Episode 256 -- Lauren Barone -- When A Hobby Turns Into A Legacy
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Episode 256 -- Lauren Barone -- When A Hobby Turns Into A Legacy” inside PodZeus.
Lauren Barone, a former Airbnb host and LPN, shares her journey from a childhood fascination with martial arts and wrestling to becoming the first female franchise owner of the Philadelphia Phenoms in the Professional Grappling Federation (PGF). What began as a hobby—inspired by Hoist Gracie and the Ninja Turtles—evolved into a full-fledged business venture after she was captivated by the PGF’s high-octane, submission-focused rule set during a live event in Las Vegas. Now, as a franchise owner, Lauren balances the demands of managing athletes, budgeting, marketing, and team culture while staying grounded through meditation, gratitude, and her love of sci-fi. She emphasizes authenticity in branding, leadership through composure, and the emotional weight of watching athletes train and compete. Despite the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated sport and the sacrifices required—like stepping back from competing—Lauren finds deep fulfillment in building a legacy that blends family values, discipline, and entertainment. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the power of turning passion into purpose.
Turn your hobby into a legacy by identifying opportunities where passion meets market need.
Authenticity in branding—like using sci-fi themes—can create strong emotional connections with fans.
Leadership in combat sports requires emotional intelligence, composure, and a balance of kindness and firmness.
Supportive structures (housing, transportation, team events) are key to athlete retention and performance.
Success is not overnight—it’s built through persistence, learning from setbacks, and staying mission-driven.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction: A Podcast for Women Who Inspire
Amy Stackhouse introduces the Stacked Keys Podcast, a show dedicated to highlighting women who excel in their careers, parenting, or passionate hobbies. She sets the stage for today’s guest, Lauren Barone, whose journey from martial arts enthusiast to franchise owner is both inspiring and unique.
From Childhood Passion to PGF Franchise Ownership
“I knew right then and there that I 100% wanted to be part of the PGF.”
Breaking Barriers: Being a Woman in a Male-Dominated Sport
“I knew full well when going into the female franchise ownership that there was a possibility that there could be pushback or questions. But on the other side of that, there has been like a ton of support.”
The Business of Belonging: Building a Team Culture
“I offer an ear to listen therapeutically when needed. And I try to be present for those athletes when I'm needed.”
Leadership Lessons from Life: From Store Management to Franchise Ownership
Lauren traces her leadership roots to growing up in her father’s store and working as an LPN. Her experience as an Airbnb host taught her to solve problems creatively under pressure—skills she now applies to managing her franchise with calm and strategic thinking.
“The League, to me, is absolutely something magical because it puts on such high level entertainment that I feel like I haven't seen before in other promotions.”
“I knew right then and there that I 100% wanted to be part of the PGF.”
“I knew full well when going into the female franchise ownership that there was a possibility that there could be pushback or questions. But on the other side of that, there has been like a ton of support.”
Host
Guest
Lauren Barone
person
Professional Grappling Federation
organization
Philadelphia Phenoms
organization
Amy Stackhouse
person
Andrew Cockle
person
Sean Melanson
person
Hoist Gracie
person
other
Stephen Aiken
person
Derek Rayfield
person
Episode 255 -- Sunny Dillard -- What If Strength Is Simply Not Quitting
Stacked Keys Podcast • 1h 18m • 4/7/2026
Episode 257 -- Sarah Quillian -- What If Being Real Is The Safety Plan?
Stacked Keys Podcast • 1h 2m • 4/14/2026
Episode 258 -- Ashley Wall -- How A Mom Built A Kids Book Brand From Scratch
Stacked Keys Podcast • 1h 2m • 4/28/2026
Episode 259 -- Eileen Noyes -- You Can Rebuild Your Life Without Losing Yourself
Stacked Keys Podcast • 1h 2m • 5/6/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Episode 256 -- Lauren Barone -- When A Hobby Turns Into A Legacy” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime