How To Battle Podcast

Healing isn't about pretending the past never happened. It's about releasing the pain that's still controlling your life. In this episode of Carlos Unfiltered, Carlos and Shirin explore what healing actually means, why so many people stay trapped by childhood wounds, trauma, resentment, anxiety, and fear, and how true freedom begins when you're willing to confront what you've been avoiding. Carlos shares how three years in solitary confinement became the beginning of his own healing journey, while Shirin opens up about her struggle with anxiety, depression, and the path that transformed her life. Together, they discuss the role of solitude, self-awareness, forgiveness, consciousness, and why healing isn't about becoming someone new—it's about returning to who you've always been. If you've ever felt stuck in your past, overwhelmed by emotional pain, or wondered if peace is really possible, this conversation is for you.In this episode: ◼️ What healing actually means—and why most people misunderstand it ◼️ How childhood trauma shapes the way we experience life ◼️ Why bitterness, resentment, and regret keep us emotionally trapped ◼️ Carlos' transformation during three years in solitary confinement ◼️ Shirin's journey through anxiety, depression, and emotional healing ◼️ The role of solitude, consciousness, and self-awareness in transformation ◼️ Why true freedom begins by facing what scares you most ◼️ How to move from surviving life to living with peace, purpose, and meaningIf this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who's carrying pain they no longer have to carry. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ #Healing #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth #SelfHealing #InnerPeace #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #Consciousness #EmotionalHealing #Transformation #SelfAwareness #Purpose #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #HealingJourney

Most men are never taught what it truly means to become a strong, grounded, respected man. In this episode of Carlos Unfiltered, Carlos shares the powerful lessons behind his book Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men—written from the perspective of someone who spent 17 years in prison, rebuilt his life from nothing, and discovered timeless principles that apply to every man, regardless of his past. Carlos explains why earning respect is more valuable than demanding it, how solitude can transform your life, why hard work remains one of the greatest advantages anyone can develop, and how becoming the best version of yourself starts long before success arrives. Whether you're a young man searching for direction, a father raising sons, or simply someone committed to personal growth, this conversation offers practical wisdom for building a meaningful life. In this episode: ◼️ Why every man must earn respect—not expect it ◼️ The surprising lessons prison taught about discipline and character ◼️ How hard work creates confidence and opens unexpected doors ◼️ Why solitude is essential for growth, clarity, and self-mastery ◼️ The hidden power of self-respect and personal responsibility ◼️ How to become the kind of man others naturally trust and follow If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is becoming the man they're capable of being. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ #Masculinity #SelfDiscipline #PersonalDevelopment #MensMentalHealth #Leadership #SelfRespect #Purpose #Mindset #Discipline #Success #SelfImprovement #MensGrowth #WarriorInTheGarden #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle

Most relationships don't end because of one big argument, they slowly break down because conflict is handled the wrong way. In this episode of Carlos Unfiltered, Carlos and Shirin explore what it really takes to resolve conflict in healthy relationships. They share personal stories about their own struggles with anger, communication, emotional healing, and learning to move from ego-driven reactions to heart-centered conversations. They discuss why unresolved childhood wounds often show up in adult relationships, how to stop repeating unhealthy patterns, and practical ways to communicate without damaging the people you love. Whether you're married, dating, building a business with your partner, or simply trying to become a healthier communicator, this conversation offers practical wisdom that can transform the way you approach conflict. In this episode you'll learn: ◼️ Why unresolved trauma fuels relationship conflict ◼️ The biggest mistake couples make after an argument ◼️ How ego quietly destroys healthy communication ◼️ Why immediate communication works for some couples—but not everyone ◼️ Practical ways to resolve conflict without resentment ◼️ How meditation, healing, and self-awareness improve relationships ◼️ Why becoming emotionally healthy starts with taking ownership ◼️ The connection between inner healing and lasting love If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who wants to build healthier relationships through better communication. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ #ConflictResolution #HealthyRelationships #RelationshipAdvice #Communication #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfGrowth #Healing #PersonalDevelopment #Love #HowToBattle #CarlosUnfiltered #CarlosVasquez

Can someone truly build a healthy relationship after years in prison, trauma, or emotional hardship? In this deeply personal episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos and Shirin explore what it really takes to build a thriving relationship when two people come from completely different worlds. Carlos shares what it was like leaving prison after 17 years and navigating love, communication, trust, and emotional growth in a world that had completely changed. Together, they discuss why compassion, patience, continuous learning, and personal growth matter more than perfection. Whether you're healing from incarceration, divorce, trauma, heartbreak, or simply trying to build a stronger relationship, this conversation offers practical wisdom and hope that lasting love is possible. In this episode: ◼️ Why relationships after prison can actually thrive ◼️ The biggest learning curve after years of incarceration ◼️ Why compassion is more important than perfection ◼️ How personal growth creates stronger relationships ◼️ The importance of adapting to your partner ◼️ Why communication is a learnable skill ◼️ How prison prepared many people emotionally more than most realize ◼️ Why healing together creates deeper connection ◼️ The role of self-development in lasting love ◼️ How to support someone whose life experience is completely different from yours If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is building a life or relationship after hardship. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsor for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/#LoveAfterLockup#HealthyRelationships#RelationshipAdvice#Healing#TraumaHealing#PersonalGrowth#EmotionalIntelligence#Communication#SecondChances#Transformation#Mindset#Resilience#HowToBattle#CarlosVasquez#Podcast

What if the people in your life are showing you something about yourself? In this thought-provoking episode Carlos and Shirin explore the concept of the "Three Mirrors of Human Relationships" and how our relationships, friendships, triggers, and attractions may reveal deeper truths about who we are. Together, they discuss why we attract certain people, how unresolved wounds continue to show up in our lives, the importance of personal responsibility, and why changing your inner world can transform everything around you. Topics include: • The three mirrors of human relationships • Why you keep attracting the same types of people • How your outer world reflects your inner world • The connection between healing and relationships • Loneliness, self-worth, and personal growth • Why some people trigger you emotionally • The importance of intentional relationships • Building a new life through conscious choices • How Carlos rebuilt his network after prison • The power of surrounding yourself with the right people If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is working to build healthier relationships and a more intentional life. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof... 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com If you've ever wondered why certain patterns keep showing up in your life, this episode may help you see yourself—and your relationships—in a completely different way. #Relationships #Healing #SelfAwareness #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #Transformation #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #GrowthMindset #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #CarlosUnfiltered #SelfDevelopment #Purpose #Success #HumanBehavior #PersonalTransformation #InnerWork #ConsciousLiving #Psychology

