VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

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...

The art of storytelling is as ancient as civilization, shaping societies' ideologies and behaviors over time. In our latest podcast episode, we dissect the intrinsic power of narrative and its role in both personal and collective experience. The conversation begins with exploring how stories, often subconsciously absorbed, mold our individual beliefs and societal attitudes. This theme is further examined through the lens of media representation, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, and its evolution in combating discrimination. We delve into insights from the book "Language of the Soul," comparing the dissemination of stories to the spread of pollen—or when viewed negatively, disease—highlighting storytelling's potent duality. The episode then transitions to the fierce transgender rapper and singer Buffy Bratz, who shares her story of adversity and resilience. Buffy's music is more than a collection of rhythms; it's an anthem of defiance against societal barr...

In our latest podcast episode, "The Tapestry of Tales: Exploring the Impact of Storytelling on Culture and Growth," we delved deep into storytelling's intricacies and its profound influence on personal development and societal transformation. Storytelling isn't just an act of entertainment; it's a potent force that has shaped human civilization from the beginning. As we unpacked the layers, it became clear that stories are not mere pastimes but pivotal tools in shaping the collective consciousness and individual psyche. We explored how narratives, from the most ancient myths to modern digital tales, serve as both mirrors and architects of society. Storytelling allows us to process complex emotions, confront brutal truths, and envisage alternate realities. It's a form of cultural catharsis, influencing policy-making and reflecting the ethos of the times. Yet, with the rise of authoritarian sentiments globally, we pondered the crucial role of artistic freedom an...

In the recent episode of the podcast "Dancing with Mortality: The Intertwined Threads of Storytelling and the Human Spirit," listeners are invited to join host Dominick Domingo and the remarkable nonagenarian Nancy B. as they embark on an enriching exploration of the human spirit creativity, and the profound impact of storytelling on our personal evolution and cultural tapestry. The episode is a celebration of life's third act and an insightful discourse on how creativity, spiritual growth, and storytelling are intertwined with our essence. Nancy B., who embodies the spirit of resilience and vitality at the age of 90, shares her personal narrative that includes her acting days, the challenges of heart and lung issues, and her profound love story. Dominic Domingo adds depth to the conversation by sharing his dance with mortality and the inspiration behind his book "Language of the Soul." One of the episode's focal points is the role of creativity in aging gra...

  In the recent episode of "Language of the Soul," we embarked on an exploratory journey into storytelling's intricate and influential realm. Our esteemed guest, Marina Bakica, with her multicultural flair, shared her profound insights into how storytelling serves as a cultural bridge, an art form, and a social shaper, providing us with a panoramic view of its transformative power. Storytelling, in its essence, is not merely a form of entertainment; it's an ancient craft that reflects the complexities of human experiences. It acts as a mirror, revealing our own truths, and possesses the mystical alchemy to reshape the society we live in. From the spoken word around a campfire to the cinematic masterpieces that grace our screens, stories have the power to evoke empathy, build understanding, and weave together the disparate threads of human existence into a shared tapestry of life. During our conversation, we delved into the various mediums through which stories can be ...

In the recent episode of "The Soul's Whisper," we embarked on an enthralling journey through intuition, spirituality, and holistic wellness, led by Krystal Parry, an evidence-based medium and Reiki master. Our conversation meandered through the corridors of personal narratives and the subtle yet powerful messages the universe imparts upon us. As we delved into our own stories and laughed together, we discovered how engaging with our clairvoyant and clairsentient abilities allows us to gracefully traverse the chapters of our lives, fostering a more profound sense of connection. We ventured into the intricate tapestry that interlinks energy work, metaphysical understanding, and the pursuit of a holistic lifestyle. Krystal Parry illuminated our understanding of Reiki, aligning it with our body's energetic pathways. We pondered the crossroads where spirituality meets the empirical, touching upon the intriguing realms of quantum mechanics and cell biology. Our discourse ve...

  In the latest episode of the podcast "Echoes of Our Journey: The Power of LGBTQ Stories in Shaping Identity and Culture," host Dominic Domingo shares a candid and compelling narrative that delves into the significance of LGBTQ representation in media and its impact on cultural identity and individual self-perception. Through personal anecdotes and discussions with guests like filmmaker Jay Levy, the episode traverses many topics, from the subtleties of prejudice within society to the powerful ripple effect of storytelling in shaping societal attitudes and fostering acceptance. The episode begins by reflecting on the historical context of LGBTQ representation in media, drawing parallels between Domingo's coming-out journey and the broader experiences of the LGBTQ community. Domingo's storytelling brings to life the struggle for self-acceptance amidst societal silence and highlights the need for visible and affirming role models in media landscapes. His narrative is o...

