Jason Rau returns to talk about growing his schools, the ethics and etiquette of filming training sessions, and how to track your own progress on the mats. He also gives a deep breakdown on his guard passing system!
Bryan Rumble is a 2nd degree belt and a working scientist. In this episode we start out by talking about BJJ traditions, the depth of the art, and how the scientific method might be applied in jiu-jitsu. Then, at about the 23 minute mark, Bryan and I nerd out SUPER hard on Dungeons and Dragons and how it relates to martial arts training. You've been warned!
Check out Bryan's school in Brantford, Ontario at the links below
https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Rumble-Academy-100057419059340/
https://www.instagram.com/bryanrumble
And check out the memoir of my toughest solo trip ever, a 42 day solo expedition into the remote Canadian North where I dodged forest fires, stared down bears, and canoed raging rapids completely alone. Check out "Perseverance, Life and Death in the Subarctic" in hardcover, Kindle, and audiobook formats on Amazon or wherever you get your books!
https://www.amazon.com/Perseverance-Death-Subarctic-Stephan-Kesting/dp/1639368612/
Good luck with your training!
Stephan
Jiu Jitsu Dummies Podcast, presented by [Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) and [AcademySafe.org](https://academysafe.org/)
Welcome to this episode of Jiu Jitsu Dummies, where we explore the powerful intersection of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and law enforcement. Join us as we speak with active South Florida Law Enforcement Officers who are also dedicated purple belts in Jiu-Jitsu. We delve into the tangible benefits BJJ offers police officers on the job, and examine the crucial steps needed to make this essential training a standard requirement for all LEOs nationwide.
Guest Instagram handles:
@duffdude827
@leojitszu
Thank you to Episode Sponsors:
[Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) - Request a FREE Review of your company's online presence today!
[Academy Safe - Join or Donate now](https://academysafe.org/)
[Leheal Biogenix](https://leheal.com/) - Regenerative Medicine - [Learn More Here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-lOsKWrCn0)
[Leao Optics](https://leaooptics.com/?aff=17) - Get 10% OFF with Code: JJD
[The BJJ Box](https://www.thebjjbox.com/)- Get 20% OFF your first box with Code: JJD20
[Jiu Jitsu Dummies Podcast Store](https://www.jiujitsudummies.shop/) - Get 15% OFF with code: JJD
Contact the Dummies @JiuJitsuDummies on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jiujitsudummies/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JiuJitsuDummies/), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jiujitsudummies) or at [milton@jiujitsudummies.com](mailto:milton@jiujitsudummies.com) to submit questions for consideration on the show. You can now also find us on [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@jiujitsudummiespodcast) @JiuJitsuDummiesPodcast
Visit [Jiu Jitsu Dummies](http://www.jiujitsudummies.com/) for more details about the show, becoming a Sponsor, and a list of sites and apps to download or view the podcast.
Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!In this podcast, we have guest Nicky Ryan — one of the most technical and well-known young grapplers in the game. He trains out of B-Team in Austin, Texas, and has been competing at the highest level since he was a teenager. We get into his thoughts on CLA-based learning, how that may change his approach to training, and what he’s focused on right now both on and off the matsAnaconda Fightwear:https://anacondafightwear.co/products/anacondakneebrace?gclid=CjwKCAiAlcyuBhBnEiwAOGZ2S6jy4e-hIsOD-_PV8qcvo-8N2YZ9YhZPMY80vCSfhdUT5APLzkcQRxoCnMhiQQAvD_BwEPromo code: https://anacondafightwear.co/SIMPLEMAN15MASF Supplementsuse promo code "SIMPLEMAN" at check out to receive a 15% discount "BE KIND OR ELSE!"https://masfsupplements.comhttps://www.instagram.com/masf_supplements/Pronoia:https://www.pronoiabjj.com/Use promocode SIMPLEMAN for 10% off your entire order at checkoutPronoia Instagram: @pronoiabjjSimpleman instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thesimplemanpodcast/Merch