How To Battle Podcast

How To Battle Podcast

by Carlos Vasquez
Self-Improvement
Season 1

Discipline, Service, and Building Legendary Brands with Bruce Cardenas

Bruce Cardenas, entrepreneur and former Marine, is a key leader at Legendary Foods and previously served as Chief Communications Officer at Quest Nutrition. Bruce’s journey is anything but ordinary, from small-town roots and military service to policing in Los Angeles during the height of gang violence, and on to building multi-million-dollar nutrition brands. In this episode, Bruce sits down with Carlos Vasquez to talk raw lessons on leadership, personal transformation, and the mission-driven culture fueling his success. Tune in as we dive into: (05:21) Facing rent: joining the Marines (08:35) Integrity defines Bruce’s journey (11:42) Work ethic and team value (15:48) Overcoming academic challenges (17:44) Listening unlocks true understanding (21:53) Gang culture: then vs. now (25:03) Mutual respect in high-stakes situations (25:46) Uncle's prison guard encounter (32:24) How selfless acts lead to success (36:19) Marketing challenges and success (40:17) Post-prison networking commitment (43:20) Startup struggles: from Quest to Legendary (47:16) Streamlining innovation and marketing (49:35) Market testing over staffing (52:06) Reputation is everything (54:39) Quest's mission: funding cancer research Links mentioned in this episode: Bruce Cardenas Website: https://brucecardenas.com/ Bruce Cardenas on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bruceecardenas Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E35
Aug 13, 2025
57:55

Resilience, Recovery, and Redefinition with Nancy Gale

Nancy Gale is the founder of JAMAH, an ultra-luxury handbag brand, and creator of Ambition, an entrepreneurial program for disadvantaged youth. In this episode, she shares her powerful story with Carlos Vasquez about overcoming violent assault, the loss of her mother to crime, and how she transformed pain into purpose. With heart and humor, she reflects on choosing joy, mentoring the next generation, and turning hardship into hope. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (04:40) Nancy Gale's perspective on her mother's illness (08:39) Embracing life's simple blessings (11:32) Stop and smile reset ritual (16:17) Living through adversity (19:24) Walking safely, making better decisions (21:26) Reflecting on personal accountability (26:31) Resilience amid tragedy (29:27) Unseen struggles behind facades (33:19) Questioning anger's utility (34:55) Courtroom impact statement experience (39:31) Unforgettable acts of compassion (41:44) Inhumane confinement experience (43:34) Youth mentorship and opportunity program (48:07) Connecting passion and community (51:06) Car-inspired custom bags (54:18) Choose positivity and resilience (57:14) Owning mistakes and moving forward Links mentioned in this episode: Connect with Nancy Gale on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancygale/ AMBITION: https://www.ambition.org/ AMITION Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitioninspire JAMAH: https://www.jamah.com/ JAMAH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamahbags/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E34
Aug 6, 2025
57:39

Human-Centered Leadership in Action with Carlos Vasquez

Carlos Vasquez, usually the voice behind How To Battle, steps into the guest chair for a rare and powerful conversation with Patty Devlin, a leader known for driving real results in high-pressure corporate settings, without losing sight of the human beings behind the work. Together, they explore what it really means to lead with purpose. From Carlos’s past as a shot caller in prison to his present role helping others transform their lives, this episode is about the evolution of leadership: what it takes to earn trust, inspire action, and hold space for both pain and potential. From foster homes to boardrooms, they ask: how do we bring out the greatness in people, and ourselves? If you’re navigating generational shifts, tough environments, or simply trying to lead with more heart, this episode will stay with you. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (06:16) Human-centred leadership focus (07:30) Solitary reflection and leadership transformation (11:37) Inspiring growth in prison (16:10) Leadership development in blue-collar jobs (16:55) Empowering leaders from the start (22:33) Collaborative success and personal growth (25:22) Authenticity fuels organizational success (28:34) Bridging generational gaps in leadership (31:30) Embracing humility and growth (34:37) Continuing the journey of humility (36:56) Rethinking expectations and metrics (40:44) Letting go as a catalyst for growth (43:03) Identifying open and adaptable leaders (48:30) Why everyday recognition matters (49:46) Recognition through daily interactions Links mentioned in this episode: Connect with Patty Devlin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patty-devlin-832a8127/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E33
Jul 30, 2025
52:32

Owning Your Story: Travis Sanchez’s Battle Against Victim Mentality and Addiction

