In this episode of the Rohan Parrant Method, I sit down with former professional fighter and long-time coach Nick Kara for an honest, energetic, and deeply human conversation about growth, grit, and what it really takes to rebuild your life from the ground up.

Nick takes me through the arc of his journey — from his early days as a young martial artist, to competing professionally, living overseas, and even appearing in the cult martial arts film Ong Bak. But beyond the highlight reel, he opens up about the battles that unfolded outside the ring, including addiction, identity, and the long road back to himself.

We explore what happens when your old life no longer fits, and how discipline, community, and a shift in mindset can become lifelines. Nick speaks candidly about the role martial arts played in saving his life, the lessons he now brings to the athletes he mentors, and the importance of giving young people strong guidance and real direction.

Throughout our conversation, we unpack the realities of mental health, the power of structure, and the responsibility that comes with being a role model. Together, we shine a light on resilience, self-belief, and the inner work required to create a life that feels solid under your feet.

Connect with Nick Kara

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nick_special_k_kara

Fight Fit Moorabbin: https://www.fightfit.com.au/

About Rohan

Rohan Parrant is a counsellor, coach, speaker and wellbeing strategist dedicated to helping individuals and leaders live, perform and lead without burning out. With over two decades of experience across construction, trades, corporate, education and youth services, he brings a grounded, no-BS approach to personal development, mental health and leadership.

On The Rohan Parrant Method podcast, Rohan dives into honest, practical conversations with everyday people, thought leaders and high performers to explore what it really means to grow, heal and lead well—especially under pressure. From burnout and mindset to trauma, resilience and self-awareness, this is the show for people who want to go deeper, feel stronger, and show up better in all areas of life.

With a background that bridges real-world grit and emotional depth, Rohan knows what it takes to rise after setbacks, push past mental barriers, and keep showing up with integrity. His episodes are packed with raw insights, grounded tools and powerful stories that challenge the status quo and call you to step into something greater.

Whether you're rebuilding, evolving or just curious, Rohan’s method is real, relatable and always rooted in lived experience.

Connect with Rohan:
Website: rohanparrant.com

In this episode of The Rohan Parrant Method, I sit down with Kosta Drakopoulos, a high-performance coach and former fighter with over 15 years in the fitness industry. Kosta brings deep expertise in sport science and athlete development, sharing how he combines cutting-edge research with proven old-school training methods to help athletes reach their peak potential.

We explore the evolving world of fitness and performance, emphasizing the importance of personalised training programs that are tailored to individual strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Kosta breaks down how holistic approaches—including nutrition, sleep, and mental health—are essential yet often overlooked elements in achieving sustainable results.

We also dive into common fitness myths and the impact of social media, where misinformation can lead to unrealistic expectations. Kosta stresses the need for precise assessments and long-term investment in grassroots sports programs to foster healthy athletic development and retention.

If you’re curious about how science-backed training can elevate your fitness journey or want to understand what it really takes to perform at your best, this episode offers practical insights and fresh perspectives.

Key Takeaways:

• High-performance training balances scientific research with traditional, individualised methods.
• Effective athlete development requires assessing mobility, strengths, weaknesses, and injury prevention.
• Lifestyle factors like nutrition and sleep are critical to peak performance but often undervalued.
• Social media can spread myths and unrealistic fitness goals—education is key.
• Long-term support for youth sports programs is vital for sustained athletic success.

About Rohan

Rohan Parrant is a counsellor, coach, speaker and wellbeing strategist dedicated to helping individuals and leaders live, perform and lead without burning out. With over two decades of experience across construction, trades, corporate, education and youth services, he brings a grounded, no-BS approach to personal development, mental health and leadership.

On The Rohan Parrant Method podcast, Rohan dives into honest, practical conversations with everyday people, thought leaders and high performers to explore what it really means to grow, heal and lead well—especially under pressure. From burnout and mindset to trauma, resilience and self-awareness, this is the show for people who want to go deeper, feel stronger, and show up better in all areas of life.

With a background that bridges real-world grit and emotional depth, Rohan knows what it takes to rise after setbacks, push past mental barriers, and keep showing up with integrity. His episodes are packed with raw insights, grounded tools and powerful stories that challenge the status quo and call you to step into something greater.

Whether you're rebuilding, evolving or just curious, Rohan’s method is real, relatable and always rooted in lived experience.

Connect with Rohan:
Website: rohanparrant.com

In this episode of The Rohan Parrant Method, I’m thrilled to be joined by Maria Tran — a talented martial artist, filmmaker, actor, and educator who brings a unique blend of creativity, psychology, and community work to her craft. Maria shares her inspiring story of growing up as a nerdy, bullied kid who dreamed of heroism and how that fueled her passion for martial arts and filmmaking.

We dive into her journey from early inspirations to becoming a respected action director and co-lead in the Paramount Plus series Last King of the Cross. Maria also talks about her work with Phoenix Eye Films, a female-led collective focused on independent cinema and storytelling that empowers diverse communities.

Throughout our conversation, Maria highlights how fight choreography is more than just martial arts — it’s storytelling through movement and energy exchange. She shares insights on the challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking, emphasizing collaboration, authenticity, and building narratives that truly connect with audiences. If you’re interested in film, creativity, or empowerment through storytelling, this episode is packed with wisdom and passion.

Key Takeaways:

• Using personal experiences to create meaningful and empowering film narratives.
• Fight choreography blends technical martial arts skills with storytelling and character development.
• Phoenix Eye Films’ mission to empower diverse voices and challenge gender norms through cinema.
• Independent filmmaking demands resilience, creativity, and strong community collaboration.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool for connection, growth, and shifting perspectives.

About Rohan

Rohan Parrant is a counsellor, coach, speaker and wellbeing strategist dedicated to helping individuals and leaders live, perform and lead without burning out. With over two decades of experience across construction, trades, corporate, education and youth services, he brings a grounded, no-BS approach to personal development, mental health and leadership.

On The Rohan Parrant Method podcast, Rohan dives into honest, practical conversations with everyday people, thought leaders and high performers to explore what it really means to grow, heal and lead well—especially under pressure. From burnout and mindset to trauma, resilience and self-awareness, this is the show for people who want to go deeper, feel stronger, and show up better in all areas of life.

With a background that bridges real-world grit and emotional depth, Rohan knows what it takes to rise after setbacks, push past mental barriers, and keep showing up with integrity. His episodes are packed with raw insights, grounded tools and powerful stories that challenge the status quo and call you to step into something greater.

Whether you're rebuilding, evolving or just curious, Rohan’s method is real, relatable and always rooted in lived experience.

Connect with Rohan:
Website: rohanparrant.com