The Jose Morales Podcast

What does it take to turn early life hustle into real estate success and a booming media platform? In this episode, José sits down with JR Jimenez—real estate investor and host of the True Hustle Podcast. JR opens up about his upbringing, the raw stories that shaped his drive, and the exact moment he decided to launch his podcast. Plus, JR drops actionable, real-world advice on how to build and grow a podcast from scratch, along with some hot takes on sports and the lessons mindset plays in both athletics and business.

On this episode of The Jose Morales Podcast, we sit down with Sacramento’s own breakout boxing sensation, Austin Lenehan, as he prepares to make his highly anticipated professional debut.

Austin isn’t just any rising fighter he is a certified powerhouse with a legendary amateur resume. He is an International Champion, a multi-time national and international medalist, was ranked in the top 10 in the United States, and holds the historic title of the youngest fighter in history to compete in the IBA World Championships.

But behind the accolades lies a deeply personal story of resilience.

In this episode, Austin opens up about:

Turning Tragedy into Triumph: The devastating loss of his father, an Elk Grove Police Officer, during his teenage years, and the intense anger that followed.

Finding the Ring: How he channeled that grief and aggression into the sport of boxing to save his life.

Making History: What it means to be the very first professional boxer to come entirely through Jose Morales' amateur system and the Warrior Program.

This is a story about more than just fighting; it’s about survival, legacy, and the unbreakable bond between a coach and his fighter. Whether you are a die-hard boxing fan or just love an incredible story of overcoming adversity, you do not want to miss this one.

What does a fast-food giant, a boxing academy, and a high-end barber studio have in common? For Jorrell Velasquez, the answer is the "Warrior Spirit."

In this episode, we sit down with Jorrell, a dedicated barber currently operating his own private studio, to discuss his journey toward opening his first brick-and-mortar shop. But this isn't just another business expansion story. Jorrell is on a mission to solve a major gap in the industry: barber development.

Inspired by the tiered "Warrior Program" at Jose Morales Boxing Academy and the rigorous internal growth systems at In-N-Out Burger, Jorrell is implementing a revolutionary tier program for his future team. We dive deep into:

• The Power of Tiers: How structured progression creates better craftsmen and more loyal employees.

• The Boxing Influence: Lessons in discipline and grit learned from the ring and how they translate to the shop.

• Business Differentiation: How to stop competing on price and start competing on systems and culture.

• Finding a Mentor: Advice for those searching for guidance in a saturated market.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a barber looking to level up, or someone searching for the blueprint to differentiate your business, Jorrell’s story offers a masterclass in intentional growth.

Tune in to hear how Jorrell is cutting a new path in the industry—one tier at a time.

Step inside the ropes with Sachery Sam (3-0, 2 KOs), a dynamic young professional boxing prospect hailing from Stockton, California. Go beyond the fight stats as Sachery shares the personal story behind his undefeated record. Hear about his upbringing, the strength he draws from his faith, his dedicated amateur career, the invaluable guidance of being trained by his father, and his vision for conquering the professional boxing landscape.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Ali Benjamin, the driving force behind Benjamin's Boxing in San Ramon, California. Ali's journey is one of resilience and transformation. He shares his story of how boxing kept pulling him back, a constant thread in his life. We dive deep into his past, including a year spent in prison, and how that experience became a catalyst for change. Hear how he channeled his newfound motivation into building his own boxing gym, navigating the challenges and rewards of business ownership. We explore his unique coaching philosophy, the ins and outs of running a boxing gym, and his exciting new venture as a boxing matchmaker. This is a story of second chances, the power of boxing, and the unwavering spirit of one man determined to build a better future.

How does a Sacramento boxer go from local sensation to training with Freddy Roach? We sit down with "Sugar" Cain Sandoval (15-0, 13 KOs) to find out. Hear how this undefeated knockout artist earned his spot at the Wild Card Boxing Club. Cain details his upbringing, his powerful amateur career, and the pivotal moments that led him to Roach's gym. We explore the impact of training with a legend and what it means for Cain's future in the professional boxing world. Tune in for an exclusive look inside the journey of a rising star.

This week, we sit down with Jack Firenze, a real estate agent whose life story takes an unexpected turn. Jack grew up in an upper-middle-class environment, enjoying comforts and opportunities many only dream of. By his own admission, adversity was a stranger. Yet, beneath the surface of a seemingly charmed life, Jack struggled with a lack of confidence that held him back both personally and professionally. In this candid conversation, Jack reveals how he discovered the transformative power of boxing.

He takes us on a journey from his initial trepidation and the daunting process of finding the right gym, to the grueling early days of training. Jack vividly describes the nerve-wracking first sparring sessions, the butterflies before his first competition, and the lessons learned in competitions. Far from the stereotypical image of a fighter with a troubled past, Jack's story is a testament to boxing's ability to build character, discipline, and resilience in anyone, regardless of background.