Some men break under pressure. Brandon Baker got forged by it. At 18, Brandon was sentenced to 75-to-life. He spent 25 years behind bars — and walked out employed, enrolled in college, published, and on a mission. In this episode, we go deep on what it really takes to survive maximum security prison at 18, why hope sometimes has to die before it can grow, and how Brandon is now training counselors at Rikers Island and performing at theaters across LA. This conversation will hit different if you've ever felt like the system wrote you off, or if you love someone who did time. We talk about: Suppressing hope to survive — then letting God resurrect it Why he says prison prepared him for society His goals: EGOT, doctorate, nonprofit, and generational wealth Why he's an abolitionist for juvenile incarceration The power of speaking things into existence 👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. 📖 Brandon's book: Where I Belong — available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/09XB3iSA 📲 Follow Brandon: @bethatsuccessful81 | YouTube: Where I Belong with Brandon J Baker 📚New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F 👉 📬 SUBSTACK LINK: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial 👉 Follow Carlos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial 🙏 Sponsored by Legendary Foods — high-protein snacks done right. www.eatlegendary.com #podcast #prisonreform #redemption #motivationalpodcast #secondchances #faith #incarceration #reentry #mentalhealth #hope #brandombaker #truecrime #purposedriven #blackexcellence #streetstosuccess

Can love heal trauma? In this deeply personal episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos opens up about the reality of loving someone after childhood abandonment, gang life, prison, violence, and years spent in solitary confinement. He shares how trauma affected his ability to trust, why isolation became his comfort zone, and what it actually takes to build a healthy relationship after a lifetime of survival mode. Together, Carlos and Shirin explore the difficult truths about healing in relationships, the impact of abandonment wounds, why trust issues don't disappear overnight, and how love, accountability, and self-awareness can create lasting transformation. This conversation explores: How trauma impacts trust and intimacy Why isolation can become a coping mechanism The connection between childhood wounds and adult relationships What healing together actually looks like Why love alone isn't enough without accountability The importance of self-awareness in healing trauma How abandonment shapes the way we connect with others Practical ways couples can support each other's healing journey Why healing is possible no matter what you've been through If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is healing from trauma or learning how to love someone through their healing journey. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof... 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ #TraumaHealing #Relationships #TrustIssues #HealingJourney #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #CarlosVasquez #ShirinHejazi #HowToBattle #EmotionalHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #SelfDevelopment #LoveAndRelationships #Resilience #Transformation

Have you ever experienced a coincidence so strange it felt like the universe was trying to tell you something? In this episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos explores the idea of "magic"—not the kind found in movies, but the extraordinary moments that happen when belief, energy, resilience, gratitude, and intention come together. From lessons learned through entrepreneurship and prison, to finding love unexpectedly, Carlos shares why he believes that miracles, synchronicities, and life-changing opportunities become more common when you develop the right mindset. This conversation explores: The psychology behind synchronicities Why successful people believe before they see results Michael Jordan's mindset around performance How resilience creates opportunities Why gratitude attracts more abundance How to create your own reality The role energy plays in success Why becoming your best self attracts extraordinary people and opportunities If you've ever wondered whether luck, coincidence, miracles, or manifestation are real, this episode is for you. If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a reminder that extraordinary things are still possible. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Try the “Find Your Fire” AI App (Free): https://findyourfireai.com 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof... 👉 New Books: The PRICE Method: How I Turned Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions – Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ #Mindset #Manifestation #PersonalGrowth #Transformation #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #SuccessMindset #Leadership #SelfDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLife #Miracles #Synchronicity #Energy #Resilience #Entrepreneurship

Most people think they understand prison…They don’t.In this episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos shares the raw, unfiltered truth about life behind prison walls—what Hollywood gets wrong, the violence that actually happens, and the unexpected lessons that changed his life forever.From surviving brutal environments to witnessing acts of kindness in the darkest places, Carlos breaks down the real psychology of prison life, including power structures, survival tactics, and the moments that shape transformation.This is not about glorifying prison, this is about revealing the truth so others don’t end up there.💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn:What prison is really like vs what movies showThe brutal reality of violence behind barsWhat “putting in work” means in prisonHow prison hierarchy and “shot callers” operateWhy kindness in prison is more powerful than outsideThe psychology of survival in high-risk environmentsWhy some people never escape the prison mindsetThe truth about redemption and second chancesWhy some individuals should never return to societyHow transformation actually happensIf this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is building a life or business with their partner. Your support helps us continue to bring meaningful conversations to the world.👉 Try the “Find Your Fire” AI App (Free):https://findyourfireai.com👉 Follow Carlos & Shirinhttps://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialhttps://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial👉 Subscribe for weekly insights:https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial👉 New books: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purposehttps://thepricemethodbook.comThe Leader's PRICE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1FThank you to our sponsors for their support!Legendary Foods – Protein Snackshttps://www.eatlegendary.com/Youth Champions – Youth Empowermenthttps://youth-champions.org/#PrisonReality #LifeAfterPrison #Redemption #PersonalGrowth #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #Mindset #Transformation #SecondChances #Leadership

Some of the hardest conversations… are the ones we never had. In this deeply emotional episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos opens up about his childhood, running away at 13, and the relationship he had with his mother. This is not a conversation about blame: it’s about understanding, healing, and releasing resentment. Carlos shares what his younger self truly needed—love, security, and protection—and how the absence of those things shaped his path into the streets, gangs, and ultimately prison. But more importantly, he reveals how he found peace by reframing his past—not as something that broke him, but as something that led him to his purpose. This episode is for anyone carrying pain from their childhood, struggling with forgiveness, or learning how to move forward without resentment. 💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn: What children truly need: love, security, and protection How childhood pain can shape life decisions The difference between running away vs being pulled toward something How to release resentment toward your parents Why your past may be part of your purpose How to forgive without needing closure The impact of absent or struggling parents Why you shouldn’t blame your parents forever How to create your own family and reality The power of acceptance and gratitude in healing If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is building a life or business with their partner. Your support helps us continue to bring meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Try the “Find Your Fire” AI App (Free): https://findyourfireai.com 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof 👉 New books: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions – Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ #Healing #MotherWound #PersonalGrowth #Forgiveness #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #Mindset #TraumaHealing #SelfDevelopment #InnerChild

