Stories From The Rail

Stories From The Rail offers an eclectic mix of personal essays, commentary on societal issues, and reflections on daily life, health, and the human condition. It touches on themes such as mortality, coping with crises, disability, mental health, social justice, and the joys and challenges of daily experiences.

Personal Essays Societal Issues Daily Life Reflections Health and Disability Mental Health Social Justice Cultural Observations Travel Experiences

The hottest Substack posts of Stories From The Rail

And their main takeaways

Story Thirty-Six

399 implied HN points • 18 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Trauma Healing Personal Story Support
  1. Engaging in distracting activities like watching tv can provide comfort in times of distress or trauma.
  2. Sometimes people cope with trauma by avoiding silence and constantly keeping themselves occupied with external stimuli.
  3. Finding a sense of kinship and understanding with others who have experienced trauma can provide a unique form of comfort and connection.

Story Thirty-Five

379 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Disability Mental health Caregiving Chronic Illness Self-care
  1. Sometimes even simple words can be hard to recall, especially for someone with brain injury. This can be frustrating and challenging.
  2. Living with a disability can be terrifying and isolating, impacting personal relationships and daily interactions in unexpected ways.
  3. Support and understanding from loved ones, mentors, and communities are crucial for individuals dealing with disabilities. Honoring their struggles and experiences is important for building empathy.

Story Thirty-Seven

219 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Therapy Parenting Trauma Personal Growth
  1. Eulogies can be a way to cope with OCD and suicidal ideation, helping in the battle with intrusive thoughts and fears.
  2. Mental health challenges like OCD and suicidal ideation are medical conditions that require understanding, support, and proper treatment.
  3. Parenting and focusing on loved ones can ground and provide strength in battling against compulsions and intrusive thoughts.

Story Thirty-Four

279 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism
  1. Tucker Carlson faced consequences and got kicked out by Fox with little fanfare.
  2. Be careful with your text messages, as they can easily be seen and shared by others.
  3. Supporting individuals in need can make a significant difference in their lives, whether through financial contributions or subscriptions.
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Story One

898 implied HN points • 01 Nov 21
  1. The pandemic brought a mix of fear, uncertainty, and surreal moments to daily life in 2020, changing our sense of normalcy.
  2. During challenging times, personal and professional projects may be put on hold as survival and safety take precedence.
  3. In difficult situations, adapting and finding ways to return to what feels familiar, like writing, can bring comfort and a sense of self.

Story Two

599 implied HN points • 06 Nov 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Death Grief Society Tragedy
  1. Death brings a unique smell that affects senses differently, imprinting memories with a lasting impression.
  2. Being a grownup in moments of crisis means handling difficult situations and protecting others, even if it's emotionally challenging.
  3. The normalization of death and tragic events in society is a reflection of systemic issues and regrets a lack of accountability for those responsible.

Story Twenty-Eight

319 implied HN points • 11 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Protests Safety concerns
  1. The author reflects on the unique experience of visiting Minneapolis during a period of chaos and unrest, capturing moments of humor and danger in the midst of the turmoil.
  2. The writing process for the author was restricted due to potential legal implications, but now they feel a sense of relief and freedom to express their thoughts and experiences.
  3. The community dynamics observed in Minneapolis during the unrest showcased a blend of confusion, kindness, and unexpected moments of cooperation and courage among strangers.

Story Seven

499 implied HN points • 17 Dec 21
🎭️ Culture Personal Travel
  1. Minneapolis is a lovely city even when not in chaos, but visiting for court brought unexpected experiences.
  2. Left-handed people face challenges in a right-handed world, emphasizing adaptations in everyday tasks.
  3. Unexpected encounters during travel, like conversations and assistance at the airport, can offer unique and memorable moments.

Story Thirty-One

239 implied HN points • 17 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Civil Rights Injustice Protests
  1. Scars and tattoos can hold personal significance and symbolize resilience and growth.
  2. Beauty standards and self-perception can change over time and be influenced by external factors.
  3. Facing adversity can reveal inner strength and a capacity for resilience and bravery.

Story Four

439 implied HN points • 14 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Blog
  1. The author jokingly tested the publishing platform by saying she would write 'fuck substack' repeatedly, but ended up actually doing it
  2. The author had technical difficulties and locked herself out of her writings, leading to some unexpected posts
  3. The author expressed gratitude towards the platform despite the challenges faced, promising to improve her processes

Story Thirty-Three

179 implied HN points • 08 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Literature Art & Illustration Travel
  1. Mentors can have a profound impact on younger individuals, inspiring and teaching them valuable life lessons.
  2. Sometimes, individuals can defy societal norms and expectations in a way that is both empowering and impactful.
  3. Age can bring a sense of freedom to be oneself without the fear of judgment, allowing for a unique sense of liberation.

Story Twenty-Three

219 implied HN points • 11 May 22
🏝 Travel Cultural Exploration Sightseeing Adventure
  1. Journalism often involves unexpected events like buying souvenirs but ending up covering a demonstration, leading to new stories.
  2. Being a journalist now entails more than just writing; it includes photography, audio interviews, and videography, requiring additional equipment and planning.
  3. Exploring new places can lead to unique encounters and friendships, like meeting a homeless man under a bridge in Berlin and exchanging stories and gifts.

Story Three

319 implied HN points • 13 Nov 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Activism Policy Equality Society
  1. The Trump Administration's treatment of immigrant children is compared to prison camps, highlighting the importance of societal awareness and action.
  2. Authoritarian rule thrives on division and fear within the populace, emphasizing the need for unity in challenging oppressive systems.
  3. Individual actions, like spreading knowledge, showing kindness, and participating in societal change, play a crucial role in combating injustice and fostering a better society.

Story Twenty-Nine

179 implied HN points • 17 Jul 22
🏝 Travel International Photography Culture
  1. Germany has a cultural norm called 'wegbier' which means having beer along the way, contributing to public drunkenness but without loud behaviors.
  2. European countries like Germany and England are perceived as more rational and social due to their older age and smaller size, leading to better social integration.
  3. Travel experiences can challenge personal abilities, as illustrated by the author's struggles with language retention and communication in Germany after a brain injury.

Story Five

299 implied HN points • 28 Nov 21
🍲 Food & Drink Cooking Ingredients Meal preparation
  1. Cooking requires a mix of art and science, knowing various techniques and ingredients.
  2. Being able to cook intuitively involves creativity and adaptability, turning mishaps into unique dishes.
  3. Preparing and sharing a meal involves hard work, but the joy and connection it brings can be a powerful balm for grief and pain.

Story Thirty

159 implied HN points • 31 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Opinion Social Issues Fashion Politics Journalism
  1. Some individuals may misjudge inclusivity as extreme liberalism, leading to misunderstandings about practices like self-description.
  2. Proper self-description, particularly for accommodating the visually impaired, serves a functional purpose and should be seen as a form of courtesy, not alien or insipid behavior.
  3. The importance of understanding diverse perspectives and practicing empathy in discussing social norms and inclusivity, rather than projecting personal biases or assumptions.

Story Thirty-Two

119 implied HN points • 23 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Photography
  1. The post is about Story Thirty-Two by Linda Tirado, set in Minneapolis in 2020.
  2. The editor's note mentions links to previous parts of the story available online.
  3. Various images are included in the post highlighting scenes from Minneapolis.

Story Twenty-Four

139 implied HN points • 14 May 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Visual Arts Paintings Sculpture Digital Art
  1. The post discusses German gnomes near a children's playground in Tiergarten, Berlin. It questions if they are nightmare fodder or magical fairytale delight.
  2. The images shared in the post depict various scenes from Berlin 2022.
  3. There are calls for 'More spinach, fewer cops' and expressions of 'Resistance!' shown in the images.

Story Twenty-One

139 implied HN points • 11 May 22
🏝 Travel London
  1. The post shares a story by Linda Tirado from London 2022, providing a unique traveler's perspective.
  2. The post includes photos taken by Linda Tirado in London and Brighton in May 2022, offering visual insights into the locations.
  3. Access to the full content of the post is likely restricted to paid subscribers, emphasizing the value of the content.

Story Twelve

159 implied HN points • 22 Jan 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Reproductive Health Parenting Trauma Medical system Mental health
  1. The personal experience shared highlights the lack of empathy and violations in the reproductive care system, especially for marginalized communities.
  2. The story sheds light on the challenges and horrors faced during childbirth, illustrating the importance of human rights in medical settings.
  3. The narrative calls for better healthcare practices, emphasizing the need for legal and accessible abortion rights as a crucial aspect of women's autonomy and well-being.

Story Twenty-Two

119 implied HN points • 11 May 22
🏝 Travel Photography London
  1. The post features photos from Borough Market and Chelsea Physic Garden in London taken by Linda Tirado in May 2022
  2. The post is part 2 of 2, thus indicating that there is more to the story beyond what is shared in this part
  3. The editor's note adds context to the photos, suggesting to 'enjoy!' them

Story Six

159 implied HN points • 06 Dec 21
  1. Wearing symbolic hats and staging protests can have different impacts than expected.
  2. Movements for change may require more than just symbolic gestures.
  3. Solidarity is important, but it's also crucial to take meaningful, impactful actions.

Story Thirteen

139 implied HN points • 30 Jan 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Chronic Pain Etiquette Independence Community
  1. The author discusses the physical toll of their lifestyle on their body, highlighting struggles with back pain and mobility issues.
  2. The author shares the experience of using a rollator for improved mobility and the newfound sense of freedom and independence it brings.
  3. Navigating the world with a visible disability, the author reflects on interactions, etiquette, and finding a community among those with visible disabilities.

Story Seventeen

99 implied HN points • 11 Apr 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Creative Writing
  1. Sav Adler is taking over scheduling, management, and curation of The Rail while Linda Tirado and her team focus on upcoming adventures.
  2. Support for Linda on Patreon should be switched over to Substack to follow her work.
  3. Substack now has an app to make supporting freelancers and staying updated on their work easier.

