Grief, Grace, and the Quiet Work of Returning with Sandra Lynne

Breaking Barriers — Ashley Schmitt

Thank you Michelle Renée [https://substack.com/profile/427611415-michelle-renee], Giuliana [https://substack.com/profile/136577065-giuliana], Anthony Giovacchini [https://substack.com/profile/58531991-anthony-giovacchini], and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. 💨Ashley Schmitt🫟™️ [https://substack.com/profile/199631703-ashley-schmitt] joins Stories, Soul Work & Substack to share the story behind The Tribal Dream-Stackers, a growing community dedicated to helping writers, creators, and independent voices find confidence, connection, and visibility. Drawing from her own journey as a writer, Ashley discusses the challenges of starting out, overcoming self-doubt, and learning to trust her voice after years of uncertainty. She explains how her mission evolved from simply publishing her own work to actively supporting other writers who often go unseen despite their talent and passion. Throughout the conversation, Ashley emphasizes that writing is not a competition but a community. She believes many gifted writers remain hidden in the shadows and deserve opportunities to be seen, heard, and encouraged. Through reading thousands of articles, featuring authors, and creating meaningful connections, she has built a platform focused on lifting others up rather than seeking the spotlight for herself. Her philosophy is simple: every writer’s voice matters, and authentic support can change the course of someone’s creative journey. Ashley also shares insights into her upcoming mentorship initiative, designed to provide personalized guidance for writers seeking direction, confidence, and growth. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, she plans to work closely with individuals to help them identify their strengths, discover their unique voice, and develop the courage to share their work with the world. She encourages writers to read widely, learn from others, and stop allowing fear or negative self-talk to hold them back. At its heart, this episode is about breaking down barriers and building bridges. Ashley reminds listeners that success is not achieved alone. Writers thrive when they encourage one another, share opportunities, and celebrate each other’s work. Her message is one of hope, persistence, and generosity: if you have a story to tell, your voice deserves a place in the conversation. Sometimes the most powerful thing a creator can do is help another creator be seen. Key Takeaways - Writing communities grow stronger when creators support one another. - Every writer has a unique voice worth developing and sharing. - Reading other writers helps you discover your own style and direction. - Self-doubt is common, but confidence grows through practice and consistency. - Mentorship and encouragement can help writers overcome barriers faster. - Success is not about competing; it’s about building meaningful connections. - The strongest creators often use their platforms to help others rise. — John Rinaldo, The Positive Pen 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]

Letter From the Deep End with Jess

Thank you Megan Youngmee [https://substack.com/profile/24738153-megan-youngmee], Sara da Encarnação [https://substack.com/profile/403664858-sara-da-encarnacao], Nat Sang [https://substack.com/profile/52650522-nat-sang], Denise Olivieri Yagel [https://substack.com/profile/4410782-denise-olivieri-yagel], and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. Some conversations stay with you long after they end. This was one of them. In this deeply personal episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, John Rinaldo sits down with Jess, writer of Letter From the Deep End, for a heartfelt discussion about grief, faith, healing, identity, and the long road back to hope. Jess shares the story behind her Substack, her passion for authentic writing, and the life-changing events that transformed her perspective forever. After losing her husband unexpectedly in 2016, Jess found herself navigating unimaginable grief while raising three young children alone. What followed were years of survival, questions, loneliness, and learning how to keep moving forward one day at a time. Through honest reflection, she shares how pain became part of her story—but not the end of it. The conversation explores the realities of loss, the search for peace, the importance of community, and the role faith played in helping Jess rebuild her life. Together, John and Jess discuss how difficult seasons often become the places where we discover who we truly are, and why protecting our peace sometimes requires letting go of things we never imagined releasing. They also reflect on parenting through grief, learning to set healthy boundaries, finding purpose after tragedy, and the power of storytelling to help others feel less alone. Throughout the conversation, one message remains clear: healing is not about forgetting—it is about learning how to carry the story forward with hope. Key Takeaways * Grief changes us, but it does not have to define us. * Peace is something worth protecting at all costs. * Authenticity creates deeper connections than perfection. * Letting go can be one of the most powerful acts of healing. * Faith often meets us in our darkest moments. * Our stories can become a light for someone else. * Growth begins when we stop running from who we are. Jess’s journey is a reminder that even in life’s deepest waters, hope can still be found—and sometimes the most meaningful letters are the ones written from the deep end. — 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]

