Nourishing the Soul with Family Stories and Culinary Heritage

In the latest podcast episode, listeners journey through poignant and heartwarming stories highlighting maternal love's complex and beautiful facets, the profound impact of maternal figures in our lives, the resilience they instill in us, and the cultural traditions that shape our identities. It celebrates the diversity of human experience, the strength we derive from our roots, and the surprising joys that family and food bring to our lives.

The episode begins with a powerful personal narrative shared by Virginia, the show's producer. She recounts her transformative decision to leave an abusive relationship on Valentine's Day, turning a day typically associated with romantic love into a symbol of self-love and independence. This sets the stage for a broader conversation about how holidays can unexpectedly influence our lives and the importance of personal growth and storytelling in healing.

As the episode progresses, the discussion turns to the resilience required when faced with adversity. The significance of storytelling is highlighted, suggesting that our lives are like movies in which we are the actors, directors, and writers. The episode touches on the necessity of curiosity as a force for peace and creativity and how it can lead to personal growth, even amidst the trials of life.

Johnny Tan brings an international flavor to the conversation, recounting anecdotes of family nurturance from his childhood in Malaysia to the guidance he received from his Italian foster mother in Missouri. These stories of cultural richness emphasize the food that nourished him and the recipes that fed his soul, leading to the creation of a cherished cookbook that celebrates the stories binding us together.

The podcast delves into themes of consciousness, authenticity, and the legacy of our past. It ponders the mind's default mode network, how it defines our sense of self, and considers the therapeutic power of writing. Reflecting on our responsibility to honor our history and shape our future, the episode encourages listeners to embrace their histories to forge authentic identities. The conversation explores the concept of the 'genius zone,' where each individual's unique talents and passions lie. The episode underscores the importance of self-awareness in recognizing and utilizing these gifts. Additionally, the narrative weaves together the interconnectivity of life, from the culinary adventures that span continents to the unexpected encounters that lead to lifelong connections.

The podcast episode examines the importance of honoring our past and the wisdom that comes with age. It reflects how our memories and history contribute to our identity, influencing our present decisions and future paths. The chapter also contemplates the impact of technology on our lives, highlighting the balance of gains and losses that come with progress and innovation.

In conclusion, it reminds us of the unbreakable bonds and deep-seated values that make us who we are, encouraging us to celebrate life's relationships and the stories that connect us.

Listen to this episode at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2267353/14357033

VBT-Guest Author Spotlight Donna McDine

Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author, Honorable Mention in the 77th and two Honorable Mentions in the 78 th Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competitions. Her stories have been published in many print and online publications and her interest in American History resulted in writing and publishing The Golden Pathway. Donna has two more books under contract with Guardian Angel Publishing, The Hockey Agony and Powder Monkey . She writes, moms and is the Editor-in-Chief for Guardian Angel Kids and Publicist for the National Writing for Children Center from her home in the historical hamlet Tappan, NY. McDine is a member of the SCBWI and Musing Our Children. What excites you most about your book’s topic? Why did you choose it? The Underground Railroad was a pivotal time in American history, one that should never be repeated. It is my hope ...

Five Tips for a More Marketable Children’s Picture Book Manuscript by Mayra Calvani

The world of children’s picture book publishing is extremely competitive. If you’re an aspiring children’s author, you need to make sure your manuscript is in excellent shape and has all the elements editors and agents look for before you begin the submission process. Here are five tips to make your picture book manuscript more marketable: Start right with the problem. Many times beginner writers begin a picture book with back-story. It’s okay to have this back-story in the first draft, but be sure to get rid of it when you edit. Back-story is unnecessary 90% of the time and it only serves to slow down the beginning of a story, making it weaker. You want to grab the reader right from the start. So don’t be afraid to begin your story at the heart of the problem. It’s okay to set the stage with a sentence or two—but no more! Have a protagonist readers can relate to. Generally, children like to listen to stories about other children or animals with children’s characteristics. ...

Interview Friday with author Rie McGaha

Rie McGaha was born and raised in northern California along the shores of Humboldt County where her grandmother often took her to dig for clams and watch the whales migrate. Being raised with the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, gave Rie a deep love for nature. She has resided in the Kiamichi Mountains of SE Oklahoma for more than ten years with her husband, Nathan, where they rescue animals, nurses them back to health and tries to find homes for them. She is the mother of 12 and Nana of 33. VS: Rie, I want to thank you for being my guest here on The Writing Mama today. As you know, being a parent is hard work and when you throw writing into the mix . . . well it seems almost impossible to get everything done. I find myself asking if I giving my three children enough attention throughout the day. Now you didn’t really start writing until your children were grown, however, you have your grandchildren running around from time to time, so to start here is the first qu...

VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

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