Story Secrets - "We Needed Children’s Books To Recover"

Story Secrets - "We Needed Children’s Books To Recover"

Author: Fr. Roderick Vonhögen February 7, 2025 Duration: 18:19

Some stories stay with you long after you close the book. Some characters feel so real that their struggles, triumphs, and losses affect you deeply—even if they’re entirely fictional.

I recently spoke with authors Anaïd Haen and Django Mathijsen about their experiences writing emotionally intense stories. Their fantasy series Decadentia was so raw and powerful that they sometimes had to step away from writing—it became too much. They even switched to writing children’s books just to take a break!

This conversation hit home for me. As I write my own novel, I’m realizing how much I think about my characters—both the heroes and the villains. They’re in my head, shaping my thoughts, just like the characters I’ve loved as a reader.

In this episode, we talk about the power of storytelling, the emotional toll of writing, and how great stories make us feel.

🎧 Listen in and let’s talk about the characters that have stayed with you!


Ever notice how a great film or television show can linger in your mind long after the credits roll? There’s often something more happening beneath the surface, a resonance that feels almost spiritual. Story Secrets is where we pull on those threads. Hosted by Fr. Roderick Vonhögen, this podcast sits at a unique crossroads, weaving together discussions on faith, popular culture, and pure entertainment. Each episode takes a familiar story-whether from a beloved movie, a gripping TV series, or even a timeless tale-and gently uncovers the themes of meaning, purpose, and humanity hidden within. You won’t find dry lectures here; instead, Fr. Roderick brings a conversational and insightful perspective, revealing how narratives we enjoy in our leisure time can unexpectedly illuminate deeper questions about life, virtue, and connection. It’s for anyone who loves a good story and has ever wondered why it sticks with them. Tuning into this podcast feels like joining a thoughtful friend for a coffee after seeing a fantastic film, where the conversation naturally drifts from plot points to the profound. You’ll come away with a richer appreciation for the craft of storytelling and, perhaps, a new lens through which to view your own journey.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Story Secrets
Podcast Episodes
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