Victim to Victory: Triumph Over Tragedy

How saying ‘yes’ to every opportunity transformed one man’s broadcasting career from mere intern to media powerhouse. In this episode, sports broadcaster Chris Carlin sits down with host Lawrence LeBrocq to delve into his remarkable journey from a novice sideline reporter to a prominent figure in the industry. Chris shares how a spontaneous opportunity during his college years at Hobart College sparked a lifelong passion for broadcasting. Originally planning to become a lawyer, he pivoted toward sports commentary—a decision that eventually led him to a leading role at ESPN Radio in New York. 

Throughout the episode, Chris reflects on the sacrifices, challenges, and pivotal moments that shaped his career. From giving up social time to embracing criticism, he offers candid insights into what it really takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of sports media. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and saying “yes” even when the path is uncertain.  

What to expect in this week’s episode:

• The Sacrifices of Success: Chris reflects on the dedication and sacrifices required to build a career in broadcasting, highlighting the importance of prioritizing work over a social life in his formative years.
• Embracing Constructive Criticism: Learn how developing a thick skin and welcoming constructive criticism helped Chris navigate the challenges of the industry and elevate his skill set.
• Booking Guests Strategically: Discover Chris’ unique approach to booking guests based on significant sports moments
• From Radio to TV: Explore Chris’ seamless transition from radio to television, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to embrace new opportunities in different broadcasting mediums.
• The Future of Broadcasting: Gain insights into the evolving landscape of broadcasting in the digital age, as Chris discusses the importance of staying open to change and seizing varied opportunities in the content industry.

Guest Resources:

Twitter(X):x.com/ChrisCarlin

Instagram:instagram.com/thatguycarlin/

GGLResources:

Website:https://www.gglwins.com/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/ 

Twitter (X):https://www.x.com/ggl_wins 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/ 

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq 

New Clients:

855-GGL-WINS 

info@gglwins.com

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What do you do when your family is about to lose everything? For John Vagueiro, the answer was simple: build a business from scratch and never look back.

In this unfiltered conversation, John Vagueiro, founder and CEO of Adapting Social, joins host Lawrence LeBrocq to share how he turned personal adversity into entrepreneurial fuel. From growing up in a chaotic household to knocking on doors in the dead of winter offering free websites, John’s story is a masterclass in grit, hustle, and heart.

With no college degree and no formal training, John built Adapting Social into a full-service digital agency that now serves clients in over 20 countries—including Ferrari, Bentley, and Columbia University—while staying true to his roots by supporting small businesses and startups.

What to expect in this week’s episode:

– From IEP to CEO: John opens up about growing up in a working-class family, struggling in school, and how being labeled “remedial” never defined his potential.

– The $500 Website That Changed Everything: Hear how a single client’s leap of faith launched John’s career—and how he reinvested every dollar to save his family from foreclosure.

– Scaling with Soul: Learn how John grew Adapting Social from a one-man hustle to a global agency by focusing on speed, quality, and building a team that mirrors his passion.

– Lessons from Billionaire Clients: John shares the two most powerful lessons he learned from working with ultra-successful entrepreneurs—and how they shaped his leadership style.

– Why Rejection is a Gift: From being laughed at in oversized suits to giving away 50 free websites, John explains how rejection fueled his growth and why he still bets on himself every day.

Guest Resources:
Website:
www.AdaptingSocial.com
Linkedin:
www.linkedin.com/company/adaptingsocial/
Instagram:
www.instagram.com/adaptingsocial/

GGL Resources:
Website:
https://www.gglwins.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/
Twitter (X):
https://www.x.com/ggl_wins
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins
https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq

New Clients:
855-GGL-WINS
info@gglwins.com

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How a former MMA fighter’s transition to coaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu led to a legacy of triumph over adversity and the molding of future champions. Join us for an electrifying conversation with Dante Rivera, a former professional MMA fighter turned elite coach, whose journey from the streets of New York to the cage—and now to the corner—embodies the spirit of transformation.

In this episode of Triumph Over Tragedy, Dante opens up about the discipline of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the raw realities of life inside the UFC’s Ultimate Fighter house, and the powerful lessons he now passes on to the next generation of fighters. With a career spanning multiple major fight organizations and a coaching legacy that’s shaping champions, Dante shares what it truly takes to succeed in and out of the cage. Whether you’re a fight fan, a martial artist, or someone seeking inspiration through resilience, this episode delivers a knockout of wisdom, grit, and heart.

