Roughnecks Podcast

Every person goes through a stretch of life where the work is quiet, the progress is slow, and the growth is happening behind the scenes. In this solo episode, Cole opens up about what it really feels like to be in that hidden season — the in‑between space where you’re not who you used to be, but you’re not who you’re becoming yet.This is a grounded, honest conversation about rebuilding your confidence, staying consistent when nobody’s watching, and trusting the process even when it feels like nothing is moving. If you’re in a season where you feel unseen, stuck, or overlooked, this episode reminds you that you’re not behind… you’re becoming.

The first episode of the year sets the tone, and Cole and Dante come out swinging. In Beyond the Surface #8, the guys break down their personal and professional goals for 2026, the systems they’re putting in place, and the mindset shifts that make goal‑setting actually stick.This conversation goes deeper than resolutions. It’s about identity, discipline, and designing a year that reflects who you want to become. Cole and Dante unpack what worked for them in 2025, what didn’t, and how they’re leveling up the Roughnecks Podcast, their careers, and their lives in the year ahead.Whether you’re trying to reset, refocus, or completely reinvent yourself in 2026, this episode gives you the spark—and the structure—to get moving.

After a much-needed break, Cole is back behind the mic to kick off the new year with honesty, clarity, and momentum. In this solo episode, he opens up about why the Roughnecks Podcast hit pause, what he learned during the time away, and what’s coming next. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or unsure how to restart — this one’s for you.Plus, Cole drops a challenge to help you build momentum this week. No fluff. Just real talk. Let’s get it.

Who are you when the pressure hits hardest?In this episode, Cole and Dante peel back the layers and step into one of the most uncomfortable—and necessary—conversations we all face: identity. Not the version we post online, not the titles we cling to, but the person we are when everything else gets stripped away.From the tension between titles vs truth to the quiet battles of imposter syndrome, the guys explore what happens when growth outpaces self-image and the voice in your head isn’t always your own. They dive into masculinity, vulnerability, and the challenge of showing emotional depth in a world that rewards performance over honesty.They also unpack the weight of community expectations—how easy it is to lose yourself trying to be who everyone else needs you to be—and share personal stories of reinvention after failure, loss, or major life shifts.This episode asks the questions most people avoid: What part of your identity cracks first under pressure? And who are you when no one’s watching?Stick around for the listener challenge at the end—ten minutes that might change the way you see yourself.

In this special Q&A episode, Cole and Dante sit down to tackle questions straight from the Roughnecks community. Nothing is off the table. From behind‑the‑scenes stories and creative projects to life lessons, sports takes, and the mindset that drives everything they do, the guys dive deep and keep it real. It’s unfiltered, energetic, and exactly what you expect from the Roughnecks Podcast.If you want your questions answered on a future episode, send them our way on social media or email us at roughneckspodcast@gmail.com.

Denali Harris returns to the Roughnecks Podcast for his second appearance—this time alongside Roger Gonzalez, making his debut. Since Denali’s last visit, the two have teamed up to launch their journey into real estate, blending ambition with hustle in a competitive market. Roger also runs his own auto detailing business, bringing precision and pride to every project. In this episode, we dive into how life and business intertwine, the mindset it takes to stay focused, and what balance really looks like when you're building something meaningful. Whether you're chasing goals or just trying to stay grounded, this one’s for you.

In a world obsessed with hustle, milestones, and momentum, Cole and Dante peel back the layers of what progress really means. Is movement always meaningful? Or are we just chasing the next thing to avoid sitting still? This episode explores the tension between productivity and purpose, the quiet cost of clarity, and the uncomfortable truth that not all growth feels good. From personal stories to hard questions, they challenge listeners to audit their own journey and ask: Am I actually evolving—or just staying busy?

Justin Jones and Travis Linder of American Hero Hunt are back on the mic! In this episode, we dive into the upcoming hunting season, the heart behind the organization, and the powerful impact of their mission. We also spotlight their latest fundraising efforts—including the can't-miss Golf Outing happening September 26th. Whether you're a hunter, a supporter, or just someone who believes in giving back, this one’s for you

In the final chapter of the Roughnecks Code series, Cole Nixon breaks down the quiet force that separates dreamers from doers: Consistency. From late-night edits to relentless planning, this episode dives into the systems, habits, and mindset that fuel long-term success. Cole shares personal stories from building the Roughnecks Podcast and organizing the volleyball tournament, proving that legacy isn’t built in bursts—it’s built in reps.You’ll learn how to build habits that stick, track your progress, and stay locked in even when motivation fades. Plus, Cole ties together the full arc of the series—Laziness, Discipline, Ownership, Sacrifice, and Consistency—into one powerful blueprint for impact.Challenge of the Week: Pick one habit. Do it daily. No excuses.

