Built For Legacy

Chris Nichols

Built For Legacy (previously The Nichols and Dimez Show) is the podcast for high performers navigating major transitions and building work that lasts. Hosted by Chris Nichols, this show features candid conversations with athletes, veterans, and entrepreneurs who have boldly shifted from peak careers into purpose-driven ventures built to leave lasting impact. Whether stepping off the field, leaving the military, or walking away from a corporate ladder, our guests share how they embraced their next chapter to grow, lead, and build with intention. Each episode dives into the mindset shifts, strategies, and lessons they used to move beyond their first chapter — from launching a business to scaling a personal brand. Built For Legacy offers actionable insights, inspiring stories of reinvention, and a playbook for those determined to make their next move the most meaningful yet. 

  1. SEP 4

    Sloan Clymer | From Barn Fights to Pro MMA: Performance, Branding & the UFC Dream

    Sloan Clymer is a pro MMA fighter, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, and no-gi specialist at Legion American Jiu-Jitsu in San Diego (founded by Keenan Cornelius). He earned his black belt from Cornelius—being the coach’s second-ever recipient—and has competed in organizations & events like Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, WNO, EBI, Subversiv (holding a win over Nick Rodriguez), and ADCC trials. In this conversation, we explore Sloan’s journey—from training in a makeshift “Caveman Combat” barn in Indiana to earning his black belt, chasing MMA dreams, and establishing himself in the San Diego fight scene. We also discuss cornering at UFC 318, his mindset for maximizing performance, transitioning from BJJ to pro MMA, building his personal brand, and promotion strategies inspired by top fighters like Conor McGregor and Sean O’Malley. Plus, Sloan shares his entrepreneurial life hack—why mastering one thing can outshine the mainstream hustle.  Partners: JNGL ATHLETICO:  https://jnglathletico.com?sca_ref=5391573.ojJfvDfSXJ  Use code NICHOLSANDDIMEZ for 25% off HOSTAGE TAPE:  https://www.hostagetape.com/CHRIS28059  PURE HIMALAYAN SHILAJIT: https://www.purehimalayanshilajit.com/?ref=4021  Use code DIMEZ for 40% off Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 03:38 – Cornering at UFC 318, Fight Dreams & Lessons from the Big Stage 07:18 – UFC Experience vs. Other MMA Promotions | Maximizing Performance at the Next Level 13:40 – Sloan’s Childhood & Early Exposure to Fighting, Wrestling & MMA 20:22 – Evolution of MMA & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Growth of the Sport 22:23 – How Sloan Became “Feisty” & Why He Chose the Fighter’s Path 32:44 – San Diego Chapter: Pursuing Fighter Dreams | 10th Planet, Legion AJJ, BJJ Black Belt, Pro MMA 41:43 – Transition from BJJ to MMA | Lessons from the Grind 47:25 – Branding & Business of Fighting | Building a Fighter’s Path to the UFC 55:18 – Promotion Strategies & Fighting Styles: Conor McGregor, Sean O’Malley, Colby Covington, Khabib, Ilia Topuria, & Georges St-Pierre   1:02:22 – Entrepreneurial Life Hack: Why Mastering One Thing Beats Mainstream Advice  Follow Sloan Clymer: Sloan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sloanclymer/  Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    1h 12m
  2. AUG 14

    Kendall Reusing | From Jiu-Jitsu World Champion to Entrepreneur: Building Success On and Off the Mats

