Surviving The Flame

Taveion Mickens
  • 5.0 (13)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Welcome to "Surviving the Flame," where we uncover the untold stories of everyday heroes who have triumphed against the odds. In a world where fame often overshadows true grit and resilience, we're here to shine a spotlight on the unsung champions—the ordinary people who have achieved extraordinary feats through their unwavering determination and courage. Join us as we delve into the lives of those who have fought silently and valiantly to turn their dreams into reality. From overcoming personal struggles to navigating societal barriers, each episode of "Surviving the Flame" unveils the remarkable journeys of individuals who have refused to let circumstances define them. Through candid interviews and heartfelt narratives, we celebrate their triumphs, shedding light on the moments of doubt, the sacrifices made, and the sheer willpower that propelled them forward.

  1. I Asked My Mom the Questions I Was Always Afraid to Say Out Loud (Mothers Day Edition)

    MAY 10

    I Asked My Mom the Questions I Was Always Afraid to Say Out Loud (Mothers Day Edition)

    In this deeply personal and long-awaited episode of Surviving The Flame, host Taveion Mickens sits down with his greatest inspiration and his toughest teacher: his mother. This Mother’s Day, the fire pit isn't just a place for conversation—it’s a space for reconciliation, tribute, and truth. Taveion’s mother opens up about her roots in Tallahassee, sharing the early influences that forged her unbreakable spirit. Together, they navigate the "seasons of heat" that defined their relationship—from the friction of her firm beliefs on toughness to the grace found in their current bond. They dive into the reality of overcoming the statistics of young parenthood, finding the courage to pursue self-love after heartbreak, and the vulnerability required to trust in a new chapter of marriage. Together, Taveion and his mother explore: The 850 Foundation: What it means to carry the spirit of Tallahassee into every challenge life throws your way. Breaking the Cycle: The raw reality of starting out as a young adult while already responsible for a child. The Strength of Softness: Navigating the shift from a "tough-love" upbringing to a relationship built on emotional connection and mutual respect. A Businesswoman’s Fire: Her journey of building a professional legacy and what she envisions for her future beyond motherhood. The Wisdom of Experience: Heartfelt advice for mothers currently in the thick of the struggle and a message to the younger version of herself. This episode is a tribute to the mothers working tirelessly—often with minimum wages and maximum heart—to provide a future for their children. It is a reminder that surviving the flame isn’t about being perfect; it’s about having the endurance to grow through the heat and emerge as the person you were always meant to be. Whether you are a parent figuring it out or a child seeking to understand the woman behind the title, this conversation will meet you with the warmth and honesty you need. Connect with the Show: Subscribe: Join our community to witness stories of resilience and redemption. Comment Below: What is one lesson your mother taught you that you’ll never forget? Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingTheFlame Visit our Website: www.Mickensnation.com #SurvivingTheFlame #MothersDay #Resilience #Tallahassee #Legacy #Parenting #SelfLove #Storytelling #PodcastLife #Inspiration #MothersDay #Mom

    1h 10m
  2. Burning the Mask and Staying True To Blue: This is the Amazing story of Blue Hutchinson

    MAY 4

    Burning the Mask and Staying True To Blue: This is the Amazing story of Blue Hutchinson

