A Meaningful Life
Welcome to A Meaningful Life, a podcast dedicated to helping you live a beautiful and deeply meaningful life. I’m Kellie Smith and I believe that when we live with intention and appreciation for the world around us, a life full of joy, peace, and purpose is possible. This podcast was created to bring you meaningful conversations for a meaningful life. If you enjoy what you discover in these podcasts, please rate, review, and share it with someone you love.
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Healing Beyond the Body w/ Dr. Will Bulsiewicz
12/07/2025
Healing Beyond the Body w/ Dr. Will Bulsiewicz
In this profoundly moving episode, I sit down with my dear friend Dr. Will Bulsiewicz (aka. Dr. B) to discuss Chapter 8 of his upcoming book Plant Powered Plus – a chapter he calls his "masterpiece" and the very reason he wrote the book. Dr. B is a board-certified gastroenterologist, New York Times bestselling author, and internationally recognized gut health expert. But in this conversation, we go far beyond nutrition science to explore the miraculous healing he's witnessed when treating the physical body reaches its limits. What We Discuss: The Missing Piece in Healing Why some patients don't improve despite doing "everything right" Dr. B's transformative experience working with pioneer Dr. Douglas Drossman in a unique clinic that spent 2+ hours with each patient How trauma leaves a "wound on the soul" that impacts physical health through the gut-brain axis The Science of Connection Why isolation is literal torture and loneliness affects health more than smoking or excessive alcohol How our microbiome thrives on routine and how stress suppresses gut health The parasympathetic vs. sympathetic nervous system and why we're living in "sympathetic overdrive" Beyond the Physical Dr. B's personal journey of healing, including his complex relationship with his father and a divinely-timed final visit Why human connection and spiritual connection are biological requirements, not wellness "hacks" The God-shaped hole in every human heart and why faith isn't separate from science Practical Wisdom How to begin addressing unhealed trauma The importance of doctor-patient relationships and what's broken in our healthcare system Why we need to return to "the old ways" of connection, community, and purpose This conversation beautifully weaves together medical expertise, personal vulnerability, and spiritual truth. Dr. B reminds us that we are not just "bags of cells," we are souls with bodies, and true healing requires us to address both. One of my favorite quotes from this episode is when Dr. B says, "Healing comes in many forms and from many places. It's not just what we eat." Whether you're struggling with chronic health issues, feeling isolated in our modern world, or simply seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers an invitation to explore what might be missing in your own healing journey. Connect with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz: Instagram: Website: Circle Community - : Join for monthly challenges, cooking sessions, and direct interaction with Dr. B (releasing January 13, 2026) Connect with Kellie Instagram: Have a thought or question this conversation stirred in you? I’d love to hear from you. .
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22. 16 Years of Marriage - What We Have Learned
11/08/2025
22. 16 Years of Marriage - What We Have Learned
16 years of marriage. Countless lessons learned. In this honest and heartfelt episode, I sit down with my husband, Greg, on our anniversary to reflect on sixteen years of marriage. We talk about the lessons, the laughter, and the hard-earned wisdom that’s shaped who we are today as partners and individuals. Marriage, like life, is rarely perfect. It takes communication, humility, and a willingness to grow both individually and together. In this conversation, Greg and I open up about how we’ve learned to navigate challenges, keep curiosity alive, and stay grounded in love and faith through every season. Whether you’re married, dating, or simply curious about what makes relationships last, this episode offers a glimpse behind the curtain of real life partnership - the real, the funny, and the deeply meaningful parts. You’ll hear: Why communication (even when it’s uncomfortable) is the foundation of everything How a very tough season became a turning point in our marriage The importance of shared values, curiosity, and faith as anchors in marriage How we balance individuality, parenting, and partnership through changing seasons The small rituals that keep our connection strong 💬 Have a thought or question this conversation stirred in you? I’d love to hear from you. . 🌟 If this episode made you reflect on love, marriage, or growth, share it with someone you care about. You never know who might need the reminder that every strong relationship is built one honest conversation at a time.
