VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

  We were graced by the presence of Greg Spalenka, an artist whose work spans across various mediums and carries a deep connection to nature and human experience. This dialogue delved into the intrinsic link between creativity and the natural world, and how environments like Santa Fe can transform not only the art but the artist themselves. Santa Fe's history is steeped in a mix of cultural influences and natural beauty, an artistic sanctuary that provides a backdrop for deep creative introspection. Greg Spalenka's move there signified a turning point in his career, where the tranquility of the area enabled him to tune in to his essential nature and foster his creative journey. This serves as a testament to the idea that our surroundings can deeply affect our artistic output, a concept that resonates with many creatives seeking authenticity in their work. Moreover, the conversation shifted towards the concept of silence in our urban lives, how the constant noise and visual poll...

  we had the pleasure of hosting Bill Abernathy, a seasoned musician whose life journey has been as compelling as his music. Abernathy, a former corporate professional, took a leap of faith, returning to his first love—music—and in the process, illustrated the timeless connection between storytelling and song. The episode begins with a delightful story of a marriage certificate mix-up, setting the stage for an exploration of personal anecdotes and the authenticity that is at the heart of storytelling. Abernathy's musical career, which blossomed with the album "Find A Way," serves as a backdrop for his profound insights into the craft of music-making. The discussion swiftly moves to the importance of storytelling, a practice deeply rooted in cultures like the Native Americans, who relied on oral traditions to pass down their history and wisdom. Throughout the conversation, the transformative power of music is a recurring theme. Abernathy's track "Call Their Name...

    Embracing Narrative Therapy and Personal Narratives for Emotional Catharsis The ancient art of storytelling has always been a cornerstone of human culture, serving as a means to convey wisdom, values, and experiences across generations. ions. Beyond its traditional role, storytelling possesses a profound therapeutic potential, offering pathways to healing and understanding. As we share and listen, we engage in a transformative process that not only heals but also unites us in our shared humanity. The Roots of Narrative Therapy Narrative therapy, conceptualized by pioneers such as Michael White and David Epston, is built on the belief that storytelling can profoundly influence our identity and how we navigate challenges. This therapeutic approach encourages individuals to become the authors of their own stories, allowing them to view their lives through a lens of agency and change. The narrative method emphasizes that people are not defined by their problems but rather have...

The conversation, led by a skilled filmmaker Jay Levy, delves deep into the importance of authentic storytelling within the LGBTQ+ community, as well as the broader landscape of media representation. The discussion begins by acknowledging the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ filmmakers face in crafting narratives that resonate on a personal level while appealing to a wider audience. Levy's own journey, from his breakout short film to his dynamic web series, exemplifies the delicate balance required to tell stories that are both true to the creator's vision and accessible to viewers. This balance is not just about entertaining; it's about making space for underrepresented voices and experiences to be heard and understood. The evolution of queer cinema is another focal point, with Levy highlighting how the content and appetite of gay film festival audiences have matured over time. There is an acknowledgment of the changing societal landscape, especially the generational shifts i...

In the ever-evolving quest to understand the mysteries of life and death, filmmaker Ben Harl presents a compelling narrative that transcends the mere act of storytelling. The latest podcast episode features Harl, whose personal experiences of loss and grief have shaped his journey from a musician to a filmmaker, ultimately leading him to explore the profound depths of afterlife beliefs and human connection. The episode begins by setting the stage for a profound exploration of the psychological impact of grief. Harl shares his transformation from writing to filmmaking, a process that required him to adapt his skills and engage with the collaborative spirit that filmmaking demands. This transition from the auditory realm of music to the visceral impact of the film highlights the intricate relationship between a story and its audience and how a filmmaker can witness firsthand the resonance of their narrative. The conversation then delves into the intricacies of faith and religion. Harl re...

Music is not just a form of entertainment; it's a gateway to understanding the deepest parts of our identity. The latest episode of our podcast is a testament to this belief as we host Glenda Benavides, a singer-songwriter whose work is as much a narrative as it is a melody. Throughout the episode, Glenda shares her insights on how her musical journey has intertwined her personal growth and self-discovery. Glenda's story stands out as a beacon of authentic self-expression in a world where labels and conformity often dominate the conversation. Her discussion about the evolution of narrative in songwriting reveals the nuanced ways musicians convey their stories. She illustrates how feedback from others can bring new perspectives to an artist's work, showing that creating music is an ever-evolving dialogue between the artist and the audience. The episode also delves into the themes of inspiration and how societal issues can influence songwriting. Glenda discusses her commitmen...

  There's a peculiar magic to setting goals. It's like opening the first page of a new Stephen King novel—full of promise, potential, and a touch of the unknown. Goals are the narratives we craft for ourselves, each one a chapter in the grand story of our lives. Setting and achieving personal goals is not just about the endgame but the journey, the characters we become, and the obstacles we overcome. Let's dive into this process with practical advice backed by research and sprinkled with personal tales of triumph.   The Power of Realistic, Measurable Goals Setting realistic and measurable goals is akin to plotting a course for a gripping story. Without a clear path, we risk wandering aimlessly and losing sight of the plot. Research suggests that goals should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (Doran, 1981). This framework ensures that our goals are not just lofty dreams but attainable milestones. Specific: Vague goals are like the foggy to...