In this episode of Mic Check: Real Life, host Michael Hoskins sits down with Paul McCagba for a raw and candid conversation about childhood trauma, family dysfunction, and the long search for identity and belonging. Paul shares his early life growing up in a volatile environment marked by violence, substance abuse, instability, and survival at a young age. He reflects on the impact of his parents’ relationship, his father’s criminal lifestyle, and the emotional wounds that shaped his worldview.
As the conversation unfolds, Paul opens up about his relationships with his siblings, the longing for connection, and the fear and resilience that defined his formative years. He speaks candidly about the people who entered his life at critical moments, offering guidance, stability, and hope when he needed it most. His story highlights the power of community, the importance of support, and the possibility of redemption even after a painful beginning.
Michael relates his own journey of self-discovery and healing, reflecting on growing up in dysfunction, the influence of music and culture during his teenage years, and the choices that shaped his adulthood. He speaks openly about becoming a father while struggling with addiction, navigating relationships, and confronting the patterns passed down from his past. Through faith, reflection, and forgiveness—particularly toward their fathers—they describe how healing began to take root.
Together, Paul and Michael explore themes of redemption, faith, resilience, and personal responsibility. This episode encourages listeners to confront their past, embrace vulnerability, and recognize the unseen love and support that surrounds them. It is a reminder that even in the darkest seasons, healing is possible, choices matter, and hope still remains.

Key Takeaways
"I've always sensed that I was different."
"I was thrust into a position of defense against this man that was put into my mom's life."
"I had a deep yearning for my mother and my siblings."
"I was blessed regardless of the beginning of my life."
"It's OK to divorce dysfunction."
"Music was the one constant for me."
"I wanted to be an honorable man."
"I struggled with mood swings and emotional control."
"I started to pray and ask God to reveal Himself."
"You can change the outlook you have on your past."
"There is an unseen love you won't find in the flesh."
"You can make choices. The promise still remains."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitches
01:45 Paul’s Early Life and Family Dynamics
10:16 The Impact of Violence and Abuse
20:45 Yearning for Family and Connection
30:32 Navigating Dysfunction and Seeking Redemption
46:30 Creating an Exit Strategy
01:01:40 Finding Community and Support
01:16:15 The Influence of New Relationships
01:28:06 Facing Choices and Consequences
01:37:05 Divorcing Dysfunction
01:39:05 Music and Cultural Influence
01:41:20 Becoming a Father
01:44:33 Addiction and Relationship Struggles
01:52:19 Seeking Healing and Redemption
02:01:25 Faith and Transformation
02:30:15 Confronting the Past
02:49:11 Embracing Change

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