🎙️ The American Journey of John James: From Combat to Congress
In this deeply personal and powerfully patriotic episode, Sage Steele sits down with U.S. Congressman John James — a West Point graduate, decorated Army combat veteran, accomplished businessman, and rising star in American politics. With unwavering faith and grit, John shares his inspiring journey from flying Apache helicopters over Iraq to leading economic revitalization efforts in Detroit, all while challenging the status quo in both politics and race relations.
🔑 Highlights from the Conversation:
✈️ Frontline Leadership: John James discusses his military service as a Ranger-qualified Apache pilot with over 750 combat hours in Iraq, and how the military shaped his views on accountability, sacrifice, and leadership.
🏢 From One Truck to 500 Jobs: Learn how John helped grow his father’s trucking business — born out of the Jim Crow South — into a multi-million dollar logistics enterprise serving Detroit and beyond.
🗳️ Faith Over Fame: Hear how John remains rooted in family, service, and spirituality — despite intense political scrutiny, especially within his own community for being a Black conservative.
🧠 Education, Identity & the American Dream: From school choice to cultural pride, John offers a bold vision of empowerment through opportunity and not victimhood — even recalling emotional moments like being shunned in his childhood church for running as a Republican.
🇺🇸 “Black runs deeper than red and blue — but being American is to the bone.” James breaks down what it truly means to serve a country you believe in, no matter the political party.
🔥 Notable Quotes:
“I care more about a room in my Father's house than a seat in Congress.” “When you give parents a choice, you give children a chance.” “Nothing good comes from not testing yourself — there is greatness on the other side of pain.”
📘 About Congressman John James:
John James is a U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 10th District, a West Point graduate, and a former Army Captain who flew combat missions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. After eight years in the military, he transitioned to lead James Group International, helping grow it into a major force in the logistics sector. He’s run twice for U.S. Senate and is now a GOP candidate for Governor of Michigan. John is a Christian, husband, father, and a fierce advocate for education reform, economic opportunity, and faith-based leadership.
🎧 Don't miss this conversation about leadership, legacy, and living purposefully.
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