Welcome to How To Battle with Carlos Vasquez, where we explore the inspiring journeys of extraordinary individuals who have conquered life's toughest challenges. Join us as they share their experiences and strategies for overcoming adversity.
In this powerful episode of How To Battle, Michal Ohana, a survivor of the October 7th, 2023 attack on Israel, shares her harrowing experience at the Nova Festival and the traumatic aftermath. The episode explores the pain of loss, survivor’s guilt, and the enduring power of hope. Michal recounts how the terrorists targeted festival-goers, the moments of terror under an IDF tank, and the emotional and physical scars left behind. Despite the devastation, Michal embodies resilience, finding strength in sharing her story, fighting for the hostages, and believing that, together, "we will dance again." Follow & Share: https://www.instagram.com/___micela___?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://www.instagram.com/novaexhibition?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
In this powerful episode of the How To Battle podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Richard Turner, a man who spent 24 years in prison for attempted murder. Richard shares his powerful story of growing up in a chaotic environment influenced by his father's criminal lifestyle, leading him into a life of crime that eventually resulted in a life sentence at the age of 19. Through raw and honest reflection, Richard explores the challenges he faced in prison, from the trauma of witnessing violence as a child to navigating the harsh realities of incarceration. Richard delves into how he survived his darkest moments in prison by cultivating mental strength and relying on faith. He describes the profound impact of solitude, where he learned to confront his fears and doubts, ultimately realizing that his mind held the power to either break him or guide him through. Richard credits his resilience and faith for helping him endure prison and eventually find hope in a seemingly hopeless situation. The conversation touches on Richard's pivotal encounter with Travon Harris, a childhood friend who helped him develop the tools and mindset necessary to navigate the parole board and gain his freedom. Travon played a crucial role in Richard's transformation, providing mentorship and guidance on how to demonstrate his growth and readiness for release. Now freshly released from prison after 24 years, Richard reflects on his journey and the challenges of reentering society. He talks about setting small, attainable goals and how he is determined to apply the same perseverance that helped him survive prison to build a successful life in the free world. Richard's story is one of survival, personal growth, and the power of faith, offering hope and inspiration to those facing their own battles. Follow Richard on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/we_doing_better?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Follow Travon on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/travon_harris123?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
In this powerful episode of the How To Battle podcast, I sit down with Casey Diaz, a former gang shot caller turned author, podcaster, and speaker. Casey Diaz, known for his transformative journey from a life of Crime to becoming an inspiration, shares his insights on character, change, and the power of faith. Casey begins by emphasizing the importance of character, noting that true character is demonstrated by how one behaves both in public and in private. He discusses his tumultuous childhood in the Rampart district of Los Angeles, marked by a violent father and the early allure of gang life. Casey's story is one of resilience, as he navigates the trials of incarceration and the internal battle of maintaining his humanity amidst chaos. The conversation delves into Casey's pivotal moments in prison, including his introduction to crime at a young age, his experiences in the gang culture, and the harsh realities of prison life. He shares a transformative encounter with a prison ministry worker named Frances Proctor, whose unwavering faith and persistence planted the seeds of change in his heart. This encounter led to Casey's profound spiritual awakening and his decision to leave gang life behind. Casey highlights the challenges of transitioning from prison back into society, the importance of hard work, and the value of mentorship. He recounts his journey from working multiple jobs to eventually owning a successful sign-making business, attributing his success to God's guidance and the support of key individuals who believed in him. The episode also touches on his work with the Shot Caller podcast, where he interviews both former convicts and law enforcement officers, fostering dialogue and understanding between these traditionally opposing groups. Casey's podcast serves as a platform for sharing stories of redemption, discussing important social issues, and highlighting the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. How to Support Casey Diaz: Follow KC Diaz on Instagram @real_casey_diaz and Facebook: Casey Diaz- Author Listen to The Shot Caller Podcast on all major platforms. Purchase Casey Diaz's books, The Shot Caller and Ok, I Will (Available on Amazon) Stay connected with Casey's journey and upcoming projects, including a motion picture based on his life story. Visit Casey's Website: https://caseydiaz.net/
In this inspiring episode, we meet Clara Woods and her mother Betina, who share their remarkable journey of overcoming challenges and turning Clara's disability into a strength. The conversation begins with a profound quote, "I'm not what happened to me, I'm what I chose to become," setting the stage for a discussion about resilience, choice, and determination. Clara, a talented artist, was born with a brain scar and was initially expected to have severe limitations. However, with the unwavering support of her parents, Clara has defied expectations and found her voice through art. Her mother, Betina, recounts their journey from discovering Clara's disability to nurturing her passion for painting, which began as a fun activity and grew into a professional endeavor. Clara's story is one of resilience and inspiration. Despite the initial prognosis, Clara's parents chose to focus on what she could do rather than her limitations. Betina shares the pivotal moment when Clara expressed her dream to exhibit her art in New York, a dream that seemed improbable but was met with determination and support. The episode highlights the importance of believing in one's potential, regardless of societal expectations. Betina and Clara discuss the challenges they faced, including societal pressure and bureaucratic hurdles, and how they navigated these obstacles with faith and perseverance. Clara's art has gained international recognition, and she has become a symbol of inclusion and empowerment. Clara's mother emphasizes the importance of parents supporting their children's dreams and taking leaps of faith, even when the path is uncertain. They also discuss the balance between showcasing Clara's talents and managing her disability, striving to present her as an artist first and foremost. Clara's impact extends beyond her art. She has inspired countless individuals, particularly those with disabilities, by showing that limitations do not define a person's potential. Her message is clear: dream big, believe in yourself, and embrace your unique journey. Connect with Clara: Website: https://www.clarawoodscollection.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woods_clara_?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@woods_clara_?_t=8o8STlkjdiI&_r=1 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@clarawoods?si=Hv_XUXanNFjrBbag
In this heartfelt episode of How To Battle, I am joined by Peter Meyerhoff (https://petermeyerhoff.com), a man who has transformed his life from one of addiction, crime, and imprisonment to ultimate success and fulfillment. The conversation begins with a prayer, setting the tone for a discussion centered around faith, redemption, and the power of transformation. Peter shares his journey from being fresh out of prison, struggling with addiction and seeking guidance. He emphasizes the importance of perspective, recalling his time in prison and how the hardships of those days shaped his appreciation for the life he has now. The episode delves into the struggles Peter faced in his youth, growing up with a strained relationship with his father and falling into a life of crime and substance abuse. He speaks candidly about the turning points in his life, including a near-fatal overdose that led him to reevaluate his path and embrace faith. Peter discusses the importance of fitness, discipline, and mental health, and how these elements have been crucial in his ongoing recovery and success. He highlights the role of mentorship and community, both in his own life and in the lives of those he now helps. The conversation also touches on the challenges of adapting to life outside prison, the significance of fatherhood, and the fulfillment that comes from being a positive role model. Peter shares insights from his book Against All Odds (https://a.co/d/0gyHDexc), which chronicles his story of addiction, crime, imprisonment, and eventual success. Throughout the episode, Peter's humility and gratitude shine through as he reflects on his journey and the importance of staying true to oneself. He encourages listeners to seek help, embrace faith, and never give up on their dreams, no matter how insurmountable the obstacles may seem. Connect with Peter: https://linktr.ee/rollcallwithchappy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share