Before History Had a Name — A Conversation with Stephen Thomas

Before History Had a Name — A Conversation with Stephen Thomas

Thank you Kathy Washburn [https://substack.com/profile/220871139-kathy-washburn], Sacred Storylines 🎨 [https://substack.com/profile/361708127-sacred-storylines], rhonda doruiter [https://substack.com/profile/407426711-rhonda-doruiter], Karl Tame [https://substack.com/profile/217243596-karl-tame], Original Junior-Senior [https://substack.com/profile/247876354-original-junior-senior], Sue Rumack Life Debunked [https://substack.com/profile/123464195-sue-rumack-life-debunked], and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. What if the oldest stories humanity has ever told are still shaping the way we see the world today? On this episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, I welcomed author, linguist, and translator Stephen Thomas for a fascinating conversation about history, language, archaeology, faith, and the inspiration behind his novel In the Day of the Flood, the first book in The Four Lights series. Stephen has spent more than thirty-five years translating European languages, but his passion reaches far beyond words. His research explores the ancient Proto-Indo-European language, reconstructed by linguists and believed to have been spoken thousands of years before Greek and Latin. That journey led him to ask a remarkable question: What did our ancestors believe before history had a written record? Our discussion explored the relationship between language and thought, how words evolve over centuries, and why understanding ancient cultures helps us better understand ourselves. Stephen explained how the earliest concepts of a “Sky Father” and “Mother Earth” may have influenced humanity’s spiritual development long before organized religion emerged. Rather than writing historical fiction alone, he has recreated an entire worldview built from archaeology, linguistics, mythology, and human imagination. We also explored the collapse of ancient civilizations, the rise and fall of languages, and how cultures are continually reshaped through migration, conflict, and adaptation. From the Roman Empire and Viking influence to modern globalization, our conversation revealed striking parallels between the ancient world and today’s society. One recurring theme was empathy—the idea that civilizations endure when people learn to understand one another rather than destroy what they fear. Beyond history, Stephen shared his experience as an independent author and how Substack has become more than a publishing platform. He described it as a place where writers build genuine friendships, exchange ideas, and support one another’s creative journeys. His story is a reminder that writing isn’t simply about selling books—it’s about finding readers who value curiosity, conversation, and community. This episode wasn’t just about an ancient flood or a forgotten language. It was about asking timeless questions: * Where do our beliefs begin? * How does language shape the way we think? * What can ancient civilizations teach us about today’s world? * And how can stories preserve ideas long after empires disappear? Whether you’re passionate about historical fiction, ancient civilizations, Proto-Indo-European language, Biblical history, archaeology, mythology, or the craft of writing itself, this conversation offers fresh perspectives that connect humanity’s earliest stories with our modern search for meaning. Stephen Thomas reminds us that before history had names, dates, and kingdoms, there were people asking the very same questions we ask today. Sometimes the oldest stories are the ones that still have the most to teach us. Stories. Soul Work. Creative Life. ✍️ A powerful ancient flood myth of survival, courage, and sacrifice. Follow Deghóm as she challenges sacred laws and fights to save others before catastrophe arrives. Here’s the link to Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/04u6qaRG 🟧Missed the Last Episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack? Thank you for your support. This work is reader-supported, and your presence here matters. About the Author The Positive Pen by John Rinaldo is a weekly publication centered on soul work, reflection, and the quiet process of becoming. Through honest writing and lived experience, he explores what it means to grow, endure, and find your voice. He also hosts the live podcast The Positive Pen: Stories, Soul Work & Substack [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/podcast], where writers, authors, and artists share their journeys through meaningful, real conversations. The show airs every Monday at 4 PM EST. John is currently working on Ciao Bella: Forgotten in the Shadows [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/s/the-hole], a documentary project telling the story of Italian families who, during World War II, risked everything to help Jewish families escape to safety across the Alps. © 2026 John V. Rinaldo. All rights reserved. This work is protected under U.S. and international copyright law. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, displayed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission. Official publications are released only through verified accounts directly controlled by John V. Rinaldo. THE POSITIVE PEN is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