In this fourth installment of the Roughnecks Code series, Cole Nixon gets brutally honest about the price of progress. Sacrifice isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the reality behind every meaningful pursuit. From missed parties to sleepless nights, Cole shares what he’s given up to build Nixon Productions, grow the Roughnecks Podcast, and organize a tournament that’s changing lives.You’ll learn how to spot distractions disguised as opportunities, audit your time and energy, and make the tough calls that move you forward. This episode isn’t about pain—it’s about purpose. And it ends with a challenge to cut one thing that’s holding you back and replace it with something that fuels your mission.Challenge of the Week: Sacrifice one comfort. Replace it with impact.

In this powerful follow-up to our episodes on laziness and discipline, Cole dives into the next pillar of personal growth: ownership. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone stuck in the cycle of blame, excuses, or waiting for perfect conditions. Cole shares raw insights from his own journey—building Nixon Productions, organizing the Roughnecks Volleyball Tournament—and how taking full responsibility changed everything.You’ll learn:What ownership really means (and what it doesn’t)Why blame feels good—but keeps you stuckHow to practice ownership in your habits, relationships, and mindsetA challenge to help you reclaim control of your lifeWhether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or just someone trying to level up, this episode will push you to stop being a passenger—and start driving your life.

We talk about laziness like it’s a personality trait—but what if it’s just a lack of structure? In this episode, Cole Nixon breaks down how discipline isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up when it’s hard, building trust with yourself, and creating momentum that lasts. From the grind of entrepreneurship to the chaos of community events, Cole shares how discipline has kept him moving when motivation ran dry.If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, or like you’re falling short of your potential, this one’s for you. It’s not about hustle—it’s about consistency. And it might just be the mindset shift you didn’t know you needed.

In this deeply reflective episode of the Roughnecks Podcast, Cole responds to the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and the seismic ripple it’s sent through America. Recorded on the very day the news broke—September 10th, 2025—this raw and unfiltered conversation explores the emotional weight of loss, the fragility of public discourse, and the growing tension across the country.

We’ve all heard it: “You’re just being lazy.” But what if that label is nothing more than a cover-up for something deeper — burnout, fear, or a lack of direction? In this episode, Cole Nixon flips the script on the myth of laziness and dives into the real reasons we sometimes stall out. From personal stories to community reflections, we explore how hustle culture distorts our self-worth and why rest isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom.Whether you’re grinding through a tough season or feeling stuck in the guilt loop, this episode is your permission slip to pause, reflect, and reframe. Because maybe the problem isn’t that you’re lazy… maybe you’re just human.

In this powerful episode of the Roughnecks Podcast, we’re joined by Kaitlyn Moone, mother of Theo Moone—a brave young boy battling Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE), a rare and incurable disease. Theo has also developed osteoporosis as a result of his condition, adding further challenges to his journey.Kaitlyn shares the deeply personal and emotional story of Theo’s diagnosis, the impact on their family, and the strength it takes to face each day. Her words remind us of the importance of community, compassion, and resilience.This weekend, during the 3rd Annual Roughnecks Volleyball Tournament, we’re donating 100% of the proceeds to support Theo and the Moone family. Tune in, listen with heart, and learn how you can help make a difference.GoFundMe - https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-van-for-theo

Country vibes and creative grit! In this episode, Alan Carl and Trae Myers stop by to talk about life as independent country artists—from chasing dreams in Nashville to the grind of songwriting and carving out their own lanes. We also dive into their upcoming double headliner show at the iconic Newport Music Hall on October 10th... but the million-dollar question still stands: who’s opening for who? Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories, honest laughs, and a dose of music industry reality.

From inspecting meat for The Ohio Department of Agriculture to owning her own business, coaching CrossFit, managing social media, and everything in between—Mariah Cherubini does it all. In this episode, we dive into what drives her to juggle so many passions, how she finds balance, and the mindset that keeps her pushing boundaries (maybe literally).The Skull ShopUprising AthleticsMariah Cherubini

Julie Jones brings 26 years of experience in coaching at the Division I level, having spent 13 years at Cleveland State University and 13 years at the University of Akron. During her tenure at Cleveland State, she was recognized as the youngest Division I head coach at the time. Currently, she serves as a faculty member at the University of Akron while also providing mindset coaching through her business, SSB Performance. In addition to her coaching career, Julie is a cancer survivor and a former dual-sport athlete at Baldwin Wallace University.

Michael Albanese's story is deeply rooted in family and marked by significant challenges. Over the years, on March 22nd, he faced a series of life-altering events, including discovering a tumor on his daughter's spine, the passing of his mother, and later learning that his son had developed the same tumor. Through these trials, he has navigated numerous personal struggles with resilience and determination.

In February, the crew took a memorable bachelor trip to Florida in honor of a recurring guest on the show, Tyler Ruff. Cole, Matt, and Gavin (who hilariously slept through the episode) made the journey south for a weekend full of laughs and good-natured attempts to steer Tyler away from tying the knot—luckily, their efforts fell flat! Tune in to relive the highlights of this epic getaway and celebrate Tyler’s next chapter with his new wife, Riley.