“Forge Opened Every Door”: Asher’s Forge Story

Asher Thompson never imagined that a simple text message would change the trajectory of his life. Growing up in Fishers, Indiana, he had always been drawn to public service but wasn’t sure where that passion would take him. His time at Ohio Christian University—where he played baseball, studied political science, served as Student Body President, and interned on a mayoral campaign—gave him a foundation. But it was Forge that turned his aspirations into reality.

The invitation to apply to Forge came through a text message from Forge’s Recruiter—twice, actually. He ignored both. With baseball and school dominating his time, he wasn’t sure if he would have the time to attend a Forge Summit. But when a third message arrived, this time mentioning a recommendation from his mentor and professor, Dr. Monty Lobb, he decided to pay attention. Dr. Lobb’s advice was blunt: “Attending Forge will be the most important thing you do for your future.” Encouraged to take the opportunity seriously, Asher reluctantly applied. 

Walking into the Forge Leadership Summit, Asher wasn’t sure what to expect. He assumed he’d be overwhelmed by advanced policy discussions that would go over his head and meet attendees with way more experience than he had. After all, he was only a college freshman. Instead, Asher found himself among a high-caliber group of peers who weren’t just interested in politics—they were actively shaping it and dedicated to their faith.  

Asher shared, “It was unique to meet so many conservatives dedicated to advancing conservative principles but also committed to their faith.” 

Many of his peers at the Summit were older and ahead of where he was but were welcoming and invited him into their sphere of influence. 

“Forge was a springboard—it accelerated my growth in ways I never expected.”

One defining moment came during the legislative simulation at the Ohio Statehouse. Rushing to draft bills, debating policy, and working with his peers in a fast-paced environment helped him solidify his passion for the political process. That evening, he heard Joseph Backholm of the Family Research Council give a keynote address.

“Hearing Joseph speak about entering the public square with humility—prioritizing what is good, true, and beautiful over titles and accolades—changed my perspective. Forge wasn’t just about career advancement. It was a call to serve with excellence and integrity.”

Forge didn’t just shape Asher’s understanding of leadership—it opened doors he never anticipated.

“Forge has opened every door in my young career.”

His first real internship and part-time job came through Forge co-founder Justin Powell, working as a political coordinator for Huntington Billboards. Forge connections then led him to The Heritage Foundation’s Young Leaders Program, where he secured a Government Relations internship with the help of recommendations from Forge Fellows. That experience launched him into his current full-time role as the Grassroots Assistant at Heritage Action for America, The Heritage Foundation’s lobbying and electoral advocacy arm, where he helps prepare materials for state lobbyists and engages with nearly two million grassroots activists.

“The most valuable skill Forge taught me is understanding what state and local conservatives truly care about—something many in D.C. struggle to grasp. My current role allows me to engage in both the state and federal policy fights from a grassroots perspective.”

Not to mention, Asher’s boss at Heritage Action is Stephanie Kreuz – who happens to be a longtime Forge Supporter and Mentor!

In his spare time, Asher serves as CEO of New Guard Press, a conservative publication founded by Forge Fellow Bradley Haley. Asher and Bradley had Forge in common and were roommates during their internships at The Heritage Foundation. As their friendship grew, Asher knew he wanted to build success for New Guard Press and join the team. New Guard started as an idea but is now a full-scale operation, winning the Intercollegiate Studies Institute’s Best New Conservative Publication of the Year award in 2024.

“Forge is built on friendship—Bradley is someone I would follow into battle any day.”

Beyond professional success, Forge profoundly shaped Asher’s personal life. Nearly every significant person in his daily life is associated with Forge—his fiancée, boss, mentor, and closest friends. Asher met his fiancée, Anna Young, at Forge; she was a student mentor at his Summit, and they grew closer during a trip to Israel that Forge Fellows took.

“Anna is my greatest blessing—faithful, joyful, and full of heart. We owe so much to Forge for bringing us together.” 

They will marry this summer in Nashville and begin their life together in Alexandria, Virginia, surrounded by their Forge friends in the DMV area.

For Asher Thompson, the Forge impact is just beginning. He is at the start of his career and has a bright future, with interests that range from national security and foreign policy to family policy and grassroots impact. Asher knows that the call on his life is public service. Forge will be with him every step of the way. Forge Leadership Network is not a one-off experience but a lifetime of faithful believers in the fight with you.

At Forge, young conservatives like Asher don’t merely get involved; they stay involved and stay faithful. 

Thank you for reading Asher’s Forge Story. Donate today to raise up more young leaders like Asher.  

Sincerely,

Adam Josefczyk
Forge Leadership Network
Co-Founder & President
O: 800-481-5024
ForgeLeadership.org