Selene Covarrubias: From Carson & Leno to Simon & Schuster—Embracing Change & Finding Your Path

Isn’t it fascinating to consider all that shapes a person’s vocation?Think of old Hollywood glamour, and you’ll begin to glimpse the world Selene Covarrubias was born into. While she now works in publishing with Simon & Schuster, her journey began in television, working behind the scenes on both The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and later with Jay Leno.Media has been a constant thread throughout Selene’s life, but her story is anything but linear. With seasons spent living in Mexico, the United States, Rome, Paris, and Spain, her journey reflects a deep love for travel, culture, and storytelling—along with a willingness to embrace change when life takes unexpected turns.In this episode of Gladness & Hunger, we explore Selene’s fascinating background, the early influences that shaped her path, and how she found her way from television into the world of books. Along the way, she shares what it looks like to adapt, to take risks, and to remain open to opportunities you never planned for.This conversation is a reminder that calling is often formed over time—through experiences, relationships, and the courage to keep moving forward, even when the path isn’t clear.If you’re navigating change, considering a new direction, or simply wondering how your story is unfolding, Selene’s journey offers both perspective and encouragement.0:00 Intro1:02 Meet Selene Covarrubias4:14 Between Two Worlds: Growing Up Across Cultures6:39 Backstage: Lessons from Early Hollywood8:33 Creativity, Motherhood, and Meaningful Work11:55 Midroll on Mentorship12:41 Leaps of Faith: Moving Countries & Reinventing Yourself20:43 Critical Skills: Adaptability & Self-Kindness22:26 Habits that Ground You & Staying Open to Change24:39 Final Thoughts and Advice: Take Risks & Reach OutFollow Leanne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leanne.w.smith/Visit Leanne's Website: https://www.leannewsmith.com/Contact Leanne's team @ [email protected]