil get an added $5-10 discount off my listed rates and you can also join my Regular Client Program for discounted regular check-ins. Email is still the best way to book, although text and calls are also an option.
Cheers, Jim V

New Client Special 2025 

 

January 1st 2025 thru November 16th, 2025 Special: New Client introductory offer:
$5-15 off listed rates!  A $5 discount off all 45 minute sessions. Both 70, or 90 minute session can take a $10 discount. Debit and credit card payments accepted for all 45, 70, and 90 minute sessions. Local in-office clients can choose an extra $5 off the current rates for cash or check payments for sessions! Pricing is at the end of this newsletter or just request a session and availability calendar.  If you want to buy a new client a thoughtful gift of a session you can also take advantage of these rates and use the above discounts!


Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channelers in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

Nature and Consciousness

 
“To attempt to protect the self in old terms or to keep the self rigidly ‘itself’ is like holding your breath for too long. Selves, like breaths, go through us all the time. But from our standpoint we are the larger psychological structures that translate these selves into ourselves; just as the body translates our breath into our living.
Even our bodies often seem not us or not ours because we have forgotten how to identify with them, lost the knack of following the strands of consciousness that should connect us, so that our full experience of creature-hood itself is further limited. We seem instead to be victims of the flesh, at the mercy of illnesses, wars, and natural disasters, because we have lost track of our natural selves and lost sight of our place within nature’s framework.

It seems idiotic, for example, to think that we can cure ourselves naturally of illnesses when we believe that disease is thrust upon us by the flesh, and has nothing as all to do with our desires or beliefs. Until we realize that our consciousness, working through the body, creates its state of being, then any natural cures will be considered miraculous. Seth, for example, states that so-called miraculous cures are simply examples of unimpeded nature.
In the same way we are part of nature; physically as real as mountains, air currents, trees, or oceans, all of which have their effects upon the climate and world conditions. Yet for some reason we imagine that we affect the natural world only through our technology. But our physical presence itself has an interaction with the earth and with the physical elements that compose it. We are biologically connected, and this means that the chemical makeup of our bodies is part of the earth’s contents.

Our chemical balance changes as our emotions do, and we alter the composition of the earth. We are not at the mercy of natural disasters. We have forgotten or ignored our native emotional identification with the wind and with storms, and therefore lost our part in their existence, and whatever conscious control we may have once had over them. Therefore we need technology-to bring rain to parched areas, for example-and consider it the sheerest nonsense to blame parched emotions instead...”
Jane Roberts Speaking for herself, not for Seth her book Psychic Politics


“We think a wise person is someone who solves problems. Truth is, a wise person is someone who avoids problems.” Prem Rawat 

 

Regular Client Program 

  

My Regular Clients enjoy working with the many different types of oracles I work with for enlightenment. But a good portion of them work with me in the form of an enlightened counselor and life coach. Discussing what you are going through or working on at each time is definitely healing but also allows added insight from my many years of navigational consultations and the wisdom of working with me, a very old soul!
 
One of the best programs I have been doing for 26 years now is my Regular Client Program. The program is designed to benefit my clients at multiple levels. Clients who enroll in the program come in every three months for personal sessions (monthly or every-other-month sessions are also an option). This can also be done for out-of-area clients by phone. Session prices are notably discounted for Regular Clients. The focus of the program is on consistent work in developing your intuitive abilities, learning how to navigate more effectively through life by using the signs and signals that are all around us, and conquering fear-based programming permanently. We also get to work with all of the many different oracles I currently work with! My Regular Client Program has resulted in some tremendous spiritual evolution for hundreds of people over the years. Some of my regulars have gone on to do spiritual counseling or similar types of work and some are healing and guiding others personally and professionally. The progress I have seen over the years among the majority of my Regular Clients has been phenomenal. It is wonderful to see the spiritual, physical, and emotional progress I have assisted in motivating. So many of my Regular Clients have dramatically changed the way they now view life and are enjoying a more enlightened point of view. You too can join this program as well, just ask.
 
More about the Regular Client Program... This program was designed to create an easy, cost-effective way for my clients to progress in their spiritual development. When we are consistent at attending to our body/mind/spirit, we naturally move through life with more harmony and greater joy. When our spiritual awareness is heightened and fine-tuned, we are often happier which helps us to enjoy all aspects of our lives, including occasional personal challenges because we see them as inevitably beneficial. We can truly assist the people around us. Human beings learn by example. Your intimate partnerships, friendships, family, and children benefit when you are in a good space. The Regular Client Program makes it easier to prioritize keeping your spiritual, emotional and even physical “garden” free of weeds. Email me for more information and pricing.