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21. Faith, Freedom, and Finding My Way
10/20/2025
21. Faith, Freedom, and Finding My Way
In this deeply personal episode, I open my heart to share a part of my story I’ve never fully spoken aloud before: my evolving relationship with God. For years, I wrestled with how to talk about faith. I worried I didn’t have the “right” words. But what I’ve come to realize is that God doesn’t want perfection. He wants connection. And today, I’m answering the call to share how that connection has shaped my life, healed old wounds, and grounded me in peace. Whether you’ve experienced religious confusion, spiritual yearning, or are simply feeling called to explore your faith more deeply — this episode is for you. You’ll hear: My childhood experiences with religion (the good, the hard, and the confusing) How I’ve unlearned fear-based beliefs and re-learned love-based truth What it’s really looked like to rediscover church, scripture, and Jesus as an adult A reminder that your path to God doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s 💬 Have a question, thought, or something this episode stirred in you? I’d love to hear from you. Submit your questions or feedback here: 🌟 If this episode moved you, please share it with someone you love. You never know who might be quietly searching for the connection their heart has been missing.
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20. Meaningful Message: Financial Freedom
01/27/2025
20. Meaningful Message: Financial Freedom
Financial freedom sounds glorious, doesn’t it? The idea of generating a large passive income or building enough wealth to finally have the freedom to do all the things we dream of. It’s the promise sold by so many “programs” out there—most of which aren’t exactly aligned with living a life of true meaning and purpose. But what if financial freedom isn’t what the modern world tells us it is? Recently, I had an epiphany that completely changed my perspective. I now see financial freedom in a whole new light—one where money circulates freely into and out of your life, allowing you to live “financially free” right now and in a way that feels fulfilling and intentional. If you give this solo episode a listen, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did it change your perspective at all? Submit your questions or feedback here: RESOURCES: Book: CONNECT: Kellie's Instagram:
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19. Loving God Out Loud w/ Pastor Joel Delph
12/12/2024
19. Loving God Out Loud w/ Pastor Joel Delph
Pastor Joel Delph, the Mount Pleasant Campus Pastor at Seacoast Church, has a remarkable gift for connecting with people and bringing faith to life in a way that’s as inspiring as it is fun. His faith-filled joy and infectious spirit are redefining what it means to live and love God out loud. Joel’s journey is rooted in his family’s story of immigration from Guyana and shaped by his own struggles and triumphs with faith. In this episode, he shares his wisdom and perspective on living a life of meaning, integrating faith into daily routines, and navigating the challenges of the world we live in today. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed this incredible discussion. RESOURCES: Joel’s Podcast: CONNECT: Joel’s Instagram: Kellie's Instagram:
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18. Informed Decisions: Navigating ICU Choices with Nurse Megan
03/11/2024
18. Informed Decisions: Navigating ICU Choices with Nurse Megan
In this thought-provoking and empowering episode, we discuss a topic of profound importance—navigating the complex and emotionally charged decisions often faced in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Seasoned ICU Nurse Megan Kelly, brings a wealth of experience from her 14 years as an ICU nurse, witnessing firsthand the challenges and dilemmas that patients and their families endure in these critical moments. Megan shares heartfelt stories and insights, shedding light on the distress and confusion many families experience when making healthcare decisions under pressure. The conversation explores the significance of being prepared for such scenarios, emphasizing the necessity of having conversations about personal wishes and healthcare directives well in advance, and offers advice on having those difficult discussions. Through Megan's expert guidance, you will be empowered with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the ICU decision-making process, ultimately making these daunting situations a bit more manageable. I hope you enjoy this powerful discussion that could one day make a world of difference for you or your loved one. RESOURCES: Nurse Megan IG: Kellie's IG:
