Life's a Fight
by Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman
Life's a Fight is a metaphor for life. It's a mindset and philosophy that shapes how you approach the challenges in front of you.This is a low-key, down-to-earth podcast about the ups and downs of life. We're talking everyday challenges and the big ones, too.Using my life and experiences as the backbone—Spanish teacher turned UFC fighter, now a professional speaker with a wife and kids—you'll hear stories, lessons and strategies to help you keep going when you don't think you can.If you're feeling overwhelmed and could use some help fighting your fight, this is for you.Hosted by former UFC fighter and teacher Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman.*There are more than 2300 episodes of this podcast. Some of the older ones look different and have a different format.
Episodes
-
21 - My First Federal Prison and Telling My Story
In this episode, I share my experience visiting a federal prison for the first time and reflect how telling my story is like putting a puzzle together. From the prison setting to the lessons I've learned through fighting, teaching, and speaking, I talk about the power of sharing our experiences…
more -
20 - Q&A
This week's episode is a Q&A that touches on friends, wrestling, mindset, post-fight meals and more. Let's have some fun and learn a little, too! ... For booking and program information, please visit: https://www.charliespaniard.com.
-
19 - Insights Into Professional Speaking
In this episode, I give a behind-the-scenes look at how I build and deliver my speaking presentations. Much like a Leatherman multitool, I've developed a collection of stories, lessons and ideas that I can mix and match depending on the audience and situation. I share how I use the same material…
more -
18 - What a Week
It's been one of those weeks. A lot has happened, a lot is on my mind, and rather than trying to package it into one neat lesson, I'm just going to talk through it. In this episode, I share what's been going on, what I've been thinking about, and a few lessons and observations from a heck of a...
-
17 - I Ran a 1/2 Marathon Inside a Prison
Last weekend, I did something I never expected to do. I ran a half marathon inside a prison. In this episode, I share how it came to be, the experience of running alongside inmates, what the day was like, the conversations and moments that stood out, and some of the lessons I took away from an...
-
16 - New Room, School Talk, Conference Week
In this episode, I share a little bit of what's been happening lately—from getting the new room set up, to speaking at a school last week, to preparing for a conference this week. Just a look at where things are right now, what I'm working on, and what's happening in my world. ... For booking and...
-
15 - Rebranding and a Little Bit of History
In this episode, I look back at the history of The Spaniard Show - where it started, how it's evolved and why I'm considering a change. I share what's behind the potential move to Life's a Fight, what that phrase means to me and why it may better represent the conversations, stories, struggles…
more -
14 - Business Update - Team Spaniard
In this episode, I share an update on Team Spaniard and the bigger vision behind it. From the new home training space to private and small-group coaching (wrestling/BJJ/MMA), the pieces are starting to come together. It's about creating a place to teach, coach and develop people through combat...
-
13 - Spain, Part 2
In Part 2 of our Spain recap, I share more from our family trip - from beautiful beaches and hidden coves to the food, culture and friendships that give Spain a special place in my heart. This is a look at the places, people and experiences that made this a trip to remember. ... For booking and...
-
12 - Spain, Part 1
In this episode, I kick off a two-part recap of our family trip to Spain. From the flights and travel to reconnecting with familiar places and experiencing the first few days of the trip, I share what stood out, what I learned, and a few stories from along the way. ... For booking and program...
-
11 - Outbound Marketing Tools and My Dingy Office
Update: I share a simple outbound marketing system I'm using to stay top of mind with potential clients, including how I'm incorporating postcards into my outreach. Story: For years, I worked from a small, dingy basement in our old house. Today, I'm close to having my own space that doubles as my...
-
10 - My Consistent Habits in Business and Life
The habits we build ultimately become the life we live. In this episode, I share the daily and weekly habits that have shaped my business and personal life - from training, nutrition, recovery, reading and sleep, to outreach, podcasting and content creation. More importantly, I share what two...
