Aug. 21, 2025

Chris "dexter" Nong - Inside the Mind of CS IGL Professional

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Show Notes

dexter is one of Australia’s most accomplished CS IGLs, taking his journey from OCE to the biggest stages in EU. In this episode we dive into his mindset, leadership, tilt management, and the behind-the-scenes grind of pro CS. We cover everything from the struggles of qualifying for LANs in OCE, joining MOUZ, building confidence as an IGL, handling tilt, and the mental preparation that separates pros from the rest. Whether you’re a Counter-Strike fan, an aspiring pro, or just curious about Esports leadership, this episode is packed with insights.

0:50 — Journey into CS
4:30 — Moving to EU & Reflecting on the Journey
6:20 — How to Qualify for LANs in OCE
7:50 — Struggles Qualifying with Inconsistent Results
8:30 — Dominant Teams vs Underdogs in OCE (FLQ)
9:50 — Individual Mindset Before Big Events (Mental & Physical)
11:00 — Internalised Pressure to Perform
11:30 — Developing an Ego in Esports
14:00 — Confidence Growth & IGL Transition
15:20 — Team Culture & Environment in Pro CS
17:00 — Managing Expectations
19:00 — Providing Feedback to Teammates
23:30 — Joining MOUZ & Bringing His Own Style
25:40 — Feeling Shellshocked in a New Team
26:05 — First Big LAN with MOUZ & Pressure Stacking
27:50 — Handling Ongoing Pressure After a LAN
30:40 — Dealing with Tilt as an IGL
35:10 — Impact of Allied Health Professionals
35:45 — Australian Men & Communication Skills
38:20 — Why Talking to Strangers Can Be Easier
39:40 — Breaking Down a CS Timeout
41:30 — Managing Time Between Games
44:10 — Daily Routine & Non-Negotiables
45:00 — The Small 1% Factors That Matter
48:40 — NaVi & The Famous Maccas Story
50:05 — Using Visualisation to Mimic Big Stages
53:30 — A Quote from Karrigan
54:15 — Practice Routines as a Team & Individually
55:00 — Counterstratting Against Opponents
57:00 — Rapid Fire Questions
1:02:00 — Final Advice