How To Battle Podcast

How To Battle Podcast

by Carlos Vasquez

Self-Improvement

Season 1

Becoming a Confident Man

Today I’m sharing my story, from the day I got sentenced and walked straight from a courtroom into a prison cell, to the long road of trying to figure out who I really was. Back then, I believed confidence meant dominance: standing tall, showing no weakness, keeping people at a distance. But that was just fear in disguise. Violence became my armor because I didn’t know who I was without it. It took years to unlearn that version of confidence. To face the pain, to take responsibility, and to start rebuilding something real from the inside out. Together with my co-host, Shirin Hejazi, we break down what true confidence actually looks like: not loud, not performative, but steady, honest, and earned. It’s built through self-awareness, discipline, and the courage to keep showing up, even when you’re still figuring yourself out. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Core vs surface confidence (05:44) Admitting mistakes and learning to grow (07:26) Building real confidence step by step (12:14) Taking the leap when fear hits (15:39) Following your passion and embracing change (19:04) Lessons from the confidence masterclass (22:56) Finding resilience beneath the surface (24:06) How values and connection shape confidence (27:12) Wrap up and free resources Links mentioned in this episode: Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information, visit: Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

Rethinking ADHD with April Rehrig

April Rehrig is an educator, advocate, and champion for children and families who often feel overlooked in the realms of special education and neurodiversity. She candidly discusses the challenges parents encounter within the school system—from navigating IEPs and addressing hidden disabilities to embracing the power of self-advocacy and owning their narratives. April confronts stigma, redefines resilience, and exemplifies what it truly means to rise up when life brings you down. Tune in as we dive into: (06:20) Turning struggle into a superpower (08:11) How your brain really works (12:09) Finding real connection again (15:46) One boy’s silent fight (17:25) The truth about special ed reform (21:21) Know your rights (24:51) When school becomes survival (29:10) School to prison – the hidden link (30:50) Why mentorship matters (34:50) Rethinking how schools work (36:59) Breaking the parent-school wall (40:55) Build your vision plan (44:21) Finding purpose in education (47:41) Blending families your way (52:04) Love starts with self-respect (53:28) Growing together through it all (57:29) Final thoughts and free tools Links mentioned in this episode: Rise Educational Advocacy: https://www.riseeducationaladvocacy.com/ Rise Educational Advocacy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseedadvocacy/ Rise Educational Advocacy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@riseedadvocacy Rise Educational Advocacy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rise-educational-advocacy-and-consulting/ Get my latest book for FREE: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information, visit: Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

Redefining Real Strength

In this raw, eye-opening conversation with guest host Shirin Hejazi, I share hard-earned insights from my own journey – what it felt like to live behind emotional armor, the myths of masculinity I had to unlearn and the power I discovered in authentic connection. I also talk about the work I do mentoring others, what it truly takes to grow as a man, and why real strength is found in vulnerability. This isn’t just for men, it’s for anyone who wants to build deeper, braver relationships. If you’re ready for an unfiltered look at the emotional battles men face, and how to overcome them, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Balanced growth in relationships (05:01) Toxic masculinity in communities (10:13) The power of apologizing (13:09) Valuing strong women elevates everyone (16:07) Finding safe spaces for vulnerability (19:10) Emotional openness defines true masculinity (24:26) Daily improvement for relationship growth Links mentioned in this episode: Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information, visit: Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

Witnessing Death Every Year: Dan Olschwang’s Healing Journey

Dan Olschwang grew up in the chaos of Jerusalem, carrying the weight of trauma from a young age. From the age of 6, he saw death every year – murders, bombings, accidents. At just 14, he barely survived a bombing, an experience that left him battling PTSD and learning to hide his fears behind toughness and success. But running from pain only goes so far. Dan spent years chasing achievements and traveling the world looking for answers, only to realize the real fight wasn’t out there – it was inside. In this conversation with Carlos, Dan breaks down what it takes to face the darkness head-on, unpack years of emotional shutdown, and rebuild yourself into something stronger. They dig into consciousness, connection, and why true transformation starts when you stop pretending you’re fine and actually deal with the pain beneath the surface. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Reflecting on impactful life moments (06:22) From Russia to Israel, a childhood shaped by fear (07:51) The impact witnessing death every year from the age of 6 (12:27) Bus bombing horror, survivor's account (22:32) Fungi communication and awareness (26:39) Unified reality and consciousness (34:29) Why humans have unique consciousness (37:03) Kabbalah's insight into consciousness (41:17) Dreaming without feeling (48:10) Questioning success and seeking purpose (53:00) Finding your soulmate (01:01:54) Courage in public vulnerability Links mentioned in this episode: Dan Olschwang’s Website: https://www.danolschwang.com/ Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information, visit: Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

The Loneliness Epidemic

I’ve been through the kind of isolation most people can’t imagine – locked away in solitary confinement, stripped of connection, fighting to keep my mind and spirit alive. But here’s the truth: loneliness doesn’t just live in a prison cell. It’s everywhere. People are feeling it at work, at home, even while scrolling through endless feeds that never fill the void. In this conversation with Shirin on How To Battle, I get real about what that isolation does to you – physically, mentally, spiritually – and how I found strength through faith, reflection and rebuilding myself from the inside out. We’ll talk about the loneliness epidemic, how tech and AI are changing the way we connect, and why being alone doesn’t have to break you – it can shape you. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Isolation as a natural human struggle (03:40) The dangers of mental isolation (06:55) Finding faith through isolation (12:01) The social media comparison trap (14:36) Embracing self-improvement for resilience (17:52) AI companions as a double-edged sword (22:28) Building confidence for connection (26:33) Universal love and connection Links mentioned in this episode: Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Shout out to Youth Champions for their amazing work in changing the lives of our youth! Want to get involved? Learn how to volunteer or donate here: https://youth-champions.org