-
09 - Working Camps and My Camps Growing Up
Update: I talk about working wrestling camps this summer and a recent open mat that reinforced just how much I enjoy being on the mat, and I discuss a new outbound marketing strategy. Story: In the spirit of summer camps, I share some of my camp experiences growing up in the sport of wrestling.…
more -
08 - Marketing BTS and Pros vs. Joes
Update: I talk about some new marketing strategies I'm exploring, reaching out to more corporate opportunities, and another sports-based program we're building for athletes. Story: I revisit my Pros vs. Joes experience and some of the lessons and memories that came from it. ... For booking and...
-
07 - Live Podcasting with Inmates and My Connection to the Crocodile Hunter
Update: My virtual sessions at SCI Greene have become something special. Hear about some of our latest guest interactions. Story: A random Instagram post reminded me of my past connection with the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. ... For booking and program information, please visit:...
-
06 - Teaching Combat and My Fractured Eye Socket
Update: I talk about getting back to more hands-on coaching and the pilot program we're building. Story: It's been nearly 17 years since I blew out my eye socket, so I break down the kick that caused it and the aftermath that followed. ... For booking and program information, please visit:...
-
05 - My Stroke Story
One of the stories I tell in my book DRIVEN is The Stroke Story. Some context... On February 28, 2011, out of nowhere, I was hit with the most intense case of nausea and room-spinning I could've ever imagined. What followed was months of tests to determine what had happened, and in the end, what...
-
04 - Less Talking, More Doing
While I talk about hard work and perseverance, I believe it's equally important to continue to live in a way that demonstrates hard work and perseverance. It's the integrity of living the message I'm putting out there. In both business and parenting, I'm continually asking myself if I'm living in...
-
03 - My Day at SCI Greene
Everyone has their own perspective on prisons, inmates and corrections, and I'm here to share mine. Here's a look at my day at SCI Greene, along with a few key takeaways and lessons from the experience. For booking and program information, please visit: https://www.charliespaniard.com.
-
02 - On the Road - North Star SD and SCI Greene
This is what a typical two-day road trip looks like as a Speaker. On this trip, I visited North Star MS and HS, as well as SCI (State Correctional Institute) Greene. You'll hear the daily schedules, the event(s) details and the in-betweens - hotels, food, exercise and more. ... For booking and...
-
01 – Starting Fresh (After 2,000+ Episodes)
The updated show description expains it as well as I could (see below). I have tons of stories to tell, and I'm going to tell them on here. ... Professional speaking and stand-up comedy aren't that different. Both require you to hold an audience by expressing an idea that connects—often times,...
-
Show Hiatus and More
It's been almost a year since out last show, and today's episode gives an update on where we went, what we've been doing and what's next. Get up to date: charliespaniard.com @charliespaniard
-
Talks 459 - Youth Sports Insights and Observations
Fresh off a youth wrestling tournament, I'm bringing some observations and insights that can help you navigate the world of youth sports. … Subscribe to our other podcasts (for students): Read with a Fighter, Spaniard School Watch on YouTube: Spaniard School, Read with a Fighter Get our newest #1...
-
Talks 457 - Why I Sauna
The sauna has become a staple in my life the last few years. What I once dreaded as a hot box to lose and make weight has turned into one of the most peaceful, pleasant and beneficial aspects of my life. In this episode, you'll hear my sauna use details, as well as the many benefits backed by...
-
Talks 458 - Why I Cold Plunge
While I've been sauna'ing for years consistently, the cold plunge is a newer habit I've picked up. First learning about Wim Hoff (the OG of cold plunging) years ago on Rogan, I've been slowly dipping my toes (and body) into various cold tubs. My take is that cold benefits are a bit less agreed…
more -
Talks 456 - For Athletes: How to be a lean, mean fighting machine
From: Spaniard Purpose: To provide a simple and effective guide for maintaining ideal weight and conditioning throughout the season. (ie. To be a lean, mean fighting machine) IMPORTANT: I am not certified in anything nutrition related. Take this with a grain of salt and talk with a certified...