The realm of LGBTQ representation in film and media has been an ever-changing landscape marked by both significant milestones and challenging setbacks. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the transformative power of storytelling as a tool for reflection and as an active force in sculpting cultural norms and influencing social policies. As a gay man entrenched in the spheres of film and publishing, the podcast host brings a personal and professional perspective to the discussion of LGBTQ narratives. Virginia, his co-host, adds a poignant and intimate angle through her experiences as the mother of a trans child. Together, they navigate through personal anecdotes, industry insights, and themes from the host's book, "Language of the Soul," advocating for the impactful role that stories by LGBTQ individuals—'own voices'—play in authentically representing the community. The episode journeys through the decades of cinematic evolution, noting the veiled subtletie...

  In our recent podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Elizabeth Suggs, a literary force in speculative fiction and a co-owner of Collective Tales Publishing. The episode is a treasure trove for those interested in the intricacies of storytelling, the creative process, and the delicate balance between authorship and editing. One of the most poignant topics we discussed was the connection between mental health and the stories we weave. Elizabeth, who has an impressive background in counseling, shares her insights on how our internal narratives shape our reality and the transformative power of literature in addressing mental health issues. This conversation is particularly relevant as we consider the therapeutic aspects of storytelling, both for writers and readers. The discussion also ventured into the realm of writing passion. I shared my personal journey of losing and then fervently reclaiming my love for writing. The tumultuous path, marred by distractions from ADHD and ...

  The latest podcast episode featuring Robin Ray is an odyssey that transcends the mere act of storytelling. As a writer who has ventured from the structured world of leadership teaching to the boundless realm of writing, Robin reveals the profound impact of unearthing and preserving family history on personal identity and collective memory. The podcast begins with a light-hearted note, segueing into the importance of community support for platforms that enrich our understanding of ourselves and the world through narratives. Robin's journey is a testament to life's unpredictable narrative; what began as a temporary teaching position blossomed into a twenty-three-year-long vocation, laying the foundation for her writing career. Robin's transition from teacher to writer did not occur in isolation. It was accompanied by an evolving understanding of self-improvement and self-awareness. The discussion of brain plasticity and the ability to continuously redefine oneself is a powe...

  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 f...

  In the latest episode of our podcast, we were privileged to have Ted Young, a scholar with a deep passion for literature and language, share his insights on the interplay between fate, narrative, and the course of history. Young, who began his academic journey with the intention of pursuing law, experienced a pivotal twist of fate that led him to a career in academia, specifically in literature and language studies. His story is a testament to the serendipity that often defines our life paths and highlights the profound impact of narratives on personal and societal transformation. The discussion then sails into the complex relationship between history and storytelling. Young, drawing on the work of Hayden White, illustrated the selective nature of historical narratives. The craft of storytelling is not just a passive retelling of events but a creative act of inclusion and exclusion, shaping how we perceive and understand the past. This editorial choice in crafting history demonst...

In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of featuring Buffy Bratt, a trans hip-hop artist whose life narrative intertwines with her musical creations, forming a mosaic of experiences that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. Her story is one that encapsulates the struggles, resilience, and eventual triumphs of a transgender individual navigating through the complexities of life and identity. As the hosts of the podcast, we had the opportunity to delve deep into Buffy's journey, her upcoming EP "A Different Type of Gangster," and the broader context of transgender issues in society today. Buffy Bratt is an embodiment of tenacity. Her music serves as a vessel for her emotional voyage from a childhood marked by the loss of her mother and time spent in foster care to the solace and empowerment she discovered in her craft. Throughout our conversation, it became clear that Buffy's music is more than just sound; it's a chronicle of her relent...

Journaling is a profoundly effective practice for enhancing mental health, fostering self-discovery, and managing stress. Its roots in therapeutic processes are profound, with extensive research supporting its benefits in emotional expression and psychological well-being. This article delves into how journaling is a multifaceted tool for personal growth, supported by scholarly studies, and outlines various journaling techniques that cater to different needs and preferences. At its core, journaling is a form of expressive writing linked to significant emotional and physical health improvements. Studies by Pennebaker & Beall (1986) highlight that writing about feelings and experiences can lead to measurable health benefits, such as reduced stress levels and improved immune function. Journaling helps individuals process emotions and experiences, organize thoughts, and clear mental clutter, contributing to a healthier mind and body. One of the primary benefits of journaling is its abil...