    In this enlightening episode of Surviving The Flame, host Taveion Mickens sits down with his close friend of five years, Blue Hutchinson !! A creative soul and dedicated educator who is redefining what it means to live an authentic life in a world obsessed with conformity. Blue opens up about the journey of "unmasking" and the profound peace that came with her recent autism diagnosis. From the theatre stage where she and Taveion first met, to the classrooms where she now mentors the next generation, Blue’s story is a beautiful exploration of self-discovery, liberation, and the courage to stop playing a role that was never written for her. Together, Taveion and Blue explore: The Theatre of Self: How the stage served as a backdrop for her upbringing and her eventual path to truth. A Diagnosis of Peace: Why discovering she was autistic wasn't a burden, but the key to understanding her past. The Solo Season: Finding strength and self-love after the end of a committed relationship. Empowering the Youth: How she uses her platform to ensure her students feel seen and understood. Breaking the Mold: The radical act of rejecting societal images to embrace her true, "uncurated" self. The Art of Empathy: How her big heart has become her greatest strength in her walk through the flame. Blue reminds us that surviving the flame is often about burning away the expectations of others to find the clarity underneath. Her journey is a testament to the fact that being "different" isn't a challenge to be solved, but a gift to be celebrated. If you’ve ever felt like you didn't quite fit the mold, or if you're currently in a season of rediscovering who you are, this conversation will offer you the permission to finally be yourself. Connect with the Show: 🔔 Subscribe to join our community and never miss a story of resilience. 💬 Comment Below: How has "unmasking" changed your perspective on your own life? 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingTheFlame Check out our website @ www.Mickensnation.com #podcast #SurvivingTheFlame #BlueHutchinson #AutismAwareness #SelfLove #Unmasking #PersonalGrowth #Neurodiversity #PodcastLife #Inspiration #Education #Theatre #Healing #Authenticity

    1h 1m
  3. This Too I Shall Endure: The Story of Scott ‘The Gentle Giant’ Sutton

    APR 25

    This Too I Shall Endure: The Story of Scott ‘The Gentle Giant’ Sutton

    In this deeply personal episode of Surviving The Flame, host Tavion Mickens sits down with Scott “Scotty Too Hotty” Sutton — a gentle giant whose life has been shaped by resilience, heartbreak, and an unwavering commitment to choosing kindness over bitterness. Scott opens up about the dreams he chased, the dreams he lost, and the dreams he rebuilt. From pursuing the Marine Corps officer path and suffering a life‑altering back injury… to moving across the country in search of purpose… to caring for his father during his battle with cancer… Scott’s story is one of perseverance, humility, and quiet strength. Together, Tavy and Scott explore: What it means to stay soft in a world that tries to harden you How to rebuild when life forces you to start over The power of perspective and choosing positivity The pain of betrayal, loss, and disappointment The discipline of self‑reflection and personal growth The quote that carried him through his darkest moments: “This too I shall endure.” Scott reminds us that surviving the flame isn’t about avoiding the heat — it’s about learning who you are inside it. His journey is a testament to endurance, faith, and the courage to keep moving even when the path disappears beneath your feet. If you’ve ever felt broken, lost, or unsure of your next step, this episode will meet you where you are. Connect with the Show: 🔔 Subscribe to join our community and never miss a story of resilience. 💬 Comment Below: What was your favorite takeaway from Scott's journey? 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingTheFlame Check out our website @ www.Mickensnation.com #podcast #SurvivingTheFlame #ScottSutton #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #PodcastLife #Inspiration #OvercomingObstacles #Canada #Discord #Storytelling #Love #FromTheAshes #Family #children #Grief #Motivation #inspiration

    1h 1m
  4. Faith Behind the Chair: Michael Robinson on Grief, Grit, and God

    APR 15

    Faith Behind the Chair: Michael Robinson on Grief, Grit, and God

    From Pittsburgh PA to Virginia's very own. On this episode of Surviving the Flame, we sit down with Michael Robinson, a master barber, mentor, and devoted son. Michael opens up about the moving pieces of his childhood between Pittsburgh and Virginia, the devastating loss of his child, and how he maintained an unbreakable bond with Christ through the fire. Join us for a conversation about why family values and lasting memories will always carry more weight than professional accolades. Connect with the Show: 🔔 Subscribe to join our community and never miss a story of resilience. 💬 Comment Below: What was your favorite takeaway from Michael's journey? 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingTheFlame Check out our website @ www.Mickensnation.com #podcast #SurvivingTheFlame #MichaelRobinson #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #PodcastLife #Inspiration #OvercomingObstacles #Barber #Storytelling #FromTheAshes #Family #children