“The enlightened fool is the one who sees the ego trips of society and can still find joy and laughter in its midst. The fool is often the enlightened one, the one with crazy wisdom, with laughter and jokes as their weapons, they cut through the mundane conformity and bring to light the latent child like bliss bubbling just beneath the surface of all seriousness. The fool possesses a wisdom that is out of the reach of the conformist. A playful attitude in touch with enormous amounts of creativity.” George Carlin

“Here is a test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: if you’re alive it isn’t.” Richard Bach

Home and Special Event Parties

 

My party rate is only $100 per hour. If you are interested in hiring me to do a party or event, let me know and I can check on availability options. There are a number of formats for setting up parties and here is some basic information. Please don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions about booking parties.

I am available to do private parties (Phoenix and surrounding cities) with “mini readings” for your guests. Parties can be booked with either 10-15 minute or 30 minute session blocks. Many of the different oracles I work with can be chosen for your specific event.

The parties are a fun way to enable family and friends to become more comfortable with the benefits of oracle readings. I have done many of these parties in the past and they are truly memorable events for all of the guests.

Minimum and maximum numbers of readings/hours are required to book a party at your home or office location. The minimum is a 3 hour booking. I offer the option of a 2 and a half hour minimum for locations within 15 miles of my home. Minimum of $250 fee for any booked party. A $50.00 non-refundable deposit is required to hold a party date. These sessions can be great options to consider when there are many people looking for a reading at your event. Shorter 5-10 minute sessions are also an option for really large events.

You can either book me for the $100 an hour rate for your party or event so your guests don’t have to cover any costs, or guests can cover their own costs for readings. Both options work very well, although I still prefer that the host collects all of the payments from guests for their readings with second option to help things move along more efficiently. If your guests are paying for their sessions they are still able to take advantage of the discount that comes with parties at bulk rates.
30 minute readings are a very popular option.

Parties can now be virtual!
If you live out-of-area or even if you simply prefer-mini reading parties they can be by phone or Face-time, Zoom etc...
The format is the same but virtual parties only have a 90 minute minimum booking and can be as long as three hours. Contact me for more information to set up either an in-person event or virtual one at Venturasag@yahoo.com.

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (BEST method for contact).
text only: (602) 349-0746 Phone calls: (602) 957-3035 

“Happiness is a risk. If you’re not a little scared, then you’re not doing it right.” Sarah Addison Allen 

 

Information about the different sessions and types of readings, classes and services, past Snake Oil columns, can be found at BuyMeaCoffee.com/VenturaWora (both on the site info and gift sessions available in the shop section)
“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl
I also have a few other media channels other than Face-Book:

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel (approximately once a month 6-12 minute videos) at J Ventura Snake Oil.
Instagram at Venturawords ( Astrology updates and other insight on short 90 second reels)
 Tik Tok (animalspeaks) where I do short but powerful 2-8 minute videos about how to use animal totems and spirit animals, and a number of other metaphysical topics.

All personal sessions/readings for 2025 are:  Full session (70 minutes) $125.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $90.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $150.00, Mini phone session 15-20 minutes $40. Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. Purchasing 3 prepaid sessions also brings sizable discounts. Some examples; 3 prepaid 45 minute monthly sessions is $155 total or about $52 a session. 3 prepaid quarterly 70 minute session are $245 or about $82 a session.

Image of a Stag. Powerful animal totem and one from the deck I use in sessions!

May June 2025 Snake Oil/Becoming Beautiful

 Snake Oil 

Becoming Beautiful

 

I excitedly experienced Las Vegas for the very first time in the mid nineties. Seeing Caesars Palace is something on almost everyone's visitor to do list. I walked around the opulent casino and was not only struck by the impressive casino itself, but noticed something else that was equally spectacular. There were male and female models dressed as goddesses, or male gladiators mixed in with the crowds. Apparently ten’s got paid to walk around, talk to people, look gorgeous, and make the place look and feel even better. It was wild to see something like this, yet it made me just a bit uncomfortable as well. While I have always been a fan of looking at beautiful things, my twenty six years old ego felt like I paled in comparison. My self esteem and confidence in my looks at that time was not very high. Still, I was impressed by all of it and thought, yes I needed to look at why this triggered me, and could I work to make myself better looking if I really chose to?

