Beyond Existing - Beyond the Small Talk

Alisa Stockov
  • 5.0 (2)
  • RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Has life's struggles left you feeling like you were going through your days "just existing?" In this podcast you will hear stories/testimonies from myself and others who have dealt with the struggles life has to offer and getting to that place in which life is being lived "beyond existing."  I appreciate all of those who have been willing to "put themselves out there" to open up and share personal information for the betterment of others.  

Episodes

  1. AUG 25

    Steve and Tanya Share the Hope of Breaking Addiction through the Men's Hope Center Ministries in Maiden, NC

    Steve's journey from the depths of addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for others defies all expectations. After a decade-long battle with cocaine addiction that culminated in a near-fatal overdose in 2003, he found himself wrapped in a blanket on his floor for three days before being discovered by family members. Doctors grimly informed his loved ones that any longer would have meant planning a funeral. During his recovery, fate intervened when he met Tonya at a doctor's office in Taylorsville. Though she compassionately helped him seek medical care for lingering effects from his overdose, their relationship would face devastating challenges. Still in addiction's grip, Steve betrayed Tonya's trust by emptying her bank account, forcing her to relocate to Georgia to heal from the betrayal. The turning point came unexpectedly two years later when Tonya reached out simply to check if Steve was still alive. That single conversation sparked a profound realization that it was time to break free from drugs. Within six weeks of her return to North Carolina, they married – a decision Steve calls second only to giving his life to Christ thirteen years ago. Their spiritual journey took an unexpected turn when they felt called to mission work after hearing a missionary speak at their church. This calling eventually manifested in an opportunity much closer to home – the directorship of the Hope Center in Maiden, North Carolina, a faith-based recovery program for men struggling with addiction. Today, Steve leads a structured, Christ-centered recovery program that boasts a remarkable 61% success rate, far exceeding the national average of 18% for rehabilitation centers. The program focuses not just on sobriety but on restoring lives and rebuilding family relationships through spiritual guidance, vocational training, and accountability. Most remarkably, about 80% of Hope Centers nationwide are now run by program graduates who found purpose through their own recovery journey. Have you witnessed how faith can transform even the most broken lives? Join us for this powerful conversation about addiction, forgiveness, and how one couple's redemption story is creating ripples of hope throughout their community and beyond. Send us a text

    1h 31m

  2. JAN 29

    From a Marriage Trapped by Alcohol to Embracing Independence at 40

    What if you found yourself pregnant at 17 amidst a circle where alcohol blurred the lines of support and denial? This week, our guest shares her compelling story of teenage pregnancy, navigating complex family dynamics, and the emotional journey that unfolded with her partner at her side. It’s a heartfelt narrative of resilience, as she challenges societal stereotypes, manages the demands of early parenthood, and pursues higher education, all against a backdrop of personal growth and unwavering family support. Our conversation takes a candid look at the intricacies of marriage, from the challenges of infidelity and forgiveness to the struggle of living with a partner battling alcohol. Hear how she found escape and identity through her teaching career, even as she faced the heartbreak of miscarriage and the joy of planned pregnancies. We explore how personal choices weave through life events, forging a path lined with love, resilience, and the art of balancing personal passions with family life. Witness the powerful transformation of our guest as she embarks on a journey of independence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her courageous decision to leave a toxic relationship marks the beginning of an inspiring quest for self-empowerment at 40, where she learns to manage finances and finds fulfillment in her role as a teacher. With faith guiding her through, she reflects on divine messages in tragedy and the importance of empathy and understanding amidst life's toughest challenges. Join us for an episode that captures the essence of overcoming adversity and discovering joy in everyday moments. Send us a text

    1h 1m
  3. "We were dirt poor but so was everyone else" Christine opens up about life in rural NC in the mid-1940's and 50's, tragic loss of siblings, and the struggles of a mother with mental illness

    12/29/2024

    "We were dirt poor but so was everyone else" Christine opens up about life in rural NC in the mid-1940's and 50's, tragic loss of siblings, and the struggles of a mother with mental illness

    What happens when you're one of twelve siblings growing up in a rural community without modern conveniences? Christine, our guest, paints a vivid tapestry of her childhood, filled with challenges, heartache, and the warmth of a close-knit community, the Statesville Brickyard community. As she recounts her experiences, from the tragic losses of several siblings to the small joys of getting electricity for the first time, Christine's story becomes a powerful testament to the resilience and faith that have guided her through life's trials. Christine's journey doesn't shy away from the difficulties of large family dynamics, particularly when compounded by the challenges faced by her deaf siblings. We touch on the haunting premonitions of her mother and the heartbreaking abuse Christine endured, yet marvel at her ability to turn her experiences into empathy and understanding in her teaching career. Her narrative is a reminder of how her faith offers  refuge and healing. From a challenging upbringing to a life filled with love, Christine's story is more than just survival; it's about transformation and overcoming depression through faith. We explore the host's journey from rock bottom to recovery, and how these shared stories are the bedrock of this podcast. This episode promises not just to inspire but to provide a beacon of hope for anyone wrestling with similar struggles, underscoring the transformative power of resilience and faith. Send us a text

