Ryan Stephens, Rob Hefley, and Daniel Shaw host the Forge by Fire podcast, welcoming their special guest, James Ash. James is a Marine Corps combat veteran, law enforcement officer, and combat veteran who has been a close friend of Ryan's for over 20 years. As the hosts and James reminisce about their shared experiences, James opens up about his recent cancer diagnosis - a rare form called multiple myeloma that affects less than 2% of all cancer patients.
Diagnosed at just 41 years old, decades younger than the typical patient, James reveals that he sought treatment at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), known as the world's leading institute for this type of cancer. He expresses his determination to fight the disease, which has caused bone lesions and weakened his immune system. The group discusses the alarming rates of cancer among veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, emphasizing the importance of early screening and accessing available benefits.
Despite his difficult diagnosis, James maintains a remarkably positive attitude, crediting his strong support system - particularly his wife, Jess - for giving him the strength to persevere. The hosts are deeply impressed by James' mindset, praising his refusal to view cancer as a death sentence and his commitment to finding purpose in the midst of adversity. The conversation shifts to the importance of community, with the hosts describing the unique culture they've fostered at their gym, where veterans and first responders can be vulnerable and find healing.
As James opens up about his complex spiritual journey, the group explores the concept of "meekness" as strength under control, drawing parallels to the example of Jesus. They discuss the harmful ways in which some have weaponized Christianity, leaving James and others feeling unworthy and broken. However, the hosts emphasize the unconditional love of God and the importance of living as true sons of the Father.
The discussion turns to the significance of breaking negative generational cycles, with the hosts sharing their own experiences and the steps they're taking to create better lives for their children. They highlight the power of speaking generational blessings over their families and demonstrating healthy, loving relationships.
As James prepares to undergo an intense 100-day treatment regimen, the hosts offer their unwavering support, encouraging him to lean on his community during this challenging time. James shares plans to document his journey through a new public Instagram account and an upcoming podcast titled "Unbroken from the Ashes," which will explore themes of overcoming hardship and emerging stronger. The podcast concludes with the hosts expressing their pride in James' resilience and their excitement to reconvene in a year to celebrate his recovery and hear the full story of his inspiring journey.
