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 production. It’s about finding the courage to express what is real, to share the why behind what we create, and to connect more deeply with ourselves and each other.

This is where our latest Language of the Soul conversation begins. Together with voice and creativity instructor Renee Urbanovich, we reflect on the role of storytelling in shaping culture, guiding the next generation, and fostering connection in a fractured world. Our dialogue is a reminder that art isn’t a luxury — it’s a vital act of human expression that can light the way toward unity, hope, and healing.

If these themes resonate with you, we invite you to listen in and join the conversation. Together, let’s explore the power of authentic storytelling in a world hungry for meaning.
👉 Tune into the episode here

The Comeback of 2D Animation: Why We’re Craving Realness Again

There’s something happening in animation right now that’s worth paying attention to—not because it’s simply nostalgic, but because it’s deeply human. As someone who works in the mental health and creative storytelling space, I can’t help but see these conversations about art, AI, and hand-drawn storytelling as part of a bigger theme: our collective hunger for authenticity. We live in a time where AI-generated content is everywhere—convenient, efficient, and often soulless. It’s not surprising that artists and audiences alike are looking back toward something that feels more tactile, more imperfect, more human. That brings us to 2D animation, an art form that has shaped generations and now, it seems, might just be making a comeback. Here’s what Language of the Soul podcast host, Dominick Domingo, had to say on this trend: There’s been a lot of industry talk lately speculating about 2D/traditional ANIMATION making a comeback. Recent articles confirm that although Disney has not greenlit...

Guest Blogger, Author Kathy Stemke!

I am happy to be hosting Kathy Stemke as a guest blogger today. Instead of my ramblings, you will get to hear from a fabulous author like Kathy who has not only been published, but also has a passion for writing, the arts and all things creative. I have asked Kathy to share her story about becoming a children’s writer. You are sure to be inspired to keep on the road to publication. Besides writing, Kathy has been a dancer, choreographer, teacher, tutor, and an antiques dealer for many years. She is also a contributing editor for The National Writing for Children's Center. Hi, Virginia. Thanks for hosting me on your blog today. Here’s the story of how my blog lead to several children’s books, and a monthly newsletter. After I retired from teaching, I dabbled in article writing on Helium. I even sold several articles through their marketplace feature. Since I had taught for many years, I naturally wrote several education articles. I got lots of feedback and questions from other...

Interview Friday with multi-talented author, Cheryl Malandrinos

Cheryl Malandrinos is a freelance writer and editor from Western Massachusetts . A regular contributor to Writer2Writer, her articles focus on increasing productivity through time management and organization. A founding member of Musing Our Children , Ms. Malandrinos is also the Editor-in-Chief of the group's quarterly newsletter, Pages & Pens . Cheryl is a Tour Coordinator for Pump Up Your Book Promotion , a book reviewer, and blogger. Guardian Angel Publishing will release her first children’s book, The Little Shepherd Boy, in 2010. VS: Cheryl, I want to thank you for being my guest here on The Writing Mama today. I know being a parent and writer can be hard and I find myself asking if I am giving my three children enough attention throughout the day. I am sure you have been in my shoes from time to time. So to start here is the first question, how many children do you have and what are their ages? Cheryl: Thanks for having me at The Writing Mama, Virginia. I’m thril...

VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

Search This Blog