Podcast Episodes

In this honest and heartfelt episode, host Angela Chang is joined by Dan Ferrer to discuss into the intersection of mental health and Muay Thai. As fighters and coaches themselves with more than a decade of experience each in Muay Thai, they share how the sport helped both of them navigate difficult chapters in life, and when it was necessary to get the appropriate help. Dan opens up about struggling with depression, recovering from injury, and finding strength in community, coaching, and therapy. Together, they explore how fighters (and non-fighters) can better care for their mental well-being while staying engaged with a sport they love. Whether you're a fighter, coach, or someone who just loves Muay Thai, this episode offers a candid reminder: you are more than the gym.Show notes:Follow Dan's journey and contact via:instagram.com/_danferrer_linkedin.com/in/danfnyc/Trauma-informed coaching resources:Off the Zone: Trauma-informed teaching for martial art instructors and athletes. Currently 3 online courses are available. https://www.off-the-zone.com/Conscious Combat Club: “By teaching combat in a conscious way, guided by trauma-informed principles, we aim to help people expand their window of tolerance.” Online and in-person training and a course available for coaches. https://www.consciouscombat.club/———-If you'd like to more high-quality content, please consider supporting Muay Ying through Patreon. Any amount is appreciated and it will go towards my efforts to run all the platforms Muay Ying is on, as well as create content for each of them. http://patreon.com/muayyingYou can also find us: instagram.com/muay.ying  muay-ying.comYou can find the host (Angela) via instagram.com/angelasitan or angelamuaythai.comIntro/Outro music by Maki of the Moon

Angela Chang is joined by David Moore, co-owner of Old Guard Thai Boxing Club in Austin, Texas. They talk about what it actually takes to build a healthy gym culture. Dave breaks down his process for creating a space rooted in intentionality, accountability, and real inclusivity rather than just letting "the vibe" happen by accident.Content Warning: This episode contains brief, non-explicit mentions of sexual assault, sexual coercion, and sexual assault of minors. If you prefer to skip this discussion, please bypass the 23:00 to 29:00 minute mark.What’s covered:Emotional Volatility: Identifying the "mood ring" coach and why students shouldn't have to manage a trainer's personal drama.Professional Boundaries: Why a strict policy on coach-student relationships is essential for safety and trust.The Blueprint: How diverse coaching staffs and clear standards create a better environment for everyone, from hobbyists to fighters.Moving On: How to navigate the decision to leave a gym that no longer serves your growth.A Note on Recommendations: During the episode, I mentioned "gym reviews." I want to clarify that I specifically meant gym recommendations (I was so into the conversation that I didn't even notice I used the wrong word!). Culture is highly personal; one person’s perfect gym might not be the right fit for someone else’s history or needs.Connect with Dave Moore & Old Guard Thai Boxing Club: If you are in Austin, Texas, visit Old Guard for traditional Muay Thai in a professional, high-standard environment.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theogthaiboxingclub/Website: https://www.theogthaiboxingclub.com/Related Listening: If you're interested in the mental and emotional side of training, check out the episode on Mental Health———-If you'd like to more high-quality content, please consider supporting Muay Ying through Patreon. Any amount is appreciated and it will go towards my efforts to run all the platforms Muay Ying is on, as well as create content for each of them. http://patreon.com/muayyingYou can also find us: instagram.com/muay.ying  muay-ying.comYou can find the host (Angela) via instagram.com/angelasitan or angelamuaythai.comIntro/Outro music by Maki of the Moon