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Martial arts pioneer Tom Callos came onto The Strenuous Life Podcast to discuss the California martial arts scene in the wake of Bruce Lee, the importance of taking your training out of the dojo and into the world, how your students can become your school's most effective advertising, being BJ Penn's first BJJ instructor, and his thoughts about BJ's current struggles. Tom has owned several martial arts schools, worked as a business and curriculum consultant to the international martial arts community, competed regionally, nationally, and internationally, and was a member of an internationally renowned demonstration team. Follow Tom on Instagram @tomcallos. And check out my best-selling book "Perseverance, Life and Death in the Subarctic", available everywhere including Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Perseverance-Death-Subarctic-Stephan-Kesting/dp/1639368612/ Cheers! Stephan Kesting ##

Jul 23, 2025 · 1:15:32 · Listen

In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan of BJJ Mental Models and Jesse Walker of Rough Hands BJJ confront one of the most urgent challenges in martial arts today: the normalization of extremist rhetoric, abuse, and unethical behavior within the community. From Derek Moneyberg’s questionable black belt promotion by Jake Shields, to the broader cultural rot represented by figures like Jeffrey Epstein and their enablers, we dig into how bad actors gain power, and why silence enables them. We also tackle the rising presence of neo-Nazi recruitment in martial arts spaces, why UFC’s tolerance of far-right behavior sets a dangerous precedent, and how the Jiu-Jitsu community is at risk of losing its soul if we don’t act. This conversation isn’t about clout, belts, or beef; it’s about what happens when a sport built on respect and discipline turns a blind eye to hate and abuse. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Steve Kwan @BJJMentalModels Jesse Walker @RoughHandsBJJ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • Why Derek Moneyberg’s black belt isn’t just a belt, it’s a red flag • Jake Shields’ slide into far-right extremism and what it means for Jiu-Jitsu • The danger of giving platforms to bigots, grifters, and abusers • What the Epstein case teaches us about power, silence, and complicity • How neo-Nazis are using martial arts as a recruitment tool, and how to fight back • Why “it’s not my problem” is the worst excuse you can make • What gym owners, instructors, and students must do now ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Gym Updates 01:52 Derek Moneyberg's Controversial Black Belt Promotion 06:09 Ethics of Black Belt Promotions 16:24 Debate on Normalizing Hate in Society 17:16 The Jubilee Debate Incident 30:58 The Impact of Extremism in Combat Sports 34:10 The Growing Problem of Extremism in Martial Arts 39:06 The Responsibility of Gym Owners and Instructors 44:17 The Challenges of Leaving Toxic Environments 49:04 Abuse of Power and the Fight for Justice 53:51 The Importance of Protecting Vulnerable Voices 01:00:01 Taking a Stand Against Normalization of Abuse

Jul 23, 2025 · 1:07:48 · Listen

The Black Belt heard round the world. Many Jiu Jitsu folks are up in arms about the Moneyberg black belt situation and saying that he bought his Black Belt and did not earn it. Does this tarnish Jiu Jitsu's credibility as a whole? How about the world class guys that endorse him? How will this black belt affect the sport long term. Time will tell! ---------------------- 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

Jul 22, 2025 · 25:24 · Listen
Global Martial Arts USA - Gallatin TN 37066

Global Martial Arts USA - Gallatin TN 37066

Academia Rocian Gracie Jr - USA

Puerto Rico Demo 1988 - 5 Peril Block Break - these are some of the hardest blocks. Demo at Linds TaeKwonDo School for his students - the power of TKD - Grandmaster Spillmann 3rd Dan Level 509 Garnet Ct #100 Gallatin, TN 37066 Call for a Free Trial Lesson (731)324-3847

Jul 21, 2025 · Watch
Global Martial Arts USA - Gallatin TN

Global Martial Arts USA - Gallatin TN

Academia Rocian Gracie Jr - USA

GMA Demo around 2009 - 12 Block Break - Knifehand 509 Garnet Ct #100 Gallatin, TN 37066 Call for a Free Trial Lesson (731)324-3847

Jul 21, 2025 · Watch
Global Martial Arts USA Gallatin TN  / Rocian Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Welcome to our martial arts family. We offer Jiu-Jitsu, TaeKwonDo, HapKiDo, Wing Chun. TaiChi. After-School Care (Local School Pick-Up) & K-12 Homeschool Program. We have over 50 years of experience and high-level master instructors. 509 Garnet Ct #100 Gallatin TN 37066 731-324-3847

Jul 21, 2025 · Watch
THE SIMPLE MAN PODCAST Ep.130 | THE END OF B-TEAM

Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!Anaconda Fightwear:https://anacondafightwear.co/collections/braces-supports?snowball=SIMPLEMAN15Promo 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: @pronoiabjjChapters:00:10:53 The End Of B-Team00:21:21 Nicky Ryan is back00:27:25 Nicky Ryan the Co-Host00:29:24 Next Guest00:34:04 CJI Camp00:46:23 The boys went crazy00:54:17 Does IQ equal High Income01:02:55 Nicky the next home owner01:08:08 Drilling or CLA?01:11:15 Testing the Waters01:15:14 OutroSimpleman 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

