Saul: The Anointed

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Chosen People

Episode: Saul – The Anointed

Date: May 6, 2026
Host: Pray.com

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode of The Chosen People offers a dramatic retelling of the biblical story of Saul’s anointing as the first king of Israel. Set against the backdrop of ancient Benjamin, the narrative explores themes of leadership, humility, destiny, and divine purpose, providing a vivid exploration of what it means to be chosen by God for greatness—even amid doubts and shortcomings.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

Prelude and Context (01:42 – 03:08)

• Transition from Judges to Kingship: The beginning sets the stage, recapping Israel’s demand for a human king. The prophet Samuel, feeling rejected, receives reassurance from God:
  • “Surely they have not rejected you. They have rejected me… Obey their voice and make them a king.” (02:22, God/Divine Voice)
• God’s plan for Saul is foreshadowed as He tells Samuel that He will send a man from Benjamin to be king.

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Saul’s Introduction and Character (05:35 – 07:44)

• Saul’s Background: Saul, son of Kish, is introduced as a physically impressive and admired young man, working diligently on his father’s land.
  • “Saul was a striking figure, taller than any man in his tribe, with dark, intelligent eyes and the chiseled features of a warrior.” (05:35, Narrator)
• Community Admiration: Saul is the subject of local fascination, particularly among women. His reputation as both strong and handsome precedes him.

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The Search for the Lost Donkeys (07:44 – 10:12)

• Initiating the Quest: Saul’s father orders him to find the missing donkeys, emphasizing the urgency:
  • “Don’t be a fool, boy. The fence can be repaired anytime. But if you don’t find those donkeys soon, they may be lost or stolen.” (08:01, Kish)
• Saul’s Thoughts: Seeking the animals offers Saul relief from his father’s scrutiny:
  • “Even donkey chasing has its rewards. I get to be free from my father’s hounding.” (09:21, Saul)

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Encounter with the Seer (10:12 – 13:56)

• Decision to Seek Samuel: After fruitless searching, Saul’s companion Tavi suggests consulting the local seer (Samuel), overcoming practical obstacles like the need for a gift:
  • “I have a solution to that as well, Master Saul… I never go anywhere without it. It’s always good to be prepared.” (10:59, Tavi)
• Saul’s Reluctant Charisma: Their interaction at the city well further highlights Saul’s social ease and growing humility.

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Saul Meets Samuel (16:41 – 20:47)

• First Impressions: Samuel recognizes Saul immediately—having been forewarned by God. He senses both promise and immaturity in Saul.
  • “This Saul of Kish was a man apart… His voice carried an air of command, but there was something untested in him, an immaturity that Samuel suspected even Saul himself did not recognize.” (16:43, Narrator)
• Prophetic Call: Samuel tells Saul that he is the hope of Israel. Saul protests, citing his humble origins:
  • “I am of the tribe of Benjamin, the least of the tribes of Israel… I’m a nobody.” (20:12, Saul)
  • Samuel rebukes this false modesty, urging Saul to accept his significance:
    • “False modesty does not suit a man of your stature. Your father is a man of means… God does not waste his anointing on men without purpose.” (20:25, Samuel)

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The Feast and Restless Night (21:42 – 23:56)

• Public Honor: At Samuel’s invitation, Saul is given the place of honor at a feast, signifying his selection before others.
• Personal Doubt: That night, Saul cannot sleep, troubled and contemplative about Samuel’s words—“the hope of Israel.”

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The Anointing (24:01 – 26:08)

• Private Commission: Samuel takes Saul aside, carrying out a quiet, intimate anointing with oil by a stream.
  • “The Lord has anointed you. You will reign over his people, Saul. You will deliver them from their enemies... But when the spirit comes upon you, Saul, you will become a man.” (25:23–25:52, Samuel)
• Transformation Awaiting: Saul leaves changed, filled with both confusion and destiny.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• God’s Sovereignty over Human Choice:

  • “Even in their wicked ways, my purposes shall prevail.” (02:22, God/Divine Voice)

• Saul’s Reluctant Destiny:

  • “What would I do without you, Tavi?” (11:22, Saul)
  • “Your donkeys are safe, Saul, son of Kish. They were found not long after you departed from your father’s house.” (18:59, Samuel)

• Prophetic Clarity:

  • “How do I know you came to ask about the donkeys? How do I know your name? Stupid questions. I’m a seer. It’s my job to see such things. Now it’s your job to listen.” (19:21, Samuel)

