MMA Champion: The Truth About Masculinity, Hard Work, & Life-Changing Success (w/ Michael Chandler)

Added: May 8, 2024

Chandler's Success Story

Chandler attributes his success to his small-town upbringing and the unwavering support of his parents. He emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself and having a strong self-image, which he has honed through working with mindset coaches to overcome self-sabotaging thoughts. He believes that success is a result of daily decisions and hard work, rather than one big moment.

Chandler's Competitive Drive

In moments of intense competition, Chandler relies on his gratitude for his past, commitment to his family, and determination to fulfill promises to his wife and children. He believes that success is a culmination of decisions made leading up to that moment, as well as the muscle memory and neural pathways developed through years of dedication.

Chandler's Unique Relationship with Violence

Despite his profession as a mixed martial artist, Chandler does not enjoy violence outside of the cage. He views his ability to tap into a more aggressive mindset during fights as a gift that allows him to perform at his best. He believes that being able to switch between extreme joy and peace to a more savage mentality is a unique skill he has honed over the years.

Family Comes First for Chandler

Chandler's priorities lie with his family, considering his wife and children to be his real passion projects. He values his role as a husband and father above all else, recognizing that material success and accolades will fade over time, but the relationships he builds with his family will last a lifetime. He acknowledges the sacrifices his parents made for him and strives to provide the same level of love and support to his own family.

Chandler's View on Violence

In discussing the role of violence in society, Chandler recognizes the capacity for violence within himself but emphasizes that he does not have a need for violence outside of his professional fights. He believes that outlets like MMA allow individuals to channel their aggression in a controlled and disciplined manner. He also references the book "Wild at Heart" by John Eldridge, which discusses how men are designed for battle, adventure, and the pursuit of beauty.

UFC Negotiation Insights

Regarding UFC negotiations, Chandler explains that fighters are under contract and only get paid when they fight. He mentions the role of managers in negotiating contracts and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the promotion. He believes in valuing people over profit and building trustworthy relationships in the business world.

Chandler's Diverse Podcast Endeavors

Chandler also delves into his podcast, Walk On Wisdom, where he discusses a wide range of topics beyond MMA. He aims to break the mold of what people typically expect from a fighter and connect with his audience on a deeper level. His podcast focuses on providing wisdom and advice on various life challenges, showcasing his authenticity and relatability.

Chandler's Involvement with Kram

In terms of business ventures, Chandler talks about his involvement with Kram, a company that offers healthy PB&J replacements. He praises the founders for their dedication to creating a nutritious and delicious product. He sees potential for Kram to expand and succeed in the market, driven by the quality of the product and the passion of the people behind it.

Importance of Communication and Planning

In his personal life, Chandler discusses the importance of communication and planning with his wife. They have developed a habit of sitting down and going through their schedules to avoid surprises and maintain a sense of order in their busy lives. He  acknowledges the contrast in their approaches to planning, with his wife being more structured and him being more spontaneous. However, they have found a balance that works for both of them, with Chandler becoming more proactive in considering how his actions impact their family and his wife's career.

Reframing Toxic Masculinity and Professional Athlete Success

Chandler delves into the concept of toxic masculinity, acknowledging that it is a real issue but attributing it more to societal pressures rather than inherent traits of men. He believes that true masculinity involves protecting and providing for one's family, pursuing one's passions, and being a well-rounded individual. He also touches on the challenges and rewards of being a professional athlete, highlighting the importance of consistency and dedication in achieving success.

Fitness and Well-being Insights

The conversation shifts to the topic of fitness, with Chandler sharing insights into his workout routines and the importance of staying physically fit. He stresses the benefits of regular exercise not just for physical health but also for mental clarity, confidence, and overall well-being. He mentions his fitness program, Walk On Fitness, which is designed to cater to individuals of all fitness levels and help them achieve their health goals.

Financial aspects of professional fighting

The discussion then moves towards the financial aspect of being a professional athlete, with Chandler shedding light on the income sources for fighters in the UFC. He mentions the disparity in earnings between UFC fighters and athletes in other major sports leagues, highlighting the need for fighters to explore additional revenue streams beyond their fighting careers. He shares examples of how he and other fighters have diversified their income through endorsements, business ventures, and other entrepreneurial pursuits.

The Value of Self-Discipline

The podcast also touches on the importance of self-control and discipline, citing a study that shows how practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can significantly improve self-control in children. Chandler reflects on his own experiences in martial arts and how it has shaped his character and work ethic. He emphasizes the value of learning self-discipline and the benefits it can bring in all aspects of life.