Mic Check: Real Life

Michael Hoskins
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Society & Culture

A Message of Hope for the Hurting Some Mic's are polished. This Mic's honest. Mic Check: Real Life is a space for honest conversations about life, faith, and hope. This channel speaks to those who feel lost, broken, or worn down by life, offering real talk about failure, healing, redemption, and second chances. If you’re searching for purpose, struggling through a hard season, or wondering if there is still hope for you, you’re not alone. This is real life, spoken plainly, with honesty, grace, and hope. https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife #HopeAfterFailure, #LifeFeelsBroken, #FindingHope, #FaithWhenLifeHurts, #SecondChances, #YouAreNotAlone

  1. Aug 9

    Beware: The New eBay Scam Everyone's Talking About

    In this episode of Mic Check Real Life, host Mike Hoskins shares a recent experience falling victim to an elaborate new fraud scheme involving eBay, PayPal, and UPS tracking numbers. He breaks down how this new scam works, how to protect yourself and your loved ones, and the spiritual and personal lessons he learned regarding handling frustration, repentance, and empathetic growth. Additionally, Mike reviews this week's global listener analytics, featuring new listeners from Qatar, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, and highlights a respectful cross-cultural dialogue. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 01:10 – Purpose of Today's Warning on Fraud and Scams 02:37 – Buying Machinery on eBay: The Setup 04:45 – The Red Flag: Impossible Delivery Times and Fake Signatures 06:58 – How the Loophole Works: Fighting PayPal, eBay, and UPS 11:32 – Warning the Audience: Protecting Loved Ones from Online Fraud 14:02 – Personal Reflection: Struggling with Anger, AI Barriers, and Self-Control 18:08 – Kingdom Purpose: Finding Perspective, Repentance, and Empathy 24:35 – Global Community Update: New Listeners in Qatar, Pakistan, and Bangladesh 25:40 – The Power of AI Translation: Respectful Conversations Across Beliefs 29:40 – Closing Gratitude and Final Message Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293 https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife

  2. Aug 2

    When You're Out of Time, God's Just Getting Started

    In this episode of Mic Check Real Life, host Mike Hoskins reflects on what it truly means to step out in faith—even when faced with financial strain, physical injury, or the unknown. Mike shares how trusting God led to unexpected breakthroughs, including securing the podcast studio lease at the 11th hour, seeing supernatural financial turnarounds, finding a new team member, and starting a new service-based business. Plus, he shares an exciting update on how the podcast is expanding across the globe to reach listeners in countries like Iraq, Turkey, Malaysia, and beyond. If you are facing a trial or trying to decide whether to take a step of faith, be encouraged to keep your eyes on Him and step out! **Key Scriptures Mentioned/Referenced:** * Proverbs 3:5–6 * Matthew 14:28–31 (Walking on Water) Chapter Markers * 00:00 – Welcome to Mike Check Real Life / Podcast Intro * 00:46 – Facing the Risk of Losing the Studio Lease * 01:50 – The Sole Purpose of the Show: Sharing the Gospel * 03:20 – Throwing Out a "Fleece" & Overcoming Conviction * 05:40 – Deciding to Step Out in Faith and Sign the New Lease * 07:08 – God Delivers at the 11th Hour! * 08:12 – Gratitude & Shoutouts to Podcast Supporters * 09:30 – Reaching the World: 7% of Listeners in Iraq! * 11:20 – Encouragement for International Believers Facing Risk * 13:50 – Testimony: Overcoming Injury & Financial Loss in Small Business * 17:15 – Finding the Right Employee & Turning a Loss into a Blessing * 20:45 – Launching a New Business to Serve & Pray for Others * 25:20 – Sowing into the Community & Providing for Families * 27:40 – Challenge: Don't Look at the Storm, Keep Walking in Faith * 30:00 – Closing Prayer * 31:10 – International Audience Breakdown & Final Blessings Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293

  3. Jul 27

    Taking Scripture Out of Context | Should You "Test" God?