Travis Sanchez is the founder of Arizona Custom Car Design, a bespoke automotive restoration shop specializing in classic American cars. In this powerful episode, Travis opens up about growing up with fractured family roots, struggling with addiction, doing two stints in prison, and fighting through issues of identity and belonging. He shares how embracing discomfort, seeking mentorship, and finding purpose in helping others became the foundation for his success, both in business and recovery. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (00:00) Adopted roots and identity struggles (05:49) Rediscovering your true identity (13:57) Self-realization and altruism (19:29) Intuition over analysis (25:17) Power of personal struggles (30:50) Self-reliance not yet embraced (35:54) Ego-free client relationships (41:53) Advice: do it for the right reasons (49:21) Personal journey on religion and reality (54:23) Becoming my best self (59:48) Love for mid-50s Chevrolet (01:01:18) Believe in yourself Links mentioned in this episode: Trevor Sanchez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travis_az_customs Arizone Custom Car Design on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/az_customcardesign Arizona Custom Car Design Website: https://arizonacustomcardesign.com/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E32
Jul 23, 2025
1:02:17

Choosing Yourself, Soft Power and Transformational Leadership with Katie Shannon

Katie Shannon is a leadership coach and founder of Katie Shannon Co., where she helps leaders and teams unlock their authentic power. In this episode, Katie gets real about choosing her own path over family expectations, navigating recovery, and reshaping leadership through vulnerability and “soft power.” She digs into the messy truth of putting yourself first, why tough conversations are essential, and how investing in yourself can spark more impactful leadership. If you’ve ever battled people-pleasing, perfectionism, or the fear of trusting your gut, this one’s for you. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (04:57) Active listening for real understanding (09:24) Empowering humble leaders (12:37) Emotional struggles of wealthy leaders (16:38) The path to self-discovery and healing (20:17) Building wealth through passion (27:17) Balancing motherhood and business (28:37) Helping men feel confident through style (31:40) Breaking the cycle of distrust and crime (34:28) Choosing yourself over family expectations (38:41) Lessons in clear communication (41:35) How to approach conversations with care (46:39) Back your ideas with confidence (48:08) Practising triple gratitude Links mentioned in this episode: Katie Shannon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatieshannon Katie Shannon’s Website: https://www.katieshannon.co/ Katie Shannon’s Substack: https://substack.com/@katieshannon Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E31
Jul 16, 2025
48:12

Lessons on Living Well with Dr. Payal Beri

Dr. Payal Beri is an organizational psychologist, speaker, and host of the podcast ‘Reframing Perspectives’. With a deep commitment to empathy, social impact, and helping others shift their mindsets, Dr. Beri explores what it truly means to "live well" and how curiosity can change our lives and our relationships. In this insightful episode, she unpacks the power of pausing, the role of privilege and culture, and why asking better questions leads to more connected and meaningful lives. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (03:08) Understanding through shared experiences (07:31) Feeling grateful, not spoiled (10:17) Empathy and open-minded dialogue (15:40) Generational perspectives on marriage (16:52) Supportive parenting concerns (21:18) Rethinking life goals in mid-30s (24:37) Heartfelt gratitude from children (29:16) Defining “living well” (33:42) Honoring legacy through naming the company (39:42) Smart street survival to success (44:37) Embrace kindness and celebrate others Links mentioned in this episode: Dr. Payal Beri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.payalberi Dr. Payal Beri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/payalberi/ Dr. Payal Beri’s Website: https://www.payalberi.com/ Reframing Perspectives Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ZAMlLXhuyTb1bX8IbOYIr?si=e4ccf1c460a149ce Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E30
Jul 9, 2025
45:40

From Gang Culture to Guiding Light: Zeara Jea’s Path to Freedom and Service

Zeara Jea is a reentry specialist, mentor, and community healer. Having spent nearly a decade at the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC), Zeara’s life mission is to support people impacted by incarceration and violent street environments. In this powerful conversation, Zeara opens up about her childhood in Northeast LA during the 90s, being surrounded by gang culture, teen motherhood, and the raw journey of walking away from it all to build a new life for herself and her daughters. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (00:00) Journey to community transformation (08:17) Growing up in gang culture (16:08) Enemies became friends in prison (17:42) Unexpected reunion in Lincoln Heights (23:56) Secret return and disconnection (30:08) Absent mother due to alcoholism (35:43) Finding mentors in my journey (41:24) Witnessing death's lasting impact (44:25) Documenting a healing journey (50:59) Healing through community connection (57:20) Returning to community support (01:01:51) Embrace healing and perseverance Links mentioned in this episode: Zeara Jea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeara_jea/ Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC): https://antirecidivism.org/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E29
Jul 2, 2025
1:02:28

