S5: E7: Grace Knetter: “A Passion to Deliver Care”

Some know their vocational callings early in life. This is true for Grace Knetter, the only student I’ve ever had in business class with the dream to become a registered midwife. Young, but already deep into the preparation for her vocational calling, Grace is one of the most focused and determined young women I know. In 2025 when our first grandchild was born at home under the care of a midwife, knowing there are women like Grace called and gifted to step into this centuries-old practice became all the more personal.

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S5: E6: Douglas T. Bates, III: "Mankind has been his Business"

Doug Bates is a lawyer in a long line of lawyers dating back to just after the Civil War. Doug and I met when we each wrote columns for the Hickman County Times. He called me to be on his annual radio program one Christmas, and I’ve loved him ever since. In his heart of hearts, Doug is a storyteller. He has an unbridled love for people, church, art, talent, athletics, a song well sung, and a word well spoken. Tune in and you'll see why it can be said of Doug Bates as it was said of Marley in The Christmas Carol, "Mankind was my business."

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S5: E5: Demetria Kalodimos: "Searching for Hidden Treasure"

Demetria Kalodimos is a familiar name and treasured voice in Nashville. She joined WSMV in 1984 and became the longest-running evening news anchor in its history. A career journalist and storyteller, Demetria is also a documentarian and musician. In this episode you’ll learn new things about Demetria—how she hails from Chicago, is an enduring Cubs fan, and has a zeal for treasure-hunting, Cornish Rex cats, real people, and true stories. 

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S5: E4: Mary O’Donohue: “Because of You”

Ever wondered how to get your content into the media? Then you’re in for a treat because this episode of Gladness & Hunger features Mary O'Donohue, a media insider. Tune in to hear basic media strategies sure to help you get your work out to a larger audience. While Mary works solely with women non-fiction writers, all writers will find her advice—and her story—compelling. Tune in to hear how the words “because of you” were life-giving.

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S5: E3: Tony Bancroft: “Iron Sharpening Iron”

If you’ve ever enjoyed a Disney movie, you’re going to love hearing from today’s guest, Tony Bancroft. Chances are Tony, former Disney animator who now directs Lipscomb’s thriving animation program, and his twin, Tom, had a hand in bringing some of your favorites to the screen. Tune in to hear which movies Tony has worked on, and to hear about the influences that shaped the artistic talents of two animators with worldwide impact.

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S5: E2: Patrick Chappell: Curiosity & Connection

How many guys do you know who were once in a band, took a turn at stand-up comedy, continues to be a popular local DJ, and has a long tenure of service as a minister? Patrick Chappell is one interesting gentleman! Raised by a tight-knit group of women, Patrick passionately pursues two C’s in his life: curiosity and connection. Tune in to hear how he offers his outgoing nature and love for people as gifts to the world around him.

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S5: E1: Season Five: “Roles of Influence”

How important is it that we hold high the flags of our own influence? The birth of a grandchild has me revisiting this question. In this episode I talk about Walt Whitman who said, You are here. Life exists. The powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse. And Mary Oliver, who charged us to Pay attention! Be astonished! Tell about it. God places unique opportunities into each of our hands. How might we step into these roles with greater intentionality?

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S4: E7: Steve Taylor: “Artful Impact”

Are you an artist seeking to build a career with longevity and impact? Steve Taylor, an American singer, songwriter, record producer, music executive, film maker, assistant professor, and actor has done just that. Steve is known for projects like Blue Like Jazz, the movie adaptation of Donald Miller’s book, which he wrote, directed and produced, and Sketch, one of his latest projects that has critics raving. Listen in to be inspired and motivated by Steve's story.

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S4: E6: John McCord: “The Completion of a Good Work”

A wise man once told me and my husband that we would look back on the early years of our working lives as among the most special. And he was right. John McCord, now a minister in Texas, and his family were integral to the truth of that prediction. If you're looking for a reminder that influence matters and some relationships stand the test of time and distance, tune in.

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S4: E5: DJ Farris: “Honoring Place & Family”

Do the spaces we occupy—where we live and do business—matter? DJ Farris believes they do. DJ is a realtor, avid outdoorsman, and lover of history. He says, “My study of history has taught me the importance of place, home, and family. These things matter because of the people who have gone before and the people who come next.” Listen in as DJ and I talk about the sacred nature of places and spaces and the “generosity of time.”

