Shows
Beyond Existing - Beyond the Small TalkFrom a Marriage Trapped by Alcohol to Embracing Independence at 40What 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...2025-01-291h 01
Beyond Existing - Beyond the Small Talk"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 illnessWhat 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...2024-12-2946 min
Beyond Existing - Beyond the Small Talk"A God of Second Chances" Karen Shares her Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Building a Family with her Husband Bart Through AdoptionWhat 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 li...2024-12-091h 01
Beyond Existing - Beyond the Small Talk"And You Know, God....." Dr. Angela Hood shares her experiences and gives advice on starting overI'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...2024-11-2139 min
Beyond Existing - Beyond the Small TalkStaci and Thom's Journey of Love, Loss, and Karlee, their Christmas AngelWhat 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...2024-10-3054 min