The Forged Trader Podcast

In this episode of the Forged Trader Podcast, Gates Adams sits down with his friend and successful trader, Taylor; also known online as "Mr. Wilson." Taylor opens up about his remarkable journey from running an automotive business and firefighting to navigating the highs and brutal lows of trading. Together, Gates and Taylor explore what it really takes to move from gambling mindsets to building long-term trading consistency. They discuss the importance of community, the dangers of scaling too fast, and the psychological shifts that happen when real money is on the line. Taylor shares the hard-earned lessons that reshaped his approach to risk, discipline, and personal growth, offering listeners both cautionary tales and hope for a sustainable trading future. If you’ve ever battled doubt, loss, or overconfidence in your trading journey, this conversation will feel like pulling up a chair with people who truly get it.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How Taylor went from a $15,000 gamble to a $180,000 win—and what happened next
  

• Why trading harder doesn’t always mean trading smarter
  

• The critical role community plays in emotional resilience
  

• How scaling improperly can destroy months of progress
  

• Insights on balancing ambition, discipline, and self-awareness for long-term success

"Luck can put money in your account — discipline is what keeps it there."

Connect with Gates Adams:

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Apex Trader Funding

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

In this episode of the Forged Trader Podcast, Gates Adams sits back down with Steve Login from Precision Trading Co. to re-record a conversation once lost.

Steve shares his origin story; from climbing the ranks in insurance to discovering the brutal beauty of trading during the 2016 crypto boom. Together, Gates and Steve explore the journey behind trading success: the emotional roller coasters, the identity crises, the days that crush your ego, and the ones that reaffirm your purpose.

This episode explores:

• Why trading is the greatest mirror you’ll ever face
  

• How losses reveal more about you than wins ever will
  

• What it means to become the person your trading goals demand
  

• The hidden danger of chasing a number instead of building a process
  

• How daily habits, journaling, and pre-trade mindset rituals create long-term success
  

• Why growth in life reflects directly in growth on the charts
  

“You can’t change your identity by willpower. You change it through process.”

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

Apex Trader Funding

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

Welcome back to the Forged Trader Podcast, where successful traders aren’t born—they’re forged! In this episode, host Gates Adams reconnects with longtime friend and fellow trader Jim McGee for an honest and insightful conversation about growth, discipline, and the lifelong journey of trading.

Jim shares his inspiring transformation from working a low-level guitar repair job to launching his own business—all while quietly grinding away at the charts and mastering a unique trading system he’s been refining for over five years. From becoming a dad to passing multiple prop firm evaluations, Jim opens up about the personal and professional shifts that helped him find consistency in an industry where most give up.

Key Highlights:

• How becoming a father shifted Jim’s mindset and strengthened his discipline
  

• Lessons learned from blowing up a personal account—and how it changed his routine forever
  

• Why journaling and folder systems (good vs. bad trades) became game-changers for his growth
  

• The emotional tug-of-war between discipline and dopamine—and how to flip it
  

• The hard truth about trading: it reflects your flaws and forces your growth
  

• Finding a groove: using simplicity, faith, and higher timeframes to make clean entries
  

• Plus, Jim’s vision to blend music and storytelling in a future podcast project!
  

Whether you're still finding your way as a trader or looking for fresh ways to stay sharp and grounded, this episode is a lesson in resilience, self-awareness, and steady transformation.

This isn’t just about trading—it’s about the kind of person you become in the process.

“Trading has the greatest opportunity of anything you could possibly be doing… even though the trade-off is that it’s so hard.”

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

Apex Trader Funding

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

In this episode of The Forge Trader Podcast, host Gates Adams reconnects with YouTuber and veteran trader Jesse W for an honest, hilarious, and heart-hitting conversation on trading, crypto, burnout, lifestyle design, and how to actually enjoy the fruit of your trading grind.

Jesse shares his full-circle story—from trading OTC penny stocks as a teenager on Scottrade (yes, that’s aging us all), to crushing futures and growing a loyal YouTube following with “Trade with Jesse W.” But this isn’t just about setups and signals. It’s about the real emotional ride of being a trader, the trap of overworking even after hitting success, and the hard lesson Jesse learned after crashing into burnout recently despite doing better than ever financially.

