Building the Inner You with Michael Smith

Michael Smith

Behind every strong leader is an inner story most people never see. Building the Inner You is a leadership wellness podcast focused on the real work that happens beneath the surface, the setbacks, self-doubt, burnout, faith struggles, and quiet moments that shape who we become. Each episode features ordinary people with extraordinary stories who speak openly about the internal battles they’ve faced and the healthy rhythms that helped them grow stronger. This isn’t a highlight reel or a perfection story. It’s honest conversation about resilience, compassion, transparency, and generosity and what it truly takes to lead well from the inside out. If you’re navigating pressure, responsibility, or personal growth while trying to stay grounded, this podcast is for you. Because perfection isn’t a prerequisite. Because resilience is beautiful. And because leadership begins within.

Episodes

  1. Jul 23

    The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything | Stephanie Murray

    What if the biggest obstacle to your purpose isn't failure... but fear? In this powerful episode of Building the Inner You, Michael Smith sits down with Stephanie Murray for an authentic conversation about resilience, identity, faith, and the courage to keep moving forward when life doesn't go according to plan. Stephanie shares the defining moments that shaped her journey, the lessons she learned through adversity, and how choosing purpose over comfort transformed her life. If you've ever questioned your next step, wrestled with self doubt, or needed a reminder that your story still matters, this conversation is for you. 🔥 In this episode you'll discover: • How to overcome fear and self doubt • Why adversity often prepares you for your greatest purpose • Practical ways to build resilience every day • The mindset shifts that create lasting transformation • How faith, purpose, and perseverance work together 💬 Question for you: What is one challenge that ultimately made you stronger? Share your story in the comments. We'd love to hear it. 👍 If this conversation encouraged you: ✅ Like this video ✅ Subscribe to Building the Inner You ✅ Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode ✅ Share this with someone who needs hope today 🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations that strengthen your mind, faith, leadership, and purpose. #BuildingTheInnerYou #StephanieMurray #MichaelSmith #Podcast #Motivation #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #Resilience #Purpose #Leadership #MentalStrength #Faith #GrowthMindset #SuccessMindset #Inspiration #LifeLessons #OvercomeFear #MotivationalPodcast #PersonalDevelopment #Entrepreneur #LeadershipDevelopment #PositiveMindset #NeverGiveUp #Transformation #Hope #ChristianPodcast #ViralPodcast #Trending #YouTubePodcast

    The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything | Stephanie Murray
  2. Jul 10

    From Infertility to Joy | Jacob Larson

    Full YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFrh_4mpMiQ What if the breakthrough you've been praying for begins with the courage to be vulnerable? Most people keep their faith hidden at work because they're afraid of being judged. Jake Larson chose a different path and discovered that authentic faith doesn't push people away. It invites them into conversations that can change lives. In this powerful episode of Building the Inner You, Jake shares the deeply personal journey of living boldly for Christ in the workplace while walking through one of life's most painful seasons: infertility. With honesty, humility, and hope, he reveals how God met him in grief, strengthened his marriage, and transformed suffering into purpose. You'll discover: * How to share your faith at work with confidence and humility * Why vulnerability is one of the greatest strengths a leader can have * How God works through disappointment, unanswered prayers, and uncertainty * Practical ways to have meaningful spiritual conversations without being preachy * How faith can become your anchor when life feels overwhelming Jake's story is a reminder that following Jesus isn't about having all the answers. It's about trusting God in the middle of the questions. If you've ever felt pressure to separate your faith from your career, struggled through loss, or wondered where God is in your hardest moments, this conversation will encourage and challenge you to live with greater courage and deeper trust. Your story isn't over. Your pain isn't wasted. And your faith may be the light someone else desperately needs. 👉 If this episode encouraged you, please: ✅ Like this video ✅ Subscribe to Building the Inner You ✅ Share it with someone who needs hope today ✅ Leave a comment: Where have you seen God show up in your hardest season? Every conversation is designed to help you build a stronger, more resilient Inner You. #FaithAtWork #ChristianLeadership #BuildingTheInnerYou #Faith #WorkplaceMinistry #Leadership #Vulnerability #ChristianPodcast #Jesus #Hope #InfertilityJourney #Marriage #Purpose #Resilience #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #SpiritualGrowth #KingdomLeadership #ChristianLiving #Podcast

    From Infertility to Joy | Jacob Larson
  3. Jun 12 ·  Bonus

    The Making of a Therapist PT.3 | Anthony Ward Jr., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