    46 min
  4. "A God of Second Chances" Karen Shares her Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Building a Family with her Husband Bart Through Adoption

    12/09/2024

    "A God of Second Chances" Karen Shares her Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Building a Family with her Husband Bart Through Adoption

    What if life's unexpected challenges were the stepping stones to a greater destiny? Meet Karen, a multi-business owner and devout Christian, who shares her remarkable journey of faith, resilience, and transformation. Growing up in a devout Christian environment, Karen learned to differentiate between her own thoughts and divine guidance, using scripture as her compass. She opens up about her first marriage, navigating the trials of infidelity and infertility, and the lessons learned from overlooking red flags during courtship. Karen’s journey is a testament to the power of faith and the importance of heeding a higher calling, even when life throws unexpected storms your way. Karen's path to motherhood took a different route, as she and her husband Bart faced the emotional and physical struggles of infertility. With faith as her anchor, she embraced the Foster to Adopt program, overcoming financial and emotional hurdles to create the family they longed for. Listen to Karen’s poignant recount of fostering and eventually adopting Bryson, a biracial baby who brought immense joy and love into their lives. Her story highlights the significant impact of choosing alternative paths to parenthood and the deep bonds that form through the process of fostering and adoption. But Karen's journey doesn't stop at family. Her career transformation is equally inspiring, shifting from a physical therapist assistant to finding a calling in massage therapy. This change was fueled by personal experiences, including overcoming a serious car accident. Amidst these transitions, Karen's faith in divine guidance led her to pursue her dream of opening a salon, with community support and perseverance lighting the path. Karen’s story is a compelling reminder of how embracing life’s uncertainties with faith can unlock unexpected opportunities and fulfillment. Send us a text

    1h 2m
  5. "And You Know, God....." Dr. Angela Hood shares her experiences and gives advice on starting over

    11/21/2024

    "And You Know, God....." Dr. Angela Hood shares her experiences and gives advice on starting over

    I've heard Angela use this phrase so often that I had to include it in the title.  She is truly a woman after God's own heart.  I'm so fortunate to know her. In this episode, Angela describes for us starting over and what it was like to make the decision to move she and her daughter to a new community where they hardly knew anyone and the peace and joy she felt when she followed God's call for her life. Dr. Angela Hood is a mother of 4, grandmother of 8 and works for Catawba Co. school system.  She became an ordained minister in 2011 and has received her Doctorate in Divinity & Psychology Studies, Master's in biblical counseling, and BA in Religious Arts and Christian Counseling.  She is a government and public official as well as holds a diploma in Paralegal and Chaplaincy.  She pastored Disciples of Christ Holiness Church in Danville, Va before walking into her calling as an evangelist.  She attends True Word Fellowship in Eden, NC under the leadership of Pastor Scott Dalton. Dr. Hood is also the host of The One Word Morning Show Facebook Live in Charlotte, NC and Atlanta, GA.  She has been named one of the top 40 media bosses and top 50 powerful women in business.  She has been featured in 5 magazines from Gospel USA to KISH magazine.  She is the owner of Alafayeh Candles, LLC in Conover, NC and CEO of Life Unlocked Christian Coaching and Counseling Services.  She became an Amazon Best Seller in June of 2022 where she could be seen on New York Times Square Billboard.  She authored, I'm Fed Up with Your Mess and co-authored, "Permission to Win" and "Joy Comes in the Morning", and "Teen Mom to Empowered Woman."  She is a partner and ambassador with Goli Nutrition. She has served on the Rockingham County NAACP Board in Rockingham County and The Dunamis Gospel Awards Board.  She worked for 8 years with the Exceptional Children's Program, Rockingham County Youth Services, Goodwill Industries, and in earlier years, the YMCA.  She has volunteered at Eastern Catawba Cooperative Christian Ministry in Catawba County, nursing centers in Eden and Reidsville, NC as well as in Danville, VA. Dr. Angela never allowed molestation, teenage pregnancy, divorce, hard times, nor a suicide attempt to stop her destiny.  Out of all the things she's been through and all she's accomplished; nothing tops her being a child of God.   Send us a text

    39 min
  6. Staci and Thom's Journey of Love, Loss, and Karlee, their Christmas Angel