They unpack:

• Jesse’s first $1K gain… and the crash-and-burn that followed
  

• Crypto nostalgia, the OG days of Bitcoin, and why LCX is Gates’ wild card
  

• Why traders struggle to “enjoy the ride” even after they’ve made it
  

• Burnout, anxiety, and the pressure to always produce more
  

• The power of setting lifestyle rules—just like trading rules
  

• Why Jesse unplugs by 11am, plays Apex Legends, and goes fishing in the Keys
  

• Gates' plan to RV across the country and finally breathe after 20 years of nonstop hustle
  

Whether you're a full-time trader, an aspiring prop account warrior, or someone grinding toward freedom, this episode reminds you why you started. It’s a raw conversation on money, mental health, freedom, and how to not let the charts steal your life.

"I used to burn the candle at both ends, and guess what? My income didn’t change when I stopped."

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

Apex Trader Funding

In this episode of The Forged Trader Podcast, host Gates Adams sits down with Court Currency, a former top-35 ranked professional boxer turned full-time trader. Court’s journey from fighting in Madison Square Garden to fighting emotional battles in the markets is a powerful testament to the discipline, mindset, and commitment required to succeed in trading—and in life.

Listeners will get an inside look at Court’s early struggles in the Wild West of binary options, his transition into Forex, and ultimately finding consistency through funded accounts with Apex Trader Funding. He shares how years of boxing gave him the mental edge he needed to build discipline, how journaling transformed his results, and why his turning point came after over five years of trial, error, and hustle.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why discipline in life translates into discipline in trading

• How journaling and review systems helped Court shift from random results to reliable profits

• The emotional challenges of trading and how to manage them with strategy and structure

• Why Court believes trading funded accounts is the best place to start

• How he developed his “Price Wave Theory” rooted in ICT-style concepts like liquidity and market structure

• What it takes to go from funded evaluations to consistent payouts

• The long-term vision: from building wealth for his sons to managing live capital with confidence

• Why building an empire starts with one consistent trade at a time

This isn’t just another trader interview—it’s a masterclass in resilience, self-mastery, and the power of knowing your “why.” If you’re feeling stuck in your trading journey or questioning whether consistency is even possible, this episode will reignite your belief.

Ready to start your own funded journey? Head to ApexTraderFunding.com and use coupon code FORGED for the best available discount. Court and countless others have proven—it’s not about how you start; it’s about how you finish.

“The less you do, the more you get out of trading—it’s not about doing more, it’s about doing what works.”

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

Apex Trader Funding

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

After a seven-month hiatus, The Forged Trader Podcast is back. In this highly anticipated return, host Gates Adams shares a raw and honest update on his trading journey, including the psychology behind scaling prop firm accounts, handling payout requests, and managing risk. With over 13 months of dedicated trading, Gates reflects on the biggest mindset shifts, key mistakes, and lessons learned from pushing toward his first major payout.

In this episode, he opens up about:

• The importance of risk management and how a single trade nearly cost him his payout request.

• How trading psychology plays a bigger role than strategy when scaling multiple funded accounts.

• Why rushing to a payout creates unnecessary pressure and how patience leads to long-term success.

• The power of coaching and mentorship in becoming a consistent, profitable trader.

• A new podcast format with deep-dive trader interviews, real-time market discussions, and high-value insights.

This episode isn’t just about one trader’s journey—it’s a roadmap for anyone serious about trading professionally. If you’ve ever struggled with payout delays, risk management, or the mental game of trading, this one is for you.

“You don’t ‘arrive’ in trading. It’s a never-ending journey of growth and discipline.” - Gates Adams

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

Apex Trader Funding

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

In today's episode of The Forged Trader Podcast, host Gates Adams dives into the emotional and unpredictable journey of trading, questioning why traders persist despite the challenges. Drawing from his personal experience as a former business owner, Gates reflects on the hardships of relying on others, highlighted by his struggle during the COVID-19 pandemic when he faced business closures due to a manufacturer's deceit. He parallels this to trading, emphasizing the autonomy it offers—no need for office space, employees, or supply chains—making it a path to self-reliance. Gates shares his recent setbacks, including blowing all his accounts in a single session, and the psychological toll it took. However, he highlights the importance of personal growth, discipline, and confidence in trading, underscoring his commitment to becoming self-reliant. Gates recounts his journey of studying, hiring a coach, and improving his health, spiritual life, and relationships, all contributing to his trading success. He also discusses the necessity of backtesting and forward testing strategies to build confidence and maintain consistency.

"There's absolutely no certainty whatsoever in the world of trading."