• On Leadership & Humility:

  • “Call me Samuel. I’m a prophet, but I’m still a man. Remember, young Saul. No title elevates you beyond humanity. We are all but dust, and to the dust we shall all return.” (22:52, Samuel)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 01:45 – 03:08: God's instruction to Samuel; setting up Saul’s selection
• 05:35 – 09:19: Saul introduced; begins quest for donkeys
• 10:12 – 13:56: Tavi suggests seeing Samuel; meeting at the well; meeting Samuel
• 16:41 – 20:47: Samuel recognizes and challenges Saul’s humility; foreshadows kingship
• 21:42 – 22:49: Feast at high place and a lesson in honor
• 22:49 – 23:09: Samuel’s humility lesson
• 24:01 – 25:23: Samuel anoints Saul privately
• 25:23 – 26:08: Prophecy about Saul’s transformation and destiny

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Episode Tone and Style

The storytelling is rich, immersive, and contemplative, laced with both reverent drama and wry humor (especially in the camaraderie between Saul and Tavi). Dialogue is natural, often using biblical language but with a contemporary sensibility that makes ancient events relatable.

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For Listeners

This retelling deepens the familiar narrative of Saul’s rise to king, spotlighting not just the overt spiritual drama but the very human struggle with insecurity, identity, and calling. If you're curious about the spiritual relevance of ancient tales in modern life, this episode offers both inspiration and thoughtful questions about how we respond when destiny calls—especially when we feel unworthy.

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Notable Quote to Remember:

“God does not waste his anointing on men without purpose.”
– Samuel, 20:25

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For further episodes and more immersive biblical storytelling, listen to The Chosen People podcast on the pray.com app or your favorite podcast provider.

Transcript

[Podcast Host / Narrator]

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[Saul / Narrator]

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[Jana Kramer (Advertiser)]

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[Samuel / Prophet]

Foreign

[Prayer Leader / Religious Host]

Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant. Matthew 20:26 Dear Lord, you teach us that true greatness comes through humility. Help us lead as you did by serving others with grace, patience and compassion. When pride urges us to seek recognition, remind us that honor in your kingdom is found in putting others first. Give us the courage to lead with integrity and the strength to carry the burdens of those we serve. Fill us with wisdom so our guidance reflects your heart. May our words and actions point others not to ourselves, but to you, the true servant king. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Chosen People. Remain here for a dramatic story inspired by the Bible. Be sure to leave a review and share your journey of faith today.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Previously on the Chosen People.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Samuel, you have led us well, but your years are advancing. And though I do not want to insult you, your sons do not walk in your ways. With no one to take your place. The elders and I request that you you appoint a king to judge us. What do kings bring? Tyranny, chains, burden? Is it another pharaoh you would have over?

[Saul / Narrator]

You

[God / Divine Voice]

heed the people's voice in everything they ask.

[Samuel / Prophet]

What? But why?

[God / Divine Voice]

Surely they have not rejected you. They have rejected me and desire that I should not reign over them. Obey their voice and make them a king. Take heart, Samuel, for I will guide you in this. Even in their wicked ways, my purposes shall prevail. Tomorrow at this time, I will send you a man from Benjamin. He is the one who will reign over the people, the one they have begged for. He shall restrain them, deliver them from their enemies, and bear the weight of their ingratitude.

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

the Plains of Benjamin lay beneath the midday sun, a patchwork of green fields and shadowed hills that stretched toward the borders of Ephraim. In the heart of these lands stood the estate of Kish, a wealthy farmer and merchant whose name carried weight among the Benjamites. His lands were vast, his herds numerous, and his lineage respected, at least by Benjamite standards. By the stables, Saul the son of Kish, worked under the merciless heat, his bare arms glistened with sweat as he hefted a new wooden post and drove it into the earth with a solid thud. The fence had been broken the night before, and several of his father's donkeys had escaped into the hills. Saul's broad shoulders strained as he worked. The curves of muscle beneath his sun browned skin tremored with each thud. Saul was a striking figure, taller than any man in his tribe, with dark, intelligent eyes and the chiseled features of a warrior. His reputation preceded him wherever he went. Men admired his strength. Women whispered of his handsomeness. Even now. As Saul carried the broken post to the woodpile, a group of young women passed by with clay jars balanced on their heads. They slowed their steps, giggling behind their hands as they watched him work.

