Best Sam Kilmer Podcasts (2025)

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(Ep 39) Fury Champion Sam Kilmer: Road to the UFC Begins Dec. 14 41:31

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1h ago41:31

41:31

On this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, Fury welterweight champion Sam Kilmer breaks down his wrestling and jiu-jitsu roots, training at Kaizen and Crazy 88, and his preparations for the December 14 title defense against Mancher Khera. Sam discusses strength and conditioning with coach Asim, sparring strategy, weight-class decisions, and his g…

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(Ep 38) Blue Belt Blues: Why You Suddenly Suck After a Promotion 57:24

7h ago57:24

57:24

This episode explores the “blue belt blues”: the sudden drop in confidence and performance many feel after a promotion. Hosts discuss causes — targets on your back, merit-based expectations, comparison, and ego — and how coaches shape that experience. They offer practical advice: humble yourself, keep showing up, use competition constructively, foc…

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2025 in Fintech: The Best Insights from Fintech Hustle Podcast 14:05

39m ago14:05

14:05

Host Sam Kilmer looks back at the year’s most quoted hallway moments—packed with real-world takes on AI (purposeful, not buzzwordy), stablecoins (watch the fiat on/off-ramps), data activation (from “we have it” to “we use it”), and go-to-market alignment. Highlights include an AI reality check from a startup CEO, pragmatic stablecoin guidance from …

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(Ep 37) Tap Early, Learn Fast — White Belt Mentality & Survival Tips 57:43

19d ago57:43

57:43

This episode explores the white belt experience in jiu-jitsu — from signing the waiver and wearing a rental gi to learning to tap and leaving your ego at the door. Hosts share practical advice for new students on safety, mindset, and managing expectations. They cover concrete tips like using micro-goals, slowing down drilling, finding mentors, embr…

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(Ep 36) Unbreakable Women’s Grappling Camp — Strength, Sisterhood, and Jiu-Jitsu 58:18

25d ago58:18

58:18

This episode features Kari Summers and Mendi Carlson of Genesis Jiu-Jitsu, co-founders of the Unbreakable Women’s Grappling Camp in Fort Worth, Texas. They discuss how their program grew from moms watching their kids train into a supportive women-only community that builds confidence, retention, and competition readiness. The episode covers their w…

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Purposeful AI, Tokenized Mortgages, and What Community Banks Must Do Next 47:10

21d ago47:10

47:10

Host Sam Kilmer gathers Reva Rao (Head of Digital Transformation, Blend), David Ladic (SVP, Zafin), Adam Aspes (Partner, FINTOP), and co-host Kelli Schultz for a candid hallway conversation. They trade “day-in-the-life” views (and nonstop event planning), argue for purposeful AI over buzzwords, and unpack regulator-ready AI governance (from “know y…

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(Ep 35) Movember Super Fights: Takedowns & Raising Awareness for Men's Health 1:25:04

27d ago1:25:04

1:25:04

Hosts sit down with BJ and Alex from Capital MMA to discuss their journeys in jiu-jitsu, strength and conditioning, and even Highland Games, plus their coaching and teaching philosophies developed through years of competition and pandemic training adaptations. They also preview the Movember Super Fights — a team-based and individual tournament on N…

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(Ep 34) London Calling: Redemption after Dissapointment 54:43

1M ago54:43

54:43

Scott and Michael recap their recent competitions — PANS in New York (coaching, medals and tough losses), a quick turnaround to the London Open with redemption and a win, and what’s coming next: VGI, Euros in Rome, Worlds, local events and training plans. They share travel stories, match breakdowns, injuries, and a look at the busy fall competition…

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(Ep 33) Size Isn't Everything — Mindset and Tactics for Overcoming Size Differences 54:33

1M ago54:33

54:33

In this episode, the hosts discuss how smaller fighters can handle size discrepancies in training and competition. They cover tactical adjustments (leverage, timing, space management), target selection (neck and ankles), and practical training strategies like rolling with bigger partners to prepare for different opponents. The conversation also exp…

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The Prestige (2006) - Nolan's Best Hat Trick 1:40:17

1M ago1:40:17

1:40:17

Abra-cadabra! The Real DMC emerges from a puff of smoke and a field littered with top hats to dive deep into Christopher Nolan’s twisty tale of dueling magicians, The Prestige. Join Dave, Marcus, and Colin as they bicker like rival illusionists, debate Victorian mustache disguises, and wonder aloud if cloning yourself for a magic trick counts as mu…

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(Ep 32) Fighters Drinking Whiskey with Will Bullock pt 2 1:02:44

2M ago1:02:44

1:02:44

By Scott and Mike

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(Ep 31) Sitting down with Will Bullock of the Dreams Not Fame Podcast pt 1 1:23:29

