In this jaw-dropping, soul-stirring episode of Define the Fight, host Mariah welcomes Jace Denman, a beloved radio host and play-by-play broadcaster, who quite literally came back from the brink of death. Jace recounts how a widowmaker heart attack led to a miraculous chain of events—including 20 minutes without oxygen, nine resuscitations, and ultimately a life-saving heart transplant.
This episode explores resilience, divine purpose, and how love—both human and divine—carries us through unimaginable circumstances. Prepare for chills, laughs, and possibly a tear or two.
🕰️ Key Moments & Timestamps:
(0:28) — “I had no idea anything was happening…” Jace recounts the shock of his heart attack and the moment he passed out behind the wheel.
(1:34) — Apple Watch + fast response = first miracle. Firefighters and neighbors jump in to save his life.
(2:10) — Surviving 20 minutes without oxygen. “No brain damage… how is that possible?”
(3:14) — The hospital tests no one thought he’d pass—Jace aces them all.
(4:18) — “Why am I still here?” Jace reflects on survivor’s guilt and faith.
(5:47) — His biggest motivator? His family, especially his daughters.
(7:16) — “The 120 Steps” reflection method: a unique spiritual practice that shaped Mariah’s journey too.
(9:48) — Back from break: “How many times do you have to get hit before you stand back up?”
(11:03) — Jace starts to regain memory in the hospital—fuzzy moments, fentanyl, and NFL games.
(13:35) — The Impella device and scary VTAC episodes: waking up to chaos (and CPR... again).
(17:55) — Facing death again, Jace comforts his family before the transplant, not the other way around.
(21:21) — How do you get on the transplant list? Jace breaks down the medical and emotional process.
(25:23) — A miracle match: the heart that was “meant for Jace.”
(27:56) — The Traveling Heart: How donor hearts are transported—this one restarted multiple times.
(30:56) — Discharged just 12 days after a heart transplant. Yes, really.
(34:25) — From hospital bed to gym treadmill: rebuilding his body and reclaiming life.
(38:09) — Advice from a miracle man: stay positive, listen to your body, and fight the good fight.