What to expect in this week’s episode:

• From the Court to the Cage: Discover how a basketball-loving kid from New York fell in love with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and transformed into a fierce MMA competitor after a humbling first roll on the mat.

•  Inside the Ultimate Fighter: Get a behind-the-scenes look at life in the Ultimate Fighter house – no phones, no internet, just fighters, food, and full bars. Dante shares the mental and emotional toll of competing on reality TV and the fight that earned him his spot.

• Lessons from the Cage: Hear about the two fights that changed Dante’s life: one that taught him how to conquer fear, and another that humbled him with a broken nose and a valuable lesson in never underestimating an opponent.

• Building Champions, Not Just Fighters: Learn how Dante’s coaching philosophy goes beyond technique, focusing on respect, character, and preparing his students for life after fighting. His gym is more than a training center; it’s a family.

• The Rise of Eric “Nighttime” Nolan: Follow the journey of one of Dante’s standout fighters, from early struggles to a stunning comeback victory. Dante breaks down the strategy, mindset, and mentorship that helped Eric evolve into a true contender.

Guest Resources:
Website: https://www.danteriverabjjacademy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danterivera_bjj/

GGL Resources:

Website: https://www.gglwins.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/

 Twitter (X): https://www.x.com/ggl_wins 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq 

New Clients:
855-GGL-WINS
info@gglwins.com 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we ride along on the emotional Police Unity Tour, a powerful journey honoring fallen officers. Our three guests this week will surely inspire you with their story of resilience and comraderie.

In this episode of Victim to Triumph Over Tragedy, we explore the Police Unity Tour, an annual ride that raises awareness and honors fallen officers who have died in the line of duty. Sergeant Jessica DeJesus, Officer Raymond Arce, and Amber Arce share their deeply personal stories from the road, reflecting on the emotional and physical toll of the ride, the unity among riders, and the profound moments of remembrance that make this tour so special.

From the heartache of losing fellow officers to the uplifting camaraderie of riding alongside those who share the same mission, this episode highlights the power of resilience and the importance of honoring those who protect us. If you’re seeking inspiration and insight into the strength of the human spirit, you won’t want to miss this episode.

What to expect in this week’s episode:

• The Birth of the Police Unity Tour: Discover how a small group of officers created an annual ride to honor fallen colleagues, and how it has grown into a worldwide movement of support and remembrance.
• A Ride Like No Other: Experience the emotional and physical challenges of the 300-mile ride, where riders push through exhaustion and harsh weather to honor those who gave everything in the line of duty.
• The Power of Unity: Learn how the Police Unity Tour brings together riders from all over the world, forming an unbreakable bond of camaraderie and shared purpose that transcends borders and backgrounds.
• The Silent Strength of the Ride: Explore the profound emotional moments of the tour, from the physical act of riding in remembrance to the deeply moving interactions with families of the fallen.
• A Legacy of Resilience: Understand how participating in the Police Unity Tour becomes a personal mission to keep the memory of fallen officers alive, teaching valuable lessons in perseverance, humility, and honoring sacrifice.

GGL Resources:

Website:https://www.gglwins.com/ 

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/ 

Twitter (X):https://www.x.com/ggl_wins 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/ 

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq 

New Clients:

855-GGL-WINS 

info@gglwins.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a kid from North Philly trades street football for professional hockey, and eventually trades a corporate career for sleeping in his car to build something real? In this raw and riveting conversation, Sean Grevy, founder of 43 Oak, joins host Lawrence LeBrocq to share his powerful journey from a turbulent childhood, through concussions and homelessness, to leading a multimillion-dollar media agency that fights for its clients.

Paralyzed by a hockey injury, unemployed, and living in his car, Sean decided to bet on himself and build 43 Oak from scratch by showering at gas stations and taking client calls from parking lots. Against all odds, he turned that scrappy, desperate moment into a thriving agency that now manages media buys in the tens of millions and works with household names like Eat Clean Bro and the New York Islanders.