2M ago1:23:29

1:23:29

Will Bullock joins Fighters Drinking Coffee to debate gas-station coffee and food (Wawa vs. 7-Eleven vs. Buc-ee’s), share his early-morning training routine and strength gains, and discuss his prep with coach Asim. They cover competition culture, VGI and the NGA pit format, women’s jiu-jitsu intensity, learning from losses, and where to find Will’s…

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The Saint (1997): Val Kilmer’s Costume Party 1:17:53

2M ago1:17:53

1:17:53

In this episode, the Reel DMC crew tackles The Saint (1997), a movie that was supposed to make Val Kilmer the next James Bond but instead makes him look like a man who just discovered wigs on clearance. Directed by Philip Noyce, the film leans hard on Kilmer’s "master of disguises" schtick—though by disguises we mean "Val Kilmer in a mustache so ri…

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(Ep 30) Pit Tested: First Super Fights in the NGA Pit 51:12

2M ago51:12

51:12

Mike recaps his two recent pit super fights at 145 lbs, sharing match highlights—back takes, submission attempts, a near armbar, and a guillotine—as well as weigh-ins, what he would do differently, and match-day preparation. He breaks down how the pit’s landscape changed the wrestling and ground strategy, why forward pressure and terrain awareness …

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Data, Trust & The Death of Product-Centric Banking | FinovateFall 2025 18:11

2M ago18:11

18:11

Recording “in the hall” at FinovateFall, host Sam Kilmer is joined by Wayne Miller ( SVP Innovation at ICBA & GP at BankTech Ventures), Tiffani Montez (Principal Analyst, EMARKETER), and Har Rai Khalsa (CEO & Co-Founder, Swaystack). They discuss what a fintech leader’s day really looks like, the urgency of AI adoption, the shaky logic of bank-issue…

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(Ep 29) Pedagogy on the Mat: Building Classes, Coaches, and Jiu-Jitsu Games 1:17:09

2M ago1:17:09

1:17:09

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee we break down BJJ pedagogy and curriculum design — how coaches plan month-to-month themes, teach fundamentals for each belt, and align multiple instructors around a clear roadmap. We cover class structure for mixed-level rooms, assessment and feedback cycles, workshop/private options, CLA/ECO-style proble…

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From the Rooftop of JAM Fintop 2025 // Steve Soukup, Todd Clark, Erin Simpson, Karan Kashyap 31:20

3M ago31:20

31:20

Host Sam Kilmer records live from Hyatt Nashville with Steve Soukup (DefenseStorm), Todd Clark (Investifi), Erin Simpson (Encore Bank), and Karan Kashyap (Posh). They swap “day-in-the-life” notes, why AI went from “go slow” to “why aren’t we live,” practical stablecoin prep, real-time payments use cases, ERP integrations, deposit outflows to wealth…

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(Ep 28) Undefeated Run: AndyGames' Rise from White‑Collar Fights to Champion 47:24

3M ago47:24

47:24

AndyGames joins Fighters Drinking Coffee to share his unexpected boxing journey — starting as a white‑collar novice, climbing into semi‑pro ranks, and leaving undefeated as a heavyweight champion. He breaks down training, key fights, the impact of COVID on his career, and how those experiences led him into streaming and podcasting. Find Andy: Tikto…

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(Ep 27) Quintet Chaos: Sub Controversies, UFC Deals & Australasia’s Dark Horse 1:05:42

3M ago1:05:42

1:05:42

Hosts break down the first night of CJI, debating UFC BJJ exclusivity deals, reactions from Mikey & Craig’s Mighty Cast appearance, and the risks and rewards for competitors. They recap Quintet-style matchups, controversial stoppages/tap rulings, and standout teams — including Australasia as a dark horse — plus previews for the finals and key story…

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(Ep 26) Dimitri Chrisos and Copa Virginia 35:34

3M ago35:34

35:34

On this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, host interview Dimitri Chrisos about his journey as an academy owner and third-degree black belt, and the creation and growth of Copa Virginia. They discuss tournament logistics, Smoothcomp adoption, clean venues, weight and rule standards, the popular advanced no‑gi cash division, and an apprenticeship …

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(Ep 25) Recent Events, Big Money and Taking Jiu-Jitsu Mainstream 1:24:08

3M ago1:24:08

1:24:08

Two hosts break down Scott's no-gi win at the IBJJF Chicago Open — describing the match, the finishing inverted armbar, and the medal moment. As well as the post tournament meals. They also discuss a nearby medical emergency at the event, discuss safety, AEDs and CPR, and reflect on risks in high-intensity training and tournaments. The conversation…

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(Ep 24) Balancing Life and Jiu Jitsu 1:05:55

