Gladness & Hunger with Leanne W. Smith

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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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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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. 

Check out the Banner & Company podcast the Demetria hosts @ https://nashvillebanner.com/banner_and_company/

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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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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.  

Check out a new 2-D animated film just released called Light of the World: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGd9zO_lvU4 

Light of the World tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of a young Apostle John. It is co-directed by Tom, and Tony served as animation director and co-head of story on the project. Early reviews are calling it an instant classic, a film for the whole family that has the power to change people. 

Check out the Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast at this link: https://bancroftbros.libsyn.com/webpage/category/general 

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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.

Learn more about Patrick and his own podcast at http://patrickpodcast.com/about/.

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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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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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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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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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