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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.