Store: https://www.alvafitness.com/collections/simple-man-podcastSimpleman Rashguard: https://bteamjj.shop/products/simple-man-podcast-rash-guardCarne Jerky:https://www.instagram.com/carnejerky_/ NEW TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@therealsimplemanpodcast?lang=enMarekhealth:🥼 https://marekhealth.com/simpleman - Get a 10% discount on diagnostic testing (use code SIMPLEMAN)Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SimpleManPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creatorChapters: 00:00:00 Intro00:00:59 Canada's Election00:01:56 New Waterloos 00:03:18 Nicky Ryan on CLA00:19:11 Nicky Ryans ACL recovery00:20:19 College Boy stuff00:23:12 BJJ Stars00:24:03 Simplemen Things00:30:16 They Boys are going to Canada00:33:08 Nicky Ryan is buying a house00:39:59 UFC Fight Night00:46:54 Nicky Ryan MMA?00:50:02 Nicky Ryans Collapsed lung00:51:48 UFC 315 Predictions00:53:54 Simplemen go off a tangent 01:04:51 Simplemen History lesson01:12:00 Craigs terrible Ideas01:21:52 Nicky Rod's new pool01:23:34 Nicky Ryan next roommate01:28:50 Microplastics and things that are bad for us01:36:23 Simplemen Ticks01:39:46 Nicky Ryan gets stitches 01:46:23 Simplemen Accidents01:49:14 RIP to the Pope 01:54:33 Outro
🎙️ A powerful conversation about identity, inclusion, and resilience in the martial arts community.
In this episode of Fighting Matters, co-hosts Steve Kwan and Mike Mahaffey are joined by special guest Molly Reis, a three-stripe black belt and one of the most senior trans women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Molly shares her journey through the sport, from competing every weekend in Texas to finding belonging in Seattle’s queer BJJ scene. She opens up about the challenges of transitioning mid-career, navigating concern trolling, and why visibility in leadership is key to true inclusion.
⸻
👥 Featuring:
Steve Kwan @bjjmentalmodels
Mike Mahaffey @OldBastardBJJ
Molly Reis
⸻
🧠 Topics We Cover:
• What it’s like to transition after earning your black belt
• How hormone therapy impacts physical performance
• Creating safer spaces and inclusive gyms for queer athletes
• Concern trolling, etiquette, and rolling while trans
• Why allyship in BJJ must go beyond tolerance
⸻
📖 Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Diversity in Jiu-Jitsu
03:01 Molly's Journey in Jiu-Jitsu and Transition
06:02 Experiences of Support and Rejection
09:19 Navigating the Jiu-Jitsu Community as a Trans Woman
11:59 The Impact of Transition on Jiu-Jitsu
14:52 Understanding Hormone Therapy and Its Effects
18:17 Life Changes Post-Transition
21:04 Adapting Jiu-Jitsu Techniques After Transition
23:56 Creating Inclusive Spaces in Jiu-Jitsu
26:59 The Role of Community in Supporting Trans Athletes
30:11 Conclusion and Future Perspectives
45:40 Mindset and Gender Dynamics in Jiu-Jitsu
47:02 Creating Inclusive Spaces in Martial Arts
47:52 The Power of Representation in Leadership
49:27 Celebration vs. Tolerance in the Community
51:08 Navigating Political Sensitivities in Jiu-Jitsu
52:11 The Role of Allies in Supporting Trans Rights
56:26 Understanding Concern Trolling
01:01:11 Debunking Myths About Trans Athletes
01:05:31 Engaging in Good Faith Conversations
01:10:58 The Hypocrisy of Gender Politics in Sports
01:18:45 Encouragement for Trans and Queer Athletes
01:19:49 Finding Community and Resources in Jiu-Jitsu
On this episode of the podcast, Chewy discusses why he needed to develop his "older grappler" BJJ game to adapt to training and to remain competitive against younger and more athletic grapplers.
Chewy discusses how he started to discover this new element to his game, the position he would go to when fatigued, the moment Chewy decided to change his game, ideas on "uneven pressure" in side control, how to implement this style of grappling into your game, how to close the distance for chest to chest position, how to conserve your energy from top and when to move to the next position, what determines the effectiveness of the half guard position, the mantra for older grapplers, how to be more comfortable from bottom position, and one of the simplest ways to make your half guard passing more effective.
To learn more about Chewy's new "Flow & Control" Program, check out http://chewjitsutraining.com/old
Thanks to the podcast sponsors:
Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.
Charlotte's Web CBD.
Head over to **https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30** and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase.
Epic Roll BJJ.
Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase.
Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast
This week we're joined by the founders of Inverted Gear: Hillary Witt and Nelson Puentes! Three years ago, Hillary and Nelson took the Inverted Gear brand beyond Jiu-Jitsu equipment and opened a physical academy in Pennsylvania! In this episode, Hillary and Nelson share key lessons learned from their journey into academy ownership.
Follow Inverted Gear on Instagram:
[https://www.instagram.com/invertedgear](https://www.instagram.com/invertedgear)
Train at Inverted Gear Academy in Bethlehem, PA:
[https://www.invertedgearacademy.com/](https://www.invertedgearacademy.com/)
Shop Inverted Gear:
[https://www.invertedgear.com/](https://www.invertedgear.com/)
Order the SWEET Moo Deng rashguard from BJJ Mental Models x Inverted Gear:
[http://bjjmentalmodels.com/moodeng](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/moodeng)
**Mental models discussed in this episode:**
- Feedback Loop
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/)- Constraints-Led Approach
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach/)- Ecological Dynamics
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics/)- Gamification
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/)- Defensive Thinking
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking/)- Return on Investment
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/)- Incremental Learning
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/)- Survivorship Bias
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias/)
**Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!**
If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at **a fraction of the cost of a single private.**
Sign up here for a free trial:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/)
**Need more BJJ Mental Models?**
Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/)
Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/)
Follow us on social:
[https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/)
[https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/)
Music by Enterprize:
[https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/](https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/)
Have you done everything you could to enhance your BJJ game? You buy instructional, hit your lifts, hit your mobility, but you still can't keep up with the guys at your gym? Maybe we have a not so secret powder that will increase your output, mood, muscles, etcetera. Tune in to hear why creatine could be the game changer for you!
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BULLETPROOF SHIRTS: https://www.fanwear.com.au/products/core-bullet-proof-for-bjj-classic-tee
----------------------
Increase athleticism, reduce injuries and build a grapplers physique with the Bulletproof for BJJ App. Start your FREE 14 Day Trial today:
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bulletproof-for-bjj/id6444311790
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bulletproofforbjj&utm_source=na_Med
Stay Hydrated with Sodii the tastiest electrolytes in the Game! Get 15% OFF: BULLETPROOF15 https://sodii.com.au/bulletproof
Nate Quarry fought in MMA, including The Ultimate Fighter and the UFC, between 2001 and 2010. He's currently involved in suing the UFC for anticompetitive and monopolistic practices. He joins us on the Fighting Matters podcast to discuss manhood, responsibility, self worth, and standing up for other people.
From the heartland of the sport in São Paulo, to the middle of the US in Missouri, we answer some questions from listeners of all walks of life. How do you maintain progress with life's ever-everchanging circumstances, what to do when you feel yourself transitioning from young calf to old bull, and how to train when you know you becoming injured directly affects your livelihood. You are in for a treat with this QNA episode.
----------------------
BULLETPROOF SHIRTS: https://www.fanwear.com.au/products/core-bullet-proof-for-bjj-classic-tee
----------------------
Leave us a question for the next QNA episode:
https://bulletproofforbjj.com/podcast
---------------------
Increase athleticism, reduce injuries and build a grapplers physique with the Bulletproof for BJJ App. Start your FREE 14 Day Trial today:
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bulletproof-for-bjj/id6444311790
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bulletproofforbjj&utm_source=na_Med
Stay Hydrated with Sodii the tastiest electrolytes in the Game! Get 15% OFF: BULLETPROOF15 https://sodii.com.au/bulletproof
In this week's mini-episode we discuss **shifting platforms,** wherein you as the bottom player use continuous movement to prevent your opponent from fully establishing their base on top of you. Moving away from big, explosive escape attempts and toward smaller, continuous movement makes a huge difference in your success from bottom positions.
Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro)
**Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!**
If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at **a fraction of the cost of a single private.**
Sign up here for a free trial:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/)
**Need more BJJ Mental Models?**
Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/)
Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/)
Follow us on social:
[https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/)
[https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/)
Chris Burns has recently taken Jiu-Jitsu Teaching by storm. Not with new and flashy moves but with simple refined ideas that he has learned from his Professor, Rickson Gracie.Chris ([@the.BJJproject](https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UC-ZO8c74hCXEjUCUatj-L2g)) has used "Old School" Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Methods to protect his body, perfect his jiu-jitsu, and get back to the roots of the art and today he will help you do the same.Today I(@thejoshmckinney) sit down with Chris to have a wide ranging conversation on fatherhood, youtube fame, training method, breathwork, and what everyone gets wrong about the concept of connection.Whether you're a new white belts or an old school black belts you will be able to find helpful tips from this episode while getting a good laugh at Chris' unique brand of humor.
[ISAJJ GEAR](https://imposedwill.com/collections/i-suck-at-jiu-jitsu-show) Presale ends May 14th
Jiu-Jitsu for Imbeciles (FREE) [BJJ Mental Models](https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/isuck)
[Kicksite FREE 30 Day Trial](https://kicksite.com/josh-mckinney/)
[Datsusara](https://www.dsgear.com/) 10% OFF with Promo Code “ISUCK”
[Master ANY Position](https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/6) in 6 Weeks
Join[ISAJJ PRO](https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/suck) (ALL of Josh’s Courses in One Place)
Join the[Gi Gazette](https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/GG)
Follow the show on[ Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/isuckatjiujitsushow)
[Check out the ISAJJ Youtube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@JoshMcKinney)
Mateusz Szczecinski is hosting leglock camp in Melbourne and 1/2 of the Bulletproof For BJJ Podcast WILL be in attendance. JT may be honing his skills in just in time for the Giles Trials, orrr he may just be going to put himself around some of the best in the world. We will be documenting this trip and look forward to hearing what our boy JT has gained from said camp, and pray he remains with all ligaments intact.
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BULLETPROOF SHIRTS: https://www.fanwear.com.au/products/core-bullet-proof-for-bjj-classic-tee
---------------------------------------
Increase athleticism, reduce injuries and build a grapplers physique with the Bulletproof for BJJ App. Start your FREE 14 Day Trial today:
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bulletproof-for-bjj/id6444311790
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bulletproofforbjj&utm_source=na_Med
Stay Hydrated with Sodii the tastiest electrolytes in the Game! Get 15% OFF: BULLETPROOF15 https://sodii.com.au/bulletproof
🎙️ A deep dive into how Trump’s anti-Canada rhetoric flipped the Canadian election—and what it means for martial artists on both sides of the border.
In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan is joined by longtime friend and grappling legend Stephan Kesting for a raw, unfiltered conversation about Canada’s 2025 federal election. They unpack how the rise of MAGA-style politics north of the border sparked a national backlash, ultimately reshaping Canadian leadership—and exposing fractures in the martial arts world.
⸻
👥 Featuring:
Steve Kwan @bjjmentalmodels
Stephan Kesting @StephanKesting
⸻
🧠 Topics We Cover:
• Why Trump’s threats to Canada changed the outcome of the election
• The rise—and rejection—of MAGA politics in Canadian culture
• How COVID and the Freedom Convoy broke the Jiu-Jitsu community
• What American martial artists need to understand about their influence abroad
• Whether Canada can still trust its southern neighbor
⸻
📖 Chapters:
00:00 Canadian Elections and Political Landscape
09:08 Trudeau's Downfall and the Rise of Mark Carney
17:58 The Freedom Convoy and Its Impact on Society
32:58 The Division in the Martial Arts Community
35:12 The Impact of Information Bubbles
39:32 Reality Check: The Pandemic's Influence
43:15 Political Dynamics in Canada
50:05 The Future of Canadian Politics
57:25 Cross-Border Relations and Travel Concerns
01:02:09 Understanding Perspectives: The Info Bubble Challenge
Jiu Jitsu Dummies Podcast, presented by [Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) and [AcademySafe.org](https://academysafe.org/)
Get ready for a powerful conversation with Mitchell Chamale, one of the driving forces behind Combat Night MMA! A seasoned Jiu Jitsu Black Belt and the founder of one of the Southeast's premier regional fight organizations, Mitchell shares his journey in the combat sports world, the vision behind Combat Night, and his insights into the growth jiu-jitsu and regional MMA.
