This podcast episode explores the connection between personal experiences, writing, and belief in the divine. It delves into the author's experiences with chronic pain and how it influenced their writing, as well as the challenges of conveying physical pain in writing. The episode also discusses the relationship between pain, faith, and belief in the divine, and the struggle of finding the right language to describe this belief. It delves into the speaker's past experiences with violence and their journey of personal transformation through love. The episode also touches on the importance of presence, the transformative nature of fiction, and the challenges of writing about family members or close friends. It concludes with discussions on the author's memoir and the emotional impact of running and family bonds. The episode also features discussions on the movie "The Dead Don't Hurt" and advertisements for various NPR podcasts and newsletters.