Steve Ruffley

The Brutal Truths of Pro Retail Trading with Steve Ruffley

“Size and time. That’s what separates the real traders from the dreamers.”

In this episode of The Trading Battle interview series, veteran trader, mentor, and author Steve Ruffley joins us to share his unfiltered take on what it really takes to survive and thrive as a retail trader. With over 20 years of experience in the markets from prop trading floors to managing risk rooms – Steve offers hard-earned lessons that challenge the myths many retail traders cling to.

This is not another motivational chat. Steve gets straight to the point on the realities of professional trading:

• Why most traders fail, and how to survive long enough to succeed
• The importance of trading with size—and knowing when to scale
• The myth of the holy grail strategy and the danger of overeducation
• How ego, unrealistic goals, and lack of structure sabotage performance
• Why making money is only half the battle—knowing what to do with it matters more
• How retail traders can shift from dabbling to serious, consistent execution

Steve also reflects on his two books, The Ruff Guide to Trading and The Pro Retail Trader, and how his personal evolution as a trader has shaped his views on risk, technicals, mindset, and what separates long-term success from short-term hype.

This conversation is a must-watch for any trader looking to make real progress. It’s honest, direct, and full of insight delivered by someone who has seen it all.