Not everyone is meant to go with you to the next level of your life. In this deeply honest episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos breaks down the reality of outgrowing people, letting go of relationships, and accepting that some connections are only meant for a season. From friendships and romantic relationships to family and even business partnerships, Carlos shares powerful lessons on growth, identity, and the emotional weight of walking away from people you love. He explains why you shouldn’t view relationships as “investments,” how to release people without resentment, and why acceptance—not control—is the key to peace. This episode is a must-watch for anyone going through transformation, feeling disconnected from old relationships, or struggling to let go. 💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn: Why you naturally outgrow people as you evolve How to let go of friendships without resentment The difference between seasonal and lifelong relationships Why not every relationship is meant to be saved How to accept endings you don’t understand When it’s time to walk away from someone you love The emotional cost of growth and transformation How to release guilt when relationships end Why some people aren’t aligned with your next level How leaders make tough decisions in relationships and business Thoughts If this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is building a life or business with their partner. Your support helps us continue to bring meaningful conversations to those who need to hear it. 👉 Try the “Find Your Fire” AI App (Free): https://findyourfireai.com 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof 👉 New books: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ The Leader's PRICE: Human-Centered Leadership in the Age of AI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYXQ1H1F 🙏 Sponsors Section Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions – Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ #PersonalGrowth #LettingGo #Relationships #SelfDevelopment #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #Mindset #Healing #Growth #Leadership

Are you constantly feeling drained, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted? In this episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos breaks down how to protect your mental and emotional energy, set real boundaries, and stop carrying what doesn’t belong to you. Carlos shares deep insights on empathy, compassion, mental health, leadership, and emotional resilience—explaining why empathy without action can become dangerous, how to set boundaries with people you love, and how to take control of your mental health before it spirals. He also explains why mental health is no different than physical health—it requires consistency, discipline, and daily work, not just reaction when things fall apart. If you’re an empath, leader, or someone who gives a lot to others… this episode is for you. In This Episode You’ll Learn: When empathy becomes unhealthy How to protect your mental & emotional energy Why boundaries are necessary (even with people you love) How to stop absorbing other people’s pain The difference between empathy and compassion Signs you’re carrying emotional weight that isn’t yours How leaders handle emotional pressure Why mental health requires daily discipline How to transmute pain into purpose Why choosing yourself is necessary for growth 👉 Try the “Find Your Fire” AI App (Free): https://findyourfireai.com 👉 Follow Carlos and Shirin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof 👉 New book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions – Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ #MentalHealth #ProtectYourEnergy #Boundaries #SelfGrowth #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #EmotionalIntelligence #Leadership #Healing #Mindset

How do you truly grow into the best version of yourself? In this episode of the How To Battle Podcast, Carlos shares deep insights on personal growth, discipline, distractions, purpose, healing, success, and what it really takes to evolve in today’s world. Carlos explains why most people stay stuck, how distractions destroy self-awareness, why discomfort is necessary for transformation, and how success is often misunderstood. He also shares lessons from spending 17 years in prison and 3 years in solitary confinement—where he was forced to confront himself and grow from within. If you feel lost, stagnant, distracted, or hungry for more in life—this episode will help reset your mindset. 💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn: What real personal growth looks like daily Why most people never take time to know themselves How distractions block transformation Why discomfort creates growth The danger of comparing yourself to others Why success is deeper than money How to measure your own growth Why purpose matters more than status Habits that actually matter in life How to live aligned with who you truly areIf this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who is serious about growth and becoming their best self. Your support helps us continue bringing meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Try the Find Your Fire AI App (Free): https://findyourfireai.com 👉 Follow Carlos & Shirin on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof 👉 New Book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ 🙏 Thank You To Our Sponsors Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions – Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #CarlosVasquez #HowToBattle #Purpose #Mindset #Success #Discipline #Healing #Transformation

What does it truly mean to be a man in today’s world? In this powerful episode of How To Battle Podcast, Carlos sits down with longtime friend Travon Harris for a raw and honest conversation about masculinity, identity, prison, entrepreneurship, purpose, loyalty, discipline, relationships, and growth. After spending years incarcerated, both men reflect on how pain, mistakes, and survival shaped their early understanding of manhood—and how they had to rebuild a healthier definition rooted in accountability, discipline, peace, purpose, and self-respect. They discuss why many men feel lost today, the dangers of social media identity, how to rebuild after failure, and why your past does not disqualify you from becoming the man you’re meant to be. If you’re a man trying to level up, heal, grow, lead, or redefine yourself—this episode is for you. 💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn: What being a real man actually means today Why some men stay stuck in immaturity How prison changed their view of masculinity How to rebuild identity after mistakes or incarceration Why many men feel lost in modern society The power of delayed gratification Entrepreneurship lessons from struggle Why discipline creates confidence How to stop living in shame What men need emotionally but rarely discussIf this episode resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone. Your support helps us continue to bring meaningful conversations to the world. 👉 Try the Find Your Fire AI App (Free): https://findyourfireai.com 👉 Follow Carlos & Travon: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial https://www.instagram.com/travon_harris123 https://www.instagram.com/community1st_powerwashing 👉 Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof 👉 New Book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose https://thepricemethodbook.com/ 🙏 Thank You To Our Sponsors Legendary Foods – Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions – Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ #HowToBattle #CarlosVasquez #Masculinity #WhatIsAMan #MensGrowth #Purpose #PrisonToPurpose #SelfImprovement #Leadership #Manhood

Can love and business truly coexist?In this episode of Carlos Unfiltered, Carlos and Shirin explore the unique dynamics of building a meaningful relationship while working together professionally. They discuss how to balance leadership and partnership, maintain trust within a team, and ensure that the mission remains greater than any individual.From navigating potential favoritism to creating healthy boundaries between personal and professional roles, this conversation offers powerful insights for entrepreneurs, leaders, and couples striving to grow together. The episode also challenges the traditional concept of work-life balance, emphasizing that when your work aligns with your purpose, it becomes a harmonious extension of your life.Whether you're building a business with your partner or simply seeking a deeper connection in your relationship, this episode provides practical wisdom and heartfelt reflections to guide your journey.Try the Find Your Fire AI App (Free): https://www.findyourfireai.com Follow Carlos Vasquez: / carlosvasquezofficial Follow Shirin Hegazi: / shirinhejaziofficial Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof... New book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://thepricemethodbook.com/ Visit: Legendary Foods: Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions: Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ Alchemie Spa: Health & Wellness https://www.alchemiespa.com/

