In this profoundly moving episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts sits down with survivor, speaker, and advocate Jackson Rainbow to hear his remarkable story of resilience, faith, and healing. Diagnosed with stage three Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 12, Jackson endured grueling treatments with a heart full of hope. By 13, he was already sharing his message with thousands at the NCAA Division II meeting, proving that light can shine through even in the most challenging circumstances.
But Jackson’s story doesn’t stop there. In 2017, another life-threatening health emergency left him unable to walk, eat, or drink. He survived and returned stronger, fueled by his faith, family, and the unwavering belief that he was still here for a reason.
In the years that followed, Jackson battled addiction, isolation, and spiritual exhaustion. And yet, through the darkness, he found a way back to himself, his purpose, and those he loves. Now married and thriving, Jackson is committed to helping others rise through what they’ve been through, reminding us that healing doesn’t happen alone—it happens in community.
Together, We Explore:
Jackson’s battle with cancer as a young teen—and how it led him to his life’s mission
The powerful role of community, faith, and family support in surviving the unthinkable
His second major health crisis and the miraculous recovery that followed
The quiet but painful reality of addiction and the path to sobriety
Key Takeaways:
Resilience isn’t the absence of pain—it’s the willingness to endure it.
Faith, when coupled with action and community, can be a life-saving force.
Healing is not linear. It requires honesty, support, and sometimes, a complete reset.
Even in our darkest seasons, purpose can be rediscovered—and used to help others heal.
If you’re facing your own hard season, or supporting someone who is, this episode will remind you: you’re not alone. Life is beyond the battle, and your story might just be the light someone else needs.
To inquire about Jackson's speaking engagements, reach out to Missy@thewhatsyourstory.com
You can connect with Jackson at https://www.facebook.com/jackson.rainbow.1
https://www.instagram.com/jackkss55/
Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re figuring things out, navigating a big shift, or just have something on your heart you want to share—reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email info@midlifecatalyst.net.
And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com. That’s where all the good stuff lives—episode extras, playlists, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we talk about here.
