Few people understand the intense physical and mental demands of professional wrestling quite like Byron Pepin—better known as Cha Cha Charlie. A seasoned pro wrestler, Byron recently joined Sam Tejada, CEO and Founder of Liquivida®, on “A Healthy Point of View” podcast. While he’s known for his strength and showmanship in the ring, Byron’s commitment to health and wellness outside of it tells another compelling story. In their conversation, Sam and Byron discuss how fitness, mental discipline, and resilience have shaped not only Byron’s career but also his everyday life. With firsthand experience in both high-impact sports and holistic wellness, Byron offers a fresh perspective on staying strong, grounded, and focused in and out of the spotlight.
Wrestler, Father, Fighter: Cha-Cha Charlie’s Inspiring Rise Against All Odds | Ep. 51
The Power of Discipline in Wrestling and Wellness
Pro wrestling is no easy feat—it’s a demanding sport that requires peak physical condition, agility, and mental fortitude. For Cha Cha Charlie, the discipline learned in the wrestling ring is what helped him lay the foundation for his wellness journey.
Byron emphasizes the intense physical training that pro wrestlers go through, not just for matches, but to maintain strength and stamina day in and day out. “Wrestling teaches you the importance of discipline,” says Byron. “You have to stay in top shape, whether you’re preparing for a big match or just doing daily workouts. The same goes for maintaining a healthy lifestyle outside of the ring.”
This discipline, which began in the world of wrestling, now carries over into his daily wellness routine. “I now focus on what my body needs to perform at its best—not just for a wrestling match, but for life,” he explains. Whether it’s regular exercise, mindful nutrition, or taking time to recover, Byron knows that consistency is key to feeling good both mentally and physically.
Overcoming Mental Barriers: The Importance of Mental Strength
One of the most important aspects of wrestling that Byron highlights is mental strength. Every match is a battle, and the ability to push through adversity, both physically and emotionally, is a skill that transcends sports and applies to life.
“Pro wrestling isn’t just about physical toughness; it’s about mental toughness,” says Byron. “You learn how to get knocked down, but you always have to get back up.” This mentality, honed through years in the wrestling ring, has shaped his approach to challenges outside of sports, especially when it comes to his wellness.
For Byron, mental strength is a driving force in overcoming obstacles. Whether dealing with setbacks in his personal life or health challenges, he encourages others to develop and maintain a resilient mindset. “You have to embrace the struggle and keep moving forward,” he shares. This mindset has proven invaluable, especially when navigating the complexities of wellness.
Wellness: A Holistic Approach
For both Byron and Sam, wellness isn’t just about muscle or macros—it’s a full-picture approach that includes mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual health.
“It’s not just about looking good. It’s about feeling strong inside and out,” says Sam. Byron agrees, adding that real wellness means creating habits that support long-term health—habits rooted in routine, not restriction.
He focuses on consistency in his workouts, mindfulness in what he eats, and a mindset that keeps him positive and purposeful. “You have to treat wellness like a lifestyle, not a chore,” he explains.
Staying Active and Engaged with the Community
Byron emphasizes the power of staying active and being present in your community. Whether it’s through supporting others in their wellness journey or simply staying consistent with exercise, both Sam and Byron stress the importance of staying connected to a healthy routine.
Byron has become involved in promoting physical fitness outside of the wrestling ring, encouraging others to embrace wellness as a lifestyle. “It’s all about creating a routine that supports you mentally and physically, and helping others along the way,” he says.
So, whether you’re an aspiring athlete or simply someone looking to improve your overall well-being, take a note from Cha Cha Charlie’s playbook—discipline, mental strength, and community support are the keys to thriving in wellness and in life.