From troubled youth to wrestling champion: A female veteran’s story of resilience and mental toughness – Tango Alpha Lima

From troubled youth to wrestling champion: A female veteran’s story of resilience and mental toughness – Tango Alpha Lima

Author: The American Legion March 24, 2026 Duration: 44:39

Three-time national wrestling champion and Army Special Operations veteran Sally Roberts shares her powerful journey from delinquent youth to elite athlete and military leader.

Roberts, founder of Wrestle Like a Girl, discusses how wrestling saved her life, built her winning mindset, and prepared her for success in Special Operations and deployment to Afghanistan.

Learn about overcoming adversity, developing mental toughness, the power of suffering and endurance, and breaking barriers for women in combat sports.

Roberts addresses military transition challenges, building resilience, leadership development through athletics, and empowering girls and women through wrestling. Essential listening for veterans navigating transition, athletes seeking motivation, parents of daughters in sports, anyone overcoming difficult backgrounds, and those interested in women's wrestling, mental resilience training, and veteran success stories.


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Hosted by three veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, the Tango Alpha Lima Podcast from The American Legion is a weekly conversation built on shared experience. Each episode sits down with fellow veterans and influential voices from the military community for discussions that are as substantive as they are engaging. Listeners will hear candid stories about the transition to civilian life, moments of valor, and the ongoing journey toward mental wellness, including frank talk about overcoming PTSD and navigating VA benefits. But this podcast is more than just interviews; it’s a reflection of military camaraderie. The hosts bring a familiar, often humorous dynamic to the table, blending playful joking and vibrant discussion with their takes on current events, interesting trends, and the quirky stories that resonate with those who have served. It’s a mix of heartfelt personal narratives, practical advice, and timely commentary, all delivered with the authenticity only insiders can provide. Tune in for a connection that feels like pulling up a chair with old friends who aren’t afraid to tackle the tough topics or share a laugh about the lighter side of life in and after the uniform.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Tango Alpha Lima Podcast
Podcast Episodes
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