Sean’s story is one of hustle, integrity, and unwavering purpose. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, this episode will remind you what’s possible when you don’t. 

What to expect in this week’s episode:

• A Childhood in North Philly: Sean shares what it was like growing up in a tough, racially diverse neighborhood and how that environment shaped his perspective, resilience, and relationships.
• Choosing Sobriety and Hockey Over History: Despite a family legacy of alcoholism, Sean made the rare decision never to drink. Instead, he channeled his energy into becoming a standout hockey player from an unlikely place.
• The Long Road to the NHL (and a Pivot): Sean opens up about the brutal reality of hockey’s politics, concussions, and the moment he walked away from a shot at pro to build a future in business.
• From Homeless to Billboard Boss: After launching 43 Oak while partially paralyzed and living out of his car, Sean hustled relentlessly to land his big break and grow relentlessly to managing tens of millions in media buys.
• Giving Back Through the Ice: Learn how 43 Oak Foundation is changing the face of hockey by mentoring and funding inner-city athletes, including players who’ve now signed NHL contracts with support from the New York Islanders.

Guest Resources:

Website:
www.43oak.com
Website:
www.43oakfoundation.org
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/43_oak/

GGL Resources:

Website:https://www.gglwins.com/ 

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/ 

Twitter (X):https://www.x.com/ggl_wins 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/ 

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq 

New Clients:

855-GGL-WINS 

info@gglwins.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to overcome a life-altering tragedy and transform it into a mission of hope, inspiration, and impact? Join us as Eric LeGrand shares his incredible journey from a devastating football injury to becoming a motivational speaker, broadcaster, and advocate in the fight against paralysis.

In this powerful episode of Victim to Victory, Lawrence sits down with Eric LeGrand, a true American inspiration whose story transcends adversity. From growing up as a passionate athlete in New Jersey to the moment that changed his life forever, Eric reveals the mental toughness, faith, and relentless determination that have fueled his recovery and purpose.

Eric opens up about his catastrophic spinal injury on the football field, the grueling rehab process, the importance of a strong support system. He shares how he transformed his tragedy into embracing new roles as a motivational speaker, Rutgers announcer, and entrepreneur.  

What to expect in this week’s episode:

• Growing Up Tough: Eric reflects on his childhood playing sports with kids much older than him, facing bullying and physical challenges that forged his mental toughness early on. These formative experiences built the foundation for the resilience that would later carry him through unimaginable trials.

• The Injury That Changed Everything: Hear Eric’s raw and heartfelt account of the moment his life changed forever. Despite a grim prognosis and moments of fear and uncertainty, Eric’s unwavering faith and determination sparked a fight to live and recover that inspired everyone around him.

• Rehab and Recovery: Eric reveals the physical and emotional pain of months-long rehabilitation, describing the daily battle to regain even the smallest movements. His athlete’s discipline turned into a powerful tool, enabling him to endure setbacks, push through exhaustion, and celebrate every small victory along the way.

• Finding New Purpose: From motivational speaking to becoming a Rutgers football announcer, Eric explains how he redefined his life and built a platform to inspire millions. Through motivational speaking, broadcasting, and entrepreneurship, he channels his story into a message of courage, inspiring others to face their own battles with grit and positivity.

• The Fight Against Paralysis: Eric shares his deep commitment to advancing paralysis research and improving care for those affected. From leading the Walk to Believe fundraiser to highlighting breakthroughs in spinal stimulation technology, he emphasizes the importance of hope, community support, and relentless advocacy in the pursuit of a cure.

Whether you’re facing your own challenges or simply need a reminder of the human spirit’s resilience, this episode delivers hope, practical insights, and motivation to keep pushing forward no matter what life throws your way. 

Guest Resources:

Website: https://ericlegrand52.com/ 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ericlegrand52/ 

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/ericlegrand52 

GGLResources:

Website:https://www.gglwins.com/ 

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/ 

Twitter (X):https://www.x.com/ggl_wins 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/ 

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq 

New Clients:

855-GGL-WINS

info@gglwins.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Nolan didn’t just dream about being a fighter—he walked into the ring and made it real. In this raw and inspiring episode, Eric shares the battles behind the battles, the doubters who pushed him harder, and the mindset that fuels his rise toward a UFC title shot. In this episode of Victim to Victory: Triumph Over Tragedy, Lawrence sits down with professional mixed martial artist Eric Nolan to uncover the gritty path from military life to the pro MMA stage. Eric opens up about the mental toughness forged in the Marines, the moment he took his shot, and the uphill climb through amateur fights, nose breaks, and self-doubt. Now on the cusp of a championship and eyeing the UFC, Eric shares what drives him and the promises he still intends to keep. 