It was not a difficult search for the answer to what the trigger was. In my Catholic family we were taught to be humble, stay in the back round, and look kind of small. Oddly both of my parents and all of my siblings are either good looking, or at least decent looking. Still, most of us followed mom and dad’s lead on being shrinking violets. I never thought I was very attractive as a kid. But I did see how much value there would be in becoming handsome and more attractive. While there can be traps and added challenges for anyone who is attractive, you simply get more opportunities and treated better in almost every area of life by being physically attractive. In addition, I figured maxing out creating a muscular body would not only ward off bullies, make me healthier, and likely get me more opportunities for hot partners too! I saw the whole thing as a win-win and began to step away from all the smallness that was part of my family’s Iconography. 

 

Working out four days a week started in my teens, but I ramped it up even more in my twenties. My improved physical body, dressing better, rising confidence, and other benefits really took off in my thirties and early forties. I still work out for about an hour a day four times a week. Now in my early sixties, it is such a built in part of my life that I truly enjoy it, and even feel bummed if I miss workouts. One of the most common misunderstandings and excuses I hear from people about why “they don’t go to a gym or work out” is often things like, “I hate going to gyms. It’s all about a bunch of good looking guys and girls admiring themselves in the mirrors.” Oh how wrong this is! Most avid bodybuilders, yoga practitioners, and other people committed to exercise, have at least some elements of body dysmorphia. The tendency to over scrutinize oneself and be hypercritical of how one looks is far, far more common than people who think they are perfect. “Why are my shoulders still so small?” “What is this gross lingering seven pounds around my mid section still doing here?” “I need to get my legs thicker, they look like crap.” The search for body perfection is an endless pursuit. A lot of professional models that are seen as incredibly beautiful are equally critical of “how they should look.”

 

All of us form beliefs about beauty at a young age. Frequently these are held onto and never examined and released. This can limit our confidence and potential to be beautiful, especially when they are negative or blocking perspectives. We see pretty girls in school and some of them act terrible (mean girls) and decide that “All pretty people are shallow.” In my experience, religious influences pushed the idea that vanity is a bad thing. Often virtuousness and goodness are considered missing in anyone who is physically attractive. Letting ourselves, or allowing ourselves to be beautiful is something we really have far more leeway over. Often this is not even considered as a possibility by many people, and is frequently fraught with negative belief traps that consciously or unconsciously contribute to limiting our potential. “They won’t care about what is inside and love me because I am pretty.” “My family’s genetics makes us less attractive and there is nothing I can do about that.” “All pretty people are shallow and I am so much more than my looks.” In some cases excessive weight gain, or unconsciously marring our physical looks can strangely feel safer, like a shield of armor to keep ourselves from taking the chance on intimacy. This is common by the way for those with a chief negative feature of arrogance.* Arrogance is actually a fear of being judged, compared, and being vulnerable. Often those with this fear will push themselves to be very successful, or to look flawless only to have others be afraid to approach them at all! This inevitably creates more struggle inside the arrogant person wondering “What is still wrong with me?”

 

Age and wisdom can help us to also broaden the scope of what beauty actually is. The thoughtful grandma who beams with pride when she looks at her grandchildren can be beautiful. The aunt who happily makes delicious meals for us when we visit is beautiful. The man who rescues dogs from cruel owners is beautiful, no matter what he looks like. The senior man who greets everyone with a thoughtful hello and a smile as a greeter at Walmart is beautiful in his own way. The guy on social media who orders large amounts of food at local mom and pop restaurants to feed the homeless is beautiful. The man who gives up his seat on the subway so a pregnant woman or struggling elderly person can sit is beautiful. All of these things and many other examples of people that make us feel good, or do good is less about physical comeliness, even when they are physically pretty! They are unquestionably beautiful souls. They make the world a more beautiful place and remind us that we can choose to do similar things.

There are so many aspects of life itself that are outlets for us to experience beauty. Beauty can often come through with an appreciation for art: paint, photography, dance, humor, literature, poetry, drama, film, television, music, architecture, to name just a few. We have the beauty of nature: animals, mountains, oceans, trees, plants, sunsets...etc. All of these things and so many other elements to life make it magical to be alive to witness some of such a myriad of appealing options. 

 

Human physical beauty is very pleasing and simply nice to look. We don’t have to virtuously pretend that it isn’t. We are wired to enjoy beauty although everyone has different versions of what they find attractive (Venus placements in astrology). But there are really many ways to be beautiful. I recently saw 1970’s popular singer Carly Simon on a social media site. She is well into her eighties. She still wears great outfits, cool hats, and has an incredible sense of style. She may not have the skin of a twenty year old, but she is still beautiful. And she left a legacy of incredible music! At any point no matter how old, or young we are, we can choose to let our beauty shine and light up the world. Whatever we have been taught to believe about beauty, whether physical, spiritual, emotional or with simple acts of kindness, we can change those beliefs and our actions and behaviors if we choose too. Discovering, sharing, and expanding this part of ourselves will inevitably unleash more beauty into this world, and what’s wrong with that?

Jim Ventura 3-2025 

*Arrogance is one of seven fears or chief negative features. Generally people have one or two of these fears that often lock in around age nineteen.

“I think that being happy makes the biggest impact on your physical appearance.’ Drew Barrymore

“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” Coco Chanel

Notes:

 
Summer is around the corner and we still have some time to enjoy the tail end of spring. Here in Phoenix, the weather can be a bit volatile, still it is generally a very nice time of year. I often share with my readers, and in a more detailed way with the clients I speak to in personal sessions, that we are not only experiencing the weather but also collectively creating it. Simply put, turbulent weather is quite natural and it is purposefully meant to clear uncomfortable energy and the landscape. The more the populace in any area is angry, unhappy, or fearful, etc... one of the ways to clear this can often be exhibited through extra powerful even damaging at times storms. We are part of this world, and the landscape itself both individually and collectively!

2025 has been filled with some notable tests so far, but breakthroughs have also been abundant. Often there are parallels both in my social world with friends, and especially with so many of my regular clients. This is why when I achieve breakthroughs in both the tangible world and usually first intuitively or with new knowledge and clarity, I happily share some of this in my writing, social media sites, and in a deeper more personalized way with my regular clients. This acts as a stimulus for them to make breakthroughs of their own, or what I consider a win-win for everyone involved! And as of late, the expansion and movement to more happy personal lives, and prosperity have been notable to see. Fortunately I am very sure there are a lot more breakthroughs ahead.

Contact me to get information about my Regular Client program with quarterly, or every other month or even monthly options. Notably discounted rates and the benefit of regular check-ins, are some of many, many perks. Another option is to check out all the free information I have on BuyMeaCoffee.com/Venturawora. Powerful columns many people have never read (or may need to read again), navigational tips for moving through life with more flow, prosperity creating information, meditation suggestions, and now I am adding audio files of my explanations of all the Tarot cards. This is an audio book that you can access any time for insight into the meaning of the cards. Whether you are a professional, or semiprofessional reader, or just exploring or dabbling with Tarot, my over forty years of experience and study, provide access to very valuable insight. The best part is about half the material on the growing site currently is completely free! If you “buy me a few coffees” or better yet pay for one full year as a subscriber for $60, you will have access to everything there for a full year and be able to book private sessions with me whenever you want (according to your schedule and comfort) for the discounted quarterly regular client rates. This also gives you many of the same options that clients already in my Regular Client Program have like the benefits of keeping your spiritual growth a priority, and to purchase gift sessions for friends and family at the same discounted rates anytime!

I am bringing back my referral incentive option for the thoughtful people who send new clients my way. I will keep track of the referrals and at the end of the year I will offer $15 off your next session for every new client (I do always ask who referred them with new clients or how they found me) that actually book a session. Whether it is directly telling a friend or family member, or by sharing one of my posts, columns, website, etc... and yes I do want people to share my postings and videos. And while you may be labeled a bit weird by some friends and family (the clear geniuses lol) for sharing some of my info, if you are over forty, you should by now enjoy it when judgmental, narrow minded people dislike you. It is absolutely a wonderful added life benefit!
Happy late Spring and start to the summer. Cheers, Jim V

“May is the month of promises and sweet beginnings of summer.” unknown

“A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawnmower is broken.” James Dent

Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channelers in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

Old Age

 

 
“...Even more upsetting is the loss of mental function. This is entirely unnecessary, as you are meant to be lucid and alert to your last breath. But, again, if your mind cannot observe the changes in the body with calm and appreciation, for the inevitable blessed release of death, then the mind will shut down in order to allow the process to occur unhindered. You see the rise in Alzheimer’s disease in your society, for instance. You will never find a single case of this occurring in any native population, those in tune with the natural order. It is a creation of your culture, reflecting your quaking fear at the prospect of death, your ignorance of the eternal driving flow of energy between physical and nonphysical, and your part in the cycle. If the mind will not naturally and gracefully accept the decline of the body, it will be crippled to allow that work of old age to occur.

