Each of us seems to have a life song,  a theme we’re drawn to again and again. Often, it’s born from pain.In this season-opening episode of Gladness & Hunger, Leanne does something different. Instead of asking the questions, her intern flips the script, inviting Leanne to reflect on the heart behind the podcast, the season’s theme, and the journey that shaped her calling.This conversation explores why Gladness & Hunger exists, who it’s for, and how stories have the power to feed the soul, strengthen faith, and help people keep moving forward. Leanne shares how a season of spiritual direction training through Creighton University helped clarify this year’s theme “It’s an inside-out job” and why transformation must begin within before it can flow outward.Together, we explore:The purpose and audience of Gladness & HungerWhy sensitivity, hope, and contribution matterHow pain often gives birth to callingLeanne’s lifelong love of words and storiesWhat brings joy, creativity, and meaning in this season of lifeHow God uses weakness, not perfectionThe interpersonal qualities that matter most when working with othersThe daily habits that sustain faith, peace, and perseveranceLeanne reflects honestly on fear, perfectionism, comparison, and distraction, and how consistent spiritual practices like prayer, journaling, Sabbath, gratitude, and attentiveness to God have reshaped her inner life. She reminds listeners that God does not require perfection, only faithfulness, the willingness to get up and try again.The episode closes with Leanne sharing her hope for the season ahead and reading a poem by Ted Loder, inviting listeners to consider how their own painful experiences might be redeemed into something healing and hopeful.If you’re seeking inspiration for your vocational journey, longing for encouragement, or wondering how faith can be formed from the inside out, this season premiere sets the tone for what’s to come.0:00 Introduction0:59 Meet Kianna Winey: Turning the Mic on the Intern4:41 The Heart of the Podcast: Purpose, Audience & Hope6:48 Season Theme: “It’s an Inside-Out Job”11:26 Leanne’s Story & Love of Words14:48 What Brings Joy in This Season of Life16:03 Looking Back: How God Prepares Us Through Weakness18:03 Qualities Professors Look for in Students20:53 Letting Go of Perfectionism and Finishing Creative Projects26:44 Habits That Sustain Faith, Creativity & Peace31:18 A Prayer About Surrender, Honesty, and Being Found by GodFollow Leanne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leanne.w.smith/ Visit Leanne's Website: https://www.leannewsmith.com/