Podcast Summary: "Life After MLB: Levi Kelly’s Raw Path from Pro Baseball to MMA Fighter"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Determined Society with Shawn French
• Host: Sean Fritsch
• Episode: Life After MLB: Levi Kelly’s Raw Path from Pro Baseball to MMA Fighter
• Release Date: November 11, 2024

Introduction to Levi Kelly’s Journey

In this compelling episode of The Determined Society with Shawn French, host Sean Fritsch delves deep into the inspiring journey of Levi Kelly—from his early days in professional baseball to his current endeavors as an MMA fighter. The conversation captures Levi’s resilience, the challenges he faced, and the unwavering determination that propelled him through significant life transitions.

Early Life and Baseball Career

Levi Kelly opens up about his upbringing in the small town of St. Albans, West Virginia, highlighting the tight-knit community and limited high school sports divisions. He recounts his initial exposure to competitive sports at Nitro High School, where he admired J.R. House, a local phenom who excelled in both baseball and football. Levi’s passion for baseball led him to play travel ball in Florida, eventually earning a spot at IMG Academy during his sophomore year.

Levi Kelly [00:02:14]: "Born and raised in a super small town, St. Albans, W.Va. The biggest high school is 3A in the whole state, maybe 4A now."

His commitment to LSU early in high school exemplifies his dedication, though unforeseen circumstances, including a car accident and subsequent injury, altered his path. Despite these setbacks, Levi was drafted by the Diamondbacks in the 8th round, marking the beginning of his professional baseball career.

Challenges and Turning Points

Levi candidly discusses a pivotal moment at [00:00:00] when an interaction with the pitching coordinator highlighted his fiery spirit and determination. This confrontation underscored the often transactional nature of professional sports relationships.

Levi Kelly [00:00:00]: "I remember when I got hurt, he came into the dugout and was like, what the fuck are you doing? ... I'm from West Virginia, bro. I don't give a fuck if you're the coordinator or not. I'll fucking smack you right across the face."

This episode illustrates Levi’s struggle with identity and relationships within the MLB system, revealing the emotional toll of transitioning from being a top prospect to facing potential release.

Transition to MMA

Post his release from MLB, Levi faced an identity crisis, a theme Sean Fritsch explores extensively. Levi found solace and a new passion in MMA, viewing training as a continuous journey rather than just a sport. His entry into MMA was marked by intense training sessions at top gyms like Kill Cliff in Boca Raton, where he faced formidable opponents, learning the harsh realities of combat sports.

Levi Kelly [00:15:19]: "When I got released, I was kind of just like everyone else. What the hell am I going to do? I was still in school."

This transition was not without its challenges. Training at elite gyms exposed him to high-level competition, forcing him to adapt quickly. The learning curve was steep, with Levi acknowledging his initial struggles and the need for more structured instruction at smaller gyms like Evolution in Naples.

Mental Resilience and Family Support

A significant portion of the conversation centers on mental resilience and the role of family support in Levi’s journey. His Marine Corps father instilled a sense of discipline and independence, which Levi credits for his ability to navigate tough decisions and setbacks.

Levi Kelly [00:12:33]: "My dad was in the Marine Corps, so I think that speaks for itself. They always kind of let me make my own decision."

Levi emphasizes the importance of a supportive partner in his girlfriend, who has stood by him through relocations and career shifts. Her unwavering belief in him has been a cornerstone of his perseverance.

Balancing Discipline and Flexibility

Levi discusses the fine line between discipline and flexibility, noting how his structured approach sometimes led to burnout. He reflects on the necessity of adapting his routines to sustain long-term performance, contrasting his rigidity with the more flowy nature of some of his contemporaries like Corbin Carroll and Alec Thomas.

Levi Kelly [00:26:05]: "Corbin is very structured and rigid, and so you can see that in their play too. Alec is very flowy... They both get the job done at a very high level."

This balance is crucial in both baseball and MMA, where maintaining physical and mental health requires a blend of strict training and adaptive strategies.

Overcoming Fear and Embracing Growth

The conversation shifts to overcoming fear, both in the ring and in life. Levi shares a transformative moment before his first fight when his boxing coach reassured him that the nerves he felt were protective mechanisms enhancing his performance.

Levi Kelly [00:20:25]: "He said, 'everyone feels that. That's God's way of protecting you. Those nerves are going to make you faster, they're going to make you punch harder.'"

Sean Fritsch echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the universal nature of fear and the importance of moving forward despite it.

Sean Fritsch [00:21:42]: "Feel the fear. Feel the being scared shitless, but move in spite of it because it may not look perfect, but you'd surprise yourself along the way."

Advice and Determination

As the episode nears its conclusion, Levi provides actionable advice rooted in his experiences. His mantra, "Just keep showing up," encapsulates the essence of perseverance—attending training sessions, facing fears, and pushing through even on days when motivation is lacking.

Levi Kelly [00:42:09]: "Just keep showing up. And then the days that you don't want to show up, just show up and go through the motions."

Sean reinforces this philosophy by highlighting the importance of small, consistent actions over grand, unsustainable efforts.

Sean Fritsch [00:43:46]: "Showing up is what we did today. And then connections are formed, and then things are built from that."

Personal Reflections and Future Goals

Levi reflects on his personal growth, recognizing moments of weakness and the continuous effort required to maintain balance. He shares his future plans, including upcoming fights and the strategic steps needed to earn his professional MMA card.

Levi Kelly [00:19:26]: "My plan is probably to get five fights first and then see where we're at."

Sean and Levi also touch on the physical demands of MMA, discussing weight cutting techniques and the importance of listening to one’s body to prevent injuries.

Conclusion: Embracing Authenticity and Continuous Growth

The episode concludes with a powerful message about authenticity and self-improvement. Levi’s journey from MLB to MMA serves as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to adapt, overcome, and redefine success on one’s own terms.

Sean Fritsch [00:44:10]: "Be yourself. There's too many people out there seeing somebody else and respecting something big about those people because of what they accomplish. You can't be them. You are one of a one. Limited edition."

Notable Quotes:

• Levi Kelly [00:00:00]: "I'm from West Virginia, bro. I don't give a fuck if you're the coordinator or not. I'll fucking smack you right across the face."
• Sean Fritsch [00:21:42]: "Feel the fear. Feel the being scared shitless, but move in spite of it because it may not look perfect, but you'd surprise yourself along the way."
• Levi Kelly [00:42:09]: "Just keep showing up. And then the days that you don't want to show up, just show up and go through the motions."

Final Thoughts

This episode masterfully captures the essence of determination and adaptability through Levi Kelly's story. Listeners gain valuable insights into overcoming adversity, the importance of mental resilience, and the power of authentic self-expression. Levi’s candid reflections and actionable advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating significant life transitions or striving for personal development.

For those inspired by Levi’s journey, the message is clear: persistence, adaptability, and staying true to oneself are the keys to unlocking potential and achieving greatness.

Stay Determined and Inspired!

Connect with Levi Kelly:

• Instagram: @LeviKellyMMA
• MMA Profile: Sherdog

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