You see what a vicious cycle you have running in your society. First you cast off the elderly because they no longer contribute to the economy. Then you view their physical decline with horror, turning away from the terror of death this represents to you, and thus literally cripple your old people in mind and body. The elderly of native populations know nothing of the panoply of diseases from which your elderly may select. They know nothing of aphasia. They understand that the physical body reflects the grand design fueling the world and calmly accept their place within it. You know the elderly are accorded positions of respect high above all others in native cultures. This you find quaint and amusing. As a result, you have Alzheimer’s. Do you consider this also quaint and amusing?

The elderly, those who have lived full and rich lives, are possessed of wisdom precisely because they have tested their beliefs and assumptions against the physical world, day after day, year after year, and have drawn conclusions as to what matters and what does not. If you ask the elderly for their advice to young people, almost always you will hear admonitions to take chances, take risks, spend more time in youth exploring, living a variety of experience, not settling down too young...”
Partial quote from Whatever Happened to Divine Grace by Jose Stevens


“Happy people build their inner world; unhappy people blame their outer world.” Dalia Lama

“Outer beauty attracts, but inner beauty captivates.” Kate Angell

New Client Special 2025:
January 1st 2025 thru November 16th, 2025 Special: 

 

New Client introductory offer:
$5-15 off listed rates!  A $5 discount off all 45 minute sessions. Both 70, or 90 minute session can take a $10 discount. Debit and credit card payments accepted for all 45, 70, and 90 minute sessions. Local in-office clients can choose an extra $5 off the current rates for cash or check payments for sessions! Pricing is at the end of this newsletter or just request a session and availability calendar.  If you want to buy a new client a thoughtful gift of a session you can also take advantage of these rates and use the above discounts! 

“I sometimes get angry at God, and I do not feel guilty. because the anger is an affirmation of faith. You cannot get angry at someone who is not there.” Madeline L Engle

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (BEST method for contact).
text only: (602) 349-0746 Phone calls: (602) 957-3035
Information about the different sessions and types of readings, classes and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: http://JimVentura.com. 

“Friend” request me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl

I also have a few other media channels other than Face-Book:
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel (approximately once a month 6-12 minute videos) at J Ventura Snake Oil.
Instagram at Venturawords ( Astrology updates and other insight on short 90 second reels)
 Tik Tok (animalspeaks) where I do short but powerful 2-8 minute videos about how to use animal totems and spirit animals, and a number of other metaphysical topics.

All personal sessions/readings for 2025 are:  Full session (70 minutes) $125.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $90.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $150.00, Mini phone session 15-20 minutes $40. Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. Purchasing 3 prepaid sessions also brings sizable discounts. Some examples; 3 prepaid 45 minute monthly sessions is $155 total or about $52 a session. 3 prepaid quarterly 70 minute session are $245 or about $82 a session.

When u are just three years old but just proudly sold your first house
 

March April 2025 Snake Oil/The End Times are Near

 Snake Oil  The End Times are Near

 

Since the early eighties, when I began to study metaphysics, a variety of people have subjected me to new theories about the “coming of the end of the world.” Channeler's have predicted catastrophes, radical earth changes, California slipping into the ocean, governments collapse, and a host of other dire predictions. Many religious groups and cults sell apocalyptic visions of how near the end of the world is. A few years ago I was in a Walmart in a small town in northern Arizona and noticed this very theme in many of the religious books being sold. I was amazed at the amount of material devoted to prophesies of doom and gloom. I’ve seen magazines and books with theories from scientists to conservationist groups who also predict an assortment of disasters. One has to wonder: is catastrophe inevitable? Is the world coming to an end?

I was first exposed to this idea back in the late seventies when I was in the ninth grade. Someone brought copies of a tabloid to school. The tabloid reported that a comet would hit the United States at twelve noon that day, causing massive destruction all over the planet. That day, lunchtime was divided between fearful students, some actually in tears, and the rest of us making deliciously cruel comments to the “dumb asses” who actually believed this stuff. 1999 brought on the most dramatic set of crazy predictions. I had a few people tell me I was foolish to be in Phoenix during this time. They had attended seminars telling them that the national guard would be surrounding the city, electricity would stop, rioting and looting would be rampant, and planes would fall from the sky. One wealthy woman with too much time and paranoia on her hands informed me she had stocked her shed with two years worth of dry food and water. She had also purchased a pedal car for the crisis times that were “inevitable.” She would be one of the few wise enough to have planned for transportation.

