Beyond The Mud
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Beyond The Mud episodes

  • Funny Over Fear Part 1
    In this raw and unfiltered episode, I open up about my love for comedy—and the brutal fear that’s been holding me back. From the highs of my first time on stage to the devastating silence of bombing in front of a crowd, I lay it all bare. This isn’t just about jokes. It’s about shame, addiction, sobriety, and the war we fight inside when our dreams feel just out of reach. I talk about gripping the steering wheel outside open mics, feeling like a failure, and the savage truth of what it means to chase something you love while dragging your past behind you.
    This is the beginning of a new season—one built on courage, not perfection. A season where I stop running from the stage and start walking straight into the fire. If you’ve ever stood on the edge of your passion, afraid to jump... this one's for you.
    17 min
  • Broke But Unbroken: The Chapter Nobody Wants To Talk About
    In this raw and unfiltered episode of Beyond the Mud, we dive headfirst into the realities of being broke—without the Hollywood ending. This is not your typical feel-good story; it’s a raw reflection on the shame, the hustle, and the quiet battles that come with financial struggle.
    This episode is for the fighters still in the trenches, the ones juggling bills, rationing gas, and staring down overdraft notices. It’s not about sugarcoating the pain; it’s about flipping the script. Discover how desperation breeds resilience, shame transforms into strength, and hustling becomes the foundation for a future worth fighting for.
    If you’re tired of fairy tale solutions and need real talk about surviving and thriving, this episode is for you. Because your story isn’t over—it’s just getting started.
    🎙 Listen now to “Broke But Unbroken: The Chapter Nobody Talks About” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.
    #BrokeNotBroken #BeyondTheMud #Resilience #RealTalk #PodcastEpisode #Motivation #SurviveAndThrive
    13 min
  • Journal Entry 32: Unfiltered and Unbreakable: How to Rise Stronger Through Life's Chaos
    In this raw and unfiltered episode of Beyond the Mud, we dive headfirst into the chaos of life and the relentless fight to rise above it. From battling anxiety and juggling multiple projects to overcoming financial struggles and breaking free from societal expectations, this episode is a no-holds-barred look at resilience, authenticity, and the power of perseverance.
    Discover how to navigate life’s storms, embrace your scars, and transform pain into purpose. This isn’t just another motivational story it’s a wake-up call for anyone feeling stuck, broken, or overwhelmed. Whether you're dealing with setbacks, fighting for your dreams, or simply trying to stay afloat, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone and that the mud doesn’t define you.
    Topics covered:
    How to stay resilient when life keeps knocking you down
    The power of authenticity in a world full of judgment
    Breaking free from self-doubt and societal expectations
    Turning chaos into growth and pain into strength
    If you’re ready to embrace your raw, unfiltered self and rise stronger than ever, this episode is for you.
    Keywords: resilience, motivation, personal growth, mental health, authenticity, overcoming obstacles, self discovery, never give up, through the mud, life lessons.
    Listen now and take the first step toward proving to yourself and the world what the hell you’re made of.
    17 min
  • Through the Mud: 84 Days of Sobriety, Struggles, and Strength Journal Entry 31
    In this raw and unfiltered episode of Beyond The Mud, I reflect on 84 days of sobriety and the powerful lessons learned along the way. From rediscovering creativity and confronting family drama to navigating the grind of everyday life, I share the struggles, triumphs, and truths that come with walking through the mud of recovery. This is more than a story of addiction—it’s about resilience, growth, and finding hope in the messiness of life. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, this episode is for you. Together, let’s keep moving forward
    1 hr 13 min
  • Thanksgiving Eve" Journal Entry 30
    In this episode of Beyond The Mud, we explore the power of connection and gratitude. Mike reflects on the importance of community, personal growth, and staying consistent in the face of challenges. With heartfelt honesty, he shares insights from his journey, offering listeners inspiration to find strength in their own paths. Whether you're navigating struggles or simply seeking a moment of reflection, this episode is a reminder that none of us are alone in the mud—we're all pushing forward together.
    Listen now for a real and relatable conversation that encourages hope and resilience.
    27 min
  • Beyond The Mud: Part 9 The Rise
    47 days. That’s the record I just broke the longest I’ve been sober in the past five years. And let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. But here I am, standing stronger, clearer, and more determined than ever.
    This is Beyond The Mud: Part 9 The Rise. It’s about breaking through the struggle, shaking off the past, and stepping into the light. Whether you’re in the fight of your life or just looking for inspiration, use this as your tool. Let this be the spark that reminds you what’s possible.
    It’s your turn now. The rise starts with a single step. I hope this finds you well, and when you’re ready—let’s rise together.
    34 min
  • Day 46: Journal Entry 29
    Day 46: Journal Entry 29