June Substack Authors BookFunnel Podcast Summary

Explore our featured collection of independent Substack authors for June 2026. Discover inspiring stories, thought-provoking insights, and outstanding books spanning fiction, memoir, personal growth, spirituality, history, and more. Support independent writers, find your next great read, and connect with voices that deserve to be heard. Craig Sefa [https://substack.com/profile/49289522-craig-sefa] Karl Tame [https://substack.com/profile/217243596-karl-tame] Danni Levy [https://substack.com/profile/208450192-danni-levy] Belinda Drakes [https://substack.com/profile/343085454-belinda-drakes] Mind Reset [https://substack.com/profile/256444978-mind-reset] Life On The Other Side [https://substack.com/profile/389337111-life-on-the-other-side] J. Alleyn Winchester [https://substack.com/profile/338301460-j-alleyn-winchester] Stephen Thomas [https://substack.com/profile/91673059-stephen-thomas] Martine 🦋 [https://substack.com/profile/332126421-martine] Alicia M. Rodriguez [https://substack.com/profile/13683217-alicia-m-rodriguez] Martin Mc Carthy [https://substack.com/profile/47480416-martin-mc-carthy] Maury Wood [https://substack.com/profile/335348856-maury-wood] Veronica Llorca-Smith [https://substack.com/profile/112556721-veronica-llorca-smith] Dr Anne Whitehouse [https://substack.com/profile/15111623-dr-anne-whitehouse] Sacred Storylines 🎨 [https://substack.com/profile/361708127-sacred-storylines] Dea Devidas [https://substack.com/profile/107414788-dea-devidas] Shanna Lea, Author [https://substack.com/profile/102780598-shanna-lea-author] The Warden’s Archive [https://substack.com/profile/24112749-the-wardens-archive] Lynn J. Broderick [https://substack.com/profile/116644987-lynn-j-broderick], Let’s Get UnStuck [https://substack.com/profile/25086338-lets-get-unstuck], Chris B. Writes [https://substack.com/profile/114735890-chris-b-writes], Nat Sang [https://substack.com/profile/52650522-nat-sang], Megan Youngmee [https://substack.com/profile/24738153-megan-youngmee] The goal is simple: increase visibility for indie authors, connect readers with great books, and build a supportive network where writers promote, encourage, and collaborate with one another. The June BookFunnel features authors from a variety of genres including fiction, memoir, spirituality, personal growth, history, and nonfiction. Rather than competing against one another, participating authors are working together to introduce readers to new voices and help fellow writers reach larger audiences. I discusses the importance of community and explains that every book shared, recommendation made, review written, and subscription gained helps independent authors continue creating meaningful work. The initiative is part of a larger vision through A.U.T.H.O.R. (Artists United To Help Others Rise), a growing community dedicated to helping writers, podcasters, and creators support one another. Action Items 📚 Visit the June Substack Authors BookFunnel 📖 Choose a book and start reading ❤️ Follow the authors whose work resonates with you ⭐ Leave reviews and recommendations 📣 Share books on social media 🤝 Subscribe to fellow authors and support their work 📚 Visit The Positive Pen Library and discover additional independent authors 🌟 Join the growing community of readers and writers helping one another succeed Together, we can help great books find the readers they deserve. 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]

The Soft Space with Camille

Thank you ThickOnine [https://substack.com/profile/250306659-thickonine], rhonda doruiter [https://substack.com/profile/407426711-rhonda-doruiter], Anthony Giovacchini [https://substack.com/profile/58531991-anthony-giovacchini], and many others for tuning into my live video! What happens when you stop chasing success and start listening to yourself? In this thoughtful episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, John Rinaldo sits down with Camille, writer of The Soft Space, to explore the journey from achievement to authenticity. Speaking from Mallorca, Spain, Camille shares how leaving behind a successful corporate career led her toward a life centered on purpose, creativity, community, and inner peace. The conversation moves through yoga, mindfulness, relationships, burnout, self-discovery, and the courage required to redefine success on your own terms. Camille reflects on how many people spend years seeking validation through careers, status, possessions, or relationships, only to discover that the answers they seek were within them all along. Together, John and Camille discuss the importance of slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and learning to trust your own voice. They explore how fear, self-doubt, and societal expectations can pull us away from ourselves, while love, presence, and meaningful work help bring us back home. Camille also shares her work creating community spaces, meditation programs, and women’s empowerment initiatives designed to help people reconnect with their hearts and discover their own inner wisdom. Her belief is simple but powerful: when we remember our essence is love, we begin to live differently. This episode is a reminder that success is not always found in doing more. Sometimes it is found in becoming more fully yourself. Key Takeaways * Success is personal and should be defined by your values. * Yoga and mindfulness are practices of presence, not performance. * Many distractions are attempts to avoid difficult inner conversations. * Relationships thrive through collaboration, not competition. * Nature remains one of our greatest teachers. * Joy and purpose matter as much as achievement. * Love is not something we earn—it is something we return to. Listen to the full conversation and discover why creating a softer space within ourselves may be the most important work we ever do. — John RinaldoThe Positive Pen ✍️ 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]

Writing Unfiltered with Lynn J. Broderick

Thank you Chris B. Writes [https://substack.com/profile/114735890-chris-b-writes], Florence Acosta [https://substack.com/profile/31310064-florence-acosta], John Thompson [https://substack.com/profile/103060617-john-thompson], Deanne Ames [https://substack.com/profile/324302904-deanne-ames], Roland Millward [https://substack.com/profile/64005320-roland-millward], and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. In this episode of Stories, Soul Work & Substack, John Rinaldo sits down with Lynn J. Broderick for a raw and honest conversation about grief, creativity, motherhood, writing, and the emotional rollercoaster of life on Substack. What unfolds is less of an interview and more of two writers speaking openly about the quiet pressures creators carry—the pressure to perform, stay visible, chase engagement, and somehow remain authentic in the process. Lynn shares how losing both of her parents within a year changed the way she sees storytelling. Their passing became a reminder that stories disappear when we don’t preserve them. That realization pushed her to write more honestly—not for algorithms, but for her son, so pieces of her life remain long after she’s gone. The conversation moves through parenting adult children, the grief of distance, and the strange transition that happens when children begin building lives of their own. Lynn reflects on her son serving in the military, the long silences between calls, and the simple beauty of sitting on FaceTime together while doing everyday tasks. John and Lynn also speak candidly about burnout on Substack, the addiction to engagement, the frustration of algorithms, and the pressure many writers feel to constantly produce content. Together they question whether growth really comes from strategy—or from authenticity. There are moments of humor woven throughout: stories about childhood haircuts, Italian winemaking traditions, circus monkey metaphors, old family memories, and the absurdity of social media culture. Yet beneath the laughter is something deeper: a reminder that writing is ultimately about preserving life as it was lived. The episode also explores the future of independent publishing, author collaboration, and building genuine communities where writers support one another instead of competing for attention. By the end, one theme becomes clear: the most meaningful writing often comes when people stop trying to perform and simply tell the truth. 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 subscribe 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]