4M ago1:05:55

1:05:55

Join hosts Mike and Scott on this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee as they delve into the delicate balancing act between life and jujitsu. Inspired by a listener's question, they explore their unique dynamics off the mats, revealing how personal and professional lives intersect with their passion for martial arts. Mike shares his journey of mana…

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(Ep 23) Jiu Jitsu Cowboy: Caleb Knepley of High Noon Lariat Jiu-Jitsu 48:05

4M ago48:05

48:05

Welcome back to Fighters Drinking Coffee! In this exciting episode, we sit down with Caleb Knepley, a passionate coach and athlete from High Noon Jiu-Jitsu, who is soon to open Lariat Jiu-Jitsu in Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia. Join us as we explore Caleb's journey into martial arts, his experiences coaching kids and adults, and the challenges…

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The Doors (1991) Jim Morrison Bio or Oliver Stone’s Acid-Fueled Fantasy? 1:22:26

4M ago1:22:26

1:22:26

In this episode, Dave, Marcus, and Colin dive into Oliver Stone's The Doors, and their verdict is a wild ride of praise, critique, and disbelief. The consensus? Val Kilmer absolutely nails the role of Jim Morrison. His performance is nothing short of electric—his singing, his stage presence, the whole package. But here's the rub: his portrayal of M…

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(Ep 22) Navigating Success in Competitions and Weight Cuts 42:23

4M ago42:23

42:23

In this thrilling episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, join us as we dive into the exhilarating world of jiu-jitsu competitions and triumphs. Broadcasting from the NoVa Barbell Club, hear firsthand how Mike achieved double gold in his latest tournament. Discover the strategies that made his easiest weight cut in over a decade, and how strength and …

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(Ep 21)Finding Community and Strength through Jiu-Jitsu with Alex Garipay 1:01:08

4M ago1:01:08

1:01:08

Join us on Fighters Drinking Coffee as we dive into the world of jiu-jitsu with Alex Garipay, a seasoned brown belt, head instructor at Oden Jiu-Jitsu, and NGABJJ commentator. With a passion that ignited upon discovering the sport post-college, Alex shares her journey from practicing various sports to finding her home in martial arts. Learn about h…

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Deals, Data & the Digital Shift with Kelley Michalik & Stephen Baker 44:35

4M ago44:35

44:35

In this episode of Fintech Hustle, host Sam Kilmer engages with guests Kelley Michalik, Kelli Schultz, and Stephen Baker to discuss the evolving landscape of fintech, focusing on investment trends, the integration of marketing and sales, and the competitive dynamics between community banks and megabanks. The conversation highlights the importance o…

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(ep 20) Micro-goals, Burnout and Resourcefulness w/ The Strong AF Club 1:19:05

5M ago1:19:05

1:19:05

Join us on the latest episode of "Fighters Drinking Coffee" as we welcome our good friends Nate Craig and Asim Faez from the Strong AF Podcast for a lively discussion. We embark on an engaging journey exploring the world of micro goals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and fitness. From the importance of setting small, achievable objectives to avoiding burnou…

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(Ep 19) From Mat to Mindset: The True Game of Jiu-Jitsu 53:36

5M ago53:36

53:36

Welcome to another insightful episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee. Today, we delve into the intricate world of competitive jiu-jitsu, exploring how rule sets and personal goals shape the martial artist's journey. Join us as we discuss the motivations behind competing, from the thrill of the fight to the pursuit of mastery. Whether you're a seasoned…

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(Ep 18) The Origins of Fighters Drinking Coffee: A Blend of People, Places, and Passion 28:20

5M ago28:20

28:20

Welcome to an engaging episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, where hosts Michael Sutherland and Scott take you on a retrospective journey through the origins and evolution of their podcast. From their humble beginnings in 2015, recording around a coffee table in a sparse condo, to the well-structured platform it is today, the duo shares anecdotes of…

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(Ep 17) Crafting Your Jiu-Jitsu Style ft RJ Nealon 53:37

5M ago53:37

53:37

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 faci…

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(Ep 16) Behind the Grind: Passion, Coaching, and the Making of Champions w/ The Strong AF Club 1:18:48

6M ago1:18:48

1:18:48

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 acc…

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Top Secret! (1984) - Val Kilmer's first movie and ZAZ follow up to Airplane! 1:27:52

6M ago1:27:52

1:27:52

The Reel DMC crew parachutes into the gloriously unhinged world of Top Secret!—the 1984 cult classic where Val Kilmer makes his film debut as a skeet-surfing, hip-swiveling Elvis-type who accidentally stumbles into World War II... or the Cold War... or something involving Nazis and NATO. Plot? Who needs one when you’ve got underwater bar fights and…

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(Ep 15) Adapt and Overcome: The RJ Nealon Story 54:35

6M ago54:35

54:35

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 dedicati…

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(Ep 14) To Gi or Not to Gi: Navigating Competition Choices 50:34

