The Early Days of UFC, The Aerospace Industry & The Future of Space Entertainment | John Lewis 124
Oct 5, 2024
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John Lewis, a visionary with a diverse background in aerospace, MMA, and film production, shares insights into his unique journey. He discusses the fusion of space and entertainment, including plans for space vacations and the NovaStar space station. Lewis reflects on leadership in martial arts, effective team management, and the transformative power of kindness. He recounts pivotal moments that shaped the UFC and his innovative ideas for combining combat sports with space adventures, showcasing his belief in the future of hospitality beyond Earth.
John Lewis emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse opportunities across various industries, which build a foundation for future successes.
He highlights a leadership style based on leading by example and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration among team members.
The ambitious goals of NovaCorp Aerospace focus on integrating sports and entertainment into space travel, transforming public perceptions of space tourism.
Deep dives
Life Journey and Career Path
The guest shares a reflective overview of their journey, emphasizing that every step has contributed to their current path. They started as a professional dancer in Hawaii, feeling an innate drive to explore beyond the islands. Despite feeling uncertain about their future during earlier phases, they acknowledge that each experience has woven together, leading to opportunities across various industries. This interconnectedness highlights the importance of embracing diverse opportunities, as they often serve as building blocks for future successes.
Embracing Multiple Roles
The guest discusses their multifaceted career, which spans various industries including aerospace, entertainment, and media. They stress that all their roles complement each other rather than cause distractions, as everything they've done ties into a larger vision. The individual expresses that engaging in different fields has enriched their knowledge and made them more adept in their current endeavors. This approach underscores the value of versatility and the ability to integrate experiences from diverse domains.
Leadership Philosophy
The guest articulates a leadership style rooted in leading by example, likening their role to that of a general who participates actively alongside their team. They believe that genuine leadership involves risk-taking and commitment, as it inspires teams to follow suit. This principle of accountability and hands-on involvement fosters a culture of trust and collaboration among team members. The emphasis on leading from the front highlights the significance of demonstrating dedication and perseverance.
Pioneering Space Entertainment
The discussion shifts to the ambitious goals of NovaCorp Aerospace, where the guest envisions integrating sports and entertainment into space travel. They outline a future where space stations will host various entertainment events, radically transforming public perception of space tourism. Collaborations with companies like Hilton for space hospitality exemplify the bold initiatives underway. The guest conveys excitement for the possibilities this sector holds, projecting a near future where individuals can choose space experiences akin to earthly vacations.
Significance of Martial Arts in Life
The guest reflects on how early martial arts training shaped their character, instilling discipline, perseverance, and confidence. They advocate for integrating martial arts into youth education to empower children, helping them navigate challenges both physically and emotionally. This training not only equips individuals to defend themselves but also fosters self-assuredness that can positively influence social interactions. The belief that martial arts cultivates vital life skills resonates throughout their narrative.
Lessons from the UFC Journey
The guest recounts pivotal moments in their association with the UFC, exploring both the highs and lows of their journey within mixed martial arts. They emphasize the importance of adaptability, sharing a personal regret of not collaborating with key figures at a crucial time. This reflection highlights how decisions in the past inform the trajectory of one's career, reinforcing the need for strategic thinking. Ultimately, every experience is framed as a valuable lesson that contributes to their continuous growth and industry insight.
John Lewis is a visionary with a career that spans across multiple industries such as aerospace, mixed martial arts (MMA), film production and entertainment. As the driving force behind NovaCorp Aerospace, he is pioneering space-based sports, entertainment and hospitality experiences through ambitious projects like the Genesis X Mission and the development of the NovaStar space station. John is a former MMA champion who has trained UFC legends like Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz, and Randy Couture, and played a pivotal role in introducing Dana White to the UFC. His transition from the octagon to filmmaking led him to found JLE Cinema Group, where he manages intellectual properties and produces films, television shows, and live events. His influence extends to Saudi Arabia, where he envisions a central role for the region in space exploration and entertainment.
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