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S1E3 Origin Stories: The Ring as a Classroom, with Zach Zabel
In this episode of Origin Stories, we go on a field trip into the world of Muay Thai and jiu-jitsu to explore the gym as a profound place of education. I sit down with my old coach, Zach Zabel of Vital Muay Thai and Vital Jiu Jitsu (Fife, WA), a natural-born teacher whose deep understanding of martial arts has created a powerful supplemental space for development.
For me, discovering Muay Thai was a turning point as an insecure kid struggling with mental health. The gym became my genuine classroom for self-trust, teaching me that the fight is never external—it's always internal.
Coach Zach's journey from a young man who resisted traditional schooling to a dedicated mentor and successful podcast host (Sway City Muay Thai) is living proof that the greatest teachers and lessons are often found outside the traditional path. We discuss:
- The self-discovery connection: how the pressure and vulnerability of the gym forces you to see yourself clearly.
- The power of showing up: Zach’s strong mindset on consistency and presence as the true building blocks of confidence.
- Building a teaching legacy: The secret to crafting a legacy that is not about winning titles, but about giving people a voice and a platform to be themselves and grow.
This episode reminds us that the power you discover in a gym, a dojo, or any demanding field, is the very power you need to be successful anywhere.
Show notes:
- Connect with Xhelan on LinkedIn
- Follow Sway City Muay Thai
- Learn more about Vital Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu
Guest bio:
Zach Zabel is an entrepreneur, digital creator, and Muay Thai coach from Spanaway, Washington. With over 14 years of experience in the sport, he trains and develops athletes as a coach and trainer at Srisuk Muay Thai while co-leading the fight team. Beyond coaching on the mats, Zach is the host of the Sway City Muay Thai Podcast, where he showcases fighters, coaches, and culture from across the Pacific Northwest. Driven by a passion for growth, community, and discipline, Zach continues to help build the next generation of martial artists—both as an instructor and as a voice for the Muay Thai community.
Quote(s):
“You don’t need a title to be a leader” – Zach Zabel
“Find your avenue to inspire” – Zach Zabel
View all episodes
By XJ SylveIn this episode of Origin Stories, we go on a field trip into the world of Muay Thai and jiu-jitsu to explore the gym as a profound place of education. I sit down with my old coach, Zach Zabel of Vital Muay Thai and Vital Jiu Jitsu (Fife, WA), a natural-born teacher whose deep understanding of martial arts has created a powerful supplemental space for development.
For me, discovering Muay Thai was a turning point as an insecure kid struggling with mental health. The gym became my genuine classroom for self-trust, teaching me that the fight is never external—it's always internal.
Coach Zach's journey from a young man who resisted traditional schooling to a dedicated mentor and successful podcast host (Sway City Muay Thai) is living proof that the greatest teachers and lessons are often found outside the traditional path. We discuss:
- The self-discovery connection: how the pressure and vulnerability of the gym forces you to see yourself clearly.
- The power of showing up: Zach’s strong mindset on consistency and presence as the true building blocks of confidence.
- Building a teaching legacy: The secret to crafting a legacy that is not about winning titles, but about giving people a voice and a platform to be themselves and grow.
This episode reminds us that the power you discover in a gym, a dojo, or any demanding field, is the very power you need to be successful anywhere.
Show notes:
- Connect with Xhelan on LinkedIn
- Follow Sway City Muay Thai
- Learn more about Vital Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu
Guest bio:
Zach Zabel is an entrepreneur, digital creator, and Muay Thai coach from Spanaway, Washington. With over 14 years of experience in the sport, he trains and develops athletes as a coach and trainer at Srisuk Muay Thai while co-leading the fight team. Beyond coaching on the mats, Zach is the host of the Sway City Muay Thai Podcast, where he showcases fighters, coaches, and culture from across the Pacific Northwest. Driven by a passion for growth, community, and discipline, Zach continues to help build the next generation of martial artists—both as an instructor and as a voice for the Muay Thai community.
Quote(s):
“You don’t need a title to be a leader” – Zach Zabel
“Find your avenue to inspire” – Zach Zabel