Interviews

Beatrice Jin shares the competition strategies that have allowed her to become the American National adult black belt middleweight champion and one of the top ranked black belts in the world. From guard pulls to sweeps to takedowns to pin escapes to conditioning to KO grips to structuring open mats so that they become a competitive advantage for you, Beatrice doesn't hold anything back. If you compete, or if you're thinking about competing, this is a must-listen. Follow Beatrice on Instagram at @berimbozo and her incredibly successful women's open mat program at @dmvwomensbjj. Or train with her at [Kogaion Academy](https://www.kogaionacademy.com/) in Arlington, VA.

Stay hydrated with Sodii & get 15% OFF: BULLETPROOF15 https://sodii.com.au/bulletproof Get stronger and more mobile today for free-- 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 Leave us a question for the next QNA episode: https://bulletproofforbjj.com/podcast

In this episode, Ana Mayordomo opens up about her insane competition schedule, life on the road, and what it really takes to chase greatness in jiu-jitsu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan (BJJ Mental Models), Jeff Shaw (Bellingham BJJ), and Mike Mahaffey (Old Bastard BJJ) sit down with journalist and Muay Thai fighter Karen Attiah. Karen was the founding editor of the Washington Post’s Global Opinions section and later a columnist covering race, gender, and culture. After 11 years at the Post, she was abruptly fired (by email) for “violating social media policy.” Her real offense? Speaking honestly about power, violence, and free speech in America. Together, the panel explores what Karen’s story reveals about censorship, media ownership, and how corporate media is collapsing under the weight of its own contradictions. They dig into the chilling effect on journalists, the influence of billionaires over public discourse, and the uneasy marriage between combat sports and authoritarian regimes. This is a conversation about free speech, courage, and what it means to fight inside and outside the ring. Support Karen @ The Golden Hour on Substack: https://karenattiah.substack.com/ ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Karen Attiah — Journalist @, The Golden Hour, author, Muay Thai silver medalist Jeff Shaw — @BellinghamBJJ Steve Kwan — @BJJMentalModels Mike Mahaffey — @OldBastardBJJ ⸻ 🧠 Topics Discussed: • Why the Washington Post fired Karen Attiah • The death of free speech in corporate media • Saudi Arabia, sportswashing, and martial arts • How authoritarianism co-opts combat sports • Fighting as therapy, resistance, and truth-telling ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Karen Attiah 01:50 Karen's Journey in Journalism 04:15 The Impact of Social Media on Journalism 10:58 The Incident Leading to Termination 14:19 Free Speech and Its Implications 18:48 The Role of Media Ownership 24:03 The Legacy of Jamal Khashoggi 30:41 The Intersection of Combat Sports and Politics 36:09 The Double Standards in Free Speech 43:27 Lessons from Combat Sports 45:37 The Power of Wrestling in Storytelling 48:07 Wrestling and Politics: A Cultural Connection 51:56 Martial Arts: A Personal Journey 59:03 The Intersection of Martial Arts and Politics 01:06:01 Finding Strength in Community and Self-Awareness 01:12:02 The Future of Independent Media and Personal Agency

In this episode, Rob Biernacki confronts a growing trend of competitors refusing to tap and taking serious injuries at low-level tournaments. Rob argues that reckless "tough-guy" behavior, poor finishing mechanics, and bad coaching culture are fueling unnecessary damage for hobbyists. Rob calls for smarter, safer training values, reminding athletes that protecting longevity matters more than risking ligaments for a $5 medal. Follow Rob on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/islandtopteam](https://www.instagram.com/islandtopteam) Train with Rob at Island Top Team in Nanaimo, BC, Canada: [https://islandtopteam.com/](https://islandtopteam.com/) Learn from Rob online at BJJ Concepts: [https://bjjconcepts.net/](https://bjjconcepts.net/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Defend With Purpose [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defend-with-purpose/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defend-with-purpose/)- Constant and Variable Tension [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constant-and-variable-tension/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constant-and-variable-tension/)- Keep Your Identity Small [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/)- Prioritize Longevity [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity/) **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)