Who are you… really?In this episode of Carlos Unfiltered, we dive deep into identity—what it means to let go of who you were and step into who you’re becoming.Most people believe they need to “find themselves.” But what if the truth is… you don’t discover who you are—you uncover it?Carlos shares his personal journey of shedding identities tied to his past—former inmate, gang member, limited thinking—and how developing new skills, healing, and self-awareness allowed him to step into a new version of himself.We also explore how to deal with people who try to keep you in your old identity, why growth can feel isolating, and how to stay focused when no one else understands your vision. Your past is part of your story—but it doesn’t have to define your future.💡 In This Episode:◼️ Why your old identity must be replaced—not destroyed◼️ The difference between discovering vs uncovering yourself◼️ How trauma and environment shape false identities◼️ Why developing new skills changes who you become◼️ Letting go of labels like “ex-con” or “former self”◼️ How to handle people who don’t accept your growth◼️ Why growth makes others uncomfortable◼️ The danger of staying the same◼️ Why your past is power—not something to hide◼️ How to stay focused when you’re evolving aloneTry the Find Your Fire AI App (Free): https://www.findyourfireai.comFollow Carlos Vasquez: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialFollow Shirin Hegazi: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialSubscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezof...New book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://thepricemethodbook.com/Thank you to our sponsors for their support!Legendary Foods: Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/Youth Champions: Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/Alchemie Spa: Health & Wellness https://www.alchemiespa.com/#FindYourFire #Identity #PersonalGrowth #SelfDevelopment #Transformation #Purpose #Mindset #HowToBattle #CarlosUnfiltered

What does it really mean to become a man? In this powerful conversation, Carlos sits down with Adisa, a man who spent 17 years in prison—and used that time to completely rebuild himself from the inside out. Instead of letting his circumstances define him, he chose to face himself, break destructive patterns, and step into purpose. We talk about identity, discipline, mentorship, transformation, and the truth about manhood that most men never learn until life forces them to. From growing up in West Baltimore to navigating violence, ego, and survival, this episode dives deep into what it takes to truly change—and why prison became the place that saved his life. This is not just a story about incarceration… it’s a story about accountability, growth, and becoming who you were always meant to be. 💡 In This Episode: ◼️ Why strength is revealed when it’s your only option ◼️ Growing up in West Baltimore and choosing survival over peace ◼️ How identity is shaped by environment and expectations ◼️ The moment he realized he was his biggest problem ◼️ Why transformation requires being “broken” first ◼️ The power of mentorship and men pouring into men ◼️ What prison taught him about discipline, purpose, and self-mastery ◼️ The difference between confidence and arrogance ◼️ Why most men struggle in relationships after prison ◼️ How to rebuild yourself as a man from the ground up ◼️ What true freedom actually meansFollow Carlos: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Follow Adisa:https://www.instagram.com/actionfigureyo Follow the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattle Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial Get my new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://thepricemethodbook.com/ Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods: Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions: Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ Alchemie Spa: Health & Wellness https://www.alchemiespa.com/ #HowToBattle #Manhood #Transformation #PrisonStory #SelfMastery #Leadership #MentalStrength #Purpose #MensWork

In this deeply moving episode, Carlos sits down with Shaun Collins, a man whose resilience is nothing short of a miracle. By the age of six, Shaun had lost both of his parents to murder—his mother strangled when he was four, and his father stabbed just two years later. Growing up in Compton amidst emotional neglect and the heavy stigma of mental health, Shaun found his lifeline in sports and eventually, a radical journey of self-mastery. Together, they explore the "Deep Soul" work necessary to break generational cycles and why true survival isn't just about living through the fire, but refusing to let that fire live through you. Key Insights: The "Deep Soul" Journey: Shaun shares how he moved beyond traditional medicine to master himself through dedicated study, breathwork, and meditation. Surviving the Streets: How Shaun avoided the gang culture of Compton by staying relentlessly focused on sports and positive mentorship. Breaking the Silence: A raw discussion on the stigma of trauma in the community and the importance of addressing "body-level" healing. Radical Resilience: The mindset shift required to turn unimaginable childhood tragedy into a platform for global change.Follow Carlos: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Follow Shaun: https://www.instagram.com/realshauncollins Follow the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattle Subscribe for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial Get my new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://thepricemethodbook.com/ Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods: Protein Snacks https://www.eatlegendary.com/ Youth Champions: Youth Empowerment https://youth-champions.org/ Alchemie Spa: Health & Wellness https://www.alchemiespa.com/ #Resilience #TraumaHealing #Compton #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealthStigma #DeepSoul #OvercomingAdversity #CarlosVasquezOfficial #HowToBattle #podcast #Breathwork #Meditation #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #SurvivalInstinct

Carlos breaks down where happiness really lives, why most people chase it in the wrong places, and what it actually takes to experience peace, joy, and fulfillment. From prison and pain to purpose and presence, this conversation goes deep into sacrifice, detachment, ego, relationships, business, and the daily inner work required to live a meaningful life. In this episode, Carlos shares why happiness is not found in money, status, relationships, or material success, but in the space between stimulus and response. He explains the sacrifices required to become your highest self, how letting go of attachment changes everything, and why resilience, values, and day-to-day alignment matter more than any external goalpost.Follow Carlos: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficial Follow Shirin: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Follow the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattle?igsh=NTB6dnYxM3l0YWl6&utm_source=qr SUBSCRIBE to my mailing list for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficial?r=5i5pke&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile&shareImageVariant=image. Get my new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://thepricemethodbook.com/ Thank you to our sponsors for their support! Legendary Foods: / legendaryfoods Youth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/ Alchemie Spa: https://alchemiespa.com/ #HowToBattle #Happiness #InnerPeace #PersonalDevelopment #Mindset

In this episode, Carlos explains how purpose can exist in your workplace even if your current job is not your final calling, how to recognize when your work no longer aligns with who you are, and why inner work, self-reflection, and service are often the true path to discovering meaning. This is a powerful conversation for anyone feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or searching for more direction in life.FOLLOW Carlos Vasquez: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialFOLLOW the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattleSUBSCRIBE to my mailing list for weekly insights: https://substack.com/@carlosvasquezofficialNEW BOOK The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose https://amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613FOLLOW SHIRIN: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialThank you to our sponsors for their support!Legendary Foods: / legendaryfoodsYouth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/Alchemie Spa: https://alchemiespa.com/BoxUnion: https://swjbummbip1.typeform.com/BUfr...

