From Darkness to Light: Paul Skidmore on Storytelling, Encouragement & Saving Lives

In this moving episode of Soul Sparks, host Saima sits down with author and filmmaker Paul Skidmore, the heart and mind behind The Darkness Rolled Over Her. Through fiction, Paul tackles the weighty subject of mental health and suicide, showing how a single act of encouragement can change—or even save—a life. He discusses why he chose a parable-style narrative, the emotional journey of directing the film adaptation, and how “Five Coffees and a Book” became a free community-driven healing tool. If you’ve ever felt powerless to help someone in darkness, this episode is your reminder: storytelling is light. Pass it on.

About the Guest:
Paul Skidmore is a writer, filmmaker, and advocate for mental wellness through creative storytelling. His short story The Darkness Rolled Over Her inspired a feature film and a movement—Five Coffees and a Book—that fosters deep, healing conversations in small groups. Paul believes in the “economy of the intangible”—that love and encouragement multiply when shared.

Key Takeaways:

• Fiction allows readers to discover truth for themselves, making healing more personal.

• Encouragement is not diminished when given—it grows.

• The film version of The Darkness Rolled Over Her was created on a shoestring budget but filled with passion and purpose.

• “Five Coffees and a Book” is a free resource designed to help people open up about hard things in a safe, intimate setting.

• Real change begins with real conversations—even just one.

Connect with Paul Skidmore:
Get a free digital copy of the book and the discussion guide at:
👉 https://www.5coffeesandabook.com

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