Where We Rise
Real stories, real people, and the moments that change us — that’s Where We Rise.
Episodes
19 episodes
17 | "What Do You Want to Do?" | Finding Your Purpose
In this conversation, Erica Lynn shares her journey of finding purpose through podcasting and motivational speaking. She discusses the importance of overcoming adversity, the techniques for healing, and the role of personal growth. Erica emphas...
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16 | "I'm So Proud of You" | A Life Remembered
In this heartfelt conversation, Allaina Maria shares the profound impact of her sister Yolanda's life and tragic loss due to domestic violence. Through memories of Yolanda's kindness, community service, and the love she shared with her family, ...
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15 | "I Think You Should Get a Dog" | Unexpected Life Lessons
In this captivating conversation, Carmen Leal shares the raw truth of her medical crises — from a devastating car accident and life-altering head injury to battling suicidal thoughts and the emotional toll of chronic pain. You’ll discover how h...
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14 | "The Next Best Step" | Living with Intention
In this heartfelt conversation, Khalila McCoy and Debbie Simmons delve into the themes of intentionality and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Debbie shares her personal journey, which includes the profound loss of her quadruplets an...
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13 | "The Assignment is Different" | Aligning Life with God’s Calling
In this episode, Shelley Meche'tte shares her powerful story of surviving three strokes in a single day and the transformational journey that followed. She opens up about the moments leading up to the strokes, her experience in the ER, and how ...
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12 | "Last Act of Love" | End-of-Life Planning
In this episode, author Lynn B. Stone discusses the importance of end‑of‑life planning and the emotional realities of navigating grief after the loss of her husband. Drawing from her book, ’Til Death Do Us Part: A Practical Guide to Prepari...
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11 | "The Stories We Tell... Matter" | Growing from Pain
In this heartfelt episode, Ann Harikeerthan shares her inspiring journey of navigating chronic pain, autoimmune challenges, and the transformative power of storytelling and community. Her story highlights the importance of reframing suffering, ...
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10 | "Suffering in Silence" | Choosing Life
*** Please be aware that this episode is a discussion around suicidal ideation.***In this conversation, Khalila McCoy talks with Earnest James, a mental health advocate, speaker, and podcaster. Earnest shares his personal journey through...
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09 | "Hug Somebody, Even Yourself" | Compassion & Self-Care
In this episode, Khalila sits down with Edie Weinstein — writer, speaker, interfaith minister, and the beloved “Hug‑Mobster.” Edie shares what surviving a heart attack at 55 taught her about slowing down, listening to her body, and choosing com...
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08 | "God Doesn't Waste Anything" | Trusting God in Hard Times
From Adversity to Faith: In this heartfelt conversation, Khalila McCoy reconnects with Chauncey Harris Sr., who shares his journey of facing kidney failure and the profound impact it has had on his life and family. He recounts personal e...
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07 | "My Own Worst Enemy" | Self-Doubt to Self-Worth
In this conversation, Greg Arnold shares his journey of shifting from self-doubt to self-worth. He emphasizes the significance of commitment, celebrating small wins, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Greg also discusse...
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06 | "Letting Go" | Divorce Later in Life
Dr. Nicole Rochester shares her personal journey of self-discovery and transformation, focusing on her experiences with marriage, divorce, and personal growth. She discusses the challenges she faced in her marriage, the impact of her parents' d...
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05 | Family in Flight | Military Family Community
Navigating Life as a Military SpouseIn this conversation, Chelsea Thomas shares her experiences as a military spouse navigating the challenges of geo-baching, where families live apart due to military assignments. She discusses th...
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04 | "Lead with Love" | Foster Care System
Navigating the Foster Care System:In this conversation, Buneka Lucas shares her journey from a challenging childhood in the foster care system to becoming a nurturing mother and advocate for teens in similar situations. She discus...
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03 | "Music is Powerful" | Joy
Discover how music serves as a source of joy, healing, and connection in this inspiring episode with singer and entertainer Katanya Brewer. From her journey to performing on the streets of Columbus to profound moments with seniors and those exp...
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02 | "Failure is Not Final Nor Fatal" | Entrepreneurship
In this episode, I engage in an inspiring conversation with Erika Cartledge, a successful entrepreneur and stylist. We explore the journey of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success, highlighting how initial setbacks can fuel personal ...
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01 | "Enjoy the Moment" | Fatherhood
Embracing Fatherhood and FaithIn this episode, Khalila sits down with her husband, DJ McCoy, to explore the transformative journey of becoming a father, navigating a new life, and staying grounded in faith. Their honest reflection...
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