535: Unbreakable Spirit: The Inspiring Journey of Martial Arts Grandmaster Lawrence Stone

Leaders Of Transformation

What could you achieve if you let go of all excuses and limiting beliefs?

In this deeply motivational episode, Nicole Jansen welcomes Lawrence “Stoney” Stone—a remarkable martial arts grandmaster, published author, stunt coordinator, rock band singer, and cancer survivor whose life story is anything but ordinary.

Born with congenital hip problem, later with CMT (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Neuropathy) a degenerative nerve disease, Stoney has faced significant physical challenges since birth, yet has refused to let them define or limit him. From building future champions in his dojo to serving as an executive protection consultant, Stoney’s impact ripples across countless lives and disciplines.

Join us as Stoney opens up about the powerful lessons learned from his “spanking grandma,” and his real-life journey of overcoming adversity with purpose, faith, and fierce love. He shares how mentorship, tough love, a sense of responsibility, and unwavering honesty have fueled his legacy—prompting us all to step up, stop making excuses, and love with conviction.

Whether you’re searching for inspiration, seeking actionable leadership insights, or grappling with challenges of your own, this conversation will leave you empowered and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

What We Discuss in This Episode

• How did Stoney overcome significant physical limitations to become a martial arts grandmaster and mentor to champions?
• What role did family and “tough love” play in shaping his unstoppable mindset?
• How do you guide others—especially young people—out of victimhood and toward responsibility and growth?
• What does it mean to “not own” your challenges or diagnoses?
• How can leaders and mentors balance empathy with calling others to greatness?
• Why is authenticity and emotional expression crucial for true leadership?
• What does it look like to surrender to purpose and let go of micromanaging your life’s plan?
• How do faith and spirituality underpin resilience and transformation?
• What lasting advice does Stoney offer for living a meaningful, impactful life?

10 Key Takeaways

1. Lead by Example: Young people and mentees learn most from who you are and what you do—not just what you say or teach.
2. Tough Love Builds Resilience: Support combined with high expectations (“spanking grandma”) pushes us to unprecedented growth.
3. Refuse to “Own” Limitations: Don’t take on negative identities around illness or labels—claim victory and move forward.
4. Surround Yourself with Greatness: Your environment and your circle shape your possibilities and determination.
5. Your Challenges Are Your Strength: Facing adversity builds the grit and wisdom necessary to help others.
6. Balance Compassion and Accountability: True mentors love fiercely AND hold people to a higher standard.
7. Embrace Vulnerability: Emotional honesty and caring openly are strengths, not weaknesses, for leaders.
8. Purpose Over Perfection: Focus on finding and fulfilling your unique design rather than achieving flawlessness.
9. Take Responsibility: We must model and teach personal responsibility; excuses perpetuate victimhood and stagnation.
10. Keep Growing and Giving: Growth is a lifelong journey—keep learning, serving, and evolving no matter your stage or circumstances.

Favorite Quotes

1. "I've never really relied on or counted on being different. I've never been afraid to stand in front of people and tell them I care. And that makes a difference." — Lawrence Stone
2. "Because I didn’t know I was different, because I didn’t accept that—I’m just me. I love me. I love what I do. I love who I am, where I am, and why I am." — Lawrence Stone
3. "If I don’t believe in me, how can I expect someone else to believe in me? You have to believe in yourself first, no matter what the world says." — Lawrence Stone

This episode is a rich tapestry of wisdom, humor, and heart. Tune in—and rediscover what’s possible when you stop making excuses and start living your purpose.

Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/mindset/535-unbreakable-spirit-the-inspiring-journey-of-martial-arts-grandmaster-lawrence-stone/

Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com

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