    In this episode of Mic Check, host Mike Hoskins tackles a common point of contention among believers and seekers: Should non-believers challenge or test God to make Himself known? After a comment quoted Matthew 4:7 ("Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God") to attack an encouragement given to spiritual seekers, Mike breaks down the critical difference between taking scripture out of context versus understanding true biblical exegesis. By walking through Matthew 4, Deuteronomy 6, and Exodus 17, he explains the historical context of what took place at Massah and why crying out for hope as a non-believer is vastly different from mocking God after witnessing His miracles. Mike also addresses how infighting and legalism can become stumbling blocks for those searching for hope, shares an update on his wife Melissa’s recovery, and celebrates the podcast's international reach into countries around the globe. If you enjoy the content, please consider liking, commenting, and sharing to help reach more people! Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Mike Check 00:30 – Addressing the Comment: Is Encouraging Hope "Testing" God? 02:00 – Why Religious Infighting Chases People Away 03:00 – Don't Use Verses to Beat People Up 05:15 – Focusing on Hope vs. Keyboard Warriors 07:30 – Responding to "Potato Crusher 9000" & Matthew 4:7 09:15 – Reading Matthew 4 in Context: The Temptation of Jesus 11:20 – Connecting to Deuteronomy 6: What Happened at Massah? 13:30 – Unpacking Exodus 17: Mocking God vs. Crying Out in Need 16:30 – Why Non-Believers Can Ask God to Make Himself Real 19:00 – The Stumbling Blocks We Put in Front of Others 22:00 – Encouraging Believers to Show Love and Grace 24:30 – God Isn't a Stalker, But He's Waiting for You 26:25 – Rebutting Proof-Texting with Contextual Exegesis 27:40 – Family Update: Melissa’s Knee Recovery 28:30 – How You Can Support the Channel & Algorithm Tips 32:25 – Global Reach Analytics: Spreading the Message Worldwide 34:40 – Final Encouragement & Challenge Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293 https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife

  4. Jul 19

    Real Friends Do This When You Need Them Most

    "Comfort wants you dead, and complacency will kill you." Welcome back to another episode of Mic Check Real Life. In this episode, I’m getting real about a few things the Father has been working on my heart lately—specifically, how we evaluate the quality of our faith, the traps of pride in ministry, and the vital importance of godly relationships. This past weekend, my wife and I had the chance to travel and spend time with some of our dearest friends, Mary and Diego. They are the exact people God beautifully used to bring us back to Him after we walked away from the church with a lot of hurt. Seeing them—and getting unexpectedly folded right into their beautiful, massive family reunion (featured in today's thumbnail!)—reminded me what authentic, unconditional, Jesus-level love actually feels like. It forced me to look back at our journey. In 2015, we were coming out of homelessness, living in a cramped, 7-foot-wide 1980s trailer. By 2019, through God's mercy, we were out of debt, owned a home, and were led into a powerful ministry serving struggling veterans. But blessings require good stewardship, not ego. I also share a tough, humbling lesson from my past—a time back in 2014 when my own stubbornness and pride post-surgery completely ruined an outreach opportunity and potentially chased a soul away from the Kingdom. We cannot let pride dictate our ministry. If you are holding onto comfort zones, material things, or empty relationships because you're afraid of what you'll lose... this message is for you. Today, I dropped our new building lease in the box completely on faith, without having the finances fully secured. I can’t tell you to step out into the uncomfortable if I’m not willing to do it myself! I dare you to do something scary and uncomfortable for the Kingdom today. Challenge Him, step out, and watch Him show up. 📖 Scripture & Stories Mentioned:Satan appearing as an angel of light / opportunity The Parable of the Talents (Don't bury what God gave you!) The Faith of Job & The Prodigal Son 📬 Connect With Us & Get Involved!Need a Bible? If you don't own one, reach out to us via the links below—we will get one into your hands free of charge. Share Your Testimony: We are actively looking for guests to sit in the studio or join us remotely. If you want to offer encouragement and hope without self-promotion, reach out 0:01 — Intro + welcome back to the episode 0:37 — Weekend visit with dear friends 1:14 — Story about homelessness and the RV 5:23 — How that season led into ministry and veterans work 6:34 — Church hurt and meeting Mary and Diego 8:17 — Realizing they were the kind of people he wanted to be around 12:56 — Reflecting on meaningful vs empty relationships 17:34 — Father’s advice about choosing friends 20:29 — Warning about getting pulled into the wrong “ministry” opportunities 23:58 — The story of the homeless man after neck surgery 27:25 — His wife praying with the man at the hotel 30:35 — Why public condemnation can do more harm than good 41:36 — Main takeaway: evaluate your relationships and calling 43:06 — Prayer for salvation 48:50 — Dropping off the lease in faith 49:52 — Closing challenge to step out in faith Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293 https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife

  5. Jul 5

    America Just Hit 250 Years—Here's What They're Not Saying

    Happy 250th Independence Day! In this special post-holiday episode of Mike Check Real Life, host Mike steps away from the political noise to talk about a deeper, unchanging reality: the ultimate freedom found only in our Messiah, Jesus (Yeshua Hamashiach). Drawing powerful connections between the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16 and the overwhelming witnesses of truth outlined in John 5, Mike breaks down the undeniable testimonies of God’s power. Despite historical records and personal miracles, so many still refuse the gift of salvation—a rebellion Mike knows all too well from his own past. Through the lens of personal trials, including his wife Melissa's incredible recovery and faith after shattering her patella, Mike challenges us to shift our perspective on suffering and draw closer to the Father. If you are at the end of your rope, tired of running, and ready to experience a life-changing, redemptive love, join Mike for a special prayer of salvation at the end of this episode. We aren't here for the algorithms, the views, or the money—we are here for your eternity. 📖 Key Scriptures Covered: Luke 16:27–31 – The Law, the prophets, and the reality of the resurrection. John 5:31–47 – The multiple witnesses that testify to the truth of Jesus. 🕒 Time Stamps 00:00 – Welcome & Happy 250th Birthday, America! 01:10 – Defining true freedom and the sacrifice it requires. 03:15 – Moving past politics to a faith-based message of hope. 04:30 – Scriptural Deep Dive: Luke 16 (The Parable of warning and salvation). 06:55 – Connecting Luke to John 5: The three witnesses of the Messiah. 12:40 – Why do we still doubt? Overcoming the blindness to modern miracles. 15:40 – Personal Testimony: Update on Melissa’s surgery and finding strength in trials. 18:00 – Mike's reflection on his own past rebellion and God's overwhelming grace. 21:35 – A direct challenge to the skeptics: "Challenge Him to make Himself known." 23:05 – Finding joy and leaning in during times of suffering (Lessons from Job). 25:00 – A commitment to preaching the Gospel from the rooftops. 26:00 – A Powerful Prayer of Repentance and Salvation. 28:00 – Final thoughts: Reaching the "one" and building the Kingdom. 💬 Did you pray that prayer with us today? Please drop a comment down below and let us know where you are at. No sign-up lists, no spam, and no judgment. If you need a Bible, reach out—we have people standing by who want to get one into your hands. If this message touched your heart, please consider subscribing and sharing it with someone who needs to hear it today. Go out there, smile at someone, and remember: you might be the only Jesus somebody meets today. God bless! Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293 https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife

  6. Jun 29

    My Wife's Patella Break Nearly Destroyed Us | Here's What Happened

    When life hits hard all at once, do you step back, or do you step up? After an unexpected two-week absence, Mike is back behind the mic to share a raw, honest look into a season of intense testing. From his wife Melissa’s sudden surgery and a severe loss of business revenue, to the looming renewal of the studio lease without the financial backing he hoped for—everything in the natural world said it was time to pack it up. In this episode, Mike opens up about the human temptation to panic and throw out "fleeces" to God, and explains why he and Melissa have decided to reject fear and double down on faith instead. From continuing their community widow's home to committing to a new studio lease, they are choosing to advance rather than retreat. This week isn't a request for financial support—it’s an invitation to prayer. Tune in for a powerful reminder of why we shouldn't hide our light under a bushel, how pain can act as a refiner's fire, and what it truly looks like to find joy in the middle of suffering. Key Scripture & Themes Mentioned: The faith of Job, the refiner's fire, spiritual warfare, and learning to trust the Creator when the natural provision isn't visible. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and Personal Challenges 02:59 Faith in Times of Adversity 06:09 Commitment to Service and Community 09:03 Lessons from Personal Experience 11:52 The Widow's Home Project 15:09 Trusting God Through Uncertainty 17:57 Encouragement and Prayer Requests 20:50 Refining Through Trials 23:50 Conclusion and Future Plans

  7. Jun 14

    Anxiety Attacks? Do This Immediately!

    Can God truly heal you from lifelong, crippling anxiety and depression? In this powerful episode of Mike Check Real Life, host Mike sits down with Tara Hellixon to share her incredible testimony of deliverance, faith, and mental health restoration. From being diagnosed with major generalized anxiety disorder at age 14 and experiencing hospitalization , to living in constant fear and having panic attacks on the interstate , Tara felt trapped. But God had a plan for her freedom. Tara shares how the Holy Spirit walked her through a years-long journey of layers of healing , learning to completely trust God , laying down control , and ultimately finding true, lasting Shalom (peace) on a miraculous road trip over the Sabbath. If you or a loved one are battling panic attacks, PTSD, fear, or hopeless thoughts , this testimony will give you the spiritual weapons and hope you need to know that freedom is possible. Key Moments & Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Mike Check Real Life 02:08 – Tara’s Background: Childhood Disruption & Early Diagnosis 04:31 – Living in Fear: The Physical Toll of Panic Attacks & Anxiety 06:59 – How God Works in Layers: Coming Off Medication 10:11 – "Stop Protecting Yourself From Me" – A Wake-Up Call in 2021 15:20 – Learning to Trust God's Providence and People 19:24 – Facing the Interstate: Overcoming Driving Anxiety & Panic Attacks 25:43 – The Spiritual Weapons of Warfare: Power in the Blood of Jesus 32:07 – The Miraculous Sabbath Road Trip & A Divine Fast 47:51 – Renewing the Mind: Learning That You Are Safe and Loved 52:44 – A Message of Hope to Anyone Struggling with Anxiety Today 54:06 – Host Mike Shares His Personal Battle with PTSD & Anxiety Recovery Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 📖 Get a Free Bible!If you do not own or have access to a Bible, we want to change that. We have people ready to send you one completely free of charge. Please reach out to us using the contact information below! Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293 https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife

  8. Jun 7

    I'm Losing My Lease... What's Next?

    In this transparent and heartfelt episode of Mic Check Real Life, Mike steps "straight out of the box" to share a critical turning point for the podcast. With their current studio lease coming to an end and his friend being called to new ventures, the future of the show relies on a major step of faith. Mike opens up about the financial realities of maintaining the studio space solo—moving from a split rent to a full $700 a month commitment, alongside a new deposit—and why he is laying out a "fleece" for the ministry's future by August 1, 2026. Refusing to take away from other vital community ministries that he and his wife Melissa fund, Mike is opening the door for faith-driven, God-fearing business sponsors and individual monthly partners ($35/month or $3.50/month) to enter into a covenant to keep the studio alive. What you’ll hear in this episode: The Studio Dilemma: The logistics behind the new lease and why Mike is stepping out of his comfort zone to ask for partnership. Global Analytics Revealed: A deep dive into the podcast’s surprisingly wide reach—from 72% in the United States to listeners in Japan, France, China, Germany, and Vietnam. Stories of Impact: Powerful, humbling testimonies of lives changed, including a young man who rededicated his life and found freedom from addiction after hearing a past episode. A Lesson in Stewardship: Following the cloud and fire in the desert—learning when to move forward and when to stand still in God’s will. Whether this marks a new chapter of growth or a peaceful farewell at the end of July, this episode is a testament to trusting God’s provision one life at a time. 00:00 Introduction and Context of the Podcast Studio 01:11 The End of the Lease and Faithful Stewardship 02:20 Communication with the Landlord and Business Principles 03:32 Asking for Support and Community Giving 04:44 Investments in Equipment and Faithful Stewardship 05:58 God's Provision and Moving in His Will 06:48 Analytics Overview: Reach and Impact 07:38 Global Audience and Impact Stories 08:21 Testimonies of Lives Changed by the Podcast 09:27 The Fleece: A Call for Support and Covenant 10:56 The Importance of Prayer and Support for Continuity 12:04 Trusting God's Provision and Future Steps 13:38 Encouragement and Final Words of Faith Connect With Us & Support the Ministry: If God is leading you to partner with Mic Check Real Life to help reach the next "one," please reach out via our contact info below. If we do not reach our commitment goal by August 1st, all seed money sent for the lease will be returned. Support Mic Check: Real Life: (Not Tax Deductible) paypal.me/MichaelDHoskins CashAPP $MichaelDHoskins venmo/@MichaelDHoskins Mail a check or money order: PO Box 12 Delano, TN 37325 Contact Mic Check: Real Life 423-740-2293 https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife

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About

A Message of Hope for the Hurting Some Mic's are polished. This Mic's honest. Mic Check: Real Life is a space for honest conversations about life, faith, and hope. This channel speaks to those who feel lost, broken, or worn down by life, offering real talk about failure, healing, redemption, and second chances. If you’re searching for purpose, struggling through a hard season, or wondering if there is still hope for you, you’re not alone. This is real life, spoken plainly, with honesty, grace, and hope. https://www.instagram.com/miccheckreallife https://www.tiktok.com/@miccheckreallife #HopeAfterFailure, #LifeFeelsBroken, #FindingHope, #FaithWhenLifeHurts, #SecondChances, #YouAreNotAlone

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Hoskins
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Michael Hoskins
  • Show Website
    Mic Check: Real Life