-
Talks 455 - Tips & Protocol for Youth Sports (for coaches and parents)
I created this episode because youth sports needs a reboot, or at least some course correction. While there are some major advancements and new opportunities for young athletes, there are some glaring holes in the system. I was fortunate to have great parents and many good coaches throughout my...
-
Books 1524 - Discipline is Destiny
"The power of self-control" says the subtitle. Second in the series of Ryan Holiday's four books on the Stoic virtues, Discipline is Destiny teaches about temperance (discipline/self-control). Discipline is one of the few habits that will open up the world of possibilities to you. The ability to...
-
Books 1523 - Courage is Calling
"Fortune favors the brave" says the subtitle. This is book #1 in Ryan Holiday's series on the Stoic virtues (courage, temperance, justice, wisdom). I really enjoy this type of book in general - relevant to my life philosophy, inspiring and educational. It's an easy read that will ignite a desire...
-
Talks 454 - How I Stay Lean and Fit Year-round at 42
Lots of dudes are wondering how to stay lean and fit as they get older. And I happen to be blessed with a skillset, including discipline and consistency, that enables me to be just that at 42. Today's episode is an a la carte dissection of what that process looks like. If you're not super...
-
Talks 453 - For Anyone Who Wants to Read Better
I get asked about reading a lot. What books I read and recommend. How often I read. How I read. And recently I was asked how someone could become a better reader. This episode is my explanation and answer to that question. … Subscribe to our other podcasts (for students): Read with a Fighter,...
-
Talks 452 - YO ADRIAN, WE DID IT! 37.2 miles later
What an incredibly fun and challenging event that was...5k on the hour, every hour, for twelve hours. I'm much more knowledgable on this side of the miles than I was prior, and I'm excited to share some of my takeaways. In this episode, I'll talk a bit about strategy and execution, fuel...
-
Talks 451 - I'm running 37.2 miles on Saturday (*I hope)
This is my biggest physical challenge since fighting (maybe ever), a 12 hour 5k marathon of a day. A 5k on the hour, every hour, for twelve hours, starting at 7 AM. Conjured up by a friend of mine, this challenge makes me nervous and excited. Tune in to learn more about the event, my training,...
-
Books 1521 - Fatal Conveniences
"The Toxic and Harmful Habits That Are Making You Sick - and the Simple Changes That Will Save Your Health." This is an enlightening read that will either enhance change in your life or make you crawl in a hole. … Get this book here: Fatal Conveniences Watch Read with a Fighter on YouTube: Read...
-
Books 1522 - Reframe Your Brain
How you view the world is your world. Perception is reality. In this book, you'll learn a variety of ways to reframe that world so that it better suits your success and happiness. … Get this book here: Reframe Your Brain Watch on YouTube: Read with a Fighter Get our newest #1 Best Seller book:...
-
Talks 450 - A Stoic Quote for Daily Thinking (one of my favorites)
Simple, to the point and life-changing ... if you let it. Tune in to hear a sentence I read that is having a profound impact on my thoughts and life. ... Get this book here: Meditations Get our newest #1 Best Seller book: DRIVEN Young Reader Edition Get our new #1 Best Seller book: Go Figure To...
-
Books 1520 - The Courage to Be Happy
"What if your past didn't define you? What if you could stop worrying about what other people think?" These are the first two questions on the inner flap of the book. This book, in tandem with last week's book, offers a fresh and inspirational approach to life and thought that will be welcomed by...
-
Books 1519 - The Courage to Be Disliked
If you're anything like me, you can be your own worst enemy. Holding yourself back, creating unneccesary worry and obstacles, the list goes on. This week's book will help you develop the courage to change, to improve and to not hold yourself back with the unnecessary inner clutter. It will give…
more -
Talks 449 - What #1 BEST SELLER means (or not)
Spoiler alert: Spanny and Dread have another #1 best seller with the brand-new young readers version of "DRIVEN"—adapted from The Spaniard's first book, published in 2015. Yeah! But what does it really mean to hit #1 in sales? You might be surprised. The guys also discuss the fun and meaningful...