Jul 21, 2025 · 1:19:59 · Listen

In this episode of BJJ Mental Models, Steve Kwan is joined by Laurien Zurhake to explore how trauma-informed coaching can transform Jiu-Jitsu into a safer, more inclusive, and more effective training environment. Laurien, co-founder of Off the Zone, shares her ABC Playbook for Mental Health (Anticipate, Bring Them Back, and Course Correct), a practical framework for coaches to support students through mental health challenges. Follow Laurien and Off the Zone on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/off_the_zone](https://www.instagram.com/off_the_zone) Work with Laurien @ Off the Zone: [https://www.off-the-zone.com/](https://www.off-the-zone.com/) **Resources discussed in this episode:** Off the Zone's Mental First Aid ABC Protocol [https://www.off-the-zone.com/68538](https://www.off-the-zone.com/68538) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Psychological Safety [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/)- Compatible Intent [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compatible-intent/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compatible-intent/)- Gamification [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/)- Growth Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/)- Beginner's Mind [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/)- Pattern Interrupts [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/pattern-interrupts/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/pattern-interrupts/) **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/) ⚠️**NEW course from BJJ Mental Models!** **MINDSET FOR BETAS,** our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta)

Jul 21, 2025 · 59:19 · Listen

The Collapse Of B-Team

Bulletproof For BJJ

One of grapplings most sensational gyms in coming to an end. Let's not be sad that it's over, but happy that it ever happened. The DDS split continues to keep splitting with this time happening in a more serendipitous way. We look forward to what Craig gets up to as well as the rebrand of the 2nd best BJJ gym in the world... ---------------------- 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

Jul 19, 2025 · 16:49 · Listen
Mini Ep. 63: Self-Competition

Mini Ep. 63: Self-Competition

BJJ Mental Models

In this week's mini-episode we discuss **self-competition.** You've probably heard the phrase, "comparison is the thief of joy." Self-comparison is a problem we all face, and self-competition is a helpful mental model for working with this problem. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) **Resources discussed in this episode:** How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Other People - Eyepatch Wolf [https://youtu.be/wL93C0lm0nQ?t=126s](https://youtu.be/wL93C0lm0nQ?t=126s) **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/) ⚠️**NEW course from BJJ Mental Models!** **MINDSET FOR BETAS,** our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta)

Jul 17, 2025 · 6:49 · Listen
#331 Hot Takes: Should have to compete to get promoted?

What SHOULD BE Jiu-Jitsu's Belt Criteria?In this solo scorcher, Josh McKinney unloads his 25 spiciest Jiu-Jitsu hot takes — the kind that make you question your training, your teammates… and maybe even your whole gym. From why your cardio sucks (hint: it’s not your lungs, it’s your brain), to why you should have to compete to get promoted, this is a firestorm of uncomfortable hot takes, hard-earned insights, and full-on Dawg Pound gospel.No belt is safe. No habit goes unchecked. If you train BJJ and haven’t heard this list… you’re training blind. 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)

Jul 17, 2025 · 1:24:57 · Listen
Scrappy Armbar Finish at ADCC Miami 2025 #nogijiujitsu

Discover Miami's premier No-Gi Jiu Jitsu at Ground Game Theory, founded in November 2022. Our innovative curriculum prioritizes critical thinking, ensuring swift skill advancement for all levels and ages. Elevate your grappling game with our expertly crafted classes. Website: https://groundgametheory.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/groundgametheory Facebook: https://facebook.com/GroundGameTheory TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@groundgametheory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@groundgametheory

Jul 15, 2025 · Watch

A million dollar tournament just went down in Kazakhstan. It was one of the greatest shows in grappling history with some of the best matches we've seen to date, and there's a chance you have never heard of it. Listen here for the behind the scenes AIGA recap from our man who had the boots on the ground. ---------------------- 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

Jul 14, 2025 · 35:56 · Listen
What Is A BJJ Black Belt? (Episode 372)

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss what is a legitimate black belt. We chat about the recent story of "Derek Moneyberg," who received a BJJ black belt in 3.5 years by doing only private lessons. Chewy shares a couple stories of teaching students who only wanted to do private lessons and wanted to get promoted, the limitations of only doing private lessons, "celebrity belts," why knowledge doesn't always equal skill, the characteristics of a legit black belt, and what Chewy looks for in a black belt. 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

Jul 14, 2025 · 1:05:15 · Listen

If someone tells you to stop using/drilling a move because "it's a low percentage move", what do you do? Is tradition a thing of the past in BJJ? Sure, some of us only do nogi and like to get in and get out, but what about the culture that jiu jitsu was built on? A couple of BANGER questions on today's QNA one coming from good friend Samoan Strongman. If you wanna leave a question for the boys, click this link and scroll down -https://bulletproofforbjj.com/podcast ---------------------- 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

Jul 10, 2025 · 12:29 · Listen
4 BJJ Rules That Changed My Life (Episode 371)

On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss 4 things that they learned through Jiu-Jitsu that impacted their lives. - Facing your fears - fear as part of the process and how to overcome the resistance to achieving your goals. - The cost of skill and progress - pick things that align with what you want. - Taking care of your body - get contrast through BJJ and create habits or better performance on the mats. - The power of repetition - developing technique in BJJ as well as the value of repetition in your life. 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

Jul 7, 2025 · 1:08:41 · Listen

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