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Daily Incline Aug 7, 2025 It's Messy A middle schooler’s messy first attempt at cleaning a fish turns into a powerful life lesson in humility, failure, and growth. What his dad said next stuck for life—and might just challenge how you see your own setbacks Read More

< Back #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction Living on Incline | Sam Quinones Jul 27, 2026 In this episode of *Living on Incline*, host John Eklund sits down with award-winning investigative journalist and author **Sam Quinones** (*Dreamland*, *The Least of Us*, *The Perfect Tuba*) for an unfiltered look into America’s addiction crisis. Sam spent decades covering over 200 murders as a crime reporter, tracking Mexican heroin cartels, and documenting the deadly rise of OxyContin, fentanyl, and synthetic methamphetamine. In this episode of *Living on Incline*, host John Eklund sits down with award-winning investigative journalist and author **Sam Quinones** (*Dreamland*, *The Least of Us*, *The Perfect Tuba*) for an unfiltered look into America’s addiction crisis. Sam spent decades covering over 200 murders as a crime reporter, tracking Mexican heroin cartels, and documenting the deadly rise of OxyContin, fentanyl, and synthetic methamphetamine. GUEST RESOURCES Sam Quinones Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Latest Podcast Episodes #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash

< Back It's Messy Daily Incline - It's Messy Aug 7, 2025 A middle schooler’s messy first attempt at cleaning a fish turns into a powerful life lesson in humility, failure, and growth. What his dad said next stuck for life—and might just challenge how you see your own setbacks It's Messy Daily Incline - It's Messy 00:00 / 01:42 I was a middle schooler the very first time I tried to “clean” a fish. There was nothing clean about it. It was a mess. The fish had expired some time ago, but when I was done with it, I couldn’t help but feeling sorry for it (or what was left of it!). My dad, who was overseeing my first fumbling attempt, laughed good-naturedly at the gory havoc I had wreaked. I remember getting angry. I remember feeling ashamed. I tossed the knife on to the bloody carving board, and mumbled out a frustrated excuse, “I think the knife is dull.” He didn’t say a thing but simply grabbed the next plump trout on the stringer and, with staggering speed, economy and grace of movement I saw him carve out two perfect boneless filets. He smiled, looked at me and said, “There is nothing wrong with this knife son.” Show More Previous Next "You Were Made for the Mountain. No more flat living. No more mediocrity. It’s time to live on incline." - John Eklund Join the Newsletter Ready to Start Living on Incline? Take your first step. Whether it’s listening, sharing your story, or simply signing up — you don’t have to do it all today. Just move. SUBSCRIBE

Discover the powerful story of John Eklund—founder of Recovery Alive and host of the Living on Incline podcast. From addiction and depression to faith, healing, and purpose, John’s journey inspires hope and transformation for anyone seeking recovery. Hello As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and ordained minister, John has been serving individuals and families as a social worker, counselor and pastor for nearly two decades. Having worked as a national director for one of the largest faith-based recovery programs in the world, John has helped hundreds of churches throughout the country start and grow recovery ministries. John currently works as a therapist, and serves as the director for Recovery ALIVE!, a Christ-centered 12 step program he founded in 2020. John lives in North Carolina with his wife of 23 years and his four beautiful daughters. My Story From brokenness to bold purpose, John Eklund’s story is living proof that no life is beyond restoration. John grew up in a world marked by instability, rejection, and pain. After his parents’ divorce, he moved from place to place, never staying long enough to feel safe. Abandonment became a familiar theme—at home, in school, and in his heart. As a young boy, he learned to disappear, to shape-shift, to survive. But deep inside, he was losing himself. The pain of his past eventually pulled him into a dark season of depression and alcoholism. Feeling completely alone and convinced his life had no value, John came to the edge—both literally and spiritually. In one final act of desperation, he cried out to God. And God answered. What happened next wasn’t just a moment—it was the beginning of a miracle. That cry for help turned into a journey of recovery, healing, and calling. John began rebuilding his life—one decision, one step, one act of surrender at a time. He became a husband. A father. A pastor. A leader. But more than anything, he became a man on a mission: to create a safe place for others to heal, just like he did. That mission became Recovery Alive—a Christ-centered, 12-step recovery movement that now reaches across the country. Through it, John helps people discover the power of vulnerability, the beauty of community, and the freedom that comes from real, lasting transformation. Today, John continues to walk the recovery journey himself. He’s honest about the struggles, passionate about the process, and full of hope for those still in the fight. He’s not just teaching recovery—he’s living it. Through his work with Recovery Alive and the Living on Incline podcast, John is helping people everywhere know the truth: your pain doesn’t disqualify you. It prepares you. And healing is possible—one step at a time. Contact I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect. john@recoveryalive.com

