VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

Every time I sit down to write, I’m reminded that story is more than entertainment—it’s a mirror. Sometimes it’s a clear reflection; other times it’s warped, holding up the parts of us we’d rather not acknowledge. That tension between what we show the world and what we keep hidden is what keeps me coming back to the page. When I interviewed author John Bukowski for our Language of the Soul podcast, we spent as much time exploring that concept as we did talking about his thrillers ( Project Suicide and Checkout Time ). John’s writing is rooted in science and history, and yet he’s quick to admit that fiction—especially thrillers—offers a safe place to grapple with things that would otherwise be too unsettling to face head-on. He reminded me of something I first learned reading Stephen King as a teenager: good stories don’t just entertain; they confront us with our shadow side. King famously said that writers must let out the “dark half” of themselves—the primal thoughts and impulses...

In a time when artificial intelligence is advancing at lightning speed, many of us find ourselves quietly asking: What does it mean to be human? Amidst the algorithms, the data, and the drive for efficiency, how do we stay connected to the qualities that make our lives rich with meaning? One timeless answer lies in something we’ve carried with us since the dawn of time: the stories we tell. Stories are more than entertainment. They are the glue that binds us to one another, the mirrors in which we glimpse our purpose, and the maps that help us navigate life’s complexities. In our latest Language of the Soul conversation, we sit down with Denise Piles—mindfulness coach, former nun, and seasoned corporate professional—to reflect on how storytelling and mindfulness can help us stay rooted in our shared humanity, even in the fast-paced world of technology. Denise’s journey is remarkable. From a life shaped by faith and service to a career at Microsoft, she has walked two seemingly diff...

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...

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 ...

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...

  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 ...

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...

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...