    Kendall Reusing is an 8-time world champion black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, founder of Jiu Jitsu Accelerator (JJA), and host of the Get a Grip Podcast. She’s also one of the most respected commentators and entrepreneurs in the BJJ world. In this conversation, we discuss her competitive journey, building a personal brand in Jiu-Jitsu, and her impact on women in the sport. We also talk about her entrepreneurial drive, how she carved out a commentary career at high-profile BJJ events, and the mindset required to overcome injuries, navigate identity challenges, and perform at the highest level — whether competing at ADCC, behind the mic, or beyond. Partners: JNGL ATHLETICO:  https://jnglathletico.com?sca_ref=5391573.ojJfvDfSXJ  Use code NICHOLSANDDIMEZ for 25% off HOSTAGE TAPE:  https://www.hostagetape.com/CHRIS28059  PURE HIMALAYAN SHILAJIT: https://www.purehimalayanshilajit.com/?ref=4021  Use code DIMEZ for 40% off Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 05:32 – Kendall Reusing’s Jiu-Jitsu Accelerator Program & Why It Was Created 10:10 – Building a Personal Brand in Jiu-Jitsu & Social Media Growth 16:00 – Impact on Women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; Personal Branding & Business Approach 20:14 – Who Is Kendall’s Audience? 24:39 – Kendall’s Childhood Background; Family; How She Got Into Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu; Family BJJ Schools 29:10 – Entrepreneurship in BJJ & MMA: Learning How to Sell & Launching BJJ Schools with Her Parents 38:40 – BJJ Commentating Career & Most Memorable Moments 46:50 – ADCC 2024 Experience & Kendall’s Next Big Goal in Competition 52:55 – Overcoming Injuries & Identity Challenges in Elite BJJ 56:31 – Preparing Mentally and Physically to Perform at Your Best  Follow Kendall Reusing: Kendall Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendallreusing/ JJA IG: https://www.instagram.com/jiujitsuaccelerator/  Kendall Reusing website: https://kendallreusing.com/  Get a Grip Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-a-grip-with-kendall-reusing/id1657806916  https://www.youtube.com/@kendallreusingbjj  Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    1h 1m
  3. JUL 18

    Lessons from 5 Pro Athletes Who Built Businesses After Sports

    In this special highlight episode, we revisit 5 of the most impactful pro athletes featured on the show — each of whom successfully transitioned from elite sports to entrepreneurship.  You’ll hear from:  Shawne Merriman - how the legendary NFL Linebacker got ahead of the business game with his “Lights Out” brand (02:28)  Chris Leben - what motivated this UFC icon to open his own MMA gym and mentor fighters facing similar personal struggles (06:16) Tony Azevedo - how the five-time Olympic water polo captain is transforming the sport through business and global development (08:31) Anthony Trucks - on the tough reality of preparing for what’s next while performing at the highest level in the NFL (12:02) Dominique Bell - how this BJJ black belt turned his deep technical knowledge into digestible, online instructionals for the next generation (15:28)  Whether you're an athlete in transition or just someone ready for your next chapter, this episode is packed with mindset shifts, tactical gems, and inspiration to help you build your legacy beyond the game. Partners: JNGL ATHLETICO:  https://jnglathletico.com?sca_ref=5391573.ojJfvDfSXJ  Use code NICHOLSANDDIMEZ for 25% off HOSTAGE TAPE:  https://www.hostagetape.com/CHRIS28059  PURE HIMALAYAN SHILAJIT: https://www.purehimalayanshilajit.com/?ref=4021  Use code DIMEZ for 40% off Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    20 min
  4. JUL 11

    Built for Legacy | Why I Rebranded the Podcast

    After 90+ episodes of The Nichols and Dimez Show, it’s time to evolve. In this special rebrand announcement episode, I break down why the podcast is now called “Built for Legacy with Chris Nichols — and what that really means. You’ll hear how the show has naturally shifted toward the stories of high performers making bold transitions into entrepreneurship: from pro athletes, veterans, and creators who are building something that outlasts them. This is not just about starting over — it’s about building into the next chapter with purpose. I also share what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what you can expect as the show enters this next chapter. Built for Legacy now offers actionable insights, inspiring stories of reinvention, and a playbook for those determined to make their next move the most meaningful yet. If this resonates with you or someone you know, please share and follow the show! Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    11 min
  5. JUN 5

    Brandon Turner | From Pro Skateboarding to Purpose-Driven Recovery, Entrepreneurship & Reinvention

    Brandon Turner is a professional skateboarder, longtime member of the legendary Sk8Mafia crew, and protégé of Chad Muska. He’s also the Founder of West Side Recovery, a San Diego-based rehab center helping people overcome addiction through purpose and community—an effort inspired by his own personal journey. In this conversation, we discuss his evolution from skateboarding icon to recovery advocate, his viral “Trick of the Year” switch hardflip, and why mindset is the true prime. We also dive into his upbringing between Japan and the U.S., the difference in skate culture from the ’90s to now, the founding story of West Side Recovery, Lil Wayne’s skateboarding influence, and how Brandon channels authenticity into brand building, wellness, and giving back. Partners: JNGL ATHLETICO:  https://jnglathletico.com?sca_ref=5391573.ojJfvDfSXJ  Use code NICHOLSANDDIMEZ for 25% off HOSTAGE TAPE:  https://www.hostagetape.com/CHRIS28059  PURE HIMALAYAN SHILAJIT: https://www.purehimalayanshilajit.com/?ref=4021  Use code DIMEZ for 40% off Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 02:34 – Mindset Is the Real Prime: Trick of the Year & Switch Hardflip 05:58 – Skate Culture Then vs Now: 90s Party Scene, Wellness & Social Media 10:01 – Building a Brand Through Content: Sk8Mafia & Digital Strategy 12:34 – From Japan to the U.S.: Moving as a Teen & Culture Shock 17:40 – Party Culture & Influence: Skating, Family & Environment 20:12 – Founding Westside Recovery: Giving Back to Skateboarding 26:31 – Healing Modalities That Work: Recovery Techniques & ICP 31:18 – Lil Wayne & Skateboarding: Pop Culture Influence & Apparel 34:45 – Managing Multiple Projects: Brands, Recovery Work & Balance 38:31 – Marketing With Authenticity: Identity, Impact & Staying Real 42:21 – Life Hacks for Entrepreneurs: Sleep, Meditation & Breathwork 47:03 – Handling Tough Moments: Conflict Resolution in Recovery Follow Brandon Turner: Brandon's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bturner_/  West Side Recovery website: https://westsiderecoverysd.com/  Portal EXP IG: https://www.instagram.com/portal.exp/  https://www.youtube.com/@SK8MAFIATV  Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    52 min
  6. MAY 22

    Jason Stewart | Mastering Calm in Chaos: Mindset & Business in MMA, Real Estate & Exotic Cars

    Jason Stewart is Founder of Epic Fighting (SoCal based MMA promotion), Stewart Estates (real estate group), and Epic Exoctics (exotic car rentals). In this conversation, we discuss how Jason stays calm under pressure, his approach to stress management, and how his unconventional upbringing shaped his mindset. We dive into his journey buying a house at 21, launching a successful MMA promotion in Southern California, and building a brand that spans real estate and exotic cars. Jason also breaks down his marketing philosophy, the importance of mentorship, and the hard truths about running multiple businesses versus going all-in on one. Whether you're an entrepreneur, athlete, or someone chasing high performance—this one’s for you. Partners: JNGL ATHLETICO:  https://jnglathletico.com?sca_ref=5391573.ojJfvDfSXJ  Use code NICHOLSANDDIMEZ for 25% off HOSTAGE TAPE:  https://www.hostagetape.com/CHRIS28059  PURE HIMALAYAN SHILAJIT: https://www.purehimalayanshilajit.com/?ref=4021  Use code DIMEZ for 40% off Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 06:50 – How to Stay Calm Under Pressure & Manage Stress | Jason’s Early Life Story 22:20 – Realizing You’re Wired Differently | Focus, Discipline & Managing Big Ideas 30:35 – Vertical Integration vs. Single-Business Focus | Building Email Lists That Convert 37:15 – How He Bought His First House at 21 | Early Real Estate Lessons 47:00 – How Epic Fighting Was Founded | From Vision to Launch 56:30 – Marketing Strategies & Epic Fighting’s First Event | Philosophy & Tactics 01:11:55 – Mentorship, Dana White, & Building a Profitable Business 01:18:20 – Top Book Recommendations & an Entrepreneur’s Life Hack 01:23:05 – Sleep Routine, Guest Recommendations, & Business Growth Tips Follow Jason Stewart: Jason's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonostewart/  Epic Fighting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicfighting/  Epic Fighting website: https://www.epicfighting.com/  Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    1h 34m
  7. MAR 28