Instagram Handles:
@combatnightmma
@machamale
Thank you to Episode Sponsors:
[Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) - Request a FREE Review of your company's online presence today!
[Academy Safe - Join or Donate now](https://academysafe.org/)
[Leheal Biogenix](https://leheal.com/) - Regenerative Medicine - [Learn More Here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-lOsKWrCn0)
[Leao Optics](https://leaooptics.com/?aff=17) - Get 10% OFF with Code: JJD
[The BJJ Box](https://www.thebjjbox.com/)- Get 20% OFF your first box with Code: JJD20
[Jiu Jitsu Dummies Podcast Store](https://www.jiujitsudummies.shop/) - Get 15% OFF with code: JJD
Contact the Dummies @JiuJitsuDummies on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jiujitsudummies/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JiuJitsuDummies/), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jiujitsudummies) or at [milton@jiujitsudummies.com](mailto:milton@jiujitsudummies.com) to submit questions for consideration on the show. You can now also find us on [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@jiujitsudummiespodcast) @JiuJitsuDummiesPodcast
Visit [Jiu Jitsu Dummies](http://www.jiujitsudummies.com/) for more details about the show, becoming a Sponsor, and a list of sites and apps to download or view the podcast.
Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!Anaconda Fightwear:https://anacondafightwear.co/products/anacondakneebrace?gclid=CjwKCAiAlcyuBhBnEiwAOGZ2S6jy4e-hIsOD-_PV8qcvo-8N2YZ9YhZPMY80vCSfhdUT5APLzkcQRxoCnMhiQQAvD_BwEPromo code: https://anacondafightwear.co/SIMPLEMAN15MASF Supplementsuse promo code "SIMPLEMAN" at check out to receive a 15% discount "BE KIND OR ELSE!"https://masfsupplements.comhttps://www.instagram.com/masf_supplements/Pronoia:https://www.pronoiabjj.com/Use promocode SIMPLEMAN for 10% off your entire order at checkoutPronoia Instagram: @pronoiabjjSimpleman instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thesimplemanpodcast/Merch Store: https://www.alvafitness.com/collections/simple-man-podcastSimpleman Rashguard: https://bteamjj.shop/products/simple-man-podcast-rash-guardCarne Jerky:https://www.instagram.com/carnejerky_/ NEW TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@therealsimplemanpodcast?lang=enMarekhealth:🥼 https://marekhealth.com/simpleman - Get a 10% discount on diagnostic testing (use code SIMPLEMAN)Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SimpleManPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator
On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss the importance of rest days and why many BJJ practitioners avoid rest days and taking time off.
We start off the podcast by answering a question from "Bob," who is a 47 y/o BJJ practitioner who tries to train daily and even some days twice per day. "Bob" says that by mid week he has a hard time with focused and technical training and feels that he needs to be on the mats as much as possible to learn.
We give some advice to "Bob" on how to get the most out of training and the importance of the implementation of "rest days."
We also discuss the physical and mental signs of overtraining and how you can identify these signs and what to do about them.
We also discuss why your ability to improve is related to your rate of recovery, how scrolling on social media can negatively impact concentration and learning information, and how to avoid falling behind in BJJ.
Thanks to the podcast sponsors:
Check out "Athlethc" at https://athlethc.com/ and use the code Chewjitsu10 to get 10% off of your order of hemp-derived THC performance mints.
Charlotte's Web CBD.
Head over to **https://bit.ly/chewjitsu30** and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase.
