The Antihero Podcast: "Thin Blue Ride" Summary
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Antihero Podcast
- Host/Author: The Antihero Podcast
- Description: Part Delta Force. Part Street Cop. All Truth.
- Episode: Thin Blue Ride
- Release Date: March 24, 2025
1. Introduction
Brent Tucker and Tyler, co-hosts of The Antihero Podcast, welcome listeners to the episode titled "Thin Blue Ride." They kick off the conversation with light-hearted banter about military humor before introducing their guest, J.D. Dage—a combat army veteran, seasoned police officer, SWAT sniper, and cancer warrior who founded the Thin Blue Line Ride in 2017.
2. Military Service and Deployment
Joining Post-9/11: J.D. Dage shares his motivation for joining the military following the September 11 attacks. At 18, while working at his father's welding shop, he felt compelled to serve after hearing the events unfold on the radio.
"I was like, okay, time to, you know, time to do something."
— J.D. Dage [00:32]
Reserve vs. National Guard: Initially uncertain between active duty and reserve service, J.D. opted for the reserves, acknowledging limited options and uncertainties associated with reserve duty.
"If I love it, then I'll stick with it. If it sucks, you're kind of screwed."
— J.D. Dage [08:20]
Deployment to Iraq: Rapid mobilization led J.D. and his unit to Fort Drum, New York, during a time when they anticipated deployment to Kuwait and subsequently Iraq. Serving in the transportation unit (88 Mike), his role involved managing massive fuel convoys critical to operational success.
"We were bringing fuel north. We're bringing fuel north."
— Brent Tucker [21:40]
Convoy Operations and Challenges: The discussion delves into the complexities of logistical support in a combat zone. J.D. highlights the persistent threats from "pop shots" and the lack of clear battle lines, emphasizing the perilous nature of their missions.
"We're bringing fuel north. We're bringing fuel north."
— J.D. Dage [21:40]
Adaptation and Improvisation: Facing limited resources, J.D. and his team improvised defensive measures, such as creating makeshift turrets to enhance convoy security.
"It's a) Adapt and overcome, I guess."
— J.D. Dage [16:42]
3. Transition to Law Enforcement
Becoming a Police Officer: After returning from his first deployment, J.D. transitioned into law enforcement, joining the Massachusetts Police Department. He recounts his early roles, including working on the paddy wagon and processing arrests, which he found less fulfilling than active patrol duties.
"I signed up to be a cop, not do this."
— J.D. Dage [62:21]
Patrol Duties and Community Interaction: Shifting to patrol operations, J.D. describes the dynamic nature of law enforcement work, handling everything from domestic disputes to high-speed pursuits, emphasizing the camaraderie and integrity within his unit.
"We're taking care of each other."
— J.D. Dage [65:07]
4. Cancer Diagnosis and Battle
Initial Diagnosis: While preparing for a second deployment, J.D. experienced severe pain that led to the diagnosis of testicular cancer. The revelation was abrupt and life-altering, prompting emergency surgery to remove the affected testicle.
"I have testicular cancer. I'm not gonna be able to have kids."
— J.D. Dage [85:06]
Treatment and Recovery: J.D. underwent extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and lymph node dissection, which had profound effects on his physical health, hormone levels, and overall well-being. He candidly discusses the challenges of recovery and the impact on his career.
"I was hooked up, I was getting paid as if I was working 40 hours a week."
— J.D. Dage [88:05]
Facing Recurrence: Despite initial treatment success, J.D. faced a recurrence of cancer, now identified as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). His resilience is evident as he continues treatment and remains active in his duties.
"I’m a cancer warrior."
— J.D. Dage [Being the guest description]
5. Founding Thin Blue Line Ride
Establishing the Foundation: Inspired by his personal battle, J.D. founded Thin Blue Line Ride—a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting first responders battling cancer. The foundation raises funds through cycling events, benefiting individuals like fellow officers and veterans.
"We started raising money. Marco was a Worcester COPS kid. He has cancer. We raised money. We handed them over a check."
— J.D. Dage [117:05]
First Successes: The initial events saw significant community support, raising over $26,000 in the first summer. The foundation has since grown, raising upwards of $800,000 to date, assisting numerous first responders across various states.
"We've raised over $800,000."
— J.D. Dage [122:50]
Community and Corporate Support: J.D. emphasizes the importance of grassroots support and the role of corporate sponsors in expanding the foundation's reach. Recent donations include a fully-equipped GMC truck from Marty's GMC, enabling greater participation in events.
"They gave us a truck, they wrapped it for us. They got our logos on it."
— J.D. Dage [146:30]
6. Reflections on Health and Support
Importance of Early Detection: Throughout the conversation, J.D. underscores the critical role of early detection in cancer prognosis. He advocates for regular medical check-ups and cautions against complacency regarding one's health.
"Early detection is the biggest number one factor, especially with cancer."
— J.D. Dage [94:53]
Holistic Approaches and Personal Health: Beyond conventional treatments, J.D. explores holistic methods such as stem cell therapy, meditation, and physical fitness to bolster his recovery and maintain his health.
"I'm on my third type of medication. The side effects, the new meds don't have as bad of side effects."
— J.D. Dage [87:56]
Community Support Systems: Both hosts and J.D. acknowledge the vital role of community support—through foundations like Thin Blue Line Ride and personal networks—in navigating health crises and fostering resilience.
"We're going to help you."
— J.D. Dage [124:22]
7. Closing
In conclusion, J.D. Dage shares his ongoing commitment to supporting first responders through Thin Blue Line Ride, inviting listeners to contribute and participate in future events. The episode wraps up with reflections on resilience, community support, and the enduring spirit of those who serve.
"All you have is your health right now."
— J.D. Dage [143:55]
For more information or to support Thin Blue Line Ride, visit blueride.org.
Notable Quotes:
- J.D. Dage [00:32]: "I was like, okay, time to, you know, time to do something."
- J.D. Dage [08:20]: "If I love it, then I'll stick with it. If it sucks, you're kind of screwed."
- Brent Tucker [21:40]: "We're bringing fuel north. We're bringing fuel north."
- J.D. Dage [16:42]: "Adapt and overcome, I guess."
- J.D. Dage [62:21]: "I signed up to be a cop, not do this."
- J.D. Dage [65:07]: "We're taking care of each other."
- J.D. Dage [85:06]: "I have testicular cancer. I'm not gonna be able to have kids."
- J.D. Dage [88:05]: "I was hooked up, I was getting paid as if I was working 40 hours a week."
- J.D. Dage [117:05]: "We started raising money. Marco was a Worcester COPS kid. He has cancer. We raised money. We handed them over a check."
- J.D. Dage [122:50]: "We've raised over $800,000."
- J.D. Dage [94:53]: "Early detection is the biggest number one factor, especially with cancer."
- J.D. Dage [143:55]: "All you have is your health right now."
Support Thin Blue Line Ride: Visit blueride.org to donate, volunteer, or learn more about supporting first responders battling cancer.
Additional Resources:
- Refracted Wolf Apparel: Use promo code Antihero for 15% off RefractedWolf.com
- First Responder Coffee & Cigars: Use promo code FRCC15 for 15% off FRCC.com
- Human Performance: Use promo code HERO for 20% off HPTRT.com
This episode of The Antihero Podcast provides a poignant and inspiring narrative of resilience, highlighting the pivotal role of first responders and the community's support in overcoming personal and professional challenges.