Roughnecks Podcast

In this episode, Cole and Dante break down why “working hard” isn’t enough in 2026 — you need a Skill Stack . The guys dive into the upcoming Roughnecks Volleyball tournaments, the push to support local Newark families and causes, and why May 30th’s Competitive 4’s will be the can’t‑miss event of the summer. Then they unpack the Skill Stack: the idea that you don’t need to be the best at one thing...

When the hype of a new year fades and the “Gray Season” hits, most people think they need more goals, more motivation, more hustle. But Cole and Dante flip that idea on its head. This episode is all about stopping the leaks that drain your progress long before discipline ever gets a chance to work. We kick things off with a March reality check and a quick update on the Roughnecks Volleyball Tourna...

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 conf...

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 yo...

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 th...

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, t...

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...

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...

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 h...

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...

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...

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 s...

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 responsi...

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...

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 re...

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...

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 wh...

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 Shop Uprising Athletics Mariah Cherub...

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 b...

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 deter...

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 celeb...

The boys are back together! Cole, Dante, and Reno reunite for another lively Roughnecks Roundtable. In this episode, they dive into the debate of flag planting and rushing the field in college football, explore the evolving world of NIL, and discuss Reno's exciting new NIL package for Kent State's football program. Of course, it wouldn't be a typical episode without a detour into a random topic—th...

In this week's episode of Beyond the Surface, Cole and Dante dive into the complex world of media bias. They explore whether it’s acceptable for media outlets to exhibit bias, the implications of media collaborations with politicians, and the potential need for disclaimers similar to those used for nicotine and tobacco products. Join them as they unravel the intricacies of media influence and its...

Join us for an insightful episode as we welcome Josh Mohler, a remarkable individual with 25 years of service in the United States military. Josh has been deployed to Iraq, provided hands-on assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and is now dedicating his efforts as a recruiter. Beyond his military career, Josh has an intriguing background in bull riding, rising through the ranks both b...