Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™ 402 Why Your Identity Is A Choice (Not A Label) with “IRON” Mike Steadman
On this episode of Follow Your Different, Christopher Lochhead welcomes “IRON” Mike Steadman, a former Marine officer, national boxing champion, and entrepreneur into another installment of Creator Capitalist Conversations.
Together, they explore Mike’s inspiring journey from military service to empowering Black veteran entrepreneurs. The conversation highlights the importance of identity, resilience, and mindset in overcoming challenges and reinventing oneself.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and actionable advice on personal growth and entrepreneurial success.
You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.
Embracing Identity Transformation
In the world of entrepreneurship, few stories are as compelling as that of “IRON” Mike Steadman: a former Marine officer, three-time national boxing champion, and now a category designer and advocate for Black veteran entrepreneurs.
Mike’s identity was deeply rooted in his military service. Transitioning to civilian life, he faced the challenge of being seen as “just a boxing coach” rather than the multifaceted leader he knew himself to be.
Working with performance psychologists and entrepreneurial mental health coaches, Mike learned to step back and view himself from a broader perspective, a process he calls “psychological distancing.”
By intentionally shaping his identity, Mike was able to move from being defined by his past roles to actively designing his future as an entrepreneur and advocate.
Resilience Through “Time Under Tension”
Just as boxers build strength and skill through grueling training, entrepreneurs develop their instincts and capacity by enduring the pressures of business.
When COVID-19 shut down Mike’s in-person boxing business, he faced a moment of defeat. Instead of giving up, he used the crisis as a catalyst to pivot—launching a podcast and building a new business model from scratch.
Motivation Beyond Money
Financial goals are important, but lasting motivation comes from deeper sources—purpose, impact, and community.
Mike found that helping others succeed (as a ghostwriter and editor) was more fulfilling than chasing personal accolades. Inspired by a business coach’s analogy, Mike emphasizes nurturing the “soil” of your life—health, relationships, and mentorship—so your business can thrive.
Mike also noticed that as he hit financial milestones, the excitement faded. He began to set new, personal challenges—like running a marathon or reaching Everest Base Camp—to keep himself engaged and fulfilled.
To hear more from “IRON” Mike Steadman and his thoughts on reinventing oneself and looking at things from different POVs, download and listen to this episode.
Bio
“IRON” Mike Steadman is a Marine Corps Infantry Officer turned entrepreneur, author, and boxing coach. As the founder of IRONBOUND Boxing, he empowers youth in Newark through boxing, mentorship, and enrichment programs.
Mike also leads IRONBOUND Media, helping veteran-owned businesses build impactful brands through podcasting. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and combat veteran, his leadership philosophy integrates discipline, resilience, and service.
Mike hosts the “Confessions of a Native Son” podcast, exploring race, business, and personal growth. Passionate about social impact, he continues to create opportunities for underserved communities, embodying his mission to fight for those without champions in their corner.
Links
Connect with “IRON” Mike Steadman!
Website: IronboundBoxing.org | IronboundMedia.com | DogWhistleBranding.com
Linkedin: in/Iron-Mike-Steadman
Instagram: @IronMikeSteadman
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!