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S4: E4: Dr. Earl Lavender: “To be Fully Trained”

Ever known someone who could run 100 miles in a single day? This was my first introduction to Earl Lavender in 1985 when he ran as a fundraiser for Lipscomb Athletics. Though Earl has had wide influence in the U.S. and abroad, in both biblical and athletic arenas, he makes his big waves with humility, giving all credit to the Ultimate Teacher. Tune in and you'll learn what thousands of former students already know: time with Earl Lavender is time well spent.

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S4: E3: Joe Ivey: “Strategy, Influence & Active Disremembering”

It's natural to wonder how you'd take it if you received a terminal diagnosis. In November 2023, Joseph M. Ivey found out. Joe has an impressive resume, having led several organizations, served on boards, and contributed his expertise to a number of non-profits. But when Joe had a health event that led to the discovery of a terminal brain tumor, his priorities shifted. If you need to be reminded of what really matters in life, tune in.

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S4: E2: Bonnie Blaylock: “Writer, Podcaster, Beekeeper”

If you've ever wanted to know more about keeping bees, the history of pack-horse librarians in Appalachia, or where to find some motherly wisdom, you'll want to listen to this episode. It’s my honor to talk with Bonnie Blaylock, author of Light to the Hills, and co-host of the popular “Just Ask Your Mom” podcast. She’s also a beekeeper. You have a love a woman who can do all of that and do it so well.

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S4: E1: Season Four: “Amy Cuddy, the Sabbath & an old Accounting Ledger”

What do Amy Cuddy, the Sabbath, and an old accounting ledger have in common? As Season 4 of Gladness & Hunger is launched, I'm reminded of the critical nature of stories, how important it is to observe Sabbath, particularly as a act of remembrance, and the sacred nature of one of my own stories, taught to me by my father, this side of his grave. My encouragement to you in the coming year is to keep a record of your own sacred stories and share them whenever and however you can.

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S4: E1: Season Four: “Amy Cuddy, the Sabbath & an old Accounting Ledger”

What do Amy Cuddy, the Sabbath, and an old accounting ledger have in common? As Season 4 of Gladness & Hunger is launched, I'm reminded of the critical nature of stories, how important it is to observe Sabbath, particularly as a act of remembrance, and the sacred nature of one of my own stories, taught to me by my father, this side of his grave. My encouragement to you in the coming year is to keep a record of your own sacred stories and share them whenever and however you can.

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S3: E9: Dave & Sydney Clayton: “Ripples of Love”

What does it look like to build a life that creates ripples of influence far beyond your immediate circle? My husband Stan and I met Dave and Sydney Clayton, of Ethos Church, when they were undergraduates at Lipscomb—even then, they were influencers on a wider-than-average scale. In this episode, they share how they're raising sons to be fathers, the transformative power of consistent rhythms, and the practice of habit-stacking. If you're seeking to live with greater intentionality and impact, this conversation will inspire you.

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S3: E8: Marianne Richmond: “Writing for the Unique Everybody”

Creating work that resonates with millions is rare. Marianne Richmond, children's author and illustrator whose books have sold in the millions, learned to listen for commonalities. Coming out of a painful childhood, she discovered that while we all have vastly different experiences, the emotions we feel are the same. If you're a creator seeking to connect authentically with your audience, Marianne's insights will guide you.

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S3: E7: Dr. Jan Harris: “Contributing a Verse”

What does it mean to be fully present with another person? I've long admired Dr. Jan Harris—English professor, poet, and Fellow for Faculty Wellbeing at Lipscomb. In this episode, we talk about poetry, writing, and Jan's remarkable gift for presence. Discover how poetry helps us see the world differently and what it looks like to contribute your unique verse to the world.

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S3: E6: Vivi Radiro: “A Witness of Resilience”

Some stories change you. Vivi Radiro's journey from a dirt-floored hut in Kenya to cancer research is one of the most sacred stories I've ever recorded. In this episode, Vivi shares how pain became purpose and what it takes to pursue impossible dreams. If you need hope that God sees you and that a transformed life is possible, Vivi's witness to resilience will inspire you.

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S3: E5: Dr. Richard Goode: “Pursuing the Life of the Mind”

Sometimes education becomes a bridge to the seeming impossible. When a student suggested Richard Goode visit Death Row, it planted a seed that grew into the LIFE program (Lipscomb Initiative for Education) at the women's prison in Nashville. Remarkably, Richard's own story began with higher education a distant dream. In this episode, discover how education can transform lives and what it looks like to bring hope to unexpected places. 

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S3: E4: Garrett Dickerson: “The Plan & The Purpose”

What does it look like to find your singular calling after exploring multiple paths? I first met Garrett Dickerson when he was a student. Now, several years, a graduate degree, and multiple career lanes later, he's laser-focused on one thing: following God's plan and purpose for his life. In this episode, Garrett shares how he's helping others discover their own calling.  

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S3: E3: Honoree Corder: “A Marketing Mastermind”

What if one conversation changed the trajectory of your career? When Mark Victor Hansen told Honoree Corder at a conference that she needed to write a book, she took his advice—and never looked back. Now an author, TEDx speaker, and publishing strategist, Honoree shares her marketing genius and the lessons she's learned along the way. If you've been hesitating to share your message, Honoree's story will inspire you to take action.

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S3: E2: Kenneth Robinson: “A Lifelong Learner”

Ever felt torn between what you're known for and what truly lights you up? Kenneth Robinson is one of four brothers who played college football—three went pro—but what he loved most was reading quietly at home. In this episode, Kenneth shares how his thirst for learning led him to education, where he now pours wisdom into others through the very curiosity that shaped him.

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S3: E1: Season Three: "Sun After Rain"

We all go through seasons where the storms keep coming. In this episode, I'm stepping out of my comfort zone to share a tough season in my own story. Over the past five years, I've weathered storms I never expected. If you've faced recent storms, I hope these words remind you you're not alone and that sun typically follows rain.

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S2: E8: Dawn Petchell Luepke: “A Kingdom-Centered Strategist”

Every one of us has superpowers, but we don't always know what they are. Petchell Luepke, a Gallup certified career coach, helped me discover mine and she can help you learn how to discover yours, too. Petchell taught me, for example, to pair my “maximizer” with “strategic” to achieve my next book publication goal. Listen in and learn how you can leverage your natural strengths and talents to achieve your own vocational callings.

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S2: E7: Rob Touchstone: “Turning Coffee into Water”

What happens when your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger—or in this case, thirst—meet? Rob Touchstone has spent the last decade living into this question—co-founding The Well Coffeehouses, launching a Business as Mission program, and now directing Lipscomb University's Center for Vocational Discovery. In this conversation, Rob shares why vocational discovery is a journey not a destination, and what it looks like to build a career that feeds both your soul and your community. If you're wondering how to align your passions with purpose, this episode is for you.

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S2: E6: Phil & Melissa Roe: “Stepping Out in Trust”

Most of us look forward to a day when we might slow down. But in a season when most people wind down after reaching the apex of their careers, Phil & Melissa Roe have chosen a different path. They bought a farm just outside of Franklin, TN and transformed it into a spiritual retreat center.  Tune in as we talk about what it looks like to trust God when you feel called to unexpected new ventures.

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S2: E5: Jennifer Pagel: “To be Seen, Known & Loved”

Is there any experience more powerful than being seen? In this episode I talk with Jennifer Pagel, a forever friend of 26 years, who has been on a ministry path all her life. We'll discuss the healing that comes from being fully seen, fully known, and fully loved. Jennifer is warmth, wisdom, beauty, and light. It thrills me to get to share her with you.

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S2: E4: Dr. Norma Burgess: “Born to be a Trailblazer”

How often have you personally vowed to seize the day? My long-time mentor, Dr. Norma Burgess, has shown me the value of living this out repeatedly—and the story of how this episode happened is proof of her own teaching. She moved to Costa Rica, but when she came sharply to my mind one recent Tuesday, I texted her. Just so happened she was in Nashville...only for the day, with one open hour. In this conversation, Norma shares why saying yes matters. If you've been waiting for the "right time" to pursue something, this conversation will challenge you.

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S2: E3: Brooke O’Dell: “Come Gather at the Table”

How does it feel to be invited to a welcome, well-set table? Brooke O'Dell (former owner of Sugar Drop Sweet Supply Shop) learned the art of hospitality in a small Texas town—and now she's bringing that warmth to Nashville. In this episode, Brooke shares how her passion for gathering people was cultivated, why creating beautiful moments around food matters, and how her sense of style and kitchen wizardry come together to help others celebrate well. Whether you're a baker, party planner, or simply someone who loves creating memorable gatherings, this conversation will inspire you. 

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S2: E2: Ami McConnell: “Standing in the Gap”

What does it take to bridge the gap between a writer's vision and a reader's heart? Ami McConnell, a book doctor widely appreciated in publishing circles, has been doing exactly that since she was young. Connection is Ami's passion. In 2018, she launched WriterFest Nashville, bringing together creatives of book, song, and film. She’s also the host of the WriterFest with Ami McConnell podcast. If you're a writer or love the craft of storytelling, this conversation is for you.

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S2: E1: Season Two: "Undercurrents"

Is there an underground current running through your life? You know—a theme that continues to bubble up in your work, your conversations, your passions? In this Season 2 opener, I share why fiction writing and teaching practical truths are the resonant notes in my own lifesong, and I invite you to start listening for yours. Talk to anyone long enough, and you'll notice undercurrents that emerge. If you've ever wondered what connects the dots of your own story, this conversation is for you.

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S1: E7: Aidan Miller: “A Story of Gladness & Hunger”

What does it look like when someone discovers their gifts early and starts using them to make waves in the world? Though Aidan Miller is young, it's clear God has been shaping him for something meaningful. When I invited him on the podcast, I told him: "I love hearing how God works in people's lives, and the joy I imagine He feels in watching us give back to the world the very gifts He has given to each of us." His story captures the heart of what G&H is all about—and it's the perfect close to our first season.

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S1: E6: Tom Bancroft: “The Making on an Animator (x2)”

What's the difference between copying and truly creating? Tom Bancroft, a former Disney animator now putting Nashville on the animation map, shares why moving past the copying stage is essential for any artist. Tune in to hear how early influences shaped the remarkable careers of Tom and his twin brother Tony (also a Disney animator, hence the (x2) in the title) in this one-of-a-kind partnership: twins with a talent to draw. If you've ever loved a Disney movie, this is your episode. Check out Tom & Tony's new animated film, Light of the World.

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S1: E5: The Arcadian Wild: “The Invitation of Song”

What does it mean to be an artist partnering with God? In this episode, I sit down with Isaac Horn and Lincoln Mick of The Arcadian Wild—Lincoln is my son-in-law—to explore themes of invitation, creativity, and leaning into the talents we've been given. You'll hear the story behind Spring: Wake, the song that scores this podcast, and discover what it looks like to create art that honors both craft and calling. 
 

S1: E4: Alan Griggs: “A Legacy of Candor”

Ever wonder what it takes to earn journalism's highest honors—or what comes after? Alan Griggs has won three Peabody awards, interviewed a U.S. President, and hired Robin Roberts early in her career. But despite his storied accomplishments, Alan remains disarmingly candid and approachable. Now in a second career as a professor, Alan continues to pay his hard-earned wisdom forward.  

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S1: E3: Dr. Leonard Allen: “A Truth-seeker Weaned on Tiger’s Milk”

Some people are born to be truth-seekers. Leonard Allen is one of them, a man shaped by early influences like Tiger’s Milk. Today, Leonard uses his own influence to ensure the pursuit of religious and intellectual truth continues strong for the next generation. If you've ever wrestled with questions of faith and meaning, you'll enjoy this conversation. 

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S1: E2: Kendra Gensemer: “Lessons in Rebuilding”

What do you do when life throws you a major curveball? My friend Kendra picked up a hammer and knocked out a wall. The renovation of her new home became a powerful metaphor for rebuilding her life—and the subject of a book she's writing. If you've ever faced a season of unexpected change, Kendra's story will resonate.

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S1: E1: Season One: "Buechner, Moses & Me"

Ever feel like life is happening to you instead of being shaped by you? Crafting a life plan can ensure you live with intention. In this episode, we'll talk about the power of good posture and consider the vocational story of Moses. When God asks Moses, "What's in your hand?" it holds a lesson that could change how each of us sees what we already have to offer.