[Podcast Host / Narrator]

A hinowom is a lucky woman to be betrothed to such a. Oh, magnificent creature. Oh, what I wouldn't do to be his betrothed. My mother tried to arrange it, but Ahinoam beat us to the punch.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Saul, pretending not to notice the women's swooning, smirked to himself. He raised the axe high, its blade catching the sun, and brought it down with a sharp crack. His satisfaction was interrupted by the sound of his father's voice.

[Samuel / Prophet]

So what is the meaning of this? What in the Lord's name happened to this fence?

[Saul / Narrator]

Something must have spooked the donkeys last night. They broke the fence. I mean, I fixed it, but many of them are still missing. They must have likely wandered off into the hills.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Don't be a fool, boy. The fence can be repaired anytime. But if you don't find those donkeys soon, they may be lost or stolen. I swear, Saul, use your head. Take one of the workers and go after them before they stray too far.

[Saul / Narrator]

As you wish, Father. Tavi and I will leave immediately.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Saul tugged a loose shirt over his head and gathered his belongings. Into a leather satchel, he packed dried figs, bread, and a newly tanned water skin. He also took the seal of his father's household, a mark of ownership over the donkeys. Tavi, Saul's right hand man, joined him. Together they climbed into the hills surrounding the estate. The sun beat down on their shoulders as they passed through the countryside, calling out for the missing animals. The hours stretched on, and the search led them beyond Benjamin's borders into the hill country of Ephraim. Here, the land grew lush and fragrant with the blooms of early spring. A breeze carried the scent of wildflowers, and Saul paused at the crest of a hill, stretching his arms and taking a deep breath.

[Podcast Host / Narrator]

Hmm.

[Saul / Narrator]

Even donkey chasing has its rewards. I Get to be free from my father's hounding.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

For a few moments, Tavi chuckled but said nothing. They passed through the regions of Shalesha and Shaleen, stopping in each village to inquire about the donkeys. Saul's reputation as a fighter and leader preceded him. The villagers welcomed him warmly, and the women in particular seemed eager to linger in his presence. Saul greeted them all with humility, but in his heart, he relished the attention. Yet for all their searching, the donkeys remained elusive. By the time they reached the region of Zuf, the sun had begun its descent. Saul's steps slowed as weariness crept into his limbs.

[God / Divine Voice]

We should return.

[Saul / Narrator]

My father will begin to worry more for us than for the donkeys.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Tavi hesitated, shielding his eyes as he scanned the horizon. His gaze settled on a cluster of buildings nestled in the hillside.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Wait a second. I know this place. One of the merchants told me about a man of God who lives here. A seer. They say everything he speaks come to pass.

[Saul / Narrator]

Tabby, we lost our donkeys, not the Ark of the Covenant. Why would a seer of God care care about a few missing donkeys?

[Samuel / Prophet]

How would we know if we don't ask? We're already here. What harm could it do?

[Saul / Narrator]

Even if we go to him, we have nothing to offer. A man of God would expect a gift or an offering, right?

[Samuel / Prophet]

I have a solution to that as well, Master Saul.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Tavi rummaged through his belongings and pulled out a small piece of tattered cloth. As he unfolded it, Saul saw a quarter shekel of silver gleaming in the fading light.

[Samuel / Prophet]

I never go anywhere without it. It's always good to be prepared. I'll give it to the seer if it means we might find the donkeys.

[Saul / Narrator]

What would I do without you, Tavi?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Very little.

[Samuel / Prophet]

All that muscle left you with little

[Narrator / Storyteller]

room for a brain. Saul tucked Tavi under his arm and ruffled his hair. The two shoved each other, then jogged down to the city below. The city was nestled in the crook of a hill. As they descended the slopes, they came upon a well where several young women were drawing water into clay jars. Saul leaned against the stone rim of the well, his smile easy and disarming.

[Saul / Narrator]

Greetings, sisters. We've come to seek the Seer. Is he. Is he here?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

One of the women turned toward him, her eyes wide with surprise. In her haste to answer, she spilled water down her garment and flushed red. Her companions giggled as she fumbled with her jar. Saul, ever the charmer, offered her a cloth from his satchel. She took it with trembling hands, avoiding his gaze as she stammered yes, my Lord.

[Podcast Host / Narrator]

He is here. You must be swift though. He has come to the city for a sacrifice at the High Place. The people will not eat until he has blessed the feast.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Saul inclined his head in gratitude and turned toward the city gates. Tavi followed close behind.