Like all the other crazy predictions I had been handed over the years, 2000 came and went with things more or less continuing on as they always have. Things like the second coming, the tribulation, a new ice age, or sun going nova and aliens conquering our planet, or the end of life as we know it may still loom ahead of us. I guess all of these things are possible. Still, my perception in all of this has always been the same. What does it really matter if any of this comes to pass? Why waste time worrying about it? I have noticed that the majority of people claiming to have all this powerful, secret information all seem to have similar patterns. When your marriage is a disaster, your job sucks, you are sexually frustrated, you struggle with whether your life has meaning, and emotional issues are left unresolved, having secret doom-and-gloom knowledge can make us feel powerful again. Most men and women waiting for the aliens to land in their yard and contact them “again” are starved for a sense of purpose and aliveness. They have a distorted, honest desire to help the world in some way. This is their way of expressing that desire.

I am not blind to the problems in this world. Conservationists make good points at times: we can’t continue pillaging this planet without expecting repercussions. Things in many areas need to change; screwed up weather patterns, global warming and ozone depletion are realities in some respects in this world. It is possible we have had alien contact. Assuming we are the only planet with life on it is rather narcissistic. Metaphysical and biblical predictions may have some accuracy as well, although misinterpretations in both areas are abundant. Still, why do so many people think that everything predicted in the Bible, written thousands of years ago, has anything to do with the present time? Why would people in 80 AD be obsessed and tuned into what 2025 will bring?

The way I look at it is, what good is focusing on these negative predictions anyway? From my studies of life in this world, we can’t really get out of our Earth school lessons. We signed on to learn and grow and play here on Earth. Even if we were to take our own life to avoid lessons or potential happiness, we would still have self karma to deal with and eventually reincarnate and play out whatever we dodged the last time around. Better yet, rather than focusing on all the problems and cringing in fear about “inevitable” catastrophes, why not be part of the ones taking steps to make positive changes? It may sound corny, but why not be part of the solution? Even if we go so far as to destroy ourselves and our world collectively, I am guessing we would recreate another world, plane or experience, to finish our karmic lessons and evolution. If nuclear war or some other catastrophe hits, do I really want to be alive in some bunker or bomb shelter with any of the annoying, denigrating, surviving pain-in-the-asses who predicted all this crap anyway? I would rather go out with everyone else, living my life, growing, learning, and having fun right up until the very end. I would rather enjoy intimacy with my partner, smoking a tasty cigar, or drinking a delicious cup of coffee with a few of my friends in a cool coffee house. To me, a life spent worrying and preparing for the end of the world is a far bigger catastrophe than any world crisis could ever be.
Jim Ventura 12-2003

 

Notes

 

This original story appears in my book Snake Oil Volume One. It was first published in my column in early 2004! I am guessing those of a more fear based perspective will be annoyed at my perspective, and notably sarcastic take on all of this and I may have a higher than usual amount of requests to “unsubscribe from my mailing list,.” I am of course, good with that. One of the many blessings of being well over fifty is not needing to be loved my everyone! My position on the subject has not in any way changed, in spite of how many people think things are currently “so much worse, or so much better.” One thing that further confirms why I do not get caught up in the many variations of the sale of this fear is knowledge of Astrology. There are twelve houses of life in everyone’s Natal chart. Personality, body, and the early childhood wiring of the first house, and planets and signs there remain the same (for the most part) throughout a lifetime: The sixth house is the house of work, service, health, and the need to focus on repairing. The eighth house is the house of sex, power, inheritance, death, transformation. The eleventh house is the house of friendships, goal setting, group associations, and how we receive, are all examples of constants that exist through ALL of time in our world. A zombie apocalypse, the end of people needing to work any type of job because of a robot takeover, or even the far left fantasy of enough vaccines that no one ever experiences any form of health challenge, are all equally ludicrous. There are of course always changes and variations but this is one of the many reasons why we came to experience life in a human body.  Simply put; this is the game we signed up for. Until we transition back to the Other-world inevitably when we die, we will have certain structures to follow while alive.  And to reiterate a point if it “All is destroyed,” what is the point in worrying about it?

Speaking of Astrology, I am offering a special for anyone on my mailing list for just the month of March 2025. You can finally have your chart explained (really getting to understand the life blueprint you chose to experience before you were born) if you have not done this, or need a refresher if it’s been awhile. You may also want to consider looking at current transits, relationship charts, etc... This also an ideal time to purchase a gift session for family or friends at the special rate!  Very few, if anyone actually finishes a session with me after getting this incredible insight with a “well, that was a waste of time.” Getting your DNA analyzed to see your heritage patterns is pretty cool, but Astrology is quite a bit more interesting, far more in depth and personally detailed!