Story Fifteen

99 implied HN points • 27 Feb 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Physical health Mental health Self-care
  1. Poignant experiences can vary greatly from person to person based on individual context and feelings.
  2. Having the right tools, like a rollator, can significantly increase independence and freedom for individuals with mobility challenges.
  3. Exploring and finding new paths can help break free from the confines of a limited world, bringing a sense of wild joy and the opportunity to create new soundtracks.

Story Twenty-Seven

79 implied HN points • 26 May 22
🏝 Travel Photography
  1. The post shares a collection of random photos taken in Berlin, showcasing the city's unique charm and aesthetic.
  2. The post mentions a favorite journalist who captured the photos, pointing out their continued talent for compelling visual storytelling.
  3. The post provides a snapshot of Berlin in 2022, offering viewers a glimpse into the city's atmosphere through imagery.

Story Ten

99 implied HN points • 09 Jan 22
🏝 Travel Exploration City life Culture Public Transportation
  1. The author reflects on a day in Chicago, fascinated by the city's diverse bar culture and unique atmosphere.
  2. Trains hold a special allure for the author, symbolizing adventure and personal exploration.
  3. The city of Chicago is described as a place that both challenges and inspires joy, with its rugged beauty and sense of community.

Story Eighteen

79 implied HN points • 20 Apr 22
🌐 International Disability Travel Journalism Recovery War
  1. Packing when disabled requires adjustments like carrying medication and rethinking storage space
  2. Adapting to physical limitations involves changing equipment and accessories for practicality and safety
  3. Accepting one's limitations and finding new ways to navigate life can lead to discovering unexpected opportunities

Story Eight

99 implied HN points • 23 Dec 21
🎭️ Culture Racism Social Issues Publication Media Society
  1. Various species of racists exist, each with unique behaviors and traits.
  2. Identifying and avoiding racists can be challenging, but understanding their characteristics is essential.
  3. It's important to be vigilant against racism in all its forms and to stand up against it when encountered.

Story Twenty-Six

59 implied HN points • 25 May 22
🏝 Travel Cultural experiences Personal reflections
  1. Different accents and behaviors can make people uncomfortable, but it's important to be assertive and proud of who you are.
  2. Humor can be challenging when dealing with language barriers, but showing support and laughing along can make a difference.
  3. Being a tourist can be enjoyable and humorous, but it's also essential to be cautious and respectful of local norms to avoid accidents or embarrassing situations.

Story Fourteen

59 implied HN points • 05 Feb 22
🏝 Travel Photos Travel experiences Subscription Model
  1. The author enjoys traveling to different places, not just for the destinations but also for the journey and local experiences like trying out local foods and visiting unique shops.
  2. The author prefers living in new places over just visiting, immersing themselves in the local culture and lifestyle.
  3. The author shares photos of their travels, including sunsets, landscapes, and interesting findings in various cities, to reminisce on adventures and inspire others.

Story Eleven

59 implied HN points • 16 Jan 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society Policy Protest Nationalism Freedom
  1. Societal and political breakdowns can escalate over time, even if initially dismissed, leading to significant consequences.
  2. In times of conflict, it's crucial to focus on fighting for what's important rather than dwelling on past regrets.
  3. Nationalistic symbols and events can sometimes mask uncomfortable truths about the underlying issues within a society, necessitating critical reflection.

Story Twenty

39 implied HN points • 09 May 22
🏝 Travel London Photography Sightseeing Friendship
  1. Sharing something special with others might change how you perceive it, as it becomes subjective and may not hold the same magic for them.
  2. Traveling alone allows for a unique experience of a place, finding magic amidst crowds, and discovering different bits of one's soul in various cities.
  3. Visiting London offers a chance to find your own city, appreciate multicultural experiences, and enjoy the abundance of food and culture like in Borough Market.

Story Fifteen

39 implied HN points • 13 Feb 22
🏝 Travel Travel
  1. The post is about the author's experience of seeing a rainforest.
  2. The post includes multiple images related to the rainforest.
  3. The author shared the post on a platform like Substack and included a link to their profile.

Story Nine

19 implied HN points • 31 Dec 21
🎭️ Culture Race Media Society Behavior Politics
  1. The field guide describes various species of racists, each with unique traits, habitats, and behaviors.
  2. Some of the racists are self-aware while others are oblivious to their racism, making them challenging to identify and address.
  3. The guide serves as a reminder to be cautious and proactive in recognizing and dealing with racism in its various forms.

Story Sixteen

0 implied HN points • 06 Mar 22
🏝 Travel
  1. The post contains a series of 16 photos capturing Linda's past travels.
  2. The photos aim to evoke memories and emotions associated with traveling.
  3. The editor's note encourages viewers to enjoy and appreciate the collection of travel photos shared.

Story Nineteen

0 implied HN points • 01 May 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Journalism
  1. Dom is a talented and courageous photojournalist with impressive dedication.
  2. His work speaks for itself and he will be sharing guest posts in the future.
  3. Make sure to follow Dom on social media and support his journalism endeavors.