In this episode, we have the great honor and privilege of talking with Mr. John Matthews. John is the founder of Ride Hard Breathe Easy; a nonprofit organization committed to supporting lung cancer patients and advancing awareness and care. Motivated by the loss of his mother to lung cancer, John turned his grief into action by launching a cross-country bike ride that has since grown into a national movement. Ride Hard Breathe Easy now partners with seven cancer centers across the country, has supported more than 2,500 patients, and raised over $1 million for lung cancer care Initiatives.

In addition to his advocacy work, John teaches public speaking and speechwriting at Temple University, helping students use their voice to make a difference. He also was instrumental in establishing the ALCSI Chapter at Temple University. He lives outside Philadelphia with his wife, Beth, and has a son, John, who he deeply admires. John brings a unique perspective to the cancer research conversation—blending lived experience, community mobilization, and a deep commitment to improving outcomes for those facing lung cancer.

This is part one of a two-part miniseries, where we speak with John Matthews and his nephew, Jack Owens, about their journeys with Ride Hard Breathe Easy.

Your podcast hosts are Sam Schwartz, Pranav Mandyam, Jacob Rashap, and Priyanka Senthil.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the world. Large clinical trials have shown that lung cancer screening through low-dose computed tomography (CT) reduces lung cancer mortality by up to 33%. In fact, if every high-risk American were to get screened right now, thousands of lives could be saved this year alone. However, less than 20% of high-risk Americans are currently getting screened. Visit our website at https://www.alcsi.org/ for free educational resources and webinars on lung cancer and lung cancer screening.

Email: info@alcsi.org

Twitter: @AmLungCSI

Instagram: @amlungcsi