[Samuel / Prophet]

That charm of yours can get you just about anywhere, can't it?

[Saul / Narrator]

We all have to work with the gifts we've been given.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

As they approached the base of the High Place, an old man in worn robes emerged from the shadows, his stride slow but purposeful. Saul stepped forward, his commanding presence impossible to ignore.

[Saul / Narrator]

Sir, do you know where we might find the Seer? We heard he's coming to make a sacrifice soon.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Who's asking?

[Saul / Narrator]

Saul, son of Kish.

[Samuel / Prophet]

And what do you want with the Seer?

[Saul / Narrator]

We were hoping he'd help us find my father's missing donkeys.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Donkeys? Do you really need a prophet to find a few donkeys? Are you really that helpless?

[Saul / Narrator]

We've looked everywhere else and I'd prefer not to return to my father empty handed. Can you please direct us to the Seer?

[Samuel / Prophet]

We have some silver to offer him.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The old man stopped and looked up at Saul, his weathered face unreadable. For a moment, the silence stretched between them.

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[Advertiser / Sponsor Voice]

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[Samuel / Prophet]

am who you seek.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel's eyes had seen many things. Wars fought for pride and vengeance, blood spilled over faith and folly, and men who claimed power in defiance of Heaven's will. Yet as Samuel stood at the city gates, gazing up at the man before him, a peculiar weight settled in his chest. This soul of Kish was a man apart. His stature alone spoke volumes. Broad shoulders, a chest that rose and fell with steady confidence, a face crafted to inspire loyalty. His voice carried an air of command, but there was something untested in him, an immaturity that Samuel suspected even Saul himself did not recognize. The Lord's voice had been clear the day before.

[God / Divine Voice]

Tomorrow at this time I will send you a man from Benjamin. He is the one who will reign over the people, the one they have begged for. He shall restrain them, deliver them from their enemies, and bear the weight of

[Narrator / Storyteller]

their ingratitude and Here he stood, Saul of Kish, bearer of a warrior's frame, yet a stranger to the kind of battle that would be test his soul. Saul cocked his head to the side, taking in Samuel with a perplexed look. No doubt Saul had expected more from such a renowned prophet. Saul had likely expected a grand figure clad in gold threaded robes, bearing jewels to proclaim his authority. What he saw was an old man in plain garb, his weathered face shadowed by the weariness of yellow years.

[Samuel / Prophet]

I am the seer you're seeking.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel shrugged and turned on his heel.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Come with me to the High Place. You will share a meal with me and in the morning I will tell you all that is in your heart.

[Saul / Narrator]

Great Seer, I came only to ask.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Your donkeys are safe, Saul, son of Kish. They weren't found not long after you departed from your father's house.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The words stopped Saul in his tracks. He turned to Tavi, who looked just as bewildered. Saul opened his mouth to ask the obvious question, but was cut off again.

[Samuel / Prophet]

How do I know you came to ask about the donkeys? How do I know your name? Stupid questions. I'm a seer. It's my job to see such things. Now it's your job to listen.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Come.

[Samuel / Prophet]

I've been expecting you.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel pressed on. Saul padded briskly behind.

[Saul / Narrator]

What? What do you want with me?

[Samuel / Prophet]

It's not about what I want, but the people. As it turns out, you're the one whom the entire nation has been pining after the hope of Israel.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Saul had an inkling of what Samuel was getting at. Groans for a king had been heard from every corner of Israel. Saul replied with feigned humility.

[Saul / Narrator]

I am of the tribe of Benjamin, the least of the tribes of Israel. My fathers clan is small. I. I'm a nobody.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel turned, his sharp gaze pinning Saul in place.

[Samuel / Prophet]

False modesty does not suit a man of your stature. Your father is a man of means. Your name is known among the tribes and you stand here before me, head and shoulders above the rest. Do not speak as if you're not. God does not waste his anointing on men without purpose.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Saul said nothing, and for once his commanding posture faltered. Samuel may have been an older, smaller man, but Saul somehow felt small walking beside him. They continued up the hill without looking back. The high place was alive with the flicker of torches and the hum of voices. The smell of roasted meat mingled with the fragrant herbs that burned in offering. Inside the large hall, 30 men reclined at a long wooden table, their murmured conversations ceasing as Samuel entered Saul followed the prophet hesitantly, his eyes scanning the room. The men stared at him with curiosity, some whispering to one another. Samuel ignored them all, leading Saul to the head of the table.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Shit.