What you will learn:

• Trading and Self-Reliance

• Building Confidence and Skills

• Trading Strategies and Testing

• Future Goals and Self-Reliance

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

In the latest episode of the Next Level Freedom podcast, host Gates Adams welcomes Coach Bob Turner from Summit Coaching and Consulting. Bob, an accomplished endurance athlete and a recent coaching certification graduate under Ben Newman, shares his insights on mindset and mental toughness derived from over two decades in business and his Iron Man marathon experiences. Bob discusses the significance of knowing when to take breaks, the wisdom of resilience, and the importance of maintaining balance amidst life's challenges. He highlights his own journey, emphasizing the value of surrounding oneself with supportive, goal-oriented individuals. As a coach, Bob is passionate about helping men find their edge in both business and personal life, drawing on his extensive experience and recent training. Gates and Bob dive into the five pillars of masculinity—faith, finances, fitness, family, and fun—underscoring the necessity of hard work, resilience, and continuous personal growth. The episode is a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and inspirational dialogue, aimed at motivating listeners to push through their challenges and reach their next level of freedom.

"When you face adversity, ask yourself, 'How can I move the needle today?' Every small step counts." - Bob Turner

Key Takeaways:

• Importance of stepping away when necessary

• Taking breaks to promote creativity and healing

• Practical Advice and Personal Development

• Understanding the value of personal growth and self-improvement

Learn more about Bob Turner through the following links: 

Group

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

In the latest episode of the Forged Trader Podcast, Gates Adams kicks off Season Two with a passionate recap of his trading journey and newfound commitments. Returning from overseas trips, Gates reflects on how his casual trading side hustle transformed into an all-encompassing pursuit. Despite facing setbacks, such as recently blowing up his funded accounts, his progress is undeniable—having passed funding evaluations five times since last season. Gates emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself, sharing how his growth over the past five months has eclipsed the previous 25 years. He candidly discusses the harsh realities and emotional challenges of trading, underscoring the necessity of perseverance and continuous improvement. Gates's mission for Season Two is clear: relentlessly pursuing payouts and overcoming obstacles. He encourages listeners to honestly assess their trading struggles and focus on the true roadblocks to success. With valuable insights and resources promised for the season, Gates aims to guide traders through the highs and lows, ensuring they stay committed to their trading goals. Tune in for an inspiring and educational journey with Gates Adams on the Forged Trader Podcast.

"The growth I've experienced in the last five months has been insane, 10 times what I achieved in the 25 years before that."

What you will learn:

• Recognizing the inevitable setbacks that come with trading

• Dealing with Setbacks

• The Importance of Time and Investment

• Starting Fresh with Renewed Determination

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.

Welcome back to The Forged Trader Podcast, where successful traders aren't born, they're forged. I'm your host, Gates Adams, and today, I want to ask you a question: do you want to be right, or do you want to be rich? In this episode, we'll dive into the profound insights of Mark Douglas, the godfather of trading psychology, author of "The Disciplined Trader" and "Trading in the Zone." I'll share a personal epiphany from last week that hit home hard: the importance of sticking to your trading rules. Despite faithfully following an almost arbitrary entry system and witnessing its potential profitability, I fell victim to emotional trading, leading to significant losses. This episode highlights the critical distinction between analysis and execution, emphasizing that a sound strategy requires unwavering discipline. I'll discuss how assigning right or wrong to trades can erode confidence and lead to impulsive decisions. Trading success hinges on consistent rule-following, even when facing losses. Stay tuned as we explore how to maintain emotional control, practice disciplined trading, and prepare for the next season of The Forged Trader Podcast. Thank you for your support, and I'll see you in August for new episodes, interviews, and live trading insights.

"Without a system, trading is like flipping a coin."

What you will learn:

Connect with Gates Adams:

Facebook

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RISK DISCLOSURE:

Futures and Forex trading contains substantial risk and is not for every investor. An investor could potentially lose all or more than the initial investment. Risk capital is money that can be lost without jeopardizing one's financial security or lifestyle. Only risk capital should be used for trading, and only those with sufficient risk capital should consider trading. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE:

Hypothetical performance results have many inherent limitations, some of which are described below. No representation is being made that any account will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. In fact, there are frequently sharp differences between hypothetical performance results and the actual results subsequently achieved by any particular trading program. One of the limitations of hypothetical performance results is that they are generally prepared with the benefit of hindsight. In addition, hypothetical trading does not involve financial risk, and no hypothetical trading record can completely account for the impact of financial risk of actual trading. For example, the ability to withstand losses or to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses is material points, which can also adversely affect actual trading results. There are numerous other factors related to the markets in general or to the implementation of any specific trading program, which cannot be fully accounted for in the preparation of hypothetical performance results, and all of which can adversely affect trading results.