Gentle Art of Leadership Podcast – Ron Waterman

Introduction

Ron Waterman is a Jesus follower, husband, father, former UFC mixed martial arts fighter, former WWE professional wrestler, and a current youth pastor, Realtor, speaker and firefighter, whose journey is marked by resilience, redemption, and faith. Ron opens up about his childhood struggles with bullying and how a teacher’s encouragement changed the trajectory of his life. Ron shares his path to becoming a professional fighter and how that led to landing a contract as a pro wrestler. Ron offers a rare glimpse into the pro wrestling industry, revealing the challenges of that high-stakes environment and the emptiness he felt chasing the wrong things in life.  Ron shares how his life took a profound turn when he found his faith in Jesus and transformed his priorities. Now, as a youth pastor and firefighter, he is committed to making a positive impact by mentoring others and spreading a message of hope. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how far you stray, it’s never too late to change the course of your life and find true fulfillment.

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Highlights From The Episode

  • Time: [00:00:00]
    Gold, Glory, and Girls – The Empty Pursuit
  • Time: [00:00:21]
    Introducing Ron Waterman and His Journey
  • Time: [00:01:23]
    Ron Waterman Shares His Story
  • Time: [00:02:05]
    Transitioning from Wrestling to Mixed Martial Arts
  • Time: [00:03:13]
    First Experience in the MMA Cage
  • Time: [00:04:18]
    Evolution of Mixed Martial Arts
  • Time: [00:06:22]
    Overcoming Bullying Through Wrestling
  • Time: [00:07:55]
    Building Confidence and Success in Sports
  • Time: [00:09:08]
    Finding Purpose Beyond Fame and Wealth
  • Time: [00:10:42]
    Realization of Emptiness Despite Achievements
  • Time: [00:11:57]
    Turning Point: Embracing Faith
  • Time: [00:14:30]
    Challenges and Opportunities in Professional Wrestling
  • Time: [00:16:44]
    Transition to Team Impact and Ministry
  • Time: [00:18:48]
    Impact and Fulfillment in Faith-Based Ministry
  • Time: [00:20:23]
    Memorable Moments with Team Impact
  • Time: [00:22:18]
    Learning Feats of Strength in Ministry
  • Time: [00:23:43]
    Injury and Resilience Through a Wrestling Career
  • Time: [00:25:00]
    Balancing Firefighting and Pastoral Responsibilities
  • Time: [00:27:12]
    Staying Spiritually Recharged as a Leader
  • Time: [00:28:44]
    Engaging Youth and Building Trust in Ministry
  • Time: [00:31:02]
    Importance of Authenticity in Faith
  • Time: [00:33:59]
    Engaging Young Adults in Faith Communities
  • Time: [00:34:41]
    Future Directions and Commitments
  • Time: [00:35:21]
    Parenting and Protecting a Daughter
  • Time: [00:36:51]
    Supporting a Son’s Journey in MMA
  • Time: [00:38:15]
    Using Platforms to Influence Positively
  • Time: [00:40:18]
    Balancing Worldly Success with Godly Purpose
  • Time: [00:41:11]
    Final Thoughts on Life and Eternity

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