    10/30/2024

    Staci and Thom's Journey of Love, Loss, and Karlee, their Christmas Angel

    What happens when the unimaginable becomes reality? Staci joins us to share her deeply personal journey of love, loss, and hope after the passing of her beloved daughter, Karlee. In recounting her story, Staci reveals the strength and faith that carried her and her husband, Tom, through the trials of a heartbreaking diagnosis. From a loving marriage to the challenging road of pregnancy, Staci opens up about their decision to embrace the journey of welcoming Karlee, a baby diagnosed with hydranencephaly, into their lives. Staci's story is not just about loss; it's a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. By sharing Karlee's legacy and the profound impact she had on her family, especially her siblings, we delve into the importance of cherishing every fleeting moment with loved ones. For anyone experiencing grief, Staci offers wisdom and solace, highlighting the healing found in shared memories, faith, and the unwavering support of loved ones. Join us as we remember Karlee and the compassion she left behind. Send us a text

    55 min
  7. Surviving the Loss of a Spouse with a Toddler and a Baby on the Way

    09/26/2024

    Surviving the Loss of a Spouse with a Toddler and a Baby on the Way

    Brittany is an amazing woman of faith.  She shares her love and passion of Jesus and how it was only through Christ and with the help of her family that she was not only able to survive her late husband's suicide but also be there for her children. Send us a text

    1h 22m
  8. Bold Like Cole

    09/12/2024

    Bold Like Cole

    Chris, Cole's father shares the experiences that he and his wife, Connie have gone through over the years of raising a child with disabilities, who is now about to graduate high school.  I asked Cole recently if he was excited about graduating soon and he gave an emphatic yes, followed by how much he was going to miss football.  For years Cole has been the football team's manager from middle school to his senior year.  Some of my favorite memories have been watching my boys and Cole and his brother grow up on the ballfield, whether it's baseball or football.  Another favorite memory was listening to Cole and my husband pick at each other over their favorite NASCAR drivers and make "bets" over who was going to win.  Chris, thank you for delivering an honest, positive, uplifting message of the ups and downs of Cole's procedures and the importance of faith and also the gifts and perfect timing from God.  In addition, thank you for introducing us to Boston Children's Hospital. Here is the FB page set up for Chris and Connie's charity and also a link to Bethel Lutheran Church's donation page if you would like to donate to Bold Like Cole.  Be sure to specify what your donation is for in the note/memo section.  https://www.facebook.com/boldlikecole?mibextid=LQQJ4d https://bethelms.org/give Send us a text

    1h 3m
  9. Raising babies, working, moving across country, all while dealing with mother's Stage 4 cancer diagnosis

    08/02/2024

    Raising babies, working, moving across country, all while dealing with mother's Stage 4 cancer diagnosis

    A wise neighbor once told me that you will find that you become close friends with the parents of some of your children's friends.  In this case, that is so true.  Karin shares her experiences of how she handled the chaos of her mother's cancer and death, raising small babies, all while moving across the country.  Her faith and determination and humbleness are truly inspiring. Send us a text

    20 min
  10. "I'm Just a Sinner Saved by Grace" Mr. Ray Jenkins or as I like to call him, "The Grandaddy"

    08/02/2024

    "I'm Just a Sinner Saved by Grace" Mr. Ray Jenkins or as I like to call him, "The Grandaddy"

    Mr. Ray shares his message on the goodness of Jesus and what He has done for Mr. Ray and what Jesus can do for you.  Mr. Ray has lived most of his adult life sharing the love and good news of Christ to others.  Sadly, Mr. Ray passed away April 20, 2024.  I can't imagine the joy he felt the moment he joined his Savior.  This was something he looked forward to for so long.  I am grateful to have this recording of him.  Also, we recorded this sitting at his kitchen table so you will have to excuse the echo.   Send us a text

    21 min
  11. Losing our mothers, the importance of faith, and keeping their memories alive.

    08/02/2024

    Losing our mothers, the importance of faith, and keeping their memories alive.

    How do you cope with losing someone who loved you more than life itself? Kevin is my first guest and we discuss losing our mothers and using faith to help us deal with their loss.  Our mothers were first cousins but they were more like sisters.  Who better to be my first guest, than Kevin.      Send us a text

    30 min
  12. Introduction to Beyond Existing

    07/30/2024

    Introduction to Beyond Existing

    I'm so glad you have found this podcast.  In this episode I explain what this podcast is about and the experiences that led me to creating this podcast. I pray that you will find this podcast useful.  Thank you for listening. Send us a text

    6 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Has life's struggles left you feeling like you were going through your days "just existing?" In this podcast you will hear stories/testimonies from myself and others who have dealt with the struggles life has to offer and getting to that place in which life is being lived "beyond existing."  I appreciate all of those who have been willing to "put themselves out there" to open up and share personal information for the betterment of others.  

Information