Early Years: Building a Fighter's Foundation

As a kid, martial arts were my lifeblood. It wasn't just about physical strength, although that's certainly important.  What truly captivated me was the focus, the strategic planning, and the sheer mental and physical resilience this field demands. There's a quote by Lloyd Irvin that resonates deeply: "Hard work always beats talent when talent refuses to work hard." It became my guiding principle, pushing me to train with a relentless focus on improvement.

My foray into the world of MMA started with a simple decision to step into a gym. Fast forward, and I found myself competing at the highest levels, eventually achieving a world ranking as high as number 9. Can you believe it? A kid with a dream, going toe-to-toe with the best. But the victories weren't the only takeaways. Every fight, win or lose, instilled valuable lessons that continue to shape my approach today.

Building a Community, Building Resilience

My next chapter involved leading one of the biggest MMA schools in the US. This place buzzed with activity, with people from all walks of life coming together to push their boundaries, not just physically but as individuals as well. It was here that I truly grasped the power of a supportive community and witnessed firsthand how martial arts can empower personal transformation.

See, being a fighter goes beyond the physical act of throwing punches. It's about confronting life's challenges head-on, picking yourself up after setbacks, and constantly striving to be a better version of yourself. As we delve deeper into this story, remember this: we're all fighters in our own right, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth.

Taking the Fight to the Marketplace: Entrepreneurial Victories

After conquering the MMA world, I craved a new challenge. But instead of facing opponents in the ring, I decided to take the fight to the business arena. As you might guess, the skills honed in the octagon – perseverance, strategic thinking, and the power of a strong team – proved invaluable for entrepreneurial success.

My first major venture? Launching one of the biggest MMA schools in the US.  This wasn't just a training ground; it became a supportive community where people learned discipline, respect, and the unwavering spirit of a fighter. Witnessing how martial arts could transform lives – physically, mentally, and emotionally – was incredibly rewarding.

Next came Gameness, my brainchild – a clothing brand specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts apparel. Building a business from scratch was a whole new kind of fight, but I was ready. Gameness grew into a global leader, culminating in a major milestone – the company's acquisition in 2011. This experience solidified the value of hard work, innovation, and the courage to pursue your dreams, no matter how ambitious.

Beyond these ventures, I co-hosted a popular FM sports radio show for eight years and helmed Submission Fighter magazine as Editor-in-Chief. Each platform allowed me to share my passion for MMA with a wider audience, giving a voice to the sport and the dedicated athletes who compete in it.

Through these experiences, I discovered that entrepreneurship transcends mere profit. It's about creating an impact. It's about leveraging the lessons learned on the mat and applying them in the marketplace, building something that inspires and empowers others in their battles, whatever they may be.

In my journey from the competitive rings of Mixed Martial Arts to the pioneering fields of healthcare, one principle has always guided me: the importance of giving back. 

This philosophy is beautifully captured by a quote from Qebein, "Give without remembering, receive without ever forgetting." It's a reminder of the balance between generosity and gratitude, a balance I strive to maintain in every aspect of my life.

My approach to giving back is rooted in the belief that success is not measured by the victories we achieve but by the impact we have on others. Whether it's through sharing knowledge, supporting community initiatives, or advocating for groundbreaking healthcare solutions, my goal is to contribute positively to the world around me. 

My work with Health Quest 365 reflects this commitment, as we strive to bring the best of nature's healing power to the forefront of wellness, ensuring that every person has access to the care they deserve, be it through cutting-edge cancer treatments or preventive natural health products. The incredible journey of healing my mother has only deepened my resolve to share the benefits of a holistic health approach with the world.

In the realm of healthcare, particularly with United Cancer Centers, giving back means providing hope and innovative treatments to those facing the daunting challenge of cancer. It's about pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, and ensuring that every person has access to the care they deserve.

Beyond healthcare, I'm passionate about using my platform to support a variety of causes, from promoting martial arts as a tool for personal development to supporting education and research in alternative medicine. Each act of giving back is an opportunity to make a difference, to inspire others, and to leave a legacy of kindness and innovation.