Real Life Resurrection — A Conversation with Craig Sefa

Thank you Deanne Ames [https://substack.com/profile/324302904-deanne-ames], Danni Levy [https://substack.com/profile/208450192-danni-levy], rhonda doruiter [https://substack.com/profile/407426711-rhonda-doruiter], and many others for tuning into my live video! On this episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, I sit down with Craig Sefa—pastor, teacher, author, and spiritual director behind Reflections of Something—for a conversation about faith, identity, grief, creativity, and the complicated realities of being human. Craig’s writing is not afraid to ask difficult questions. His work explores the places where belief meets uncertainty, where personal experience challenges what we thought we knew, and where growth often begins with the courage to look honestly within ourselves. In our conversation, we explore Craig’s journey through ministry, writing, family, and faith—and the experiences that have shaped both the person he is today and the stories he chooses to tell. We talk about what it means to question, to slow down, to listen, and to remain open to change. We also discuss the power of writing as a form of reflection and soul work, and how sharing our stories can create meaningful connections with others. At the heart of this episode is the idea of resurrection—not simply as a religious concept, but as something we experience throughout our lives. Sometimes we lose parts of ourselves. Sometimes life changes us in ways we never expected. And sometimes, through grief, reflection, faith, and honest conversation, we discover the possibility of beginning again. Join Craig Sefa and me for a thoughtful conversation about life, belief, writing, and the quiet ways we find our way back to ourselves. Stories. Soul Work. Creative Life. ✍️ Real Life Resurrection is an inspiring Christian book about faith, renewal, personal transformation, and finding hope through life’s most difficult seasons. Available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/0gC8yAmw] Thank you for reading. This work is reader-supported, and your presence here matters. 🟧Missed the Last Episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack? About the Author The Positive Pen by John Rinaldo is a weekly publication centered on soul work, reflection, and the quiet process of becoming. Through honest writing and lived experience, he explores what it means to grow, endure, and find your voice. He also hosts the live podcast The Positive Pen: Stories, Soul Work & Substack [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/podcast], where writers, authors, and artists share their journeys through meaningful, real conversations. The show airs every Monday at 4 PM EST. John is currently working on Ciao Bella: Forgotten in the Shadows [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/s/the-hole], a documentary project telling the story of Italian families who, during World War II, risked everything to help Jewish families escape to safety across the Alps. © 2026 John V. Rinaldo. All rights reserved. This work is protected under U.S. and international copyright law. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, displayed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission. Official publications are released only through verified accounts directly controlled by John V. Rinaldo. THE POSITIVE PEN is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

Finding Strength in the Next Chapter with Sarah Oehler

In this deeply personal episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, host John Rinaldo welcomes back writer, journalist, and storyteller Sarah Oehler for an honest conversation about cancer, creativity, fear, community, and finding the courage to begin again. When Sarah first joined the show nearly a year ago, she was still discovering her voice and place o… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

Stories, Soul Work & Substack: Conversations for Writers and Authors

Thank you Vonnie G. Clemens Jr. [https://substack.com/profile/370357066-vonnie-g-clemens-jr], Sacred Storylines 🎨 [https://substack.com/profile/361708127-sacred-storylines], Harriet Corvine [https://substack.com/profile/326930697-harriet-corvine], Summer Willan [https://substack.com/profile/110012141-summer-willan], Debi Hassler-Never Forsaken [https://substack.com/profile/199522182-debi-hassler-never-forsaken], and many others for tuning into my live video with Nat Sang [https://substack.com/profile/52650522-nat-sang]! Join me for my next live video in the app. In this inspiring episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, host John Rinaldo welcomes Emma Steel, Joe Nichols, Nat Sang, Linda Meris, and Patricia Grenelle for an engaging conversation about writing, publishing, creativity, and the power of community. Together, they explore the challenges and rewards of being independent authors in today’s publishing landscape. From finding your unique voice to building meaningful connections with readers, the discussion highlights why success isn’t achieved alone. The guests share personal experiences about writing books, growing on Substack, overcoming self-doubt, and supporting fellow creators through collaboration instead of competition. The conversation also dives into the importance of authentic storytelling, developing a consistent writing practice, marketing books, and using platforms like Substack to build lasting relationships with readers. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, an experienced author, or simply someone who loves books and creative conversations, this episode offers practical insights and genuine encouragement from writers who understand the journey. More than a discussion about publishing, this episode celebrates the idea that when writers lift one another up, everyone benefits. Independent authors thrive through shared experiences, honest conversations, and communities that inspire creativity and growth. If you’re interested in writing, independent publishing, Substack, book marketing, creative inspiration, storytelling, author interviews, indie authors, self-publishing, and building a successful writing career, this episode is filled with valuable advice and heartfelt conversations that will motivate you to keep writing and keep creating. Stories. Soul Work. Creative Life. ✍️ Thank you for reading. This work is reader-supported, and your presence here matters. 🟧Missed the Last Episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack? About the Author The Positive Pen by John Rinaldo is a weekly publication centered on soul work, reflection, and the quiet process of becoming. Through honest writing and lived experience, he explores what it means to grow, endure, and find your voice. He also hosts the live podcast The Positive Pen: Stories, Soul Work & Substack [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/podcast], where writers, authors, and artists share their journeys through meaningful, real conversations. The show airs every Monday at 4 PM EST. John is currently working on Ciao Bella: Forgotten in the Shadows [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/s/the-hole], a documentary project telling the story of Italian families who, during World War II, risked everything to help Jewish families escape to safety across the Alps. © 2026 John V. Rinaldo. All rights reserved. This work is protected under U.S. and international copyright law. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, displayed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission. Official publications are released only through verified accounts directly controlled by John V. Rinaldo. THE POSITIVE PEN is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

