175: How One Man Is Using Jiu-Jitsu to Tap Cancer Out

How do you turn personal tragedy into a force for good? In Episode 175 of The Jason Khalipa Podcast, Jason and Gabe sit down with Jon Thomas, the founder of Tap Cancer Out, to share an incredible journey from heartbreak to transforming the jiu-jitsu community. What started as one man’s mission to honor a loved one has grown into a nonprofit that’s raised over $1.5 million for cancer-related causes, all through the power of jiu-jitsu and determination. This episode is an inspiring look at how hard work and passion can make a real difference. Ready to channel your own power and purpose? Take our FREE Training Program Quiz to discover how to optimize your health and fitness as a busy parent. Plus, try the Train Hard app with a 7-day trial: https://th.fit/. Whether you're looking to start a new fitness routine or find balance, we've got you covered. Jon opens up about the challenges of starting a nonprofit without a roadmap, the emotional weight of losing someone close, and how taking action can shift your focus during tough times. Jason, Gabe, and Jon break down what it takes to overcome self-doubt, push through obstacles, and use your passions to create something meaningful. For more info on Tap Cancer Out, visit: https://tapcancerout.org/ Take our Training Program Quiz and get a 7-Day Trial to the TH App here: https://th.fit/ Code: JKPODCAST for 50% off Lab Work at Blokes: https://blokes.co/jkpodcast Never let momentum get to zero. Listen to the Jason Khalipa Podcast every Monday and Thursday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Follow Jason: https://instagram.com/jasonkhalipa?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Follow TRAIN HARD: https://www.instagram.com/trainhard.fit/?hl=en Never Zero Newsletter: https://www.th.fit/ NCFIT Programming For Gym Owners: https://www.nc.fit/programming Philanthropy: https://avaskitchen.org/ Chapters: 0:00 Fighting Cancer Through Jiu-Jitsu 2:09 Childhood Heroes and Collectibles 6:18 Loss Inspires Change 8:15 Starting a Nonprofit Through Jiu-Jitsu 12:21 $1.5 Million Raised for Cancer 14:14 Just Start: Overcoming Fear 18:12 Action Relieves Anxiety 19:57 Creating Tap Cancer Out 23:39 Blue Belt and Personal Growth 25:30 Why Competing Feels Different 29:01 White Belts: Step Into Competition 30:35 Fundraising Through Tournaments 33:44 Jiu-Jitsu Bonds and Cancer Awareness 35:32 Honoring Loved Ones in Jiu-Jitsu 39:19 Global Grappling Day 40:59 Compete Without Pressure 44:28 Supporting Multiple Cancer Causes 46:15 Giving Back to the Cancer Journey 49:38 Volunteer and Make an Impact 51:15 Join and Share Tap Cancer Out