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

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

< Back #023 How to Fix a Broken Prison System | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash Living on Incline | Kurtis Taylor & Lateisha Thrash Jul 2, 2026 Why is life after prison so incredibly difficult, and why do 83% of formerly incarcerated individuals end up back in the system? In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the raw realities of prison reentry, recidivism statistics, and what it actually takes to rebuild a life from scratch. We are joined by executive leaders Kurtis Taylor and Lateisha Thrash, who share their deeply personal stories of transformation, faith, and humility. From overcoming the stigma of incarceration to fighting for systemic criminal justice reform, this conversation exposes the flaws in the current system and highlights the "organic reentry" models that are dropping recidivism rates to 10% or less. If you want to understand the true meaning of redemption, surrender, and what it takes to change prison culture, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss. Why is life after prison so incredibly difficult, and why do 83% of formerly incarcerated individuals end up back in the system? In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the raw realities of prison reentry, recidivism statistics, and what it actually takes to rebuild a life from scratch. We are joined by executive leaders Kurtis Taylor and Lateisha Thrash, who share their deeply personal stories of transformation, faith, and humility. From overcoming the stigma of incarceration to fighting for systemic criminal justice reform, this conversation exposes the flaws in the current system and highlights the "organic reentry" models that are dropping recidivism rates to 10% or less. If you want to understand the true meaning of redemption, surrender, and what it takes to change prison culture, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss. 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

< Back #009 One Man’s Story of War Trauma, Addiction, and God’s Rescue | John Williamson Living on Incline Dec 4, 2025 In this jaw-dropping episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Army veteran John Williamson, whose story of resilience, trauma, and redemption will leave you speechless. From surviving a devastating tank accident in Iraq to wrestling with addiction and mental health back home, John’s journey proves that even when life breaks your body—your soul can still rise. He flatlined in combat. Battled addiction. Survived a stroke. And planned his suicide—until God intervened. In this jaw-dropping episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Army veteran John Williamson, whose story of resilience, trauma, and redemption will leave you speechless. From surviving a devastating tank accident in Iraq to wrestling with addiction and mental health back home, John’s journey proves that even when life breaks your body—your soul can still rise. You’ll hear about his near-death experience, years of opioid dependency, the tragic loss of his fiancée, and the powerful moment in a church lobby when a simple trash can became a turning point for his life. Now paralyzed on his left side but fully alive in purpose, John is helping others through Recovery Alive—and his story is a testament that God’s not done with you, even when you’ve given up on yourself. ⸻ 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

< 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

< Back #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes Living on Incline | Recovery Alive Homes Jul 28, 2026 How do you rebuild a broken life after decades of prison, addiction, and lost time? In this deeply moving episode of Living on Incline, Anthony McGee (21 years incarcerated), Ryan Ellis (30+ year struggle with addiction), Amy Lewis, and Morgan Barfield share their raw, unfiltered stories of overcoming trauma, finding faith, and stepping into true freedom through peer-governed recovery homes. From the terrifying reality of re-entering society to the daily work of repairing relationships with their children, these four individuals reveal what actual, long-term restoration looks like beyond the initial detox. If you or a loved one are navigating addiction, sober living, or life after incarceration, this episode is a powerful reminder that no one is ever too far gone to find hope, community, and purpose. How do you rebuild a broken life after decades of prison, addiction, and lost time? In this deeply moving episode of Living on Incline, Anthony McGee (21 years incarcerated), Ryan Ellis (30+ year struggle with addiction), Amy Lewis, and Morgan Barfield share their raw, unfiltered stories of overcoming trauma, finding faith, and stepping into true freedom through peer-governed recovery homes. From the terrifying reality of re-entering society to the daily work of repairing relationships with their children, these four individuals reveal what actual, long-term restoration looks like beyond the initial detox. If you or a loved one are navigating addiction, sober living, or life after incarceration, this episode is a powerful reminder that no one is ever too far gone to find hope, community, and purpose. 👇 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

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? 3. Who is John Eklund? 4. Where did the name ‘Living on Incline’ come from? 5. What kind of topics do you cover on the podcast? 6. How can I listen to the podcast? 7. Is this a faith-based podcast? 8. What is Living on Incline Docs? 9. Can I share my story? 10. How do I stay in the loop? 11. Will there be live events or retreats? 12. Can I support the podcast or donate? 13. Do you accept guests or collaborations? 14. I filled out the contact form — when will I hear back? 15. Is there a private community or membership group?

< Back #022 Betrayed at 14, Gangs, and Turning Total Devastation Into a Mission | Kelley Jean Blas Living on Incline Jun 18, 2026 At just 14 years old, Kelley Jean Blas faced ultimate betrayal, ran away to join a gang, and survived being left for dead. In this raw episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Kelley to discuss her powerful story of overcoming severe childhood trauma, fighting addiction, navigating profound grief, and turning total devastation into a front-line rescue mission. If you are looking for an inspiring story of hope, resilience, and finding purpose in the pain, Kelley’s testimony of faith and survival is an absolute must-watch. Decades after overcoming a methamphetamine addiction and surviving the streets, Kelley experienced the unthinkable heartbreak of losing a child. Instead of letting the grief break her, she chose to push upward, choosing to live on an incline. Today, she is the founder of JoCo Angels—a powerful non-profit organization dedicated to fighting the front lines of the overdose crisis, supporting grieving families, and raising critical awareness about the modern drug epidemic. In this unfiltered conversation, John and Kelley also sound the alarm on the hidden threat of synthetic drugs, fentanyl poisoning, and the terrifying rise of highly addictive, over-the-counter opioid derivatives like kratom extracts being legally sold to minors in everyday vape shops and gas stations. This interview is a masterclass in mental health recovery, trauma healing, and finding a spiritual anchor after absolute devastation. At just 14 years old, Kelley Jean Blas faced ultimate betrayal, ran away to join a gang, and survived being left for dead. In this raw episode of Living on Incline, host John Eklund sits down with Kelley to discuss her powerful story of overcoming severe childhood trauma, fighting addiction, navigating profound grief, and turning total devastation into a front-line rescue mission. If you are looking for an inspiring story of hope, resilience, and finding purpose in the pain, Kelley’s testimony of faith and survival is an absolute must-watch. Decades after overcoming a methamphetamine addiction and surviving the streets, Kelley experienced the unthinkable heartbreak of losing a child. Instead of letting the grief break her, she chose to push upward, choosing to live on an incline. Today, she is the founder of JoCo Angels—a powerful non-profit organization dedicated to fighting the front lines of the overdose crisis, supporting grieving families, and raising critical awareness about the modern drug epidemic. In this unfiltered conversation, John and Kelley also sound the alarm on the hidden threat of synthetic drugs, fentanyl poisoning, and the terrifying rise of highly addictive, over-the-counter opioid derivatives like kratom extracts being legally sold to minors in everyday vape shops and gas stations. 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

< 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

< 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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

< Back Trailer: Welcome to Living on Incline Podcast Living on Incline Aug 1, 2025 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. What are we truly capable of? That’s the question Living on Incline sets out to explore. Hosted by John Eklund, this podcast brings you real conversations with people who have pushed through suffering, setbacks, and challenges — not just to survive, but to grow. From recovery to business, from faith to government, each guest is unlocking their full potential and inviting you to do the same. The name comes from the Manitou Incline — a steep, grueling hike in Colorado that inspired John to lean into discomfort as a path to growth. This show is about that same mindset: choosing to live on incline, on purpose, every day. 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 #026 Rebuilding Life After Prison & Addiction | Recovery Alive Homes #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