Alex Quin chats with Stuart Warren Dansby, executive producer and subject of the award-winning documentary Taking the Fight. At 56, Stuart stepped into a kickboxing ring against much younger opponents—transforming a 15-year battle with self-doubt, physical setbacks, and fear into a public display of resilience and strength. They explore the mindset needed to overcome challenges, the value of authentic storytelling, and how fighting shaped Stuart’s outlook on life and business.
[00:00:00] Intro by Alex Quin and guest welcome
[00:01:30] Stuart shares how kickboxing started at 48
[00:05:45] Why Greg Choplin challenged Stuart to fight
[00:08:30] Training vs. living as a fighter
[00:10:50] Facing younger opponents without asterisks
[00:14:20] Support from Stuart’s wife and emotional grounding
[00:19:35] Mindset shift: Challenges over problems
[00:23:00] Black belt testing and personal growth
[00:30:20] Learning vs. winning – what failure teaches
[00:37:50] Business takeaways from fight training
[00:41:10] The importance of authentic storytelling
[00:45:00] Stuart on legacy and how he wants to be remembered
[00:48:40] Where to watch Taking the Fight and follow Stuart
Challenge vs. Obstacle: Reframing problems as challenges shifts our mindset into solution mode. This small change makes big hurdles feel like surmountable goals.
You Win or You Learn: In fighting and life, losing is a lesson, not a failure. Every round teaches something—if you’re open to learning.
Authenticity Resonates: Stuart emphasizes the power of truth in storytelling. Real pain, real effort, and real growth connect with people more than perfection.
Serve to Lead: Even in high-stakes scenarios like a UFC training session, showing up for others can be one of the strongest forms of leadership.
Support Systems Matter: Stuart’s wife didn’t just stand by—she stood with him. The people around us can fuel us if they believe in our goals as much as we do.
"People respect truth. Be your authentic self."
— Stuart Warren Dansby
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Alex Quin is a full-stack marketing expert and global keynote speaker. Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of UADV Marketing - a member of the Forbes Agency Council.