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17. Social Media Mindfulness
10/26/2023
17. Social Media Mindfulness
What we put in front of our face and allow into our mind matters. It’s estimated that the average American spends . Considering the estimated life span of , that translates into 6 years and 8 months of our life that we will spend on social media. SIX YEARS!!!!!! My question to you is - what are you going to do with that time? In this episode we discuss: Auditing your social media feed Editing your social media feed Curating a feed that is inspiring, motivational, and enjoyable to consume How to be the example for our children RESOURCES: Kellie's IG:
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16. Setting Intentions for a Meaningful Life
10/18/2023
16. Setting Intentions for a Meaningful Life
What are intentions really? How are they different from goals? Why are they important? And how can we live them? In this solo episode, I am talking about INTENTIONS because I believe setting intentions is a powerful tool for living a purposeful and meaningful life. By gaining clarity, focus, and motivation, you can align your actions with your values and aspirations and get on track to living a life that feels good. In this episode we discuss: What intentions are How they differ from goals Why they are so important How to set intentions How to live them And so much more… RESOURCES: Kellie's IG:
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Creating A Restful, Simplified Home w/ Chelsea Dasinger
10/03/2023
Creating A Restful, Simplified Home w/ Chelsea Dasinger
If you walk through the door to your home and feel overwhelmed with all of the clutter, stuff, kids toys, chores to do, etc. then this podcast is for you! Chelsea Dasinger, mom of two and creator of on Instagram, has mastered the art of creating a restful and simplified home through decluttering and building intentional systems so her family can feel good in their home. In this episode, Chelsea shares her wisdom on creating a space where families can thrive in a way that feels manageable and nurturing. It's not about perfection but about creating a space that is "easy to tidy, not always tidy." Join us as we delve into the secrets of curating a space where peace and serenity reign, replacing overwhelm with a sense of calm and well-being. In this episode we discuss: The story behind her decluttering journey The mindset shifts we can make in order to create a home that feels restful and peaceful The systems we can put in place to make spaces more managable Where to start decluttering your home How to overcome the overwhelm, emotional attachment to things, and scarcity mindset And so much more... Chelsea's insights are sure to inspire you to create a haven that truly feels good to live in. RESOURCES: CONNECT: Chelsea’s Instagram: Kellie's Instagram:
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Subtle and Sass: It's So Much More Than A Dress w/ Renee Smith
09/12/2023
Subtle and Sass: It's So Much More Than A Dress w/ Renee Smith
Tucked away in the charming little corner of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, there's a remarkable woman who's redefining what it means to own a women's boutique and crafting an entirely unique shopping experience for women. Renee Smith is the founder of Subtle and Sass and her story is about so much more than fashion; it's about resilience, empowerment, and a relentless pursuit of her dreams. In this episode we discuss: The story behind Subtle & Sass How she build a business admist COVID, a divorce, and transitioning to life as a single mom The top things that have made her business successful How to step out of fear so you can chase your heart's whispers Her own spiritual journey and how we can all connect deeper with ourselves And so much more... Her story is one of triumph, beauty, and inspiration and I hope this conversation serves you as you navigate life and business. RESOURCES: CONNECT: Renee's Instagram: Kellie's Instagram:
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13. Making Big, Important Decisions
08/24/2023
13. Making Big, Important Decisions
Whether it's a career change, a major life transition, or a significant financial commitment, making big important decisions can be daunting and overwhelming. We go back and forth in our minds and weigh all the pros and cons and we eventually come to the point where a decision has to be made. So how do we make these big important decisions that can affect the trajectory of our whole lives? In this episode, I am sharing some strategies and insights that have helped me make those decisions with confidence and clarity.
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12. Love Never Dies w/ Chris McMurray
04/20/2023
12. Love Never Dies w/ Chris McMurray
Grief. Death. Cancer. These are things no one likes to talk about. These are hard things. But I recently met a woman that made these things a little easier to talk about. In fact, her story is so profoundly inspiring and full of lessons I believe every person can benefit from. It is my belief, the more we talk to eachother about these things the more we can support and offer eachother hope as we walk through grief, death, and cancer in our own lives. In this episode we discuss: The life lessons learned from her son's cancer journey What grief really looks like and how to move forward How to stay connected to our loved ones that have passed And so much more... I hope this conversation serves as a reminder of what really matters in life and has as much of a positive impact on your life as it did mine. RESOURCES: Book: by Christina McMurray YouTube Channel: w/ Chris & Gene McMurray
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11. Ultimate Anxiety Tool Kit: 10 Life Changing Tools
02/08/2023
11. Ultimate Anxiety Tool Kit: 10 Life Changing Tools
“What does anxiety feel like again?” Can you believe that that is the first thing that came to my mind when I sat down to think about what I wanted to say at an upcoming talk I was invited to give on overcoming anxiety!? It’s INSANE how far I have come and proof that the tools I am sharing with you today work! It doesn’t matter what your struggle is in life, you MUST have a tool box full of things you can turn to help you get through it. I hope by sharing the tools that have changed my life, you will be able to make a positive change in yours as well! There is also a little surprise at the end of this podcast, where I take you through a wonderful relaxation exercise. The intention is to show you what is available to you at any time and demonstrate how just a few moments of stillness can have a positive impact on your day.
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10. Ten Lessons I Learned In 2022
12/29/2022
10. Ten Lessons I Learned In 2022
This is the first podcast I have produced in a WHILE but it is my goal to really put some focus on this show in the new year and because I love it so much and learn so much with you! Since it’s been so long since I recorded my last episode,I thought it would be great to share with you the "10 Things I Learned in 2022" as a way of catching up a bit and sharing with you the lessons I have learned while my mic has been off in hopes there is a piece in here that is meaningful or helpful to you. The topics we will discuss in this episode include: How to say goodbye to a loved one in a meaningful way What postpartum women REALLY need The importance of sharing your art How to handle a great unsettling in life Why you shouldn't "wait for retirement" How I jumpstarted my fitness routine The hobby that proved to be too much The kitchen product that changed my life What life is like without gluten or alcohol What has helped me build my relationship with God I hope you will take some time to reflect on the lessons you learned in 2022 and share them with me too! Resources E2M: Clemson Home & Garden Help Line: .
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9. Living Freely And Lightly w/ Emily Lex
07/06/2021
9. Living Freely And Lightly w/ Emily Lex
How would you like your life to be lived freely and lightly? Doesn’t that just sound delightful? Emily Lex is an artist, author, and blogger and she is showing us how to do just that in her new book called Freely and Lightly: God’s Gracious Invitation to A Life Of Quiet Confidence. In this episode we discuss: What it means to live freely and lightly How to stop looking to the world to find your value How to make space in your life for meaningful things and deeper conversations with God Her own spiritual journey and how we can all develop a trusting relationship with God And so much more... So if you ever find yourself asking: “Who Am I?” “Am I Enough?” “Am I Too Much?” “What Am I Here To Do?” This podcast may just help you find some answers. RESOURCES: by Emily Lex by Timothy Keller CONNECT: SPONSORED BY: : heirloom quality journals to help you preserve the moments that matter most.
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8. Having The Audacity To Be Yourself w/ Jen Coken
03/18/2021
8. Having The Audacity To Be Yourself w/ Jen Coken
Jen Coken is a keynote speaker, Imposter Syndrome expert, author, humorist, and international executive coach on a global mission to empower C-Suite-level executives and their teams to have the audacity to be themselves and to lead without limits. Jen has been leading women to personal and professional success for over two decades and in this episode we discuss: What it means to truly be present and listen to that quiet voice inside Finding answers in the stillness How to handle the 2x4’s that life throws at you - including her own cancer diagnosis The importance of FEELING our feelings How SHE helps her executives step into their own greatness And SO...MUCH...MORE Whether you are a top-level executive or the CEO of your household, this episode is jam packed with advice to help you live an authentic and fulfilling life!
