In a world often overshadowed by cynicism and negativity, there are individuals who stand out as beacons of hope, reminding us of the power of positivity and the triumph of the human spirit. One such individual is Nenad Blagojević, the visionary behind the website “Stories with Soul.” Launched in 2014, this platform is dedicated to sharing inspirational, affirmative, and success stories of diverse individuals from around the world. Nenad’s journey from a stable career as an editor at Lisa magazine to the dynamic realm of online storytelling has been nothing short of remarkable. And that is why we wanted to have his story for our BTS powered by StorsenDigital.
A Dream That Took Root
The seeds of the idea for “Stories with Soul” had been quietly germinating within Nenad for years. However, it was during a transformative journalistic visit to the Seychelles Islands that these seeds finally sprouted. There, he had the chance to connect with foreign journalists who were already running their own successful websites. It was a moment of revelation, a realization that he too could take the leap into the digital world and create something unique and meaningful.
After nine years of dedicated service at Lisa magazine, Nenad decided to bid farewell to his role as an editor. This marked the beginning of his new life’s journey. The decision to leave a secure job and follow his dreams was not made lightly, but it was undoubtedly the right one. His website, “Stories with Soul,” has since become a testament to the power of intuition and courage.
A Unique Approach to Storytelling
Nenad’s approach to finding inspiration and interview subjects is refreshingly unique. While many writers focus on superficial topics, he believes in delving deep into the lives of individuals. For him, it’s all about the people—their ideas, thoughts, lifestyles, and the profound transformations they’ve undergone. Whether it’s a captivating story of a creative mind or an interview with the creator of something extraordinary, Nenad places people at the forefront of his work.
What sets Nenad apart is his unwaveringly optimistic perspective on life. He possesses a keen eye for recognizing extraordinary individuals, unusual destinies, and kindred spirits, often in the most unexpected places. His belief that life should be viewed through an optimistic lens is reflected in the stories he shares.
The Quest for Inspiration
Nenad’s quest for inspiration knows no bounds. He draws from the tapestry of life, weaving together diverse narratives that celebrate the human experience. His ability to uncover remarkable individuals and their stories is a testament to his unique perspective. He listens intently to people’s stories, whether they are sharing their own journeys or tales of friends and acquaintances. His travels across the Balkans and the world, visits to fairs and cultural festivals, and even stops at local markets all serve as fertile grounds for discovering inspiring stories.
Moreover, Nenad actively engages with his readers, who often provide him with valuable leads and ideas for stories. He believes that as long as there are people, there will always be a wellspring of inspiration.
The Journey to Success
Nenad’s journey has not been without its challenges. Leaving a stable job behind to pursue his passion was a courageous decision that required sacrifices. He traded a comfortable salary for the opportunity to create something new. In the early days of “Stories with Soul,” he earned nothing for his hard work. Yet, he persevered, believing in his vision.
His website’s success is evident from its millions of page views and growing popularity. Nenad’s appearances on television and in other media outlets have further solidified his position as a storyteller with a unique perspective. While he acknowledges that leaving a stable job was not easy, he likens it to the story of eaglets raised by a hen, yearning to soar in the sky but hesitating out of fear. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is never easy, but it often leads to the realization of one’s dreams.
Unearthing Extraordinary Stories
Nenad’s dedication to unearthing extraordinary stories has taken him to remote villages, bustling cities, and even exotic islands. One such story unfolded during his recent journey to the remote French island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean. After publishing his first travelogue about the island, which initially seemed devoid of Serbian inhabitants, a reader named Marta from Niš, Serbia, reached out to him. She had relocated to Reunion with her family and expressed her appreciation for Nenad’s stories. She extended an invitation to Nenad, and their paths serendipitously crossed.
What makes this tale even more remarkable is that Nenad was able to connect Marta and her family with another Serbian expatriate, Milica, who also lived on the island, just 50 kilometers away. This incredible alignment of destinies exemplifies the magic that often unfolds within Nenad’s storytelling.
The Philosophy of Giving to Receive
Nenad’s journey has been marked by the philosophy of giving to receive. While his personal story may seem sweet and enchanting when shared on television and in the media, it conceals the challenges and sacrifices he faced. Nenad doesn’t dwell on the difficulties he encountered or the discomforts he endured. Instead, he remains focused on the positive aspects of his journey.
He emphasizes the importance of not comparing oneself to others and instead pursuing one’s own path. Nenad’s authenticity and unwavering commitment to his vision have resonated with readers, making his stories go viral and touching countless hearts.
Infusing Stories with Soul
What is it that gives Nenad’s stories their soul? At the heart of every narrative are the individuals he carefully selects. These are people who have transformed their lives, reshaped their perspectives, and discovered creativity and happiness within themselves. They are individuals who have found inner peace, who understand the importance of living in the present moment, who do not chase after things that do not bring them joy, and who revel in life’s simple pleasures.
A story with soul leaves a lasting impression on the reader’s heart, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, rediscover forgotten values, and embrace traditions, family, and kindness. Readers often remark that Nenad’s writing style also infuses his stories with soul, creating a unique and captivating reading experience.
Stories That Make a Difference
Nenad does not have favorites among the stories he has covered, but he measures their significance by the impact they create. Whether he writes about a family with three children who lost their jobs and started selling pastries at the market or an individual who pursued their passion and found success, his stories often result in positive change.
Nenad’s stories have led to acts of kindness and support from his readers. They have propelled individuals to make life-altering decisions and have even connected talented and deserving people with opportunities they would have otherwise missed.