Keep Breathing — A Conversation with Megan Youngmee

Thank you Florence Acosta [https://substack.com/profile/31310064-florence-acosta], The Warden’s Archive [https://substack.com/profile/24112749-the-wardens-archive], Lynn J. Broderick [https://substack.com/profile/116644987-lynn-j-broderick], Hundred Tomatoes [https://substack.com/profile/28512702-hundred-tomatoes], Danni Levy [https://substack.com/profile/208450192-danni-levy], and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. From Amish Country to Peru: A Journey of Healing, Self-Discovery, and Hope On this episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, I had the privilege of sitting down with writer, healer, and creator Megan Youngmee, whose life story reads like a novel filled with unexpected turns, deep reflection, and profound personal growth. Megan’s journey began as a Korean adoptee raised in rural Pennsylvania, surrounded by the simplicity of Amish and Mennonite culture. Through the encouragement of a teacher who believed in her potential, she earned a scholarship to attend college in Los Angeles, launching her into a world far removed from the one she had known. What followed was a successful corporate career working with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and high-profile clients. From the outside, it looked like she had achieved everything society tells us to pursue. Yet internally, something felt missing. Rather than ignore that feeling, Megan made a courageous choice. She stepped away from the corporate world and embarked on a journey of exploration that eventually led her through Asia, South America, monasteries, and ultimately to Peru. Along the way, she discovered something many people spend their entire lives searching for: a deeper connection to herself. What made this conversation so powerful was not the places Megan traveled, but the soul work she did along the way. She openly discussed the fears, insecurities, trauma, and uncertainty that shaped many of her decisions. Contrary to what many people assume, Megan explained that she wasn’t fearless. She was often terrified. The difference was that she chose to take the next step anyway. Throughout our discussion, she emphasized that transformation rarely happens overnight. Real growth comes through small decisions repeated over time. Whether moving across the country, starting over in a new country, writing a book, or healing emotional wounds, lasting change is built one step at a time. The conversation also explored the role writing plays in healing. Megan shared how writing allows us to reflect on our experiences, identify patterns, and better understand ourselves. She spoke honestly about the challenges of writing about painful experiences and the importance of giving ourselves the time and space necessary to process difficult emotions. One of the most inspiring themes of the episode was Megan’s belief in community and reciprocity. She challenged the modern mindset of constantly asking, “What can I get?” and encouraged listeners to ask, “What can I contribute?” Whether through writing, relationships, or creative communities like Substack, she believes meaningful growth happens when people support one another rather than compete against each other. Above all, Megan’s story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone feeling stuck between who they are and who they want to become. Her life demonstrates that you don’t need to have all the answers before taking the next step. You simply need the courage to begin. Her message is clear: healing is possible, growth is possible, and your story matters. 5 Key Takeaways from This Podcast * You don’t have to have the entire plan figured out.Focus on the next step, not the entire journey. * Fear doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path.Many of life’s biggest opportunities arrive alongside uncertainty. * Writing can be a powerful healing tool.Reflection helps reveal patterns, process pain, and create clarity. * Authenticity creates deeper connections than popularity.Build relationships based on honesty, not numbers. * Growth happens through small, consistent actions.The life you want is often built one decision at a time. Why This Episode Matters If you’ve ever felt trapped between the life you’re living and the life you’re meant to live, this conversation offers encouragement, wisdom, and practical insight. Megan Youngmee’s story reminds us that healing is not about becoming someone new—it’s about rediscovering who we truly are beneath the noise, fear, and expectations of the world. Listen to this episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack and discover how courage, curiosity, and self-reflection can transform even the most unexpected journey into a life of meaning and purpose. — John RinaldoThe Positive PenStories. Soul Work. Creative Life. ✍️ Thank you for reading. This work is reader-supported, and your presence here matters. 🟧Missed the Last Episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack? About the Author The Positive Pen by John Rinaldo is a weekly publication centered on soul work, reflection, and the quiet process of becoming. Through honest writing and lived experience, he explores what it means to grow, endure, and find your voice. He also hosts the live podcast The Positive Pen: Stories, Soul Work & Substack [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/podcast], where writers, authors, and artists share their journeys through meaningful, real conversations. The show airs every Monday at 4 PM EST. John is currently working on Ciao Bella: Forgotten in the Shadows [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/s/the-hole], a documentary project telling the story of Italian families who, during World War II, risked everything to help Jewish families escape to safety across the Alps. © 2026 John V. Rinaldo. All rights reserved. This work is protected under U.S. and international copyright law. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, displayed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission. Official publications are released only through verified accounts directly controlled by John V. Rinaldo. THE POSITIVE PEN is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. THE POSITIVE PEN is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe [https://rinaldoj.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]