Surviving 29 Years of Wrongful Incarceration with Bruce Bryan

Bruce Bryan is an advocate, speaker, and Justice Defenders program leader who spent nearly three decades wrongfully incarcerated. In this powerful episode, Bruce shares his incredible journey of surviving the U.S. prison system, transforming pain into purpose, and building a new life after release. Host Carlos Vasquez and Bruce dive into the mental strategies, soul-searching, and community support that made resilience possible—even in the darkest moments. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (05:50) Visionary daily growth plan (09:19) Turning pain into purpose (12:07) Making higher education cool (14:43) Foster kids and daily gratitude (18:46) Journey of self-reflection (21:29) Reading as escape and growth (23:03) Becoming a vessel of honor (27:14) Navigating modern social dynamics (32:22) Treated differently in Ugandan prisons (34:49) Choosing human dignity over comfort (37:54) Resilience during COVID hardship (42:52) Unexpected changes during COVID (46:26) Family support and gratitude (46:59) Reflective gratitude and self-improvement (50:47) Education’s role in inmate rehabilitation Links mentioned in this episode: Bruce Bryan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bruce.bryan24/ Bruce Bryan’s Website: https://brucebryanfree.com/ Justice Defenders: https://www.justice-defenders.org/ TED Talk by Bruce Bryan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLhypJwZjxM Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E28
Jun 25, 2025
54:36

From Prison to Purpose: Joe White’s Journey Battling Addiction, Loss, and Finding Faith

Joe White, Recovery Pastor and Program Leader at the Los Angeles Mission, joins Carlos Vasquez for an extraordinary conversation about overcoming addiction, recidivism, and hopelessness. After spending over a decade behind bars and battling a 17-year addiction, Joe found hope and lasting freedom through faith, community, and service. Now, as a recovery advocate and spiritual leader in Skid Row, Joe inspires others to rewrite their stories, no matter how dark their past. Together, Carlos and Joe dive into the realities of institutionalization, the barriers men face in seeking help, and the power of restored relationships. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (05:12) Gender dynamics in church attendance (07:21) Breaking barriers with love (10:32) Parental struggles and child impact (13:29) Divine intervention in jail (16:53) Transformative worship experience (21:47) Journey to sobriety and acceptance (24:45) Rediscovering faith journey (28:08) Skid Row rehabilitation insights (29:39) Remember consequences of substance abuse (34:41) Surrender and identity transformation (38:15) Pastor encourages unexpected connection (40:45) First date success (44:40) Faithful service and ministry goals (46:43) Embracing simplicity amidst change Links mentioned in this episode: Joe White on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joe.white.la/ Our Sponsor: Tatt2Away – check them out at https://tatt2away.com/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E27
Jun 18, 2025
48:44

Therapy, Second Chances, and Brotherhood After Incarceration with Ernesto Sanchez

This week, Carlos Vasquez sits down with Ernesto Sanchez, a man who’s walked through fire and lived to rebuild from the ashes. After spending years inside some of California’s most brutal prisons, Ernesto isn’t just surviving – he’s redefining what life after prison can look like. In this candid conversation, Ernesto opens up about breaking generational cycles, confronting the trauma that led him down the wrong path, and what it really takes to start over. From therapy behind bars to becoming a mentor on the outside, he lays bare the mindset shifts, habits, and inner work that turned his sentence into a second chance. Expect a deep, eye-opening conversation as we explore: (04:20) Reintegrating after prison (06:31) Struggles with identity and responsibility (11:16) Embracing therapy despite cultural pressure (13:54) Failure's not an option (17:44) Pelican Bay: from youth to infamy (20:01) Transformed by hardship and resilience (25:16) Mentorship and long-term impact (27:26) From despair to mentorship (30:32) Choosing a prison cellmate (33:44) Spirituality and the search for freedom (36:57) Embracing imperfection in relationships (39:30) Looking back on a reckless youth (43:53) Adversity shapes the journey (46:13) Mentorship as a way forward Links mentioned in this episode: Our Sponsor: Tatt2Away – check them out at https://tatt2away.com/ Get my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT
S1 · E26
Jun 11, 2025
46:50
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