Ari Simmons
Ari Simmons is a U.S. épée fencer, coach, and storyteller training with his sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. A national champion and USA National Team Member, Ari has competed at the highest levels of American fencing while also shaping the next generation of athletes through coaching roles at Duke University and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Off the strip, Ari is the co-founder and host of the Direct Elimination Podcast, where he and co-host Stephen Ewart sit down with Olympians, NCAA champions, and leaders in sport to explore what drives people to pursue their passions when there’s no consolation bracket. Blending his experiences as an athlete and mentor, Ari speaks openly about resilience, failure, identity, and the pursuit of purpose — themes that connect far beyond fencing. His journey reflects the modern athlete’s path: chasing excellence while building community and inspiring others to find their own “why.”