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Discover real, redemptive conversations on the Living on Incline podcast. Join host John Eklund each week as he sits down with guests who share powerful stories of recovery, faith, and personal transformation. Keep climbing. #1 FAITH-DRIVEN PLATFORM FOR PERSONAL GROWTH & PURPOSE Not Just a Podcast. A Path Forward. Living on Incline Helps You Move Through What You’re Stuck In One Honest Episode at a Time. Discover real stories of healing, growth, and faith Access tools to help you break cycles and move forward Be the first to know about podcasts, events, and new resources Join a growing movement of people who refuse to settle SUBSCRIBE Sponsored by Recovery Alive Living on Incline means pushing into your full God-given potential! Recovery Alive provides a pathway to healing from the struggles and soul-wounds holding you back from living your life to the fullest. Start your recovery journey today! visit recoveryalive.com Listen on: Start Listening Today Latest Podcast Episodes This Is More Than a Podcast. It’s a Movement. What We’re About You Weren’t Made to Stay Stuck. Living on Incline was built for people who know there’s more — more to heal, more to discover, more to become. This is a space for real growth, honest stories, and faith that moves you forward. Whether you’re navigating recovery, stepping into your purpose, or just learning how to keep going — you’re not alone. What Living on Incline Offers Podcast Conversations For Inspiration and Overcoming Limitations. Daily Incline For Motivation and Exponential Growth. Recovery Alive For Healing What's Broken. Retreats & Events (coming soon) For Connection and Next-Level Transformation. Why “Incline”? The name “Living on Incline” was inspired by a moment that changed everything for our founder, John Eklund. Years ago, he came across an article about the Manitou Incline — a steep, relentless trail in Colorado that climbs 2,000 vertical feet in under a mile. Something about it stuck. Not just the trail itself, but what it symbolized: the kind of path that’s hard, uncomfortable, and intentional — but ultimately transformative. John saw it as a metaphor for life and faith. Real growth doesn’t happen when we avoid struggle. It happens when we walk through it — with honesty, with purpose, and with God. That’s what Living on Incline is all about. LEARN MORE "You Were Made for the Mountain. No more flat living. No more mediocrity. It’s time to live on incline." - John Eklund COMING MARCH 5TH PLAY TEASER 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

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 We Walked Through a Facility That’s Changing Lives Every Day | Sampson Correctional Facility Living on Incline Nov 27, 2025 In Part 2 of our powerful visit to Sampson Correctional Institution, Living on Incline host John Eklund walks the halls with Warden Robert VanGorder, going beyond interviews into real, raw moments inside a correctional facility that’s redefining redemption. In Part 2 of our powerful visit to Sampson Correctional Institution, Living on Incline host John Eklund walks the halls with Warden Robert VanGorder, going beyond interviews into real, raw moments inside a correctional facility that’s redefining redemption. From classrooms and chapels to mentorship meetings and faith-based programs, this episode introduces us to the people and purpose shaping a radically different environment behind the fence. We meet residents pursuing college degrees, staff committed to leadership development, and program coordinators focused on real transformation—not just time served. This is not just a tour. It’s a firsthand look at how Sampson is building better men from the inside out. ⸻ 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 #013 Preaching While in Pain: The Side of Ministry Nobody Talks About #012 An Extraordinary Journey: From Egyptian Orphan to Compassionate Pastor #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates

Learn the story behind the Living on Incline podcast and meet host John Eklund. Discover the mission, values, and heart behind each conversation—helping people rise through recovery, faith, and purpose. About Living on Incline Living on Incline is a Christ-centered growth platform created to help people push past their spiritual, emotional, and physical limitations and unlock their full potential. Whether through stories of transformation, mindset tools, or soul-renewing retreats, our mission is to guide you up the hill — toward purpose, freedom, and fullness of life. WATCH ABOUT LIVING ON INCLINE ABOUT VIDEO Play Video Meet John Eklund Founder & Host of Living on Incline John Eklund is a recovery advocate, speaker, founder of Recovery Alive and faith-driven leader who’s spent years walking alongside people as they rebuild their lives. With a deep passion for human transformation, John launched Living on Incline to explore a central question: What are we truly capable of when we stop coasting and choose to grow on purpose? Inspired by a story from Runner’s World about the Manitou Incline — a steep trail in Colorado that symbolizes spiritual and personal struggle — John began to see the power of the metaphor: true change happens on the uphill. This platform is for anyone ready to break cycles, grow through difficulty, and pursue the version of themselves God created them to be. LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN Let’s Keep Moving Forward! Whether you’re listening to an episode, sharing your story, or just looking for hope — you’re not alone in this. Start Listening | Meet the Community | Submit Your Story

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

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. ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

