Fighters Drinking Coffee

(Ep 17) Crafting Your Jiu-Jitsu Style ft RJ Nealon

Welcome back to Fighters Drinking Coffee, where we are joined by Adaptive BJJ athlete and sports journalist, RJ Nealon. Join us as we delve into the art of developing your style in jiu-jitsu, focusing on competition and adaptation. Discover how different rule sets and environments shape the competitive journey, and the psychological nuances of facing adversity. From the importance of having a game plan to the resilience needed to embrace both victories and losses, RJ shares his unique insights.
Explore the challenges and strategies inherent in adaptive jiu-jitsu, as RJ exemplifies how to maneuver limitations and leverage personal strengths to excel. Our discussion highlights the perception of competition, the relentless pursuit of improvement, and the necessity of keeping it fun while maintaining the right mindset. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or new to the mat, learn about the fine balancing act of psychology, strategy, and execution in this engaging episode.
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

(Ep 16) Behind the Grind: Passion, Coaching, and the Making of Champions w/ The Strong AF Club

Welcome to "Fighters Drinking Coffee" where today's episode brings together the dynamic hosts of the "Strong AF Club" podcast, Nate Craig and Asim Faez. Listen in as we explore this exciting collaboration set in the lively environment of the Nova Barbell Club, amidst the clang of weights and the hustle of workout enthusiasts.Discover firsthand accounts of fighting sprees, training strategies, and the rigorous dedication required to succeed in the world of martial arts. Delve into personal stories of overcoming challenges and reigniting passions, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who turn their love for jiu-jitsu into a thriving profession.Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fan of the sport, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and valuable insights, serving as a testament to the hard work and camaraderie that fuels the fire on the gym floor.
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

(Ep 15) Adapt and Overcome: The RJ Nealon Story

Welcome to another episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee where today we sit down with the remarkable RJ Nealon, a world silver medalist in Jiu-Jitsu and a sports journalist for Special Olympics North America. RJ shares his inspiring journey from being captivated by the UFC to pursuing competitive Jiu-Jitsu despite his cerebral palsy. Through dedication and strategic adaptability, RJ discusses his competition experiences, training strategies, and the importance of adaptive sports. Not only does he provide insights into his personal growth and achievements in the sport, but he also highlights the significance of supportive coaching and creating inclusive opportunities for all athletes.
To follow RJ or request a seminar check him out on instagram: @the_one_handed_bandit_bjj
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

(Ep 14) To Gi or Not to Gi: Navigating Competition Choices

Welcome to another episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee! Join hosts Michael Sutherland and Scott Dance as they delve into the intriguing world of Jiu-Jitsu competition, focusing on the age-old question: Gi or No Gi? Explore when and how often to compete, while considering what fits best with your personal goals and lifestyle. The hosts discuss listener questions, debunk common misconceptions, and share insights on consulting coaches to create a personalized competition plan. Whether you're striving for a championship or just enjoying the journey, this episode provides a roadmap for balancing competitive aspirations with personal goals. Tune in for an engaging conversation that covers everything from balancing training regimens to the importance of having a supportive team atmosphere.
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

(Ep 13) The Journey from Student to Teacher

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, we dive deep into the transition from student to teacher in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our hosts kick off the discussion with a listener question about this significant transition. They share personal stories of how they moved from just being practitioners to taking on coaching roles at NOVAMMA and beyond, and how that affected their personal growth
Listeners will gain insights into the evolution of their coaching methodologies. Our hosts discuss the importance of defensive skills, the balance between teaching and personal progression, and the challenges and rewards of guiding diverse groups of students. They emphasize the need for clear, simple instruction and the impact of sharing knowledge on personal growth as a martial artist.
Whether you're a beginner or seasoned competitor, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how teaching can enhance your jiu-jitsu practice, sharpen your skills, and build a stronger, more cohesive training community.
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

(Ep 12) From Fat to Fighter: Khaldon Roukie's MMA Journey

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, hosts Mike and Scott sit down with Khaldon Roukie, an MMA fighter, coach, and the son of a butcher; based out of District Martial Arts in Arlington, Virginia. Khaldon shares his inspiring transformation journey, highlighting his entry into the world of mixed martial arts in 2018, dropping 40 pounds, and becoming a dedicated athlete. He talks about his experience of being motivated by the haters and playing the heel.
They discuss his unique path from studying political science and Islamic studies to becoming an MMA fighter, and how martial arts unexpectedly became a significant part of his life. Khaldon also opens up about the challenges of coaching versus competing, the goals for his MMA and Jiu-Jitsu career, and his ambitions to go pro and fight in high-profile tournaments like the UFC and IBJJF.
 
Find Khaldon on Instagram: @sonofabutcher_mma
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

(Ep 11) Writer and Fighter: Andrea Tang

Join us for an engaging episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, where we sit down with Andrea Tang, a renowned author, passionate BJJ competitor, and host of the BJJ Today podcast for BJJ Mental Models. Andrea shares insights from her bustling year in the competition scene, discussing potential matchups, her ambitions in the IBJJF Nogi season, and her experiences with ADCC events.
Away from the mats, Andrea excels as a young adult novelist with Penguin Random House, where her works explore imaginative realms in science fiction and fantasy. Listen as she explains the discipline required in both writing and jiu-jitsu, offering a unique perspective on balancing creativity, coaching aspirations, and professional commitments.
To find Andreas podcast: https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/
 
And her most recent book release: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/702412/these-deadly-prophecies-by-andrea-tang/
Follow Andrea on Instagram: @atangwrites
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

Episode 10: The Art of Cross-Training in Jiu-Jitsu

Welcome to another exciting episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee! Today, we delve into the dynamic world of cross-training in Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the experiences and benefits that arise from training with diverse groups. From expanding one's skill set to facing different competition styles, we uncover the value of stepping out of your comfort zone. Join us as we explore how cross-training can enhance both the mindset and abilities of competitive fighters.
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

Episode 9: Dallas Ducote from Rising Tide

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, join us as we sit down with Dallas Ducote, the dynamic owner of Rising Tide in Montgomery County. We discuss his business goals, fighting journey, and how he went from engineer to gym owner.
He opens up about the challenges of starting a gym, the importance of creating a welcoming community, and his commitment to personal freedom and authenticity in both his business and personal life.
 
Find more about Dallas and his gym at:
MoCoMartialarts.com
 
Instagram:
@dallasducote_mma
@risingtidemoco
 
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks

Episode 8: Competition Conversations Part 2 (Mikes Q1 Comps)

On this episode, we highlight the ups and downs of competition. Mike shares his experience with a super fight at Copa Elite 4 and participation in the Virginia Open for IBJJF.  We reflect on returning to competition after a long hiatus, knocking off the rust, overcoming unexpected illnesses and injuries, the benefits of confidence, and the idea of growing from a loss. 
Please remember to follow, rate and review!Want more from Fighters Drinking Coffee:Follow us on instagram: @fightersdrinkingcoffee   Join our discord: https://discord.gg/UPmxwuwXks