    Mitch Aguiar | Navy SEAL, MMA Fighter & Entrepreneur on Business, Fighting & Mindset for Success

    Mitch Aguiar is a former Navy SEAL, professional MMA fighter, and the Founder of MASF (Mitch Aguiar Smashin’ Frog) Supplements, Violent Hippie (a BJJ academy & merch brand), and Adopt-a-Cop BJJ (a non-profit that helps police officers learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu). In this conversation, we discuss Mitch’s strong Navy family influence growing up and why he decided to become a SEAL, the rise of his competitive fighting career, and how he transitioned out of the military to become an entrepreneur. We also talk about the impact of the pandemic era on his businesses, the mistakes and lessons he learned around scaling and team building as a business owner, and his viral moment in 2024 when he faced UFC champion Sean Strickland in a sparring challenge. Partners: JNGL ATHLETICO:  https://jnglathletico.com?sca_ref=5391573.ojJfvDfSXJ  Use code NICHOLSANDDIMEZ for 25% off HOSTAGE TAPE:  https://www.hostagetape.com/CHRIS28059  PURE HIMALAYAN SHILAJIT: https://www.purehimalayanshilajit.com/?ref=4021  Use code DIMEZ for 40% off Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction | Mitch Aguiar’s Journey from Navy SEAL to Entrepreneur 04:00 - Growing Up in a Military Family | Becoming a Navy SEAL 15:06 - Cam Hanes Podcast, David Goggins, Social Media Struggles & Business During the Pandemic  21:16 - Mitch Aguiar’s MMA Journey | Transitioning into Fighting 29:10 - Making Money in MMA | The Financial Struggles of UFC Fighters 35:02 - Mitch’s Entrepreneurial Start | MASF Merch & Building a Fight Brand 40:00 - The Birth of “Smashin’ Frog” | Mitch’s Personal Brand Strategy 42:02 - Creating Smashin’ Greens & MASF Supplements | The Business of Health & Performance 44:20 - Scaling a Business | Mitch’s Biggest Entrepreneurial Lesson 48:11 - MASF Marketing Strategy | Social Media & Brand Growth 51:23 - Adopt-a-Cop BJJ | Helping Police Officers Train Jiu-Jitsu 58:14 - Violent Hippie BJJ & MMA Gym | Leadership & Team Building 01:03:00 - Violent Hippie Retreats | Tactical Training & Mitch’s Next Big Goal 01:05:44 - Sparring Sean Strickland | The Navy SEAL vs. Sean Strickland Challenge 01:12:23 - Entrepreneurial Hacks | Authenticity, Branding & Optimizing Sleep for Success Follow Mitch Aguiar: Mitch's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitch_aguiar/  MASF Supplements IG: https://www.instagram.com/masf_supplements/  Violent Hippie IG: https://www.instagram.com/violent__hippie/ Adopt-a-Cop BJJ IG: https://www.instagram.com/adoptacopbjj/ Follow Chris Nichols: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builtforlegacypodcast Website: https://builtforlegacy.buzzsprout.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-for-legacy/id1667715105 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4MAr6sSCwiyU9G1JZgeZxq?si=a7da325d67a64a72 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@builtforlegacypodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/nicholsanddimezshow/100090067950005 Contact: chris@nicholsanddimez.com

    1h 22m
5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Built For Legacy (previously The Nichols and Dimez Show) is the podcast for high performers navigating major transitions and building work that lasts. Hosted by Chris Nichols, this show features candid conversations with athletes, veterans, and entrepreneurs who have boldly shifted from peak careers into purpose-driven ventures built to leave lasting impact. Whether stepping off the field, leaving the military, or walking away from a corporate ladder, our guests share how they embraced their next chapter to grow, lead, and build with intention. Each episode dives into the mindset shifts, strategies, and lessons they used to move beyond their first chapter — from launching a business to scaling a personal brand. Built For Legacy offers actionable insights, inspiring stories of reinvention, and a playbook for those determined to make their next move the most meaningful yet.