He shares how the mental fortitude and self-assurance he gained in the ring translated into success in the competitive world of real estate. Jack's story is an inspiring reminder that true strength isn't about where you come from, but what you're willing to fight for. Join us as Jack Firenze reveals how boxing transformed him from a man lacking confidence to the driven and successful individual he is today.

This week, we're joined by Coach Abe, the driving force behind Roseville Boxing Academy. Abe sits down with Jose to share his inspiring story, from his own experiences in the ring to his journey of building and running a successful boxing gym. They delve into the gritty realities of competitive boxing, discussing the highs and lows, the dedication required, and the lessons learned. Abe offers invaluable insights into the world of coaching, exploring the challenges and rewards of shaping the next generation of fighters. They also discuss the pros and cons of coaching versus competing, offering a unique perspective for anyone considering a career in combat sports. This episode is packed with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a shared passion for the sweet science. Whether you're a seasoned boxer, a curious beginner, or just a fan of the sport, you won't want to miss this conversation with Coach Abe.

We're thrilled to kick off Season 5, and this season, we're taking a direct hit to the sweet science – boxing! For the past four seasons, we've explored a wide range of topics, but now, we're lacing up our gloves and stepping into the ring. This season, Jose is making a 100% pivot, dedicating every episode to the world of boxing. Get ready for powerful conversations with boxing coaches, seasoned fighters, influential promoters, and individuals whose lives have been dramatically shaped by this incredible sport. Our goal? To illuminate every facet of boxing, from the grit and discipline to the triumphs and transformations. We're pulling back the curtain to show the world what boxing is truly about. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, get ready to rumble because Season 5 of the Jose Morales Podcast is about to deliver a knockout!

This week, we sit down with Mustafa Meekins, a powerful voice from Atlanta, Georgia, whose life story is a testament to the transformative power of boxing. Mustafa candidly shares his experiences with incarceration and how, during that time, he discovered the discipline and focus that boxing provided. He opens up about his journey from inmate to coach, detailing his commitment to giving back to his community. Mustafa discusses the importance of his inner-city gym and his passion for providing a safe haven for kids, steering them away from the streets and offering them a positive path forward. He also talks about the organic growth of his social media following, which has amplified his message and connected him with a wider audience. We delve into his recent appointment as head coach for the Atlanta Attack of Team Combat League and explore his vision for the future. Join us for an inspiring conversation about redemption, resilience, and the profound impact of boxing.

In this episode Madeline “Grizzly” Days joins the show to share her story and how boxing has transformed her physically and mentally. What started as something her dad made her do turned her into a Nationally ranked boxer currently ranked #3 in the country along with being in the best shape of her life.

Matt Higgins businessman, investor, author and guest shark on Shark Tank joins The show to share his story from a little boy scrapping gum off tables at McDonalds to rebuilding the World Trade Center site, running NFL teams and Co Founder of a private investment firm. Matt shares his secrets to over coming adversity.

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In this episode Keren Atalor joins the show to share her story growing up in foster homes, staying positive through everything to working towards creating the life she dreamed of. Keren shares a lot of great insight with traveling. She has been to 25 countries, she talks about on how she did it and her favorite places she has been too.

In this episode Xavier Martinez (18-2)and Andy Vences (23-5-1) two boxers who had excellent professional careers share with us their journeys through the amateurs, to the professional ranks where both got deals with the biggest promotion companies in the business. They also talk about what they would have done different and what they plan to do in the future.

In this episode Pharmacist Phillip Nguyen joins the show. He shares his family journey, His upbringing and what brought him to start boxing. He talks about what boxing has done for him and what his future holds after boxing.

In this episode assistant coach Raymond Romero - Stafford joins the show to share his upbringing and how boxing changed the trajectory of his life. He then shares how he ended up as a coach at Jose Morales Boxing Academy.

In this solo episode Jose talks about sports in America. The cost for them. Are they too expensive ? Should they be free or what is a solution for this problem ? Jose talks about him being the kid who couldn’t afford organized sports as a kid and now him being a business owner charging. Jose being on both sides of the spectrum has really good insights on this topic.

In this solo episode Jose talks about passing down our knowledge to the next person.

Philadelphia 76ers assistant coach Bobby Jackson joins the show for his second time to talk about coaching. He has coached at every level in basketball from kids to the NBA. Jose and Bobby talk about what they have learned about coaching, what makes a good coach and what to look for in a coach. So many similarities in coaching and parenting that goes to show you how important sports are for children.

Ruben Torres a professional boxer fighting out of Jose Morales Boxing Academy joins the show to share his story of how boxing saved his life.