On this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, hosts and guests Kate, Andrea, Scott and Leo recap the Chicago Open weekend: match results, immediate rematches, and what went right (and what didn’t) on the mats.

We dig into match-by-match breakdowns and key takeaways — including tactical adjustments, live coaching captured with mic’d coaches for post-match film review, and lessons learned from running it back. Plus the food stories: our pre-fight steak-and-potatoes ritual, post-fight feasts, and deep-dish showdowns (Pequod’s vs. Lou Malnati’s) — and the pastry detours that made the trip memorable.

Expect practical training takeaways, candid competitor reflections, and plenty of travel-and-food banter — with results (Scott and Leo gold, Kate silver, Andrea and others earning podium finishes), coaching insights, and next-step homework for the team.

On today's episode we are joined by a few fellow competitors as we were on the road to Chicago. We focused on the topic of managing your weight cut during travel. Using our plan for the ten hour drive we were on. We also get into discussions about the types of food we bring for travel, adhering to the Fighters Drinking Coffee Rules of the Road and Systematically Maintaining the Weight Cut. Hope you enjoy the show and our road rants!

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee the hosts discuss how gyms can welcome newcomers and help them become long-term jiu-jitsu students, and how new members—whether white belts or experienced visitors—can fit into a new community.

Topics include reading the room, expectations for experienced visitors, how existing members can include and mentor newcomers, preventing injury and burnout, and practical tips to build lasting training relationships.