The year seems to be going a lot like I thought it would so far with some interesting twists and turns along the way! I have had some profound breakthroughs personally, and have been finding parallels to share and explore with my regular clients connected to these insights. Even sessions with any of my clients whether they see me just once, or twice a year, are always enlightening for them, and increase my knowledge as well, what I like to call a Win-Win! Quarterly, every other month, and monthly regulars though are able to really get into deeper life changing insights. I have been really pulling in some truly powerful mediations and other techniques for creating a more empowered fulfilling life path. If you are interested in my Regular Client Program but unable to commit for any reason, there is always another option to consider. Check out my free insights on BuyMeaCoffee.com/VenturaWora. And, for a minimal charge of $5 a month you can access my Navigational tips, extra materials, some of my best older columns, and BuyMeaCoffee subscribers also get quarterly regular client rates if you decide to have a session at any time!

We are about to begin the spring season, so wishing everyone some amazing new beginnings during my second favorite season (although they all have some notable perks!) Cheers, Jim V





ASTROLOGICAL READING Special

 
March 11th, 2025-April 7th 2025. $15.00-$20 discount off my listed rates for all 45-90 minute Astrology consultations. In-office or phone sessions.

All astrological consultations are discounted $15 off my listed rates. While no other discounts will apply at this time, in-office clients may take advantage of another $5 discount for cash or check payments.

The Astrological natal chart reading is a great way to begin to understand your unique astrology. By looking beyond your Sun sign (the stuff the newspapers, and magazines tend to focus on) and exploring your Ascendant, Moon sign, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto, Lunar Nodes, and Chiron, you can begin to gain clarity about the focus and primary themes of your life. House placements, aspects (easy angles, and challenging ones), and elements will help you see your patterns in greater detail. Transits will show what areas of your life are currently highlighted, and pinpoint upcoming astrological triggers for the future. Relationships, career, money, friendships, spiritual growth, family, health... all interpreted for you so you don't have to do the work. You will need to know your birth time for this reading (a solar chart can be done instead of a Natal chart if you don’t know your birth-time).

Sessions can be either at my home office or by phone consultations. You many record your session on your phone if you would like, or take notes.

Understanding your own chart is a tremendously valuable way to understand your life purpose. It can also be a huge help in understanding your relationships with the people around you. There are many different types of astrological charts that can be tremendously useful:

Relationship composite charts
A look at the positive and negative themes that surface in any relationship you are currently in, or considering committing to one. Midpoint astrology will show the positive and challenging ways the relationship works for both of you. By looking at your partner’s chart you can gain quite a bit of understanding about what makes them tick. This can be very beneficial in relating more effectively to each other.

Astrology charts can be drawn up and interpreted for your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews etc.., of course these charts can be incredible gifts for both parents and the children themselves! When you understand the primary motivations, talents and challenges of the people in your life, you are often more compassionate, empathetic and better able to help and assist the people you truly care about.

Astrology charts for when to begin a business, marriages, or considering relocating are also great ways to plan life more efficiently. Solar return charts are an excellent way to see the themes of the year ahead.

Understanding current astrological and near future transits is also n excellent way to see both restrictions as well as opportunities and to make the best of timing cycles.
Email me at Venturasag@yahoo.com to book your discounted March session or to purchase (maximum of two at this current rate) gift certificates purchased for yourself and/or a friend. They can be used anytime in 2025! Mention the  Astrological Special when booking. 

“You were born with a vibrational rate you earned in the past. How you live your life will determine if you raise or lower this rate. Which way do you think you’re going?” Dick Sutphen

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” Mahatma Gandhi

Snake Oil Volume One

 

Jim Ventura has been writing his monthly Snake Oil column for 20 years. Volume One is a collection of his first five years of Snake Oil. This volume also includes nine Snake Charms. Practical explanations and instruction for meditation, ear conning, lucid dreaming, etc... Jim’s Snake Oil philosophy is all about changing the perceptions of how we view life to include metaphysical perspectives into all of our experiences. We can not only do this with the benefit of expanding our consciousness, but still keeping our feet planted firmly on the ground in this world at the same time. Snake Oil reminds us that we can also grow to become more enlightened while finding both wisdom of humor in ourselves and the world around us.

To order a copy contact me by phone or email. Cost: $12.00 including sales tax. Please include $5.00 for shipping ($17.00 total).
Or send check or money order to Jim Ventura 2515 N 52nd St. #206 Phoenix Az 85008. You can also pay by charge or debit, thru Paypal, or Zelle. You can request to have your copy signed! Avoid shipping charges by picking up a copy when you visit my office for a session. 

“Children are happy because they don't have a file in their minds called "All the Things That Could Go Wrong.” Marianne Williamson

 
“Who you resist you will eventually become. All resistance is fear. If after repeated opportunities, you do not cease to resist a particular race, sexual orientation, those who believe differently, or who have character traits you despise, you will have to reincarnate as one of ‘them’ so you can learn acceptance.” Dick Sutphen

Channeled corner. I read many, many books from different trance channeler's in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Unfortunately many of them are now out of print, but I still have a huge collection and will share some of the best material I have collected over the years.

“...It is fair to say that any person with whom you share a intense relationship in this life has also joined with you in other reincarnational lives. This is because the intent of the greater entities for you to be together is also strengthened by you, and your other reincarnational selves, through those experiences. Your greater entity sets you free, but you then go about creating your own reality; and whenever you choose to tighten or intensify a bond with a given individual, that bond will therefore be strengthened in every other manifestation in time that you share. A happy fifty-year marriage in this time span, then, may well serve to strengthen the bond manifesting as master-slave, brother-sister, father-daughter, etc... (monads) in other incarnations you share.

You have all experienced meeting someone for the first time and feeling something ‘click’ between you, feeling an immediate ease or, perhaps, an immediate tension and loathing. Why? Because you are always unconsciously connected with every other historical manifestation, and you are recognizing the intent behind that person’s coming into your life, recognizing the work to be shared, the lessons to be learned together. Since at deepest terms there is no ‘time’ as you think of it, you are tapping directly into the grid of intent that your greater entities have established, recognizing the intent; how you choose to express that intent is your free choice. You pull into physical actualization those experiences with this other person that reflect your own individual beliefs, intents and desires.

Not all relationships last a lifetime, as you know. What happens in a relationship that was born in a feeling of intense closeness-say, young schoolmates, who as they age see each other less and less frequently, perhaps dropping each other a Christmas card once a year? In this case, the grid of intent behind such a relationship was virtually exhausted, or entirely expressed, within the span of time you shared as schoolmates. Beyond that, there is no need for you to stay together, and since you are always infusing your life with fresh energy and avenues of exploration, it would be of no benefit to maintain, in constant and intense consciousness, a relationship that has served its purpose...”
From Whatever happened to Divine Grace by Jose Stevens

“Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!” Sitting Bull

New Client Special 2025:

 




January 1st 2025 thru November 16th, 2025 Special: New Client introductory offer:
$5-15 off listed rates! A $5 discount off of all 45 minute sessions. Both 70, or 90 minute session can take a $10 discount. Debit and credit card payments accepted for all 45, 70, and 90 minute sessions. Local in-office clients can choose an extra $5 off the current rates for cash or check payments for sessions! Pricing is at the end of this newsletter or just request a session and availability calendar. If you want to buy a new client a thoughtful gift of a session you can also take advantage of these rates and use the above discounts!
Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com (BEST method for contact).
text only: (602) 349-0746 Phone calls: (602) 957-3035

Information about the different sessions and types of readings, classes and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: http://JimVentura.com.

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras! Signing up for my fan page will get you even more extras and first shot at reading specials. Simply click on “like” on the fan page and you will automatically get my weekly updates.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jim-Ventura/110567902293371?ref=hl

I also have a few other media channels other than Face-Book:

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel (approximately once a month 6-12 minute videos) at J Ventura Snake Oil.
Instagram at Venturawords ( Astrology updates and other insight on short 90 second reels)
 Tik Tok (animalspeaks) where I do short but powerful 2-6 minute videos about how to use animal totems and spirit animals!

All personal sessions/readings for 2025 are: Full session (70 minutes) $125.00; Shorter session (45 minutes) $90.00;  Extended session (90 minutes) $150.00, Mini phone session 15-20 minutes $40. Email me for information about my Regular Client Program for even bigger discounts on session prices with the added benefit of monthly or quarterly check-ins. Purchasing 3 prepaid sessions also brings sizable discounts. Some examples; 3 prepaid 45 minute monthly sessions is $155 total or about $52 a session. 3 prepaid quarterly 70 minute session are $245 or about $82 a session.