Episode 65: Pretty Strong: Empowering Women Through Boxing

What if the key to overcoming life's hardest battles is hidden in the most unexpected places? In this inspiring episode of Victim to Victory, Lawrence LeBrocq sits down with Yessenia Montalvo, a retired police detective, former boxer, and now one of the leading coaches empowering women in boxing. Yessenia shares her unique journey from a tomboy with a passion for sports to finding empowerment through boxing, and how the sport helped her build the confidence and resilience needed to serve as a police officer in Newark. Yessenia’s story is one of rediscovery, as boxing helped her overcome postpartum depression and regain her sense of self. Her journey from a hobbyist boxer to opening her own gym, Legacy Boxing, and founding the Pretty Strong project is a testament to the power of sport in transforming lives. Through Pretty Strong, Yessenia provides scholarships to young girls, teaching them self-defense, confidence, and how to break stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated sport. She discusses the need for more opportunities for women in boxing, sharing how she is working to elevate the next generation of female athletes. What to Expect in This Episode: From Police Officer to Boxing Coach: Yessenia’s unique journey to becoming a coach and empowering women through boxing. Overcoming Adversity: How boxing helped Yessenia overcome postpartum depression and rediscover herself. The Pretty Strong Project: Yessenia’s initiative to provide young girls with the tools to defend themselves and challenge stereotypes. Mentorship in Boxing: The impact of mentors like Jackie Atkins and Akbar Mohammed in Yessenia’s coaching career. Building Confidence Through Boxing: Yessenia’s advice for anyone looking to gain strength, both physically and mentally, through boxing. GuestResources: Website: ⁠legacyboxingnj.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/legacyboxingnj/⁠ GGL Resources: Website:⁠https://www.gglwins.com/⁠  Facebook:⁠https://www.facebook.com/GarcesGrablerLebrocq/⁠  Twitter (X):⁠https://www.x.com/ggl_wins⁠  Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/ggl_wins⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/gglwins_espanol⁠  LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/garces-grabler-lebrocq/⁠  YouTube:⁠https://www.youtube.com/@garcesgrablerlebrocq⁠  New Clients: 855-GGL-WINS  ⁠[e-mail] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices