Have you ever wrapped your whole identity around a dream—only to have it snatched away just as you were about to reach the peak? Do you ever feel like you're too much… or not enough… or just out of place in a world that doesn’t seem to get you? What if the very thing that knocked you down could be the catalyst for your next chapter? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Amanda Leve, a trailblazing professional fighter, Jiu Jitsu champion, and soon-to-be mom, who knows exactly what it means to rise, fall, and rise again—stronger. From being the only girl in an all-male gym to shocking the world by defeating a 265-pound opponent in one of Jiu Jitsu’s biggest upsets, Amanda’s story is a masterclass in grit, grace, and growth. But Amanda isn’t just a fighter in the cage—she’s a fighter for self-worth, identity, and emotional resilience. She shares how she overcame a life-changing medical diagnosis that forced her to step away from her MMA dream, and how she found purpose again by pouring her wisdom into the next generation. This isn’t just about martial arts. It’s about mat therapy, emotional intelligence, and what it means to be powerful and feminine in a world that often asks you to pick one. Are you ready to stop being bitter and start getting better? Then this conversation is for you. Quotes: "The time is going to pass whether you do it or you don't do it. It's always better to just show up, even on the days where you don't want to show up." - Amanda Leve "When one door closes, you just gotta keep opening up a new door. You can't just stop and stay in your wallows for too long." - Amanda Leve "Stay neutral to your wins and your losses. It just keeps you on a steady path of progression." - Amanda Leve Actionable Takeaways: Consistency Matters: Commit to showing up, even if it's just one day a week in your chosen pursuit. Small, consistent efforts compound over time and prevent you from completely abandoning your goals. Develop Mental Neutrality: Practice staying emotionally balanced during wins and losses. Don't get too high or too low - maintain a steady mindset that allows you to learn and progress regardless of immediate outcomes. Embrace Your Multidimensional Self: Challenge societal expectations that you must be either "feminine" or "strong". You can be emotionally intelligent and physically powerful simultaneously. Don't let others define your potential or limit your identity. Conclusion: Amanda’s story isn’t just about fighting—it’s about rising. No matter what life throws at you, you have the power to pivot, persevere, and pour your strength into others. Your setbacks don’t define you. Your response does. Listen in—and walk away ready to fight for the life you were made for.