McCord Henry shares the raw truth behind his battle with alcohol addiction, the moment he walked into the ER and said “help me,” and how sobriety forced him to rebuild his identity, spirituality, and purpose from the inside out. McCord Henry is the founder of Scripted Wit, a writer, hospitality leader, and creative voice whose daily quote practice has inspired thousands. After hitting rock bottom on April 3, 2017, he chose recovery—and has been sober ever since. His journey blends addiction recovery, self-leadership, faith, and the power of words to create meaning in chaos. Follow McCord: Website - https://www.scriptedwit.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccordhenry Links mentioned in this episode:Follow Carlos Vasquez on InstagramFollow the How To Battle podcastMy new online course, The PRICE MethodMy new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into PurposeGet a free PDF of my book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for MenThank you to our sponsors for their support!Legendary FoodsYouth ChampionsAlchemie SpaBoxing Union

Episode 63 challenges the belief that your starting point determines your ceiling. Carlos breaks down the difference between a concrete mindset and what he calls the foundation mindset. When you start from nothing, even from prison, you either accept limits or you build from the ground up. The worst case is going back to where you began. The best case is growth, resilience, and clarity you could not gain any other way.This conversation dives into fear of failure, fear of judgment, and fear of success, and why rejecting victimhood is non-negotiable. Carlos shares how to treat failure as data, how to course correct without losing momentum, and why learning to lead yourself through doubt and adversity is the ultimate training ground for leadership.If you feel disadvantaged, this episode is your reminder that limits are often self-imposed. Your comeback does not require permission.Listen in, subscribe, and lay your first brick today.Links mentioned in this episode:Follow Carlos Vasquez on InstagramFollow the How To Battle podcastMy new online course, The PRICE MethodMy new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into PurposeGet a free PDF of my book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for MenThank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary FoodsYouth ChampionsAlchemie SpaBoxing Union

Pain isn’t a glitch in the human experience, it’s part of the design. In Episode 62, Carlos sits down again with Dan Olschwang for a slow, deep conversation on why pain exists, what it’s for, and how it can become fuel for real inner transformation.Dan unpacks the link between pain, fear, and rigidity, and why the “toughest” people are often carrying the most fear. They explore what it means to “go inward,” how your inner state shapes what you see in the world, and why words can’t fully capture what’s real - only point to it.Then the conversation turns to manifestation, consciousness, and the idea that we’re not passive observers of reality, we’re participants. Finally, Dan offers a grounded warning about AI: knowledge is becoming a commodity, and the new currency will be creativity. The closing message is simple: don’t be afraid to face what’s inside, there’s a life beyond your imagination on the other side.Tune in as we dive into:00:00 Pain Is Not a Mistake: It’s Designed to Transform You06:20 What Does It Really Mean to “Go Inward”?12:40 Is Reality Just Vibration? The Origin of Language & Sound19:00 Why the Toughest People Are Often the Most Afraid25:30 Manifestation Is Not What You Think31:45 The Observer Effect: Does Consciousness Create Reality?38:30 Free Will vs Destiny: How Much Control Do You Actually Have?45:00 Are Some People Meant to Wake Up? (Hard Truth)51:30 Why Human Suffering Exists at All57:30 AI Will Replace Knowledge. Only Creativity SurvivesLinks mentioned in this episode:Follow CarlosFollow the How To Battle podcastMore about Dan Olschwang: https://www.danolschwang.com/ My new online course The PRICE Methodhttps://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/priceMy new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purposehttps://amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Get a free PDF of my book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenThank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods: https://instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/Alchemist: https://alchemiespa.com/Boxing Union: https://swjbummbip1.typeform.com/BUfriend

What does it really mean to love someone who is addicted and where does love end and responsibility begin?In this episode of Carlos Unfiltered, we step into one of the hardest battles there is watching someone you care about self destruct while you are powerless to stop it. We talk about boundaries, guilt, family roles, and the emotional toll addiction takes on everyone in its orbit. More importantly, we confront a truth most people avoid. You cannot save someone who is not ready, but you can choose not to lose yourself in the process.If you are living this reality or afraid you might be, this conversation will meet you where you are and remind you that you are not alone and the fight for your own life still matters.If this episode resonates, subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you do not miss future conversations. Share this with someone who may need it and help us reach the people who are fighting battles like this quietly every day.Tune in as we dive into:00:00 Loving an Addict When Love Is Not Enough03:15 When Support Turns Into Enabling06:20 How Addiction Holds Families Emotionally Hostage09:25 Setting Boundaries Without Abandoning Someone12:20 The Roles Families Fall Into Around Addiction15:05 Letting Go of Guilt to Protect Your Life17:55 Choosing Your Time Energy and Purpose20:10 Why Enabling Destroys Everyone Involved23:10 Rock Bottom and Why It Sometimes Saves a Life26:45 The First Step for Anyone Ready to ChangeLinks mentioned in this episode:Follow Carlos: https://instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialFollow the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattleRegister for my free learning lesson about PURPOSE:https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tVQhJbrAQSqgIVM37DTTMA My new online course: The PRICE Methodhttps://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/priceMy new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purposehttps://amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Get a free PDF of my book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenThank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods: https://instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/Alchemist: https://alchemiespa.com/Boxing Union: https://swjbummbip1.typeform.com/BUfriend

What happens when the life you are manifesting becomes the prison you have to live in?Giane was the very first guest on the How To Battle podcast. Now, in Episode 60, he returns with a deeper perspective and hard earned clarity. In this conversation, Giane shares what it felt like to receive a life sentence at 17 years old. The fear. The ego. The survival mask. He opens up about the moment everything became real, and why hearing his mother’s voice changed him forever.This is a conversation about manifestation without the fluff. Not vision boards or affirmations, but the uncomfortable truth that our thoughts, beliefs, and actions create real outcomes, sometimes devastating ones. Giane reflects on how chasing status and toughness led to his sentence, and how accountability became the first step toward transformation.We also explore youth mentorship, social media, trauma, discipline, and long term vision. From working inside juvenile facilities to redefining fatherhood and success, this episode is a mirror.What are you manifesting right now?Tune in as we dive into:00:00 Life Sentence at 17: Fear, Ego, and the Moment Everything Changed05:10 Survival Mode: The Mask You Wear to Stay Alive09:20 Manifestation Isn’t Fluffy: You Can Manifest Hell Too14:10 Status, Violence, and How Choices Become Consequences18:45 Going Back Inside: Mentoring the Youth He Once Was23:40 Social Media, Drugs, and the Trap Pulling Kids Back In28:40 Discipline and Defying Norms: Doing Life Your Own Way33:45 The Five-Year Vision: Systems, Growth, and Staying the Course38:30 Fatherhood and Presence: Redefining What Success Means46:10 17 Years Inside: The Lesson That Changed EverythingLinks mentioned in this episode:Follow Carlos: https://instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialFollow the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattle/Work with Giane: https://fatallyfit.issacertifiedtrainer.com/My new online course The PRICE Methodhttps://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/priceMy new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purposehttps://amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Get a free PDF of my book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenThank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods: https://instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/Alchemist: https://alchemiespa.com/Boxing Union: https://swjbummbip1.typeform.com/BUfriend