    58 min
  5. From the Spark to the Power: Surviving the Flame with Curtisa Brown

    FEB 28

    From the Spark to the Power: Surviving the Flame with Curtisa Brown

    What happens when the fires of life don't consume you, but actually create you? In today’s episode, we sit down with the incredible Curtisa Brown to walk through her timeline—from her earliest memories to the powerful woman she has become today. Curtisa’s story isn’t just about making it through; it’s about finding the grace, the grit, and the glow on the other side. If you’ve ever felt like the heat was too much to handle, this conversation is your reminder that you are built to shine. Connect with the Show: 🔔 Subscribe to join our community and never miss a story of resilience. 💬 Comment Below: What was your favorite takeaway from Curtisa’s journey? 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingTheFlame #podcast #SurvivingTheFlame #CurtisaBrown #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #PodcastLife #Inspiration #OvercomingObstacles #WomenEmpowerment #Storytelling #FromTheAshes

    56 min
  6. Overcoming Change, Redirection, Rejection, New Dreams and Trusting God Along The Way

    FEB 14

    Overcoming Change, Redirection, Rejection, New Dreams and Trusting God Along The Way

    In todays episode of Surviving the Flame we dive into the life, experience, journey, and more with a man of many talents, a chef, a father, a brother and also a man with hands not only gifted in analyzing and breaking things down but also a genius in being able to put them back together, physically and metaphorically. We also dive into his adversity of growing up in a split house hold, growing through fatherhood and also writing his new book that can be found below. A true one of one and a flame you definitely do NOT want to miss. #podcast #inspiration #valentinesday #military #books Ashton Vines Bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Multitasking-G...

    1h 17m
  7. Caira Scott-Young on Resilience, Purpose, and Rising Through the Fire | Surviving The Flame Podcast

    JAN 29

    Caira Scott-Young on Resilience, Purpose, and Rising Through the Fire | Surviving The Flame Podcast

    In this episode of Surviving The Flame, we sit down with Caira Scott-Young for a powerful and honest conversation about resilience, new chapters in life, personal growth, and what it really means to keep going when the heat is on. Caira shares her personal journey, the challenges that shaped her, and the mindset shifts that helped her rise through adversity instead of being consumed by it. This episode is about accountability, purpose, and learning how to stand strong when life tests you. Whether you’re navigating pressure, rebuilding after setbacks, or searching for clarity in your next chapter, this conversation will meet you right where you are. 🔥 If this episode resonates, don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and follow the podcast so we can keep this flame lit and continue bringing real conversations that matter. Listen. Reflect. Rise.

    50 min

  8. 12/29/2025

    Embracing Fatherhood, Becoming a Drill Instructor, and Taking on Life Advantages with Dezmond Crawl

    In this episode of 'Surviving the Flame,' host Taveion Mickens engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dez Crawl, a dedicated Marine and family man. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of balancing military life with family responsibilities, the importance of resilience, and the power of community and support. Dez shares personal stories about his upbringing, his journey in the Marines, and the lessons he's learned along the way. The episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the impact of a supportive network. #Military #DrillInstructor #Family #Marines #Parenting #Autism #Growth #Georgia #Podcast #motivation #MilitaryLife

    1h 7m
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Surviving the Flame," where we uncover the untold stories of everyday heroes who have triumphed against the odds. In a world where fame often overshadows true grit and resilience, we're here to shine a spotlight on the unsung champions—the ordinary people who have achieved extraordinary feats through their unwavering determination and courage. Join us as we delve into the lives of those who have fought silently and valiantly to turn their dreams into reality. From overcoming personal struggles to navigating societal barriers, each episode of "Surviving the Flame" unveils the remarkable journeys of individuals who have refused to let circumstances define them. Through candid interviews and heartfelt narratives, we celebrate their triumphs, shedding light on the moments of doubt, the sacrifices made, and the sheer willpower that propelled them forward.

Information

  • Creator
    Taveion Mickens
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Surviving The Flame