< 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

< Back #005 She Faced Prison, Addiction, and Homelessness… Now She Builds Recovery Homes Living on Incline Oct 2, 2025 In this powerful episode of Living on Incline, John Eklund sits down with Jessica Hicks—a woman who once lived in a homeless shelter, faced prison time, and battled addiction, but is now a successful real estate developer building recovery homes that change lives. In this powerful episode of Living on Incline , John Eklund sits down with Jessica Hicks —a woman who once lived in a homeless shelter, faced prison time, and battled addiction, but is now a successful real estate developer building recovery homes that change lives. Jessica’s story begins with trauma, fear, and chaos—witnessing violence as a child, slipping into addiction as a teen, and enduring multiple arrests and overdoses. But this isn’t a story about staying broken. It’s a story about transformation through faith , discipline , and a commitment to helping others climb out of the same pit she once lived in. If you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or just need proof that redemption is possible—this is your episode. Chapters / Timestamps: Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments (1) Log In Write a comment Write a comment Sort by: Newest Gracefillsmycup Oct 17, 2025 God is so good, Jessica is pushing the limits and inspiring others! I remember you through your sister, and God knows you are doing great things! So proud of you! 🩷 Like Reply Latest Podcast Episodes #013 Preaching While in Pain: The Side of Ministry Nobody Talks About #012 An Extraordinary Journey: From Egyptian Orphan to Compassionate Pastor #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates

< Back #003 I Lost My Sister to Addiction and Chose to Fight Back Living on Incline Sep 4, 2025 In this powerful episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Grayson Johnson, Miss Johnston County and founder of The Hope Project, to talk about the heartbreaking loss of her sister to opioid addiction—and the healing mission she’s carried ever since. In this powerful episode of Living on Incline , host John Eklund sits down with Grayson Johnson, Miss Johnston County and founder of The Hope Project, to talk about the heartbreaking loss of her sister to opioid addiction—and the healing mission she’s carried ever since. From competing in pageants as a teenager to launching a statewide initiative focused on ending stigma, Grayson shares the raw story behind her smile. She opens up about childhood trauma, family struggles, and the burden of silence in small-town culture—and how she’s now using her voice to advocate for change, recovery, and reform. Whether you’ve been touched by addiction or just need a reminder that pain can lead to purpose, this one will stick with you. 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 #013 Preaching While in Pain: The Side of Ministry Nobody Talks About #012 An Extraordinary Journey: From Egyptian Orphan to Compassionate Pastor #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates

< Back #004 They Lost Everything… Then Built a Recovery Movement Living on Incline Sep 11, 2025 In this gripping and deeply personal episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Casey and Tisha Temple, a married couple and the CEO/COO of Recovery Alive, to explore their radical transformation from addiction, homelessness, suicide attempts, and incarceration—to purpose-driven lives helping others heal. In this gripping and deeply personal episode of Living on Incline , host John Eklund sits down with Casey and Tisha Temple , a married couple and the CEO/COO of Recovery Alive , to explore their transformation from addiction, homelessness, suicide attempts, and incarceration—to purpose-driven lives helping others heal. Casey opens up about surviving a suicide attempt and learning to live with depression instead of running from it. Tisha shares her raw story of heroin addiction, sex work, and the spiral of destruction that followed—until she found faith, community, and a second chance. Their honesty will stop you in your tracks. Their mission will inspire you to keep going. Their story proves that no matter how far you fall, you’re never too far gone to rise again. Chapters / Timestamps: 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 #013 Preaching While in Pain: The Side of Ministry Nobody Talks About #012 An Extraordinary Journey: From Egyptian Orphan to Compassionate Pastor #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates

< 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 #013 Preaching While in Pain: The Side of Ministry Nobody Talks About #012 An Extraordinary Journey: From Egyptian Orphan to Compassionate Pastor #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates

< Back #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates Living on Incline Jan 8, 2026 In this episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Sarah Coates, the visionary founder of One-Eighty Counseling. While many see her as a gifted clinician, this conversation peels back the curtain on the "entrepreneurial itch" that drove her to leave the security of a school counseling career to build a mental health empire. In this episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Sarah Coates, the visionary founder of **One-Eighty Counseling**. While many see her as a gifted clinician, this conversation peels back the curtain on the "entrepreneurial itch" that drove her to leave the security of a school counseling career to build a mental health empire. Sarah shares the raw reality of "going rogue," the dopamine rush of taking risks, and her unique "Pinball Machine" theory on how God steers us back on track even when we feel lost. We also dive into her powerful concept of the **"Reputation Rescue"**—the belief that while society may label you, God is the one who truly knows and protects your name. Connect with Sarah Coates: One-Eighty Counseling:*[ https://one-eightycounseling.com/](https://one-eightycounseling.com/) Show More Previous Next comments debug Comments (1) Log In Write a comment Write a comment Sort by: Newest clkandjlk@yahoo.com Jan 08 Excellent interview with information about Christian therapy in the Triangle area, especially Johnston County. Impressed with the dedication of Sarah Coates to provide these services with professional staff. Like Reply Latest Podcast Episodes #013 Preaching While in Pain: The Side of Ministry Nobody Talks About #012 An Extraordinary Journey: From Egyptian Orphan to Compassionate Pastor #011 The Entrepreneurial Itch: Building a Multi-Location Therapy Empire | Sarah Coates