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7. Mastering Modern-Day Motherhood w/ Gervase Kolmos
01/10/2021
7. Mastering Modern-Day Motherhood w/ Gervase Kolmos
Did anyone else transform into an entirely different person when they became a mother? Is anyone truly prepared for the biological, chemical, and physical changes that take place within our bodies when we become mothers? Now let's throw in a pandemic (and everything else we are experiencing right now) and motherhood becomes a whole new level of hard. We are living in unprecedented times. Our lives and routines have been completely flipped upside down and while every I know mother has upped her game (and is crushing it by the way), but how are we doing really? If you’re anything like me, you may be finding yourself tired, overwhelmed, and feeling a whole new kind of mom guilt. Of course we love our children more than we could possibly explain but we are all being called to rise to a whole new occasion and in doing so, probably not making enough time to take care of ourselves. I know I’m guilty of it. It's something I struggle with every day. So that is the exact reason I wanted to bring you . She is a mindset coach SPECIFICALLY for mamas and she is phenomenal. She is open and honest about her own struggles as a mom of three. She also provides such a beautiful perspective on modern day motherhood and shares actual tools to help us. She gives us PERMISSION to prioritize ourselves and explains the importance of not doing this alone. Motherhood is hard but there are things we can all do to make it a little easier. I hope you enjoy my interview with the one and only Gervase Kolmos.
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6. The Gift of TIME and How to Make the Most of It w/ Father John Giuliani
12/14/2020
6. The Gift of TIME and How to Make the Most of It w/ Father John Giuliani
“When I think of presents people give at Christmas or birthdays, the great gift that God gives us is time. The present. We can do so much good with it if we put our minds to it and do not waste it.” This show is all about having meaningful conversations to help you live a meaningful life and that’s exactly what this episode with Father John Giuliani is all about. This is the first time I’ve ever interviewed a priest. I didn’t really know what to expect but I’ve met this man three times in my life and just knew he had a lot of goodness to share. We talk about: What he believes our purpose here on Earth is Why he doesn’t like putting “labels” on religion How to connect with a power higher than ourselves How to thrive in a season that is dark for so many Death and how to talk to our kids about it The secret to living a joyful and meaningful life And SO much more... Father John has been an ordained priest for more than 40 years. He is originally from Rhode Island and has done amazing things for the communities of Fort Mill and Rock Hill South Carolina. Although I myself am not Catholic nor a member of his church, EVERY time I encountered him through celebrations and funerals within my own family and extended family I always captivated by him. You can feel his deep connection with God just by being around him. It’s a special experience and one I want to share with you in this episode.
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5. Making Holidays More Meaningful
11/16/2020
5. Making Holidays More Meaningful
Would you like your holidays to become LESS STRESSFUL and MORE MEANINGFUL? These are the exact steps you can take to bring more joy, peace, and FUN into such a wonderful part of the year.
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4. Extracting The Extraordinary w/ Whitney McDuff
11/10/2020
4. Extracting The Extraordinary w/ Whitney McDuff
Get your notebook ready because this interview is PACKED with incredible takeaways that could change your life! Whitney McDuff is an entrepreneur, speaking coach, best-selling children’s author, mother, wife, daughter, and friend and is the epitome of someone living a meaningful life. She is known for extracting the extraordinary out of people and giving them the tools to share their story with confidence. Today you will hear how SHE is bringing meaning to her own life and work, how she is navigating grief after the loss of her best friend and beloved mother, and some things YOU can do to live a better and more meaningful life.
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3. Overcoming Trauma & Anxiety
11/05/2020
3. Overcoming Trauma & Anxiety
I felt called to share this information with you because my journey to overcome PTSD and anxiety wouldn't have been possible without all of the others out there that have shared their story. In addition to the work I was doing with my doctors, their stories gave me hope. Their stories gave me new ideas and techniques to try. Their stories made me feel like I wasn't alone. So that's what I want to do for you today. This is my story. This is what worked for me. And I hope, in some small way, it helps you too.
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2: Five Steps To Start Living A Meaningful Life
11/05/2020
2: Five Steps To Start Living A Meaningful Life
What does it mean to live a meaningful life? How can YOU get to that place? In this podcast I show you the exact steps you can take RIGHT NOW to start living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
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Finding Peace After Pain
10/26/2020
Finding Peace After Pain
For the very first episode of A Meaningful Life, I share my own deeply personal story with you, how I got to this place of purpose, and why I feel a sense of urgency to offer hope and inspiration to others.
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