VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

Posts

Art, Spirit, and the Journey to Our Authentic Selves

What if creativity isn’t just a talent or a pastime, but a sacred path that helps us remember who we truly are? What if the act of making art—whether through paint, music, or words—could reconnect us with our deepest self and with something greater than ourselves? In a world that often rushes past mystery in pursuit of certainty, conversations about art and spirituality offer a chance to pause, breathe, and wonder. They remind us that creation and contemplation are intertwined. Art has long been a universal language, bridging the visible and the invisible, the personal and the collective. When we engage with it fully—not as a product to perfect, but as a process to trust—we open ourselves to profound transformation. This is the heart of our latest Language of the Soul dialogue with the luminous artist Joan Marie. From the awe that stirred in her heart beneath Michelangelo’s Sistine ceiling to the ethereal, soul-connected works she creates today, Joan’s journey offers a beautiful exa...

Creativity, Storytelling, and the Call for Authentic Expression

What if the stories we tell — through words, song, movement, or image — are not just entertainment, but essential tools for preserving culture, healing, and imagining a better world? In an age of constant content and fleeting trends, reclaiming authentic creative expression feels more urgent than ever. We live in a time when platforms like TikTok and Instagram promise instant recognition, yet too often reward mimicry over meaning. For the younger generation especially, navigating this landscape of performance and consumption can blur the lines between true artistry and hollow validation. And for all of us, the question arises: Are we creating from a place of purpose, or simply reacting to the noise around us? At its best, storytelling — whether through theater, dance, poetry, or song — reminds us of who we are. It roots us in history, invites us into empathy, and challenges us to contribute something genuine to the collective human story. It’s not about perfect technique or polished ...

Stories That Awaken the Soul: A Journey with Evan McDermott

What if the stories we tell — and the ones we choose to listen to — could change not just our perspective, but our very path in life? In a world where noise often drowns out meaning, returning to the simplicity and depth of authentic storytelling can reconnect us with what truly matters. This week on Language of the Soul , we sit down with Evan McDermott, poet, tarot reader, and host of the Fifth Dimension podcast, for a conversation that feels like sitting by the fire and remembering what it means to be human. Evan’s life and work remind us that the ancient practice of weaving narrative — through myth, poetry, or spiritual exploration — is more than art. It’s a vital act of self-remembering, of reclaiming our agency in a world that often tries to define us by labels, roles, or distractions. Our discussion with Evan touches on many layers: from the dualities of love and tyranny, to how compassion becomes a compass when the outer world feels divided or uncertain. We reflect on how st...

The Stories That Shape Us: Myth, Scripture, and the Search for Meaning

There’s something timeless about the stories humanity has carried forward — from whispered myths by firelight to sacred texts handed down through the centuries. These narratives weren’t just entertainment; they were maps for the soul, helping us make sense of the world, ourselves, and what lies beyond what we can see. Today, as we navigate a complex, fast-moving world, these ancient stories still offer guidance — if we know how to look. In our latest Language of the Soul episode, we explore this idea with Michael McPadden, a former naval aviator turned mythologist and author of Genesis to Revelation . Michael’s journey alone is remarkable: from piloting aircraft across the skies to charting the depths of human consciousness through biblical and mythological narratives. His work invites us to see old stories with fresh eyes — not as distant religious teachings or dusty legends, but as living allegories that speak to who we are and what we’re called to become. This conversation ...

Unraveling Spiritual Messages

At every stage of our lives, we find ourselves searching for guidance — something to help us make sense of the world’s chaos and our place within it. Sometimes that guidance comes from the people around us. Sometimes it comes from the quiet corners of our own hearts. And sometimes, it comes in the form of symbols: a dream we can’t shake, an animal crossing our path at just the right moment, or a card drawn from a deck that seems to speak directly to our soul. I’ve always believed that the stories we tell — and the symbols we live by — shape not only how we see the world but how we move through it. In my most recent reflections on Language of the Soul , I found myself drawn to the powerful connections between ancient systems like Tarot and I Ching, and the personal, intimate ways we make meaning from our lives. There’s something timeless about these tools — not as fortune-telling gimmicks, but as mirrors for our inner landscapes. What struck me most in these conversations is how...

The Influence of Storytelling in Politics

The art of storytelling in politics is as ancient as politics itself, but in today's media-driven world, its influence has reached new heights. From the inception of political campaigns, narratives have been crafted to appeal to emotions, rally support, and discredit opponents. This episode sheds light on how storytelling is wielded both as a weapon and a shield, altering the course of political discourse. Celebrities like Patricia Heaton and Janet Jackson have made surprising public statements that underscore the media's powerful influence on public opinion. Their remarks highlight the critical need for discernment in a polarized media landscape. The episode explores the erosion of journalistic integrity, where the rush to break news has transformed information into entertainment, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. In a world where news organizations are increasingly aligned with political agendas, the public's trust in journalism has been severely undermined...

Finding Joy in Creative Expression

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a successful business career to a life brimming with art and conservation? Angela Van Bremen’s story is a testament to the magic that happens when you follow your heart. Angela's story begins with her time as a co-owner of a dental supply company. Despite the success and stability that came with her business career, Angela felt a deep longing for creative expression and a connection to nature. This inner calling led her to explore her passions for writing, music, and wildlife rehabilitation. Angela's journey is a testament to the idea that it's never too late to follow your heart and pursue your true passions. One of the key themes of the episode is Angela's work with the Procyon Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Her love for wildlife was ignited by a baby squirrel named Sammy, who she rescued and fostered. This experience opened the door to a new world of wildlife conservation, where Angela has made significa...

The Cathartic Power of Storytelling

Family dynamics play a crucial role in shaping individuals, a theme we touch on through stories of overcoming challenges and seeking redemption. We reflect on the gray areas in justice, addressing the need for compassionate approaches and the potential for rehabilitation. Pepper Ann's journey is marked by numerous challenges, including death threats and computer hacking. Her collaboration with private investigators ensures that her narratives are rich with detailed accuracy, providing a profound impact on her readers. The conversation takes a profound turn as we delve into the emotional complexities of investigative journalism and the duality of human nature. One particularly gripping tale involves Bob, a family member entangled in a notorious jail escape, and the raw emotions experienced while interviewing his victims. The narrative also touches on the significance of family support in overcoming life's challenges. We hear about the influence of family dynamics, referencin...