Epic Roll BJJ.
Check out https://epicrollbjj.com/ and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase.
Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at https://patreon.com/thechewjitsupodcast
This week we're joined again by Erin Herle! In this episode, Erin introduces the PLAY framework and explains why humor is a fundamental element of good culture and learning.
Follow Erin on Instagram:
[https://www.instagram.com/erinherle/](https://www.instagram.com/erinherle/)
Get Erin's new book, If You’re Not Laughing, You’re Losing:
[https://amzn.to/4jP5x8K](https://amzn.to/4jP5x8K)
Work with Erin:
[https://www.erinherle.com/](https://www.erinherle.com/)
[http://highmentalperformance.com/](http://highmentalperformance.com/)
**Resources mentioned in this episode:**
Humor Styles Questionnaire, by Rod A. Martin, PhD:
[http://www.humorstyles.com/](http://www.humorstyles.com/)
If You’re Not Laughing, You’re Losing, by Erin Herle:
[https://amzn.to/4jP5x8K](https://amzn.to/4jP5x8K)
VIA Character Strengths Survey:
[https://www.viacharacter.org/](https://www.viacharacter.org/)
**Mental models discussed in this episode:**
- Keep it Playful
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/)- Habits Over Results
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/)- Defensive Thinking
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking/)- 10-10-10 Rule
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/10-10-10-rule/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/10-10-10-rule/)- Survivorship Bias
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias/)- Consistency
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/)- Psychological Safety
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/)- Respect People, Not Positions
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/)- Yes, And...
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/yes-and/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/yes-and/)- Flow
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/flow/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/flow/)- Reflecting "As If"
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reflecting-as-if/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reflecting-as-if/)
**Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!**
If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at **a fraction of the cost of a single private.**
Sign up here for a free trial:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/)
**Need more BJJ Mental Models?**
Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/)
Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/)
Follow us on social:
[https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/)
[https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/)
Music by Enterprize:
[https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/](https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/)
We recently got a comment saying lifting weights was un-natural. There are a lot of reasons why we believe this sentiment to be wrong. If you take it literally, sure, humans did not lift weights... but they also did not sit in front of screens for 10 hours + every single day. Learn here why lifting weight might actually be the MOST natural thing you could do and how it could benefit you starting today.
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Increase athleticism, reduce injuries and build a grapplers physique with the Bulletproof for BJJ App. Start your FREE 14 Day Trial today:
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bulletproof-for-bjj/id6444311790
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bulletproofforbjj&utm_source=na_Med
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🎙️ A candid roundtable on tariffs, economic disruption, and the fight to preserve Jiu-Jitsu communities during hard times.
In this episode of Fighting Matters, co-hosts Steve Kwan, Jesse Walker, and Jeff Shaw take a hard look at how Trump’s tariff policies and looming economic challenges are threatening Jiu-Jitsu gyms across North America. Drawing from their experiences as gym owners, content creators, and lifelong martial artists, they explore how Jiu-Jitsu businesses can survive—and even thrive—through solidarity, long-term thinking, and real community-building.
This conversation isn’t about partisan politics. It’s about practical survival strategies for the martial arts world—and why now, more than ever, community must come first.
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👥 Featuring:
Steve Kwan @bjjmentalmodels
Jesse Walker @roughhandsbjj
Jeff Shaw @bellinghambjj
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🧠 Topics We Cover:
• How tariffs and border restrictions threaten Jiu-Jitsu gyms
• Why wealth concentration hurts martial arts communities
• How to recession-proof your academy today
• The hidden risks of economic downturns for small businesses
• Why Jiu-Jitsu must become more than just a sport
• How generosity, community, and loyalty can save your gym
• Practical ways to support students and staff through hardship
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📖 Chapters:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and WrestleMania Discussion
05:06 Impact of Current Events on Jiu-Jitsu Businesses
09:56 Challenges Faced by Gym Owners
15:08 Community Building and Brand Loyalty
20:03 Economic Insights and Strategies for Survival
25:01 Opportunities in Crisis
30:04 Concluding Thoughts on Wealth and Responsibility
41:42 Navigating Economic Challenges in Jiu Jitsu
48:24 Building Community Through Jiu Jitsu
57:45 Long-Term Thinking in Business
01:03:19 Supporting Local Businesses Over Corporations
01:04:11 Addressing Misogyny in Jiu Jitsu
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💬 Notable Quotes:
“You don’t save a gym by cutting your people.” – Jeff
“Generosity is the strongest brand you can build.” – Steve
“Investing in your community pays bigger dividends than saving pennies.” – Jesse
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🎯 For Listeners Who:
• Own or manage a martial arts gym
• Want to protect their community from economic shocks
• Believe small businesses are worth fighting for
• Are looking for real-world survival strategies for martial arts
• Value leadership, loyalty, and resilience over short-term profits
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💬 Your thoughts matter—join the conversation in the comments below.