What if the only thing blocking the life you want is your imagination?In this episode, we take the fluff out of manifestation. This isn't a vision-board fantasy. We are talking about the real mechanics of building a life with love, purpose, freedom, and meaning.We explore why imagination is a survival tool. It isn't just escapism. You’ll learn why inspiration precedes action and why healing is mandatory. We discuss how gratitude beats hustle every time. Manifestation is a discipline. It isn't wishful thinking. You can’t build what you don’t feel you deserve. Letting go of control is the fastest way to move forward. We talk about rewiring your future through books and inner work. This works even in the darkest places. Prepare to have your ideas about manifestation challenged.Listen to the end for practical steps you can start using today.Subscribe for more real conversations about growth and transformationLike and share if this resonatedComment: What are you trying to manifest right now?Tune in as we dive into:00:00 Why Most People Fail at Manifestation02:10 Everything Starts in the Imagination04:35 Using Imagination to Survive Prison07:05 Why Vision Boards Don’t Work09:45 How Books Reprogram the Mind12:30 Gratitude as a Manifestation Accelerator15:10 You Can’t Manifest What You Don’t Feel Worthy Of18:20 Healing Trauma to Change Your Reality21:40 Letting Go of Control to Manifest Faster25:50 The Practical Steps to Start Manifesting TodayLinks mentioned in this episode:Follow Carlos: https://instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialFollow the How To Battle podcast: https://www.instagram.com/howtobattle/Follow Shirin: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficial/Get a free PDF of my book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Menhttps://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenRegister for my online course:https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/My new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purposehttps://amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Thank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods: https://instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/Alchemist: https://alchemiespa.com/Boxing Union: https://swjbummbip1.typeform.com/BUfriend

What do you tell someone drowning in excuses when you've been locked up 24 years and 10 months, then walk out and start building in under 60 days? Tyrus C. Potts answers with one word: focus. Keep the plan. Keep the vision. Keep the standards. Lose focus and you lose everything anyway.Carlos sits down with Tyrus, founder of Tyrus C. Potts LLC, poet, and returning citizen, to unpack "My sky has no limit" and the difference between resources that are around you vs. resources that apply to you. You'll hear his poem "Black Brutality," the power of mentorship and education inside, and the moment pride had to die so growth could start.This episode will challenge you:- Are you focused, or just busy?- Who belongs in your picture frame?- Will you pursue your purpose, or keep your excuses?Chapters:00:00 No Excuses, Only Focus06:30 “Aim Higher or Stay Stuck”12:40 Compton, Survival, and a Life Sentence18:45 Prison Reality: Violence, Codes, and Choice24:30 When Structure Is the Difference Between Chaos30:05 The Mentor Who Changed Everything35:45 Education, Words, and Rewriting Identity41:10 Forgiveness, Family, and Becoming a Man46:20 Walking Out: Freedom Isn’t Instant52:30 Purpose Beyond PrisonLinks mentioned in this episode:Follow Tyrus on InstagramFollow me on InstagramGet a free PDF of my book “Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men”My Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassMy new book: The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purposehttps://amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Thank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary FoodsYouth ChampionsAlchemistBoxing Union

What if the reason you don’t have a tribe yet… is because you’re being called to become the man who attracts one? In this unfiltered conversation, Carlos shares how brotherhood isn’t found - it’s forged through inner work, discipline, humility, and courage. After starting over with nothing post-prison, he learned that manhood isn’t defined by money, status, or comparison, but by what remains when everything is stripped away.Carlos reflects on leaving old tribes behind, intentionally choosing environments rooted in forgiveness and growth, and allowing himself to be a student again - learning how to live, lead, relate, and dream in a new world. From church pews to weight rooms, mentors to men’s circles, he reveals how the right men entered his life when he showed up honestly and consistently.This episode challenges men to put ego aside, listen to their heart, discern wisely, and take responsibility for their own evolution. Brotherhood multiplies strength - but it starts in the mirror.Tune in as we dive into:00:00 No Tribe? Start With Becoming the Man01:04 Go Fast Alone, Go Far Together (The Proverb That Changed Everything)01:21 You Become Who You’re Around03:07 Leaving Prison and Losing My First Brotherhood04:24 The Moment I Realized I Could Win Out Here05:46 Why Church Was the First Door I Chose07:06 How Telling My Story Attracted My Tribe10:25 Discipline, Mentors, and Earning Brotherhood12:27 Ego Down: Becoming a Student of Life Again28:41 Brotherhood Only Works If You Do This FirstLinks mentioned in this episode:Follow me on InstagramWarrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDFThe PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into PurposeBe A Better Men - Cornerstone Men’s RetreatDownload my Confidence MasterclassRegister for my upcoming free learning session on EDUCATIONBig shout out to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary FoodsYouth ChampionsAlchemistBoxing Union

What happens when fear shows up right before the moment you’ve been waiting for? Poet, speaker, and teacher Angela Aguirre shares a childhood story -standing in front of mariachis, terrified to sing - and the lesson her dad gave her: feel the fear, and do it anyway. From being “born into recovery” in Narcotics Anonymous rooms to finding her voice through Def Poetry Jam, Angela unpacks what it means to be seen, to follow through, and to turn pain into purpose. She reads a powerful poem from Confessions of a Firework, reflects on family, identity, and legacy, and talks about the projects calling her next - poetry, teaching, and screenwriting. If you’ve been holding back, this one is your nudge to step forward.Tune in as we dive into:00:00 Fear of being seen: the mariachi moment05:18 Who Angela is: writer, speaker, caregiver, calling06:31 Chingona Fire: defining womanhood on your own terms10:02 Parents, culture, and being born into recovery13:17 Why recovery only works when you’re ready16:27 Finding her voice by watching her father speak17:39 Authenticity, fear, and the speaker vs. messenger shift24:55 Poetry as medicine (from notebook to the world)31:04 Legacy, redemption, and telling her father’s story46:21 What’s next: rewriting identity, screenwriting, and follow-throughLinks mentioned in this episode:Angela on Instagram: https://instagram.com/millennialmijaAngela's website: https://millennialmija.com/Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenDownload my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassThe PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Thank you to our sponsors for their support!For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods: https://instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions: https://youth-champions.org/Alchemie: https://alchemiespa.com/BoxUnion https://boxunion.com/

Strength isn’t built in comfort; it’s forged when everything familiar is stripped away.I sit down with Shirin Hejazi for a raw, honest conversation about what strength and self-discovery really mean. I reflect on solitary confinement, trauma, and the ongoing battle between ego and healing, and how suffering became the doorway to awakening.Drawing inspiration from thinkers like Carl Jung and Eckhart Tolle, I share why learning to observe your thoughts, practice real gratitude, and reconnect mind and heart changed everything for me. From surviving prison to mentoring at-risk youth, I explain how walking through darkness led me to peace and a responsibility to help others find it too.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Leading with heart and mind(04:13) Brotherhood through shared struggles(06:55) Understanding yourself in solitude(12:02) Shared healing through vulnerability(14:36) Finding clarity through solitude(17:51) Processing pain in solitude(21:23) Fascinated by the human mind(23:49) Ego, redemption, and destiny(28:19) Closing thoughts and links to free resourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenDownload my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclass The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 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

Bryson McCalley is the founder and CEO of LAST OF A DYNG SEED, an author, filmmaker, and mentor shaped by hard-earned experience. Raised amid violence in Long Beach and later serving 15 years in a Level IV California prison, Bryson chose growth over defeat.He shares how trauma and environment pushed him toward incarceration, and how prison became the proving ground where he built discipline, educated himself, and rediscovered his creative edge. From strategic thinking to authentic communication, those skills fueled his success after release.In this conversation, Bryson and Carlos Vasquez unpack discipline, creativity in the age of AI, life inside high-security prisons, and how to build a meaningful legacy… no matter where you start.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Consistency and resilience matter(03:13) Legacy, growth, and identity(09:22) Born a creator with boundless imagination(10:17) Language, the streets, and creativity(14:10) Creating art from lived experience(20:17) Growing up surrounded by violence(23:13) Lessons in mentorship and personal growth(26:08) Life inside a level four prison(32:25) Trauma bonding and self-destruction(34:28) Youth struggles and modern challenges(39:56) How prison saved and transformed me(43:44) Understanding value, discipline, and growth(46:00) Respecting the process of transformation(48:28) Values-driven leadership in business(53:24) Using movie scenes as life lessons(56:27) Obsessive preparation for long-term successLinks mentioned in this episode:Bryson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lastofadyngseed/ Bryson’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LASTOFADYNGSEED Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Download my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassThe PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

In this episode, I candidly explore my evolution from the chaos of gang leadership and prison to building a life rooted in authentic inspiration, empathy, and self-mastery. Drawing on my lived experience, insights from my book, and my original PRICE Leadership Framework, I break down what it truly means to lead yourself before you can lead others.Joined by co-host Shirin Hejazi, we challenge common myths around power, unpack the daily battles of self-leadership, and explore the difference between being driven by ego versus guided by purpose.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Leadership vs self-control(05:10) Growth and accountability in prison(09:08) Natural leadership in groups(10:23) From powerlessness to despair(15:03) Writing through pain and hope(19:15) Turning pain into purpose(22:20) From victim to happiness(24:06) Define success in your own way(29:14) Closing and links to free resourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenDownload my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclass The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 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

Growing up in a neighborhood marked by violence, addiction, and the constant pursuit to fit in, David Moore takes us on a raw and honest journey through his early years – navigating gang life, substance abuse, and the heartbreak of losing his brother at a young age. He shares how his desperate need for respect and belonging led him down a dangerous path, culminating in being shot at just 15 years old.But that’s only part of David Moore’s story. Today, he’s a committed father, husband, and advocate in recovery, serving as the Community Engagement Director for the Impact Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center. David Moore opens up about his journey of redemption, pursuing higher education at USC, building a legacy for his children, and using his hard-won wisdom to inspire hope in others battling their own demons.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Healing through community and reflection(06:06) Impact House legacy since 1971(09:01) Impact's recovery-based workforce(09:49) Struggling to fit in(14:13) Regret and emotional conflict(18:57) How recovery requires ongoing effort(23:20) Work, hustle, no healing(28:53) Mentorship, impact, and educational pathways(31:48) Surviving grit through hardship(34:19) Rock bottom and redemption(38:57) Mentorship and youth support solutions(40:04) Empowering formerly incarcerated through change(45:54) Nonprofits, ego, and fatherhood(46:35) Balancing life's demands and family(51:39) Reframing perspective, embracing possibility(54:51) Closing and links to resourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Impact Drug & Alcohol Treatment Center: https://www.impacthouse.com/ Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Download my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassThe PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

In this Carlos Unfiltered episode, I sit down with my co-host, Shirin Hejazi, to talk honestly about anger – how it once protected me in prison, and how I’ve learned to transform it.I share how my anger started in childhood and became a survival tool in a world where it felt like currency. Over time, I realised it didn’t just destroy, it held energy I could redirect. Now, instead of reacting, I use tools like the STAR method (Stop, Think, Assess, Respond) to create space before I act. Co-host Shirin and I also discuss the routines, like daily workouts, that keep me grounded and support my mental and emotional well-being.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Anger hurts yourself the most(04:59) Channeling anger into change(09:16) Controlling anger for survival(12:37) Learning self-transformation techniques(14:20) Managing stress and expectations(17:44) Be a STAR: anger management(19:32) Speaking becomes second nature(24:16) Closing and free resourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenDownload my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclass The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 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

Welcome to episode 50! Carlos Vasquez brings together the five most-downloaded conversations from How To Battle, diving deep into raw stories of trauma, forgiveness and clawing your way back from the edge. From fractured bonds between fathers and sons to the marks we carry – inked on skin or buried inside – these guests lay it all out: the weight of childhood pain, the moment you choose to walk away from your past and the hope that comes with starting over.Travon Harris, Bryson McCalley, Giane Lollar, Jabarri Pangelinan, Kyle Walker, Adaku Mbagwu and Travis Sanchez share what it really takes to rebuild a life through addiction, incarceration, cultural upheaval and spiritual reckoning. No filters. If you’ve ever felt lost, stuck or ready to rewrite your story, this one’s for you.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) From robbery to reflection(05:17) Tattoos and hood identity(09:19) Denouncing and transitioning from gangs(11:23) Power of support in struggles(15:44) Growth through pain(19:05) From privilege to poverty(19:56) Resentment, reflection and resilience(23:02) Finding true identityLinks mentioned in this episode:Beyond the Skate Park: Turning Rebellion Into Responsibility with Kyle Walker https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eBlpoXKS38 Tales of Tattoos and Transformation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUb4UC0NlJE Seeing the World (and Work) Differently After 14 Years in Prison with Jabarri Pangelinan https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbQxkvvIOMs Unlocking a New Future: From Survival to Thriving with Adaku Mbagwu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nleSrLIXDE Owning Your Story: Travis Sanchez’s Battle Against Victim Mentality and Addiction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3Kw8DbkWNw Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Download my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassThe PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

I open up about what it really felt like growing up without my father – the confusion, the anger, and the emptiness that followed me into the streets. That pain pushed me toward the wrong crowd and eventually straight into gang life. By 19, I was behind bars.In this conversation, I’m brutally honest about the consequences of that path and what it takes to step up and break generational cycles. I talk about learning to forgive, rebuilding myself from the inside out, and redefining what it means to be a man.This episode isn’t just about where I went wrong; it’s about how far you can go when you choose to grow, to change, and to lead with purpose, love, and sacrifice.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Protecting your child’s future(06:35) Fatherhood, loss and redemption(08:16) My father, my role model(12:03) Curiosity fueled my journey(16:25) Prison reflection and resilience(18:39) Forgiveness and compassion transformed me(22:51) Learning from mistakes(26:36) Faith, purpose and helping others(30:06) Pause, reflect, decide tomorrow(31:32) Fatherhood, mentorship and valuesLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenDownload my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclass The PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613 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

Carlos Vasquez sits down with Travon Harris – once facing a life sentence, now building a thriving business and rewriting his future.Travon Harris candidly opens up about his childhood growing up in South Los Angeles, the pressure and survival instincts that led him into the criminal lifestyle, and the pivotal moments that sparked his transformation behind bars.They explore what it means to find true confidence, rewrite your own story, and battle the internal narratives shaped by trauma and hardship. They also delve into the realities of reentry – the struggles and wins, the lessons learned from rejection in business, and what it truly takes to lead yourself to success after prison.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Confidence and identity(06:15) Facing fear and failure(07:46) Learning confidence and leadership(10:12) Taking responsibility for unmet needs(15:18) Growing through education(17:50) Building resilience through life’s fights(22:39) Survival mindset in prison(23:23) How depression shapes your thinking(28:32) Work, dreams, and keeping balance(31:20) Navigating the parole board(34:48) Personal growth in adversity(37:35) From warehouse job to trucking success(42:16) Addiction and the power of choice(44:31) Becoming aware of a criminal mindset(51:34) Struggling to stay connected(54:58) Free resource and closing notesLinks mentioned in this episode:Travon Harris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travon_harris123Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegardenDownload my Confidence Masterclass:https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassThe PRICE Method: How I Turn Pain into Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXMRB613Thank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

In this Carlos Unfiltered episode, I get real about what leadership actually takes today. Not hype. Not theory. Real-world pressure, real decisions, real consequences.I break down the mindset that’s shaped me as a leader – why empathy isn’t weakness, why compassion is a weapon, and why confidence only matters when it’s tied to purpose. I share lessons earned the hard way running a business and leading in high-stress environments, and I give you the tools that have helped me build tougher, more resilient teams.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Leadership that adapts to change(05:34) How great leaders handle pressure(07:58) What real leadership growth looks like(11:59) The truth about purpose-driven confidence(16:17) Adapt, learn, and build your circle(17:48) Leading through change(21:08) Why putting people first always pays off(24:54) Closing thoughts and free resourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior 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

Celebrity Trainer Austin Curry has trained some of the biggest names in the game – including YouTube giant MrBeast – but his real story isn’t about fame or followers. It’s about fighting through pain, doubt, and failure to rebuild himself from the inside out.Carlos Vasquez dives deep into Austin’s journey, from a rough childhood and low self-worth to mastering the mindset that turned his life around. Austin breaks down how fitness became more than a grind – it became therapy. A way to rebuild confidence, sharpen discipline, and live with purpose.He reveals what it really takes to lead with authenticity, stay consistent when no one’s watching, and turn your hardest battles into fuel for growth.Tune in as we dive into:(00:00) Success is a personal journey(03:43) Embracing growth and learning(09:27) Childhood struggles and transition(11:19) Culture shock and contrast(14:58) Seek help, don’t internalize(18:37) Video games as an escape(22:25) Turning pain into purpose(28:11) From small town to fitness trainer(32:49) Social media: purpose vs presence(37:10) Be mindful, disconnect to connect(40:14) Jimmy’s incredible work ethic(44:21) Empowerment through choice and faith(47:43) Present, authentic, intentional fatherhood(51:01) Power of being present(53:52) Perfect fit for growth(56:18) Embrace vulnerability and self-loveLinks mentioned in this episode:Austin Curry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austincolecurry/ Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warriorinthegarden Download my Confidence Masterclass: https://carlosvasquezofficial.thinkific.com/products/courses/building-confidence-masterclassThank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information about them, visit:Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoods Youth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

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 resourcesLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior 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

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 toolsLinks 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

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 growthLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior 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

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 vulnerabilityLinks 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/warriorinthegardenThank you to Legendary Foods and Youth Champions for their support of this podcast. For more information, visit:Legendary Foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryfoodsYouth Champions Website: https://youth-champions.org

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 connectionLinks mentioned in this episode:Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shirinhejaziofficialFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlosvasquezofficialWarrior 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

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 sourcesLinks 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

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 momentsLinks 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

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 firstLinks 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

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 thoughtsLinks 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

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 getawayLinks mentioned in this episode:Mason Sawyer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masonsawyer9110 Ninety Rule’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/10ninetyruleGet my latest book: Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men https://a.co/d/fGwcbBT

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 researchLinks 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