052: Riding for Breath - The Power of Advocacy and a Family’s Labor of Love to Defeat Lung Cancer

In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, John Matthews, founder of Ride Hard Breathe Easy, and Jack Owens, a University of Notre Dame student, share their deeply personal journeys to fight lung cancer through action, advocacy, and cycling. Segment 1: A Promise Becomes a Mission John shares how a promise to his mother led to Ride Hard Breathe Easy and its first cross-country fundraising ride. Segment 2: A New Generation Joins the Ride Jack Owens talks about his current 3,600-mile solo ride across the U.S., honoring his grandmother and expanding the organization’s impact. Segment 3: Meeting Patients Where They Are They discuss how funding helps lung cancer patients with transportation and essential needs, making treatment possible. Segment 4: Breaking the Stigma John addresses the stigma around lung cancer and the importance of educating the public about its realities. Segment 5: The Power of Family and Community Reflections on the role of family, community, and support networks in sustaining the mission. Segment 6: Training, Dedication, and Lessons Learned Jack shares his physical and emotional preparation for the ride, and what keeps him going on the toughest days. Segment 7: What’s Next for Ride Hard Breathe Easy If you enjoyed this episode, here is how you can take action to advance cancer research: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give • Visit https://www.rhbe.org to learn more about Ride Hard Breathe Easy or to make a donation • Share this episode to raise awareness for cancer patients or with someone you know who might benefit from hearing it • Subscribe to Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts Production Credits Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: John Matthews and Jack Owens Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.