🎧 Subscribe to Fighting Matters for open, honest dialogue on martial arts, community, and survival in a changing world.
#JiuJitsu #MartialArts #Tariffs #Recession #BJJCommunity #FightingMatters #SmallBusiness #CommunityBuilding #BJJPodcast #TrumpTariffs #MartialArtsTalk
In case you didn't know, JT became a crypto-millionaire overnight... or his account was hacked. We talk about the details of JT's stolen social media, and perhaps how it may have been an impromptu enlightening experience for him. If you are late to the party or were maybe fooled, JT did not gain millions on crypto overnight, and did not buy a white Mercedes. Thanks for tuning in!
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BULLETPROOF SHIRTS: https://www.fanwear.com.au/products/core-bullet-proof-for-bjj-classic-tee
---------------------------------------
Increase athleticism, reduce injuries and build a grapplers physique with the Bulletproof for BJJ App. Start your FREE 14 Day Trial today:
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bulletproof-for-bjj/id6444311790
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bulletproofforbjj&utm_source=na_Med
Stay Hydrated with Sodii the tastiest electrolytes in the Game! Get 15% OFF: BULLETPROOF15 https://sodii.com.au/bulletproof
The fight-or-flight reflex is always lurking just below the surface. When things get sufficiently stressful, our hormonal system dumps enormous amounts of adrenaline into our bloodstream, and—BOOM—suddenly we're ready for action.
That adrenaline serves a purpose: it elevates your heart rate, makes you much stronger, more pain tolerant, and able to ignore injury. If you ever have to lift a car off a child, you don't want to be calm. Instead, you want to be mad, scared, enraged—whatever it takes to get into that adrenaline-soaked state of high arousal to lift the damn car with your bare hands.
But that superhuman strength comes at a cost; as adrenaline floods your system, you lose a significant amount of fine motor control and higher brain function. Take whatever IQ you started with and cut it in half.
This episode of The Strenuous Life Podcast is an excerpt from the audiobook version of Perseverance, Life and Death in the Subarctic which you can check out anywhere you get books including the links below:
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Perseverance-Death-Subarctic-Stephan-Kesting/dp/1639368612/
BARNES AND NOBLE: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/perseverance-stephan-kesting/1145682384
INDIGO: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/perseverance-life-and-death-in-the-subarctic/9781639368617.html
Good luck with your training and all your endeavors
Stephan Kesting
Today we’re diving headfirst into another round of spicy hot takes—where flow rolls turn violent, blue belts turn into prophets, and your coach is probably just winging it five minutes before class. From the culty undercurrents of mixing martial arts and religion to the shame of explaining why a teenager tapped you, this one pulls no punches and definitely won’t get us invited back to your gym.
Whether you're a curriculum-free coach, a YouTube blue belt, or just someone still pretending flow rolling is real, this episode is here to make you laugh, think, and maybe delete a few Instagram posts. Strap in. It's wristlocks, wisdom, and weirdos—served hot and heretical, just how we like it.
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In this week's mini-episode we explain the importance of **technique chaining,** and why "Jiu-Jitsu is the space between the techniques."
Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE:
[https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro)
**Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!**
If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at **a fraction of the cost of a single private.**
Sign up here for a free trial:
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