Ep. 455: Render - Jason is Here: The Guy Who Got Shot

In this powerful episode of Bear Grease Render, host Clay Newcomb welcomes Jason Dean, the survivor of a near-fatal 1990 hunting accident in which he was shot with a .270 rifle at age 17. The episode unfolds as a deeply personal and spiritual journey, exploring Jason’s miraculous survival after being shot through the lung, heart, and spine—just inches from his heart—and spending over two hours in the woods before being rescued. With no cell phone, no ambulance in the county, and a remote location, Jason’s survival is attributed to a combination of instinct, cold water immersion, and divine intervention. He recounts his out-of-body experience, seeing his grandmother on the other side of a misty river, and the profound peace he felt during his ordeal. The emotional core of the episode lies in the family’s response: Jason’s father’s prayers, his brother’s emotional trauma, and Jason’s forgiveness of the man who shot him. The story becomes a testament to faith, family, and the redemptive power of forgiveness. The episode also touches on broader themes like trauma’s ripple effect, the brain’s predictive nature, and gun safety, while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. Jason’s message—appreciating every day as a gift—resonates deeply with the hosts and listeners alike.