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Audible In this episode of the What's Your Story? podcast, Mark and Franci Kerr share their incredible journey from personal struggles to redemption, highlighting the impact of fame and the making of the film 'The Smashing Machine.' They discuss their relationship, the importance of vulnerability, and how spirituality plays a role in their lives. Mark's transition into business and wellness, along with their future aspirations, showcases their commitment to helping others through their experiences.
Takeaways
+Mark Kerr is a UFC Hall of Famer with a powerful story.
+Franci Kerr's journey into fitness and entrepreneurship is inspiring.
+Their relationship evolved through personal struggles and mutual support.
+Vulnerability is a key theme in their lives and relationships.
+The making of 'The Smashing Machine' film was a significant experience for them.
+They emphasize the importance of purpose and connection in life.
+Spirituality plays a crucial role in their personal growth.
+Mark's brand partnerships reflect his commitment to wellness.
+Franci's business ventures focus on creating supportive environments.
+Their story encourages others to embrace vulnerability and authenticity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mark and Francie Kerr's Journey
01:59 Mark's Early Life and Athletic Aspirations
05:44 The Meeting: How Mark and Francie Connected
09:35 Navigating Personal Struggles and Growth
13:32 The Impact of Fame and Relationships
17:23 Reflections on Life and Future Aspirations
21:12 Crossing Paths: The Universe's Timing
22:31 Documentary Surprises: From Expectations to Reality
25:12 Life Rights and Unexpected Calls
28:01 The Green Light: Dwayne Johnson's Involvement
29:17 Manifestation and Timing in Film Production
33:38 Walking into the Past: Set Design and Memories
36:31 Emotional Impact: Watching the Film for the First Time
38:02 Vulnerability and Openness: Sharing Personal Stories
43:24 A Cry for Help: Behind the Scenes of Healing
44:27 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
45:51 The Impact of Vulnerability
48:38 Finding Purpose After Competition
49:08 The Power of Connection
50:29 Surrendering to a Higher Power
51:51 Spiritual Growth in Relationships
54:05 Building a Wellness Brand
01:00:09 Turning Negatives into Positives
01:01:09 Creating a Platform for Change
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Scott's Website: scottleeseconsulting.com
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UFC Hall of Famer, "The Smashing Machine"
Mark Kerr, nicknamed The Smashing Machine, is a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, World Vale Tudo Championship winner, four-time ADCC World Champion, and a 2025 UFC Hall of Fame inductee in the Pioneer Era Wing.
He was born December 21, 1968, in Toledo, Ohio. A 6-foot-3, 255-pound wrestler, he lost to Kurt Angle in the 1996 Olympic trials and turned to mixed martial arts. In 1997 he won Vale Tudo 3 in Brazil and the UFC 14 and UFC 15 heavyweight tournaments, becoming one of only five fighters to win multiple UFC tournaments. From 1998 to 2001 he fought in PRIDE in Japan, earning an estimated $1.8 million. His professional MMA record is 15-11-0 with one no-contest.
In 1999 he was hospitalized after an opiate overdose. John Hyams's 2002 HBO documentary The Smashing Machine followed him from 1999 to 2001. After 2000 he won only 4 of 15 fights and lost his last five before retiring. He relapsed in 2011, entered treatment again in late 2013, and spent seven months in a halfway house. In 2016 he was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy from repeated trauma.
Benny Safdie's 2025 A24 biopic, starring Dwayne Johnson as Kerr and Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples, premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where Safdie won the Silver Lion, and reached theaters on October 3, 2025. Kerr married Franci Alberding on December 31, 2023. They live in the Phoenix area and co-own Absolute Wellness.
Advocate & Partner to Mark Kerr
Franci Alberding-Kerr is a fitness consultant who designs custom wellness facility spaces and co-owns Absolute Wellness with her husband, UFC Hall of Famer Mark Kerr.
She was raised in Ballwin, Missouri, and educated at Missouri State University. She later settled in Scottsdale, Arizona. She married Kerr on December 31, 2023, and has appeared with him at public events including the Venice Film Festival screening of A24's The Smashing Machine and his 2025 UFC Hall of Fame induction.