Beyond the Mats

Episode 29 - Max Stary

Max Stary, a 19-year-old MMA fighter from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, discusses his journey from karate to MMA. He started training martial arts at 8, transitioning to jujitsu and wrestling at 10, and eventually focusing on MMA at 14. Despite initial struggles, including a challenging wrestling season, Max’s dedication and family support propelled him forward, leading to a successful career in MMA thus far! Max also discusses his experience with fighting, highlighting the mental and physical demands of the sport. He mentions the importance of recovery and the challenges of weight cutting, noting that the stereotype of fighters being aggressive and unintelligent is outdated. He shares his goals for the future, including competing in the UFC and achieving success in jujitsu. Follow the show on spotify and leave a review! IG - Beyondthematspodcast

Rachel Beauchamp - Week 6 - Camp Check In

This week, Rachel focused on improving her cardio with bike sprints and sparring rounds, receiving feedback from her coach. She feels mentally ready for the fight, experiencing a mix of high and low emotions as the fight approaches. One more week before her fight May 30th!

Episode 28 - Eben Petrides

Eben Petrides is a 19 year old martial artist from Hillsborough , North Carolina, where he trains at the Fighting Society. He trains jiujitsu, judo and wrestling along side coaching kids soccer and going to school to become an EMT. He emphasizes the importance of learning to lose and bounce back from setbacks, a lesson he learned early through various sports and later through wrestling. Eben highlights the humbling nature of wrestling and how it taught him resilience and the value of perseverance. His father, a former wrestler and taekwondo champion, has been a significant influence and support throughout his martial arts journey. This relationship, while beneficial, can also be challenging due to the close personal connection. Follow and leave us a review!!! IG - @Beyondthematspodcast

Episode 27 - The Story of Kenneth Cade Risen

Kenneth Cade Risen, a 19-year-old MMA fighter from Colorado Springs, started training in martial arts at 17, initially focusing on grappling before transitioning to MMA. He credits his brother, Dylan, for motivating him to train at Team Underground and Genesis Training Academy. Kenneth aims to become champion in Muay Thai, with plans to compete in Thailand. Mindset is crucial in Muay Thai, as it determines one’s ability to endure challenges and setbacks. Even with limited technical skills, a strong mindset can lead to success. To maintain motivation, it’s important to push through tough training sessions and understand that progress often comes from overcoming discomfort. The importance of developing a unique persona in the fighting world is emphasized, using Sean O’Malley as an example. The conversation shifts to skateboarding, with Kenny highlighting its parallels to martial arts. He also shares their upcoming fight schedule and expresses gratitude for their support system. Follow on Spotify and leave us a review! IG - @beyondthematspodcast

Rachel Builds Momentum - Week 5 - Camp Check In

Rachel is in week five of her fight camp, feeling more confident and prepared than the previous week. Her coach increased the intensity of her training after she expressed a need for more challenging workouts. Rachel is focused on maintaining her cardio and speed for the upcoming fight. Follow for more! IG - @Beyondthematspodcast