Mike Wolbert is a law enforcement leader, former competitive bodybuilder, and devoted father whose life has been shaped by discipline, service, and deep personal loss. From winning Mr. North Carolina to mentoring troubled students and serving his community, Mike’s story is one of strength forged through suffering.

But his greatest battle was not on a stage or in uniform.
After years of addiction and recovery struggles, Mike’s son became critically ill, suffered a massive stroke, and passed away—changing Mike’s life forever. What followed is a raw, honest conversation about grief, guilt, faith, and the hope that remains even in the darkest moments.

This episode is for anyone walking through:
 • Addiction in the family
 • The loss of a child or loved one
 • Questions about faith during suffering
 • The search for purpose after tragedy

If you need hope, this story is for you.


Timestamps

[00:00] Cinematic Trailer
[01:34] Episode Introduction
[03:00] Discipline, bodybuilding, and suffering
[12:00] Military service and law enforcement calling
[25:00] Mentoring students and school violence reality
[44:00] A father’s struggle with addiction in the home
[01:10:00] Recovery attempts and difficult choices
[01:30:00] Critical illness, stroke, and loss
[01:45:00] Faith, grief, and learning to keep going
[01:59:00] Purpose after tragedy and final encouragement

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Notable Quotes

“Without some suffering and discipline, you don’t get anything worthwhile.”
“I just looked him in the eye and said I won’t let you down.”
“I love these kids.”
“He did end up passing away on November 22nd last year.”
“Being Christians… that’s really what’s helped us be able to cope with the whole thing.”

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About Living on Incline

Living on Incline shares real stories of recovery, faith, leadership, and transformation through honest conversations that bring hope to people in hard places.

Subscribe for new episodes featuring powerful testimonies and life-changing perspectives.

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Call to Action

If this story impacted you:
 • Subscribe to the channel
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 • Share it with someone who needs encouragement today

Listen and Follow Living on Incline

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Website: https://www.livingonincline.com



Sponsored by Recovery Alive

Living on Incline is proudly sponsored by Recovery Alive, a Christ-centered recovery program helping people find hope, healing, and purpose through authentic community and biblical transformation.

Learn more: https://www.recoveryalive.com
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