Jiu-Jitsu isn’t supposed to be complicated — so why do most people make it harder than it has to be? In this episode of *The I Suck at Jiu-Jitsu Show*, I(thejoshmckinney) sit down with Henry Akins(@henryakinsbjj) and Michael Zenga(@michaelzenga) to break down the most powerful “old school” concepts. We talk: mount vs. back, the forgotten power of the cross-collar choke, and how legends like Rickson, Roger, and Gordon *all built their games the same simple way.* We laugh, tell stories of Henry Abusing us, and dive deep into the micro-details that turn basic moves into black-belt weapons. If you’re ready to stop overcomplicating your jiu-jitsu and start winning with less, this episode is for you. ✅ **What You’ll Learn:** - Why mount > back (and why most people get it backwards)- The cross-collar choke secrets even black belts miss- Why Half Guard Doesn't Exist- Why “mastering less” is the real key to mastery- How breathing and body positioning change everything [Henrys Cross Collar Course](https://www.hiddenjiujitsu.com/crosscollarchokesmasteryseminar) [Henry's Takedown Course](https://www.hiddenjiujitsu.com/unstoppableclinchingandtakedowns) [Henry's Fanatics Courses](https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/henry-akins?srsltid=AfmBOop5c9DjHLJcxJetgSkXxC39vUO9Zivnixz2CoWO2B1rplkCtiuR&list=1) Jiu-Jitsu for Imbeciles, feat. Rob Biernacki(FREE): [https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/isuck](https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/isuck) [sportshygiene.com](http://sportshygiene.com) Promo Code “ISUCK” Datsusara 10% OFF with Promo Code “ISUCK”: [https://www.dsgear.com/](https://www.dsgear.com/) Master ANY Position in 6 Weeks: [https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/6](https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/6) Join ISAJJ PRO(ALL of Josh’s Courses in One Place): [https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/suck](https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/suck)

Chris Wojcik joins the show to talk about goal setting, finding purpose, the value of regret and removing self-doubt from your mind. He also talks about his beginnings as a wrestler, his passion for writing and his recent performance at CJI 2!

In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan (BJJ Mental Models), Jesse Walker (Rough Hands BJJ), and Stephan Kesting (Grapplearts) dive into the chaos of America’s accelerating news cycle. From Charlie Kirk’s assassination to Trump’s authoritarian rhetoric, from RFK Jr.’s war on science to the weaponization of “cancel culture,” the team unpacks why democracy feels like it’s collapsing in real time. Together, they explore how “flooding the zone” with scandals makes it impossible to process events, why speech and violence aren’t the same but are getting dangerously blurred, and how propaganda is rewriting history before our eyes. Along the way, they connect politics back to the martial arts community, asking whether it’s even possible to “keep politics out of Jiu-Jitsu” when the very freedoms that allow us to train are under threat. The takeaway: democracy doesn’t collapse in one big moment; it dies fast, in floods of outrage, distraction, and chaos. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Stephan Kesting — Grapplearts, Essential Wilderness Steve Kwan — BJJ Mental Models Jesse Walker — Rough Hands BJJ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • The “flood the zone” strategy and why chaos is the point • Charlie Kirk’s assassination and his canonization into a martyr • Trump’s public calls to prosecute political enemies • Stephen Miller’s funeral speech vs. Joseph Goebbels’ rhetoric • Speech vs. violence — where’s the real line? • Jimmy Kimmel, the FCC, and government-driven censorship • Free speech absolutism and its real limits • The weaponization of propaganda inside martial arts spaces ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Fighting Matters 01:02 Round Robin: The Week’s Most Insane News 06:43 Charlie Kirk’s Assassination & Fallout 15:20 Stephen Miller’s Speech vs. Nazi Parallels 20:14 Capitulation, Propaganda, and Corporate Cowardice 27:02 Speech vs. Violence: Where’s the Line? 33:45 Social Media, Disinformation, and Civil War Rhetoric 40:01 Free Speech Absolutism Debunked 47:35 The Charlie Kirk Memorial as Propaganda Theater 54:35 RFK Jr., Autism, and Attacks on Science 01:01:12 Polio, Vaccines, and the Return of Preventable Diseases 01:05:30 Cognitive Dissonance and the MAGA Movement 01:09:00 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Us

Ben Kovacs joins to talk about some of the things going on in the world of FloGrappling! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!In this episode, we finally listened to the hate comments and got rid of Damien. Join NickyRod, Ethan, and Nicky Ryan as they catch each other up on their new training habits, family life, and what Ethan is finally going to do with his $200k.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: @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_creatorTimestamps:00:00:00 Intro00:00:29 We Fired Damien00:01:30 Cory Sandhagen00:05:00 There Are No Current Events00:06:05 Balls Deep In Pizza Ovens & Trials00:08:40 Back When The Boys Won Trials00:11:10 Nicky Hates NYC00:14:30 Ethan Feeds A Homeless Man00:15:00 Sponsors00:17:00 Homeless People Stories00:19:15 Financial Advice for Ethan00:23:28 Giving Your License to the Cops00:25:24 NickyRod Ruins Damien’s Carpet00:26:20 Reminiscing About the Drunk Episode00:31:21 Off Roading00:33:00 Prodigal Coffee00:34:00 Damien Broke Nicky’s Breville00:38:08 A Gift From NickyRod00:39:35 Zynbabwe00:41:20 Simpleman Open Mat00:43:00 Just Write It Off00:46:02 Manual Cars & Car Accidents00:58:14 What’s Coming Up?00:59:30 Watching Cartoons01:02:02 Pizza Ovens01:07:20 Skill Development01:12:07 Kenta is the Best01:13:40 Okay Bye

Welcome to the Jiu Jitsu Dummies Podcast, presented by [Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) and [AcademySafe.org](https://academysafe.org/) This week, hosts Ben Stark and Milton Campis sit down for a candid, no-holds-barred discussion on some of the most talked-about topics in the BJJ community. We dive deep into: - ⚠️ The Top 10 Academy Red Flags: Essential viewing for anyone training or looking to join a gym! We break down the signs of a poor learning environment, bad business practices, and safety concerns that every student and parent should look out for. - The Black Belt Debate: We tackle the viral discussion surrounding Derek Moneyberg and his rapid three-and-a-half-year journey to a Black Belt. Is it legitimate? What does it mean for the sport? We analyze the timeline and the overall significance. - Plus: All the usual conversation and insight into all things Jiu-Jitsu! Tune in for the unfiltered mat talk and let us know your thoughts on our Top 10 list! Instagram handles: @unclemiltybjj @mmacoachben @jiujitsudummies @attpbg Thank you to Episode Sponsors: [Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) - Request a FREE Review of your company's online presence today! [Flow N Roll](https://www.flownroll.com/) - Get 20% OFF with Code: JJD [Academy Safe - Join or Donate now](https://academysafe.org/) [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 [FightTape.us](https://www.fighttape.us/) - Get 10% OFF with code: JJD Contact the Dummies @JiuJitsuDummies on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jiujitsudummies/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JiuJitsuDummies/), and [X](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.

This week, we're joined again by Jeff Shaw from Bellingham BJJ! In this episode, Jeff talks about the causes and cures for burnout in Jiu-Jitsu. Topics include: plateaus, the “blue belt blues,” the unique pressures faced by instructors and gym owners, keeping training sustainable, protecting consistency, staying playful, reframing expectations, and redefining what Jiu-Jitsu should mean for your life over the long term. Follow Jeff on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/bellinghambjj](https://www.instagram.com/bellinghambjj) Train with Jeff at Bellingham BJJ: [https://bellinghambjj.com/](https://bellinghambjj.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Reframing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reframing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reframing/)- Keep /Your Identity Small [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/)- Consistency [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/)- Training Handicaps [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/training-handicaps/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/training-handicaps/)- Stress and Recovery [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery/)- Keep it Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/)- Zone of Genius [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/zone-of-genius/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/zone-of-genius/)- Raise the Level in the Room [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/)- Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/) **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)

If you still “gas” when the pressure hits, you’re breathing wrong. Today, I (@thejoshmckinney) sit down with Glyn Podwitch (@glynpowditch). Glyn breaks down practical breathwork for BJJ—how to brace in crushing positions (scarf hold, neon belly), inflate to survive triangles, and use exhale timing to escape without panicking. We also get into Rickson-inspired rib mobility, why many yogis still tap to pressure, and how to build calm strength on the mats. What you’ll learn: The simple “fill + brace” cue that makes you harder to crush. When to exhale vs. inhale under top pressure (and why it matters). A starter progression for pressure-proof breathing (safe, scalable). Intercostal/rib mobility that helps longevity and defense. Why relaxed players feel impossibly heavy 🎧 Listen to more ISAJJ: new episodes every Thursday 🎙 Guest: Glyn Podwitch | Breathwork coach & BJJ black belt 📚 Mentions: Rickson Gracie, Henry Akins, Dr. Belisa Vranich (Breathing for Warriors), Wim Hof, Stanislav Grof, Miles Lucas [Glyn's course on Fanatics](https://bjjfanatics.com/products/breathe-to-win-by-glyn-powditch?_pos=1&_sid=375ebf4c4&_ss=r) [Glyn's Ai Company](https://dreamagility.com/) Jiu-Jitsu for Imbeciles (FREE) [BJJ Mental Models](https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/isuck) [sportshygiene.com](http://sportshygiene.com) Promo Code “ISUCK” [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)