[Saul / Narrator]

At the head.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel offered no explanation. The prophet merely gestured for Saul to take his place, then seated himself to the right. A servant brought the choicest portions of meat and bread, placing them before Saul with quiet reverence. Saul's appetite returned with the first whiff of the food, and though he tried to eat with decorum, his hunger betrayed him. Samuel, meanwhile, sat back, answering questions from the other men, but saying little to Saul himself. The seer's face was inscrutable, and Saul could not shake the feeling that he was being watched or judged. When the feast ended, Samuel led Saul and Tavi back into the city. The moon hung high in the night sky, casting silver light over the narrow streets. Samuel stopped before a small home, gesturing to the rooftop.

[Samuel / Prophet]

I have made a place for you to rest. In the morning, you will go on your way.

[Saul / Narrator]

Thank you, great Seer.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Call me Samuel. I'm a prophet, but I'm still a man. Remember, young song. No title elevates you beyond humanity. We are all but dust, and to the dust we shall all return.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel left unceremoniously, and the two companions scaled the stairs onto the roof. The beds on the roof were simple, nothing more than mats and a single lamp burning low at its head. Tavi lay nearby, snoring softly, but Saul remained awake. He stared at the moon, his heart restless. The words Samuel had spoken echoed in his mind. The hope of Israel. He could not sleep. Something was shifting within him, something he could not yet name. Dawn broke, casting the hills in golden light. Samuel roused Saul with a firm nudge.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Rise, Saul. It is time for you to go.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The three men walked toward the city gates, the streets stirring with the first signs of life. As they approached the edge of the city, Samuel tugged at Saul's sleeve.

[Samuel / Prophet]

Tell your servant to go on ahead. You and I must speak alone.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Saul obeyed, and Samuel led him to a stream that curved lazily around the city. The old man gestured for Saul to sit on a smooth stone by the water's edge. Then, from his robes, Samuel withdrew a flask of oil. Saul watched in silence as Saul. Samuel uncorked the flask and lifted it high. His lips moved in a whisper, his words too soft for Saul to hear. It was not the kind of prayer Saul was used to. This was intimate and powerful. It was as if Samuel was speaking directly to someone, right there by his side. When the prophet's hand Steadied, he poured the oil over Saul's head. The fragrant liquid spilled down, soaking into his hair and trickling over his shoulders. Samuel placed his hands on either side of Saul's face, pulling him close until their foreheads nearly touched.

[Samuel / Prophet]

The Lord has anointed you. You will reign over his people, Saul. You will deliver them from their enemies. This oil is a sign of his favor, but his spirit will be the true mark of your calling. How can this be?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Samuel straightened, lifting Saul to his feet.

[Samuel / Prophet]

As you return home, signs will follow. They will confirm the Lord's hand upon you. But when the spirit comes upon you, Saul, you will become a man.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The prophet's words rang in Saul's ears as he walked away, the oil still clinging to his skin. He had come in search of donkeys. He was leaving with a destiny. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.

[Samuel / Prophet]

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

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[Advertiser / Sponsor Voice]

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Hey, did you know Dietz Watson has been family owned for over 85 years? To us, that means it's more than a business, it's personal. We make our premium meats and cheeses the right way, even if it's slower or inconvenient or hard. Because that's how you get the highest quality. If it's not good enough for our family, it's not good enough for yours. And while others cut corners corners, we keep raising the bar. So if you see the Dietz and Watson name, you'll know every slice has my family's seal of approval. Dietz, Watson. It's a family thing since 1939. I tell myself it's not about comparing. But then I start wondering, what can they lift? Are they adding more weight to their barbell than I am? And suddenly I'm not training. Then I realize my journey is not theirs. I've earned every step. So I smile. My smile is the ship shape resilience takes to keep me moving. To put more smiles out into the world. Colgate has supported female athletes for over 50 years with the Colgate Women's Games, the nation's longest running indoor track and field series for girls and women. Colgate, your smile is your strength.

You ever wonder how far an EV can take you on one charge? Well, most people drive about 40 miles a day, which means you can do all daily stuff no problem. Go to work, grab the kids at school, get the groceries and still have enough charge to visit your in laws in the next county. But they don't need to know that. And the best part? You won't have to buy gas at all. The way forward is electric. Explore EVs that fit your [e-mail]

[Podcast Host / Narrator]

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