In this episode, I speak with author and coach Axel Schura about how life’s toughest moments can become opportunities for growth. Axel opens up about being diagnosed with stage four cancer in his twenties, the fear that came with it, and the mindset shifts that helped him transform pain into purpose.
We explore the ideas behind his new book “Maybe This Is Happening For You, Not To You”, diving into how curiosity, responsibility, and belief can change the way we experience adversity. Axel shares the tools that helped him move from victimhood to empowerment, and why embracing fear as a teacher can unlock meaning even in our darkest seasons.
What We Cover
- How Axel’s cancer journey reshaped his relationship with fear
- Why reframing “why me” into “what now” is so powerful
- Can fear serve a purpose rather than hold us back?
- The ICU experience, his brother’s support, and the nurse who sparked recovery
- Practical tools from therapy and “act as if” psychology
- Why most worries never happen and how to track them
- Lessons from Viktor Frankl on meaning and responsibility
- The Chinese farmer story and learning to find perspective in adversity
- The making of “Maybe This Is Happening For You, Not To You”
- How sharing vulnerability can help others heal
Axel’s story reminds us that how we respond to life’s challenges defines our growth. His message is simple yet profound: belief and responsibility can turn pain into purpose.
Connect with Axel on Instagram, where he shares insights on mindset, personal growth, and emotional resilience. You can also visit axelschura.com to learn more about his work and get his new book “Maybe This Is Happening For You, Not To You” at axelschura.com/maybe. For more of Axel’s content, including his podcast and YouTube channel, head to his Linktree.
- How Axel Shura Turned Pain Into Purpose After Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis (00:00)
- Confronting Death for the First Time (18:10)
- Reflecting on the Journey (25:11)
- Practical Advice for Dealing with Fear (41:03)
- Reframing Fear and Embracing Life (51:10)
- The Power of Feedback and Facing Judgment (55:34)
- Mini Risks and Overcoming Isolation (01:07:25)
- The Importance of Belief and Vision (01:12:30)
- The Chinese Farmer Story: Embracing Uncertainty (01:17:28)
- Radical Responsibility and Viktor Frankl’s Influence (01:24:46)
- Concluding Thoughts and Reflections (01:29:49)
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More about Axel Schura
Axel Schura is a certified mindset and business coach from Germany. He is the founder of the health and wellness brand Fire Within and helps millions of people with his content about health and mindset. Axel is the host of several podcasts and works with professional athletes and high-level entrepreneurs. He started his career in finance, then found his passion for health and fitness, quit his job 10 years ago, and started working as a personal trainer and coach. He survived stage 4 cancer, was told that he has 5 days left to live, and now dedicates his life to helping people improve their lives.