6M ago50:34

50:34

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 liste…

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(Ep 13) The Journey from Student to Teacher 50:37

6M ago50:37

50:37

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 an…

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Spider-Man 2 (2004): Doc Ock, Raimi, and Peak Superhero Cinema 1:19:33

6M ago1:19:33

1:19:33

Dave, Marcus, and Colin strap on their web-shooters and swing into the middle chapter of Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy — a film they all agree still soars. From jaw-dropping action to genuine character arcs, Spider-Man 2 delivers the superhero goods with style. The crew breaks down the film’s surprisingly emotional core, the razor-sharp effects th…

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(Ep 12) From Fat to Fighter: Khaldon Roukie's MMA Journey 35:58

6M ago35:58

35:58

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 …

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Off the Stage at Finovate Spring 2025 // Maya Mikhailov, Jason Henrichs & Andy Ivankovich 31:01

6M ago31:01

31:01

Forget the keynote fluff and polished demo, this episode of Fintech Hustle drops you straight onto a sun-drenched San Diego balcony with the real players of Finovate Spring 2025. Host Sam Kilmer is joined by fintech rockstars Maya Mikhailov (SAVVI AI), Jason Henrichs (Alloy Labs), and Andy Ivankovich (Baker Hill) for a breakdown of what’s actually …

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(Ep 11) Writer and Fighter: Andrea Tang 52:27

7M ago52:27

52:27

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…

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(Ep 10) The Art of Cross-Training in Jiu-Jitsu 41:36

7M ago41:36

41:36

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 zo…

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(Ep 9) Dallas Ducote from Rising Tide 1:02:01

7M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

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 comm…

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Darkman (1990) Sam Raimi’s Superhero Origins 1:19:16

7M ago1:19:16

1:19:16

Dave, Colin, and Marcus step out of the shadows to dissect Darkman, Sam Raimi’s gloriously unhinged first stab at the superhero genre. Raimi’s signature style—whip pans, wild angles, and all—is on full display, and while Colin is all-in on the madness, Marcus and Dave are a little more reserved. The crew agrees: the make-up and practical effects ar…

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(Ep 8) Competition Conversations Part 2 (Mikes Q1 Comps) 45:20

7M ago45:20

45:20

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 g…

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(Ep 7) Competition Conversations part 1(Scott in Chicago) 55:43

8M ago55:43

55:43

Scott breaks down his lead up and competition at the IBJJF Chicago open. We discuss takeaways, changes from prior competitions, as well as his focuses and how he approached competition day. Scott and Mike also delve into the nuances of competition mentalities, sharing advice on managing nerves, the importance of preparation, and strategies to maint…

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(Ep 6) Making Weight 53:51

8M ago53:51

53:51

On this episode, Scott and Mike go over an ever present aspect of competing in BJJ: weight classes and weight cuts. Join us as we discuss the rigors of cutting weight safely, highlight the brutal reality of weight cuts, and offer strategic advice on optimizing performance come competition day. With anecdotes from our experiences and tips on diet ma…

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The Quick and the Dead (1995) - Sam Raimi's Kinetic Style Meets the Wild West 1:22:45

8M ago1:22:45

1:22:45

After a bumpy ride on the Paul Verhoeven train, Dave, Colin, and Marcus are eager to switch tracks and dive into a new series on director Sam Raimi. Kicking things off with The Quick and the Dead (1995), they revel in Raimi’s signature camera wizardry, vibrant characters, and loving homage to Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns. Sharon Stone shines a…

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(Ep 1) Strength and Conditioning with Asim Fayyaz 1:08:42

8M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

We sit down with owner of NoVa Barbell Club, Asim Fayyaz. Asim, known for his expertise in training high-level grappling athletes, shares his journey from starting a garage gym to building a thriving community focused on strength conditioning and resilience. In this episode, Asim delves into the unique strength training techniques he employs for gr…

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Exploring Fintech Trends at AFT Conference // Alex McLeod, Ben Metz & Will Bryant 25:34

8M ago25:34

25:34

In this episode of the Fintech Hustle podcast, host Sam Kilmer sits down live at the AFT Spring Conference with Alex McLeod (CEO, Parlay Finance), Ben Metz (CTO/CDO, Jack Henry), and Will Bryant (COO, Quantalytix) for a high-energy conversation about the future of financial services. The panel dives into key fintech trends, including the real-world…

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(Ep 4) Shane "The Night Train" Marshall 1:10:23

8M ago1:10:23

1:10:23

Scott and Mike sit down with Shane "The Night Train" Marshall, a national champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and accomplished mixed martial artist. Join us as Shane shares his unique journey from growing up in Dubois, Pennsylvania to serving in the Marine Corps, and eventually finding his passion for mixed martial arts and Jiu-Jitsu. Shane opens up ab…