What to expect in this week’s episode:

• From Marine to MMA Fighter: Eric shares how his journey began with weekends watching UFC fights on base, and how a spontaneous Instagram message jumpstarted his career.
• The Amateur Grind to Going Pro: Learn how Eric dominated New Jersey’s amateur scene and transitioned to professional fighting; in the beginning, he learned on the fly without coaches or a team.
• Inside the Cage: Adrenaline, Chaos, and Calm: What really happens in the hours and minutes before a fight? Eric breaks down the intense pre-fight ritual and mental warfare of stepping into the cage.
• Family, Brotherhood, and the Team Behind the Fighter: Discover how Eric’s upbringing with two father figures and his tight-knit team fuel his discipline, growth, and emotional toughness.
• Fighting for Legacy, Not Just Glory: Eric reveals why he fights. It’s not just for fame or money, but to honor promises made to his Marine brothers and to build a future for his family.If you’ve ever faced doubters, felt the pull of a dream others didn’t understand, or wondered what it takes to truly fight for something, then this is your episode. 

Guest Info:

Eric Nolan is the #404 ranked MMA fighter in the North America region. Nolan is also ranked in 3 North America sub-regions (US Northeast, Pennsylvania, New Jersey). He is only ranked in regions where he has fought at least 2 times out of his last 6 MMA bouts. Nolan is ranked at Welterweight in each region, since he fought at least once in the weight class in his last 2 fights.

GGLResources:

Website:⁠https://www.gglwins.com/⁠ 

Facebook:⁠https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/⁠ 

Twitter (X):⁠https://www.x.com/ggl_wins⁠ 

Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol⁠ 

LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/⁠ 

YouTube:⁠https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq⁠ 

New Clients:

855-GGL-WINS 

⁠info@gglwins.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Misconceptions about personal injury settlements can lead to undervaluing claims, emphasizing the need for knowledgeable legal representation.

Since 2005, Ted Spaulding, founder of Spaulding Injury Law, has dedicated his career to helping victims of negligence win justice in Georgia. He’s received numerous awards for his commitment, including being named a finalist for Law.com’s 2024 Southeastern Legal Awards “Attorney of the Year” and one of Georgia’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers for six consecutive years.

Ted frequently comments on legal issues and has appeared on CNN, CourtTV, and in publications like the Washington Post. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Distinguished Justice Advocates, and he is admitted to practice in Georgia’s state and federal courts.

In this episode of Victim to Victory: The Personal Injury Playbook, Lawrence LeBrocq speaks with Ted Spaulding, founder of Spaulding Injury Law. Ted and Lawrence discuss the evolving landscape of personal injury law, highlighting the impact of technology and changing jury preferences, while also addressing the trends and challenges in the legal field that listeners should be mindful of.

Spaulding emphasizes the importance of following medical advice and understanding clients to present their cases effectively.

What to expect in this week’s episode:

– Why specialized personal injury lawyers are important

– What misconceptions can undervalue personal injury claims

– Why seeking legal counsel promptly after an injury crucial

– What expenses personal injury lawyers cover in cases

If you or someone you know is recovering from a personal injury, listen to this episode of Victim to Victory to learn more about the importance of working with a personal injury attorney on your case.

Guest Resources:

https://www.spauldinginjurylaw.com/

https://www.facebook.com/spauldinginjurylaw/

https://www.instagram.com/spauldinginjurylaw/

https://www.tiktok.com/@spauldinginjurylaw

https://x.com/spauldinginjury

https://www.youtube.com/@SpauldingInjuryLaw

https://www.linkedin.com/company/spauldinginjurylaw/

GGL Resources:

https://www.garcesgrabler.com

https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/

https://twitter.com/ggl_njlaw

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1Y-uofxcHnnLPDVHzRGWgw

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices