The Way of the Underdog

The Underdog is the most potent myth in America. It pervades film, pop culture, music and sports. Politicians use it to frame their campaigns. Professional sports teams use it to psyche themselves up before big games. In theory, we’ve always liked the long shot. Is this special type of hero just a myth or is the underdog real? Contributor Brendan Leonard thinks it’s real because he’s seen it in person. Jayson Sime was a small town Iowa kid from the tough part of town. He was told he wouldn’t amount to much by his teachers and hazed by his peers. The greatest successes require the most difficult obstacles. From north of nowhere to a career in politics to Mount Shasta’s summit, Jayson has overcome. Maybe heroes are real. To be in their presence is a powerful thing. Can you learn how to emulate the underdog by watching one?

Music: Phantom Limb by Hospital Ships   •   Dead Letter by The Idle Hands   •   Gnomes by Sea of Bees   •   Love and Crashing by Oax

Music provided by IODA Promonet.