Explore real stories of transformation through Living on Incline Docs. These short documentaries highlight powerful journeys of recovery, resilience, and purpose—capturing what it means to live on incline. Real Stories. Real Struggles. Real Growth. Living on Incline Docs We’re taking the Living on Incline mission even further — off the mic and into real life. Living on Incline Docs is a new documentary series capturing the raw, unfiltered journeys of people who have chosen the hard road, faced adversity, and grown through it. From recovery and redemption to leadership and legacy, these stories will move you, challenge you, and remind you of what’s possible when you live on incline. COMING SOON! Submit Your Story to Living on Incline Docs Have you faced the uphill climb — and kept going? We’re creating a documentary series that tells raw, honest, faith-filled stories of transformation. If you’ve walked through addiction, loss, recovery, breakthrough, or any moment where life demanded more from you — we’d love to hear it. We’re looking for: Stories of overcoming adversity through faith and grit Moments of radical transformation or healing Leaders, parents, workers, dreamers — real people with real journeys Honest accounts of what it means to live on incline Whether it’s something you’ve conquered or something you’re still walking through, your story matters — and it could encourage someone else to keep climbing. Ready to share your journey? SUMBIT YOUR STORY

< Back 008 This Correctional Facility Is Creating Leaders, Not Just Inmates Living on Incline Nov 13, 2025 In this extraordinary episode of Living on Incline, we go behind bars at Sampson Correctional Institution, a prison that’s turning incarceration into transformation. From college degrees and reentry coaching to emotional healing and leadership development, this facility is doing something few others are: believing in the people inside. In this extraordinary episode of Living on Incline, we go behind bars at Sampson Correctional Institution, a prison that’s turning incarceration into transformation. From college degrees and reentry coaching to emotional healing and leadership development, this facility is doing something few others are: believing in the people inside. Join host John Eklund as he sits down with three key leaders who are changing the future of incarceration: • Robert Van Gorder – Facility Warden II • Charles Wooten – Facility Case Manager & Reentry Coordinator Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Latest Podcast Episodes #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash

< Back #007 From 911 Calls to Saving Lives: This Paramedic Is Rebuilding Communities Living on Incline Oct 30, 2025 Tara Tucker is not your average paramedic. She’s on a mission to revolutionize how first responders handle mental health, addiction, and crisis care—because for her, it’s personal. In this powerful episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Tara, a behavioral health community paramedic, to talk about her boots-on-the-ground work bridging emergency response and long-term recovery. From opioid overdose calls to faith-based outreach events, Tara is meeting people where they are—and helping entire communities heal. Tara Tucker is not your average paramedic. She’s on a mission to revolutionize how first responders handle mental health, addiction, and crisis care—because for her, it’s personal. In this powerful episode of Living on Incline , host John Eklund sits down with Tara, a behavioral health community paramedic, to talk about her boots-on-the-ground work bridging emergency response and long-term recovery. From opioid overdose calls to faith-based outreach events, Tara is meeting people where they are—and helping entire communities heal. What started as a career in EMS turned into a life calling after losing someone close to her to overdose—and nearly losing her own son to addiction. Tara’s story is raw, inspiring, and a masterclass in what it means to live on mission. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when faith, community, and action collide—this is it. Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Latest Podcast Episodes #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash

< Back #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail Living on Incline | Chris Budnick Jul 14, 2026 What happens to the people who are too broken for a standard homeless shelter? In this high-stakes interview, recovery expert Chris Budnick pulls back the curtain on a brutal systemic paradox: standard institutional shelters automatically disqualify the exact individuals trapped under the influence, forcing a volatile cycle between first responders and emergency rooms. From his raw personal battle with "baseline pain" as a teenager to managing one of the most successful peer-led recovery ecosystems in North Carolina, Chris exposes why society's approach to addiction fails—and reveals the radical blueprint required to help people truly flourish. What happens to the people who are too broken for a standard homeless shelter? In this high-stakes interview, recovery expert Chris Budnick pulls back the curtain on a brutal systemic paradox: standard institutional shelters automatically disqualify the exact individuals trapped under the influence, forcing a volatile cycle between first responders and emergency rooms. From his raw personal battle with "baseline pain" as a teenager to managing one of the most successful peer-led recovery ecosystems in North Carolina, Chris exposes why society's approach to addiction fails—and reveals the radical blueprint required to help people truly flourish. 🔔 Subscribe for more high-end, cinematic interviews on exploring our full potential and overcoming the odds. CHANNELS MENTIONED: Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Latest Podcast Episodes #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash

Find quick answers to common questions about the Living on Incline podcast. Learn how to listen, watch, subscribe, contact the team, and get involved in the movement. Frequently asked questions 1. What is Living on Incline? Living on Incline is a podcast and platform created by John Eklund that helps people grow through what they’re going through — emotionally, spiritually, and personally. It’s built for anyone tired of surface-level answers and ready to step into deeper, more honest growth. 2. Is this just a podcast? No — Living on Incline is more than a podcast. It’s a space for real stories, practical tools, community, and creative projects like our upcoming documentary series. Everything we create is designed to inspire movement and transformation. 3. Who is John Eklund? John is the founder and host of Living on Incline and Recovery Alive. With a background in recovery, leadership, and spiritual growth, John is passionate about helping people move forward in the middle of their mess — not just after it’s all cleaned up. You can learn more about him Meet John 4. Where did the name ‘Living on Incline’ come from? The name was inspired by a steep mountain trail in Colorado called the Manitou Incline. John came across an article about it years ago, and it stuck — not as a fitness challenge, but as a metaphor: real growth happens when we stop avoiding discomfort and start walking through it with intention. 5. What kind of topics do you cover on the podcast? We talk about recovery, identity, purpose, grief, faith, trauma, transformation, failure, resilience, and what it looks like to live with depth and honesty. Every conversation is grounded in real experience — not polished performance. 6. How can I listen to the podcast? You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or right here on our website. Just head over to the Our Podcast page to check out the latest episodes. 7. Is this a faith-based podcast? Yes — but not in the traditional, preachy sense. Living on Incline is grounded in spiritual values and shaped by John’s personal faith, but it’s not about religion or theology. It’s about real conversations, personal transformation, and the deeper questions we all face. Whether you’re rooted in faith, wrestling with it, or just curious — you’re welcome here. 8. What is Living on Incline Docs? COMING SOON! It’s our original docuseries — featuring powerful, real-life stories of people who’ve walked through pain, loss, and major life shifts, and found meaning on the other side. It’s raw, inspiring, and will be in production soon. 9. Can I share my story? Yes — if you’ve walked through something hard and found growth, purpose, or healing on the other side, we’d love to hear about it. Visit our Submit Your Story page to tell us more. 10. How do I stay in the loop? Join our email list. We’ll send you weekly encouragement, podcast updates, and early access to retreats, events, and new content. You can subscribe at the top right of the page. 11. Will there be live events or retreats? Yes — we’re currently building out experiences for people who want to unplug, reflect, and reconnect. If you’re looking for something deeper than just content, make sure you’re on our list to hear when retreats launch. 12. Can I support the podcast or donate? We’re building toward that. In the future, there will be ways to support through merch, memberships, or donations. For now, the best way to help is to listen, subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs it. 13. Do you accept guests or collaborations? Absolutely. We’re always open to connecting with people who align with our message. If you or someone you know has a story or idea that fits, head over to our Submit a Story page. 14. I filled out the contact form — when will I hear back? We try to respond within 3–5 business days. If your message is time-sensitive, please make a note of that so we can prioritize it. 15. Is there a private community or membership group? We’re working on it. We want to build a space that feels safe, honest, and real. In the meantime, the best way to stay connected is through our email list and social channels.

< Back #018 The 70% Success Rate: A New Blueprint for Teen Sobriety | Leah Wright Living on Incline Apr 16, 2026 In this powerful episode of Living On Incline, Leah Wright, founder of Wake Monarch Academy, shares her harrowing journey through her son’s addiction to heroin. From the devastating moment of seeing her child in handcuffs to the infuriating battle with insurance companies that claimed his addiction was not bad enough, Leah’s story is a testament to a mother’s relentless love and the power of surrender. Leah explains the staggering statistics of teen relapse and why traditional high schools often set students up for failure. Now, as the founder of the first recovery high school in the Triangle, she is providing a lifeline for families trapped in the cycle of substance abuse. In this powerful episode of Living On Incline, Leah Wright, founder of Wake Monarch Academy, shares her harrowing journey through her son’s addiction to heroin. From the devastating moment of seeing her child in handcuffs to the infuriating battle with insurance companies that claimed his addiction was not bad enough, Leah’s story is a testament to a mother’s relentless love and the power of surrender. Leah explains the staggering statistics of teen relapse and why traditional high schools often set students up for failure. Now, as the founder of the first recovery high school in the Triangle, she is providing a lifeline for families trapped in the cycle of substance abuse. In this episode, we discuss: - The Golden Hour of recovery and why it matters. Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Latest Podcast Episodes #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash

< Back #016 Why Pastors Are Exhausted and Afraid to Admit It + It’s exhausting Living on Incline Mar 18, 2026 In this episode of Living on Incline, John Eklund sits down with Pastor Daryl Clark for a raw conversation about church leadership, burnout, recovery, mental health, race, culture, and what it really means for the church to be the church. Daryl opens up about 25 years of ministry, the pressure pastors carry, why preaching is only a small part of the job, and how loving people has to matter more than image, ego, or performance. They also get into hard but necessary topics: church nationalism, the tension between black church and white church, pastoral insecurity, sabbaticals, therapy, trauma, vulnerability in the pulpit, and why recovery ministries often fail when church leadership has not done its own healing work. This is an honest, gospel-centered episode for pastors, church leaders, and anyone wrestling with faith, healing, and the future of the church. In this episode of Living on Incline, John Eklund sits down with Pastor Daryl Clark for a raw conversation about church leadership, burnout, recovery, mental health, race, culture, and what it really means for the church to be the church. Daryl opens up about 25 years of ministry, the pressure pastors carry, why preaching is only a small part of the job, and how loving people has to matter more than image, ego, or performance. They also get into hard but necessary topics: church nationalism, the tension between black church and white church, pastoral insecurity, sabbaticals, therapy, trauma, vulnerability in the pulpit, and why recovery ministries often fail when church leadership has not done its own healing work. This is an honest, gospel-centered episode for pastors, church leaders, and anyone wrestling with faith, healing, and the future of the church. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:00] Intro and Daryl Clark’s 25 years of pastoral ministry Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Latest Podcast Episodes #025 Ex-Crime Reporter Exposes Cartels, Big Pharma, and the Unexpected Antidote to Addiction #024 Why the Modern Shelter System is Built to Let Addicts Fail #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash