From Takedowns to Triumphs: Wrestling, Business, and Finding Your Path

Send us a text Chris "The Grit" Droege invites us into the fascinating intersection between combat sports, entrepreneurship, and personal growth in this compelling conversation that transcends the typical fighter interview. From the wrestling mats of Youngstown to the MMA cages of Cleveland, Chris shares how wrestling shaped not just his fighting style, but his entire approach to life. "Nobody"s gonna care about you as much as you are," he explains, detailing how the individual responsibility inherent in wrestling transferred directly to his business mindset. Rather than following a traditional career path despite holding two master"s degrees, Chris launched his own painting company to create the flexibility needed for his fighting career. This strategic decision removed the financial pressure that plagues many fighters, allowing him to approach MMA "purely for the love and just try to be the best in the world." His perspective on creating parallel paths—one for stability and another for passion—offers a blueprint anyone can apply to their creative pursuits. The disciplined mindset Chris developed through wrestling permeates everything from his training methodology to his business approach. He draws a brilliant parallel between paying dues in combat sports and other fields: "You don"t sign up for the high school football team to make a million dollars. You"re doing it for the experience, for the love of the sport." This refreshing perspective counters our instant-gratification culture with timeless wisdom about mastery requiring investment before rewards. Whether you"re a fight fan, entrepreneur, or simply someone striving to align your passions with sustainable success, Chris"s insights will reshape how you approach your own journey. Check out his upc Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREE Reaper Apparel Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing! Tactical Brotherhood The Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America. Dubby Energy FROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER. Shankitgolf Our goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf course Sweet Hands Sports Elevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions, Buddy's Beard Care Buddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price. Deemed Fit Be a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forward Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Follow us on all social media X: @mikebonocomedy Instagram: @mikebonocomedy @tiktok: @mikebono_comedian Facebook: @mikebonocomedy