VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

In a recent podcast episode, we had an enlightening discussion with Rosalyn Lehman, a retired educator and anthropologist, and Menci Kang. We ventured into the healing powers of narrative, the potential of epigenetics to rewire these narratives, and the transformative role of yoga in dealing with trauma. Stories play a crucial role in our perception of ourselves and the world around us. They influence our beliefs, shape our identities, and can even impact our physical bodies through the field of epigenetics. Particularly in the context of trauma, narratives can either perpetuate harm or be a tool for healing and transformation. The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves are of paramount importance. In this episode, we also delved into the therapeutic potential of yoga in dealing with trauma. Yoga, as a lifestyle of discipline, can help shift little proteins and methyl groups in the body, altering our genetic makeup. We discussed the cognitive process of releasing emotions and the co

In our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege to journey through the remarkable life of Joshua Lloyd Fox, an indie author and master storyteller who embarked on his writing career at the age of 40. Joshua's diverse background as a soldier, aircraft mechanic, technical writer, and more for both the US and foreign militaries, his profound insights on faith, transformation, and creativity make for an engaging conversation.  Joshua's story of personal transformation and the therapeutic power of storytelling is truly compelling. His battle with childhood trauma and how it shaped his life and creative process is a testament to resilience and the human spirit. During our conversation, we delved into his experience with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and the potential therapeutic benefits of micro-dosing hallucinogens. It was enlightening to see how writing served as a powerful tool for Joshua to reframe his personal narratives and confront his darke

The journey of raising a child with Trisomy 21, more commonly known as Down Syndrome, is often filled with challenges and blessings. Nancy M. Schwartz, mother to Alex - a cellist with Trisomy 21, shares her journey and the profound influence of stories and words on education, inclusivity, and understanding the unique gifts of those with disabilities. Through the deep dive into Nancy's journey, she shares her experiences and insights that challenge conventional education systems and societal perceptions. Her son Alex, diagnosed with Trisomy 21, was initially perceived as incapable of fitting into conventional education frameworks. However, Nancy's relentless belief in Alex's abilities and the transformative power of storytelling turned barriers into breakthroughs. Nancy's narrative is a testament to resilience and the overlooked abilities of those with disabilities. It urges us to see the unique gifts they bring and to rethink our approach to education, especially in th

In the launch episode of Language of the Soul Podcast, we had the pleasure of introducing our audience to the host, filmmaker Dominic Domingo and producer/co-host, psychology major and children and YA author Virginia Grenier for a deep dive into the transformative power of storytelling. Both share their personal journeys and offer insights into how storytelling shapes our personal beliefs, habits, and ultimately, our worldview. Dominic, who has a diverse background in creativity, from a successful filmmaker to a writer, discussed his evolution as a storyteller. His experiences at the Art Center College of Design, where he learned invaluable lessons about the enigmatic creative process, offer listeners a unique perspective on the intersection of creativity and storytelling. Virginia, on the other hand, shares her journey from the marketing world of fashion to writing and being in the editing room to following her dreams into victim advocacy and mental health. She has navigated diverse r

  Greetings, dear readers! Our journey together has taken us on a path of self-discovery, embracing optimism, redefining the elusive work-life balance, and learning to effectively manage our energy. Today, we embark on a profound exploration—a topic that delves into the very core of human existence: the concept that meaning is the motivation that moves us (Frankl, 1946). Join me as we unravel the significance of finding purpose and how it can inspire us to lead more fulfilling lives.   The Quest for Meaning   Throughout our lives, we are driven by a profound innate desire to uncover meaning and purpose (Baumeister, 1991). This universal pursuit lies at the core of our existence, guiding our choices, actions, and aspirations. The magnetic pull propels us forward, providing us with a compelling reason to greet each new day with enthusiasm and purpose.   In Viktor Frankl's seminal work, "Man's Search for Meaning," this unwavering quest for purpose is illuminated in the m

  Dear readers, in our previous exploration, we confronted the conventional wisdom surrounding work-life balance and understood that it might be more of a myth than an attainable reality. We discussed the importance of actively managing our energy levels rather than fixating on the elusive concept of equilibrium (Schwartz, 2017). Today, we take the next step in this journey by delving into the practical realm of energy management. Join me as we uncover a toolkit of practical strategies to harness vitality and optimize our daily lives.   Practical Strategies for Energy Management As we embark on this illuminating journey through energy management, we will explore the what and how—practical strategies that empower us to make the most of our natural energy rhythms. These strategies are not mere theories but actionable approaches that can be seamlessly integrated into your daily routine.   1. Self-Awareness: Navigating Your Energy Patterns The foundation of effective energy management lies

Dear readers, our journey together has taken us through a fascinating exploration of optimism and the art of positive framing. We've uncovered the power of a positive mindset and its transformative effects on our lives. Today, we venture into a new realm of understanding—one that challenges our preconceived notions about work and life balance. Welcome to "Harnessing Vitality: Why Work-Life Balance is a Myth."   Redefining Work-Life Balance   In our previous discussions, we've often heard about the concept of work-life balance, an ideal state where our professional and personal lives are thought to coexist harmoniously. However, this ideal can be elusive and often leads to frustration and disappointment. As we journey through this topic, we'll come to realize that achieving an exact balance between work and life is an unrealistic expectation (Elsbach & Cable, 2012).   The Myth of Equilibrium   The traditional notion of work-life balance assumes that our energy

Greetings, dear readers! Our journey together has explored various facets of life, from balancing responsibilities and embracing growth to nurturing connections and fostering well-being. Today, I'm excited to explore an empowering concept that can potentially transform our lives: the idea that optimism can be learned. This empowering concept invites us to shift our perspectives and approach life's challenges with a positive mindset (Seligman, 2006). Join me on this journey as we transition seamlessly from our previous discussions and embark on a new exploration into the art of optimism and the transformative practice of positive framing. We will discover how cultivating this skill can lead to a brighter, more fulfilling life.  The Foundations of Optimism   Optimism, often seen as a natural disposition, is not solely an inherent trait but a skill that can be nurtured and developed over time (Dweck, 2006). It's rooted in our ability to perceive and interpret the world around

Dear readers, the wisdom gained from adjusting to back-to-school season extends far beyond academic pursuits. The principles of open communication, balanced routines, meaningful connections, and personal growth have the power to transform our relationships and enrich our lives.  While my experiences are uniquely mine, the principles of open communication, balanced routines, meaningful connections, and personal growth have a profound impact on our ability to build and nurture relationships. As we navigate life's diverse seasons, we can harness these insights to foster deeper connections with others, creating an environment of understanding, trust, and shared growth. Prioritizing Open and Honest Dialogues:  Effective communication is the bedrock of any meaningful relationship. By prioritizing open and honest dialogues, we not only express our thoughts and feelings but also actively listen to others. Whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or even casual encounters,

Hello again, dear readers! It's lovely to reconnect after a brief pause in my blogging journey. Life's twists and turns often surprise us, and in my case, a malfunctioning AC prevented me from utilizing my home office for writing. But, as seasons change, so do our circumstances, and I'm excited to continue our discussions on self-care, personal growth, and the art of balancing life's demands. With school resuming for my kids and the midpoint of my current course session, let's delve into how we navigate challenges and embrace growth during these dynamic times. Adjusting to Back-to-School Season: Nurturing a Supportive Environment for Our Kids As we transition into a new school year, palpable energy fills the air – a mix of anticipation, excitement, and maybe a hint of nerves. Back-to-school season is a time of adjusting rhythms and routines for parents and children. In my role as a mom, I find myself reflecting on the importance of creating a supportive and nurturin