From Homeless to the Cage: Ian Butler’s Fight for Purpose

Professional fighter Ian Butler opens up about a journey defined by resilience, from experiencing homelessness and family struggles to competing on MMA’s biggest stages. With raw honesty, Ian shares the inner battles that shaped his path and the faith, relentless work and unexpected mentors who helped him rise above. This conversation explores transformation, purpose, and giving back. Discover how Ian’s fight outside the cage became just as important as the one inside, and why he’s now dedicated to mentoring the next generation through his Silverback Wrestling Club. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Perseverance and self-belief (06:56) Be careful what you ask for (11:53) Faith, homelessness and a guardian angel (19:53) Overcoming challenges through support (20:47) Finding manhood through wrestling (26:07) Overcoming doubts in the ring (33:10) Confronting an absent father (38:55) A fighter’s emotional struggle (45:27) Exhausted victory and respect (50:13) Wrestling as life-changing and educational (52:09) Youth club expansion for college success (01:01:45) Entrepreneurial lessons from unexpected sources Links mentioned in this episode: Ian Butler’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianbutlermma Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods

Behind the Glory: An NFL Star's Journey Through Adversity

Former NFL player and Super Bowl champion Paul Kruger shares the battles that shaped his life beyond the game. From near-death experiences and the pressures of professional football to the quieter struggles with doubt and identity, Paul speaks with raw honesty. This conversation explores transformation. Discover how fatherhood, love, and entrepreneurship gave him a renewed sense of purpose, and why surrender can sometimes be the most powerful choice. Together, Carlos and Paul delve into resilience, mentorship, and what it truly takes to grow through adversity. If you’re facing your own challenges or searching for meaning, this episode is filled with genuine insight on finding strength and building a life worth fighting for. Tune in as we dive into: (00:06) The power of great mentors (03:35) Life after the NFL (10:34) Sports as a pathway out (12:21) Exercise's impact on relationships (17:05) True value beyond coolness (26:53) Influences from family, books, and coaches (30:05) Defining a great father (38:06) Finding purpose through service (43:59) From warrior to empath (48:52) Life changes after parenthood (50:33) Carefree moments before responsibilities (58:19) Northern Italy fashion expansion (01:04:06) Designer brands: love or overattention (01:06:37) Talent-driven sports strategy (01:12:59) Release ego for clarity (01:16:59) Finding joy in life's moments Links mentioned in this episode: Paul Kruger’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulkruger_99/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://a.co/d/fGwcbBT

How to Trust Again

From childhood trauma to 17 years in prison, my path has been anything but easy. But in this conversation, guided by host Shirin Hejazi, I open up about what I found beyond the walls: meaning, love, and the possibility of trust. I share moments of struggle, betrayal, and unexpected kindness, and how my understanding of trust has shifted – from survival mode to building real, lasting connections. Explore what it takes to choose trust after betrayal, to recognize the difference between ego and true friendship, and to create a life rooted in purpose and resilience. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Success and trust challenges (05:45) Embracing self-reliance in isolation (07:34) Discovering trust amid uncertainty (11:55) Sister's troubled past and influence (14:52) Moral obligation of privileged individuals (16:30) Choosing trustworthy connections (20:56) Chasing validation through image (24:48) Embracing disappointment for growth (28:08) Trust yourself first Links mentioned in this episode: -Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial -Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial -Get my latest book! Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT

My Battle for Happiness

Welcome to How To Battle. Today marks a special moment. For the first time, I’m here—no guest to interview, no idea of the questions I would face. Just me, opening up about the personal battles that have shaped my life. From gang life to prison, from trauma to transformation, I’ve walked through some of the darkest places a person can go. And in this episode – interviewed by Shirin Hejazi, co-founder of Pathway2Purpose Project – I share what I discovered on the other side: how to find gratitude when everything is stripped away, how discipline and routine can rebuild a broken life, and how self-talk and visualization can rewire the way you see yourself. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Strength through adversity (06:56) Reflecting on pain and regret (08:40) Emerging from rock bottom (11:16) Self-motivation through self-talk (16:06) Finding happiness through routine (18:51) Manifesting success with visualization (23:20) Happiness without purpose (26:14) Choosing priorities over negativity (27:45) Overcoming negative self-talk (30:36) Closing thoughts Links mentioned in this episode: -Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial -Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial -Get my latest book! Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://a.co/d/fGwcbBT

The Truth About Grief No One Tells You

Today’s guest is Mason Sawyer. His story is almost too heavy to imagine. In July 2021, just a month after I walked out of prison, Mason lost his wife, two of his children, his brother, and his nephew in a single car accident. In this conversation, Mason opens up about grief, strength, and why he refuses to believe that “everything happens for a reason.” We talk about how pain and hope can exist side by side, the myths people carry about resilience, and what it means to keep going, for his surviving son, Blue. This is a conversation about fatherhood, vulnerability, and the lessons that only come on the hardest days. It’s raw. It’s honest. And it will stay with you. Tune in as we dive into: (00:00) Strength through life's pain (07:56) Asking for help as real strength (12:09) Why young listeners connect (21:14) Quiet tears, loud strength (21:40) The warrior in the garden insight (29:54) Overwhelmed by grief and loss (36:08) Modeling behavior for children (39:12) Generational patterns and identity (45:34) Clear eyes, full hearts (48:43) Finding inspiration through impact (56:37) Admiration for resilience (59:21) The impact of an unexpected getaway Links mentioned in this episode: Mason Sawyer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masonsawyer91 10 Ninety Rule’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/10ninetyrule Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT

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