For Professor Carlos Maia, Jiu-Jitsu has always been about more than the mats. In this final episode, we see his journey come full circle in Arizona, where he continues sharing the art of Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu with students worldwide through teaching, mentoring, and his GB2 curriculum on GB Online coming September 28th. From his early days in Rio to building schools across continents, Carlos Maia’s mission has remained the same: to preserve the essence of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while giving back to the community. In Arizona, that mission continues as he teaches, records, and contributes to the next generation of instructors and students. This episode captures the honor of being part of Gracie Barra’s curriculum team — preserving the self-defense roots of Jiu-Jitsu, mentoring instructors, and ensuring the philosophy of discipline, respect, and resilience continues to grow. For Maia, it’s not just about teaching techniques; it’s about honoring where it all began. 💬 Who is the Jiu-Jitsu instructor that has had the biggest impact on your journey? 👉 Like this video if this story inspires you. 👉 Subscribe for more Jiu-Jitsu journeys and training insights. 👉 GB2 by Carlos Maia — launching Week 1 on September 28th, with a new week released every week: https://online.graciebarra.com/pages/gb2-carlos-maia

In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan (BJJ Mental Models) and Jesse Walker (Rough Hands BJJ) welcome special guest Dr. Derek Jones. Derek is a BJJ black belt, innovation educator, and retired philosophy professor whose work bridges martial arts, culture, and political thought. Together, the team explores how memes evolved from internet jokes into one of the most powerful tools of propaganda in modern politics. From Richard Dawkins’ Selfish Gene to AI-driven meme floods, from the shifting Overton Window to the weaponization of humor, this conversation digs into how memes shape culture, spread extremism, and even destabilize democracy. Along the way, we discuss comedy as cover, the dangers of nihilism, and whether memes can still be reclaimed for good. The takeaway: memes aren’t harmless entertainment; they’re a frontline in the battle over culture, politics, and truth itself. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Derek Jones — BJJ black belt, social innovator, philosopher Steve Kwan — @BJJMentalModels Jesse Walker — Rough Hands BJJ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • What memes really are: from Dawkins to digital culture • How memes spread faster than truth, and why they stick • The Overton Window and cultural manipulation • Comedy, plausible deniability, and “just joking” politics • AI meme factories and the flood of propaganda • The Joker, fascism, and the politics of nihilism • Can memes be used for good? ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Fighting Matters 01:01 Meet Derek Jones: Black Belt & Philosopher 03:15 What Is a Meme, Really? 07:13 How Memes Shape Personality and Culture 09:53 Why Anyone Can Now Create Viral Propaganda 14:10 AI and the Future of Meme Warfare 20:14 Memes, Overton Windows, and Shifting Norms 23:55 The Plausible Deniability of Sharing Memes 28:23 Comedy as Cover: From Pepe to Rogan 33:43 The Joker, Fascism, and Mocking the System 37:51 Memes as News and the COVID Meme Boom 41:36 Is Society Getting Dumber, or Just Faster? 46:49 Offloading Memory to AI: Help or Harm? 53:37 Wall-E vs. Terminator: The Real AI Dystopia 55:49 Human Responsibility in an Automated World 59:09 Can Memes Still Be Used for Good? 01:02:26 Levity, Connection, and Fighting Back with Humor 01:03:08 Closing Thoughts

Alicia Reitz and I dive deep into how BJJ can be used to develop a strong sense of self confidence for everyone, and how that self confidence can then be put to good use in self defense and the the rest of your life. We also digress a little into specifics of the social media drama that I was involved in recently, which certainly raised my blood pressure just a little. Alicia Reitz (Hon.B.Kin, B.Ed. Hon.B.Kin, B.Ed.) is a BJJ Brown Belt and does in person and remote coaching. Follow her and get in touch with her via Instagram at @angelishfit. Please like, share and subscribe. And if you sometimes prefer your podcasts in video form, [click here to check out this episode on the Strenuous Life YouTube Channel](https://youtu.be/SlQNbHB6DgE). Thank you so much, Stephan Kesting P.S. If you're interested in the topic of building self confidence and mental fortitude I think you might like my book about the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of dealing with extreme circumstances, available in hardcover, Kindle, or audiobook format everywhere including Amazon here: Perseverance, Life and Death in the Subarctic