-
Books 1518 - Die With Zero
Let's learn how to get all we can out of our money, which, in turn, will help us get all we can out of our life. That's the theme of this week's book, and it's one that has had a profound effect on me since reading. I hope you enjoy this one, and that it makes your life better! ... Get this book...
-
Books 1517 - Anatomy of a Breakthrough
"How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most" is the subtitle on this book, and it sums it up quite well. Roadblocks and setbacks are part of the game, and the winners are those who keep going. This is an examination and guidebook on how to break through. ... Get this book here: Anatomy of a...
-
Talks 448 - The Odd Realities of Manipulating Your Weight
This one comes from a recent experience I had as it pertains to the scale. As a wrestler and professional fighter, I've probably stepped on the scale a bunch more than the average person. And even though my competitive days are in the rearview mirror, I still fight the urge to step on the scale…
more -
Talks 447 - Our Trip West (CO/UT), Part 3
Episode 3 of the series begins back in CO (Durango). You'll hear me talk about beautiful train rides, insanely beautiful lakes and mountains, some awesome towns, waterfalls and more. If you're looking to book a trip to CO, here are about ten reasons why you should... ... Get our new #1 Best…
more -
Talks 446 - Our Trip West (CO/UT), Part 2
Today's episode picks up after leaving CO and heading into UT. I'll take you through our visits to: Moab, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Dead Horse Point State Park and Mesa Verde National Park. Action packed and full of adventure, this was a great stretch of trip! ... Get our new #1 Best...
-
Talks 445 - Our Trip West (CO/UT), Part 1
This series of episodes documents our recent trip to Colorado and Utah. My goal in creating these episodes is to lay out a travel itinerary for you to follow, inspire you/others to travel and to document our trip for our family's records. You can expect some narrative along with a great deal of...
-
Talks 444 - Dustin Pague - Bare Knuckle Fighter, Ex-UFC Fighter
Wait, ANOTHER episode with a hilarious bare knuckle fighter? Okay, okay--this is the first episode to feature a professional bare knuckle fighter, period. Like Spanny, Dustin Pague is a UFC vet and fun guy. He enthuses about his wife and family as well as currently competing in the BKFC. Plus he...
-
Talks 443 - A Philosophy on "Days Off"
I love to train. I feel better all around when I do. But how much is the right amount? Should we take days off? How intense should we go? Tune in to hear some updated thoughts regarding training and resting. ... Get our new #1 Best Seller. GREAT for students and schools: Go Figure To inquire…
more -
Talks 442 - Year in Review - Assembly Totals
I often get asked how many assemblies I do, so I figured it'd be a good time to add up this year's numbers and present them as an update and documentation of our growth. There are no guarantees in life or business, so it'll be interesting to note how this plays out over time. All we (Dread and I)...
-
Books 1516 - Spark
Wanna exercise but can't stay consistent? Need more of a reason to get active? Tune in! Spark spells out the direct and positive correlation of exercise and the brain. You'll be blown away by all of the brain and life benefits of moving! ... Get this book here: Spark Get our new #1 Best Seller....
-
Talks 441 - Final X Wrestling (Making the World Team)
The highest caliber wrestler with the highest caliber character is the highest level person in my opinion. And that was on full display this past week at Final X wrestling in Newark, NJ. Final X is the final competition that determines who will compete for the US on the World Team. It was a who's...
About this show
Life's a Fight is a metaphor for life. It's a mindset and philosophy that shapes how you approach the challenges in front of you.This is a low-key, down-to-earth podcast about the ups and downs of life. We're talking everyday challenges and the big ones, too.Using my life and experiences as the backbone—Spanish teacher turned UFC fighter, now a professional speaker with a wife and kids—you'll hear stories, lessons and strategies to help you keep going when you don't think you can.If you're feeling overwhelmed and could use some help fighting your fight, this is for you.Hosted by former UFC fighter and teacher Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman.*There are more than 2300 episodes of this podcast. Some of the older ones look different and have a different format.
Hosted by
Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman
Categories