    What does therapy actually look like? In this special bonus episode of Building the Inner You, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Anthony Ward Jr. takes host Michael Smith through a real therapy style conversation, offering listeners a unique behind the scenes look into the therapeutic process. This is not a scripted interview. It is an authentic conversation filled with thoughtful questions, self reflection, emotional insight, and practical wisdom designed to help viewers better understand themselves and the value of therapy. Whether you have considered therapy, are currently in therapy, or simply want to grow emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, this episode provides a powerful example of what healing conversations can look like. In this episode: ✔ What therapy actually feels like ✔ The power of self awareness and reflection ✔ Why asking the right questions matters ✔ Understanding emotional patterns and personal growth ✔ How a trusted thought partner can help you see yourself differently ✔ Practical insights for your own journey of healing and development 🎙 Guest: Anthony Ward Jr., LCPC 🎙 Host: Michael Smith If this conversation encouraged you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share with someone who could benefit from it. Follow Building the Inner You: 📸 Instagram: @BuildingTheInnerYou 🎥 YouTube: @BuildingTheInnerYou 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and other major podcast platforms. Remember: Growth begins when we are willing to do the inner work. #BuildingTheInnerYou #MentalHealth #Therapy #PersonalGrowth #SelfAwareness #HealingJourney #Counseling #Therapist #Podcast #EmotionalWellness

    The Making of a Therapist PT.3 | Anthony Ward Jr., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  4. Mar 6

    The Hidden Resilience Secret That Turns Heartbreak Into Strength | Grantly Scott

    Most people think love and wholeness come from finding the perfect partner — guess what? It’s all about you first. In this candid convo, Grantly opens up about navigating life’s storms, dodging loneliness, and discovering that self-love is the real power move. Spoiler: it’s not about waiting for someone to complete you, but about being complete first—and yes, that takes patience, prayer, and a whole lot of self-care. He shares raw truths about battling heartbreak, keeping hope alive through music, faith, and theater, and the day-to-day grind of staying balanced physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Expect stories of resilient love, lessons from failed relationships, and practical hacks—like tracking your sleep or binge-watching Shakespeare—to keep you fueled when life hits the fan. You’ll discover: how to stay motivated when love seems miles away, why gratitude can elevate your entire mood, and the importance of reaching out—whether to God, friends, or that stranger in the grocery line. If you’ve ever felt like you’re going through it alone or are tired of the clichés, this episode is your reminder: you’ve got what it takes to bounce back, rebuild, and love yourself fiercely. Perfect for anyone stuck in a season of waiting, healing, or just trying to breathe again. Because life’s storms? They’re just proof you’re still in the fight—and the story isn’t over yet. Ready to turn your struggle into strength? Hit play. Guest Credibility: Grantly is a man who’s faced heartbreak, health scares, and faith struggles but keeps showing up with a smile and a purpose-driven life. His journey from New York to self-discovery will inspire you to embrace your own season of growth.

    The Hidden Resilience Secret That Turns Heartbreak Into Strength | Grantly Scott
  5. Feb 18

    You Are Not Breaking. You Are Being Built. | Mike Moore

    Most of us face storms so fierce that even the bravest want to throw in the towel. But Mike’s story? It’s a wild ride of loss, health crises, betrayal, and setbacks that could make anyone want to hide under the covers. Yet, somehow, he keeps showing up—strong, hopeful, and still smiling. Want to know his secret? Turns out, resilience isn’t about avoiding trouble; it’s about how you bounce back after it hits hard. In this raw and real conversation, Mike pulls back the curtain on surviving eviction, a stolen car, serious health scares oh, and facing down the darkness with nothing but faith, humor, and a few poems. He shares the pivotal moments that sparked his almost-miraculous comeback, revealing the small shifts and big revelations that kept him going when everything screamed stop. You’ll discover: how a simple spiritual truth can carry you through (it’s not about prayer alone), why letting go of perfection opens the door to real growth, and the power of self-confidence when all seems lost. Plus, Mike drops priceless advice on fighting despair—laughing through the pain, finding purpose in pain, and refusing to stay stuck in the muck. If you’re tired of feeling battered by life but still crave hope, this episode is your wake-up call. Because whether you’re climbing from the ashes or just trying to keep your head above water, Mike’s story reminds us: resilience isn’t a superpower, it’s a decision. Ready to be inspired to fight another round? Hit play and remember, what you endure today shapes the strength you’ll carry tomorrow. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this. You might just find your own way to rise.

    You Are Not Breaking. You Are Being Built. | Mike Moore

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Behind every strong leader is an inner story most people never see. Building the Inner You is a leadership wellness podcast focused on the real work that happens beneath the surface, the setbacks, self-doubt, burnout, faith struggles, and quiet moments that shape who we become. Each episode features ordinary people with extraordinary stories who speak openly about the internal battles they’ve faced and the healthy rhythms that helped them grow stronger. This isn’t a highlight reel or a perfection story. It’s honest conversation about resilience, compassion, transparency, and generosity and what it truly takes to lead well from the inside out. If you’re navigating pressure, responsibility, or personal growth while trying to stay grounded, this podcast is for you. Because perfection isn’t a prerequisite. Because resilience is beautiful. And because leadership begins within.