Niko Mikuliszyn joins the show to talk about his historic run at the 2025 ADCC European trials! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The $300,000 Man Victor Hugo joins the show to talk about CJI 2, training at B-Team, and some of the things he saw at ADCC Euro trials! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!In this podcast, we have guest Chris Wojcik, a BJJ black belt under Jeff Serafin and a competitor out of B-Team. Chris made waves at ADCC 2024, finishing 4th in the 88kg division and was an integral part of B-Team's quintet team for CJI 2. Beyond competition, Chris is the author of The Grappler’s Diary and the inventor of the “Woj Lock,” cementing his place as both a creative mind and respected voice in Jiu-Jitsu.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: @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 Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:29 Women's Pay 00:07:02 Ruotolo's MMA 00:08:42 Gable & Craig 00:09:51 Nicky Rod Arrives & Chris Intro 00:10:54 Change Every Name to Woj 00:11:19 Catching Up 00:12:36 How Chris Discovered the Wojlock 00:13:25 Reddit 00:14:32 Nicky Rod's Social Battery 00:15:10 Hangin in Vegas 00:15:26 Our Sponsors 00:16:38 Addictions 00:21:05 Nicky Rod is Sick 00:21:30 Ethan and Jo Jo So Happy 00:24:28 B-Team & New Wave Drama 00:26:20 Gordon's IG Post 00:27:01 What We Would Have Done If We Lost 00:28:55 What's Next for Woj? 00:30:25 Future Competitions 00:31:16 ADCC Poland 00:34:18 Social Media Presence 00:37:32 Chris NEEDS Glasses 00:39:10 Planning Walkout 00:40:47 The Boys Were Banged Up 00:43:16 Confidence When Competing 00:45:07 Ankle Stability in Jiu Jitsu 00:47:51 Scaling Jiu Jitsu Technique 00:50:10 Lifting For Jiu Jitsu 00:56:30 Taking Time Off Training 00:57:55 ADCC Trials 00:58:27 Nicky Rod Wants to go to Disney 01:00:09 Luis and Ethan, the Ring Bearers 01:01:05 LOTR and Harry Potter 01:01:32 Charlie Kirk 01:06:15 Random Guy Shows Up 01:06:43 Declan Won Trials 01:09:26 Damien's Sister Calls In 01:09:55 Keeping the Family Together 01:14:17 How Chris Found Jiu Jitsu 01:17:11 The IBJJF 01:20:26 ADCC Injuries Are WILD 01:21:41 Landon Elmore vs Keith Krikorian Breakdown 01:26:25 Damien is Leaving for a Week 01:27:00 Writing as a Hobby vs a Job 01:30:39 Are Da Boyz Organized? 01:32:15 What is Woj Doing with $200K? 01:36:06 Outro

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by ADCC veteran and BJJ black belt John Hansen. John discusses bouncing around gyms initially and then finding a consistent training environment, when his life started to change into a more positive directions, 5 things all grappling is based around, how his training has changed as he has gotten older, getting things that you want in training and having a more narrow focus on success and failure, what has moved the needle most in his training, his thoughts on goal setting, his focus on hand fighting, his biggest regret, and having the ability to fixate on things that are important to you. Follow John on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rearden_mettle/ 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 Dr. Jen Case! Jen is a 13x IBJJF masters world champion, BJJ black belt under Renato Tavares, coach at Charlotte Jiu-Jitsu Academy, and PhD in Human Nutrition & Performance. In this episode, Jen covers the risks of Jiu-Jitsu competition and how it can be made safer. Follow Jen on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/drjenjitsu/](https://www.instagram.com/drjenjitsu/) Jen's website: [https://drjencase.com/](https://drjencase.com/) Train with Jen at Charlotte Jiu-Jitsu Academy in North Carolina: [https://charlotte-bjj.com/](https://charlotte-bjj.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Normalization [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/normalization/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/normalization/)- Gamification [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/)- Open Knowledge [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/open-knowledge/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/open-knowledge/)- Return on Investment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/) **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)

We had the honor of joining the San Antonio Living morning show to share our passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, family, and community. 🥋❤️ Professor Diego Gamonal, 5th-degree black belt and world-class coach, spoke about the power of Jiu-Jitsu not only as a martial art but as a life-changing tool for confidence, discipline, and self-defense. Denise shared the vision behind building Brazilian Top Team Texas into a welcoming family environment where parents and kids grow stronger together on and off the mats. This segment highlighted how Jiu-Jitsu empowers children, inspires families, and brings the community together. 🌟 👉 Watch now and see why Brazilian Top Team is more than just training—it’s a lifestyle, a family, and a place to belong!