    Forty-six days. That’s how long it’s been since I took off the mask I’d been wearing for years maybe decades. Forty-six days of sitting with the raw, unfiltered truth of who I am. Of who I’ve been. It’s not a clean, easy process. It’s messy, it’s painful, and it’s real.
    When I first started this journey, I thought the hardest part would be saying goodbye to the things that kept me numb. I didn’t realize that the real fight would be saying hello to the parts of myself I’d been avoiding. The brokenness. The guilt. The dreams I let slip through my fingers.
    Today, I can’t help but think about the people who were part of my life the ones I let down, the ones who left, and the ones I pushed away. I wonder if they ever knew the version of me that I’m becoming now. Did they ever see glimpses of him through the cracks? Or was the mask I wore too thick, too convincing?
    This isn’t a post about regret it’s about reflection. I know we don’t always get forgiveness. I know some bridges can’t be rebuilt. But if you’re reading this, I hope you know this much: every sacrifice, every moment of patience, every ounce of love you gave wasn’t wasted. It helped build the foundation of the person I’m working so hard to be.
    Life has a way of surprising us. It doesn’t give us all the answers, but it teaches us to keep moving forward even when we don’t know what’s ahead. And that’s where I am walking forward, one step at a time, through the mud, toward something better.
    To those who’ve been part of my story, whether you’re still here or not, thank you. And to those who feel like they’ve been carrying their own weight for too long don’t give up. The road might be messy, but it’s worth it.
    Forty six days down. A lifetime still ahead. Let’s see where it leads. 🌱
    #BeyondTheMud #JournalEntry29 #46DaysSober #GrowthInTheMess
    26 min
  • The Bully Part 2: Journal Entry 28
    In this gripping and raw episode, we dive into a deeply personal battle—a story of resilience, fear, and the relentless fight for justice. When the safety of my daughter is threatened by bullying and violence, I’m met with a system that hides behind bureaucracy and dismisses my pleas for protection. This episode lays bare the painful reality of navigating a broken system that prioritizes policies over children’s safety.
    I share my journey of standing up to the indifference, documenting every word, challenging every excuse, and refusing to be silenced. It’s a fight for my daughter, for every child who’s been ignored, and for every parent who’s felt powerless. This isn’t just a story; it’s a rallying cry for change, a testament to the power of persistence, and a call to stand together for what’s right.
    Listen as I turn pain into action, shed light on the truth, and demand accountability. This is a story of struggle and strength, of refusing to let fear win. Join me on this journey, because together, we can ignite a fire for justice.
    Reach out to me at [email protected]
    24 min
  • The Big Bad Anger: Journal Entry 27
    In this raw and unfiltered episode, Mike dives deep into his complex relationship with anger—exploring everything from explosive outbursts that could rival a volcanic eruption to the hard-won battles of self-control and healing. With humor, brutal honesty, and powerful storytelling, Mike takes listeners on a rollercoaster through his past filled with broken doors, flying chicken wings, and the struggle to tame his rage. This episode isn't just about anger; it’s about transformation, redemption, and finding laughter amidst the chaos. Buckle up for a journey that’s equal parts hilarious, heartbreaking, and inspiring. Whether you’ve wrestled with your own demons or just enjoy a wild ride, this episode will leave you reflecting, laughing, and eager for more.
    23 min
  • Beyond The Mud: Part 8 The Weight of One Day and The Strength of Another
    I want to take a moment to recognize something truly special happening here. I’ve heard from so many of you—people who aren’t alcoholics, who’ve never battled addiction the way I have—but still, you’re connecting with my journey. It blows my mind and reminds me that even though our circumstances may differ, the human experience—the grind, the struggle, the fight for something better—is universal. Maybe for you, it’s not sobriety you’re chasing. Maybe it’s self-worth, a better life, a dream you’ve put off for too long, or just the strength to face another day. Whatever your fight is, know that you’re not alone.
    My story is just one thread in this web of struggle and resilience we’re all tangled up in. Together, we’re building something real—a community that grows stronger every day. A space where vulnerability isn’t a weakness, and where every step forward, no matter how small, matters.
    And hey, before you go, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button, leave a review, and join this journey with me. We’re building something powerful here, and I’d love for you to be a part of it. Together, we’ll reach more people, share more stories, and keep grinding for those moments that make it all worth it. Thank you for being here. I’ll keep you posted on whether I break that 47-day record. I’m 100% sure it’s happening—but you’ll just have to stick around to see. Let’s celebrate it together. Peace, love, and cat poop vibes to you all.
    21 min

About Beyond The Mud

From the publisher's feed

Step into the raw and emotional story of a life shaped by hardship, love, and survival. From growing up in one of Chicago’s toughest neighborhoods to losing my father—a cab driver murdered in cold…