Interviews

It started as an April Fool's joke and then morphed into a BEAST of a book complete with 967 illustrations called "Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the Ultimate Illustrated Guidebook". In episode 424 I chat with renowned BJJ black belt, illustrator and designer Seymour Yang (better known as Meerkatsu) and his partner in crime Graham Barlow (the creator of the Tai Chi Notebook) about the core techniques of BJJ, modern vs traditional jiu-jitsu, and the process of bringing a new book into the world. Check out the book here: https://www.meerkatsu.com/product/brazilian-jiu-jitsu-the-ultimate-illustrated-guidebook/ Cheers, Stephan P.S. And while we're on the topic of books check out Perseverance, Life and Death in the Subarctic. While this isn't a BJJ book specifically, it does contain many of the lessons I learned about endurance, perseverance, and grit on the toughest expedition of my life. Available on Amazon or wherever books are sold: https://www.amazon.com/Perseverance-Death-Subarctic-Stephan-Kesting/dp/1639368612/

Today, I sit down with James Driskill, a third-degree black belt under the legendary Rickson Gracie. James is not only Rickson’s trusted uke and teaching assistant but also a lifelong martial artist dedicated to preserving and sharing Rickson’s philosophy. We dive deep into James’s unique journey from training under Rickson in Los Angeles to becoming his full-time assistant in Florida. James shares insights on the art of being an uke, the priceless lessons learned from Rickson, and his philosophy of combining mindfulness and meditation both on and off the mats. We also discuss his personal life, his role as a teacher, and how he balances martial arts with family and life’s other passions. Whether you're a BJJ practitioner or just curious about what it’s like to train under one of the greatest of all time, this episode is packed with wisdom, philosophy, and inspiration. 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)

Jesse Walker, Jeff Shaw, and Steve Kwan are joined by longtime martial artist, educator, and activist D’Juan Owens. Together, they examine how self-defense training often overlooks the realities of abuse, how martial arts culture can enable victim blaming, and what it really means to create a safe, accountable training environment. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: • D’Juan Owens – Martial artist, educator, activist • Jesse Walker – @RoughHandsBJJ • Jeff Shaw ‪@BellinghamBJJ‬ • Steve Kwan ‪@bjjmentalmodels‬ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • Why most self-defense seminars miss the mark • The myth of the stranger in the alley • How martial arts culture can enable abuse • The importance of teaching consent and boundaries • What it means to build a safer gym culture ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to D’Juan Owens and His Work 00:50 The Journey into Gender-Based Violence Advocacy 09:22 Teaching Self-Defense and Positive Masculinity 11:00 Understanding Privilege and Victim Blaming 13:06 The Complexity of Privilege and Systemic Issues 18:37 Understanding Privilege and Responsibility 21:20 The Psychology of Self-Defense 22:14 Misconceptions in Self-Defense Training 23:25 The Reality of Assaults 26:56 Accountability and Cultural Norms 28:25 The Fallacy of Both Sides 30:11 Moral Cowardice in Jiu-Jitsu 34:07 The Role of Messengers in Self-Defense 37:04 Setting Boundaries and Consent 42:21 The Importance of Power and Responsibility 48:35 Understanding Risk and Personality in Young Adults 49:32 The Importance of Mixed Gender Seminars 51:20 Creating a Toolkit for Situational Awareness 53:13 The Role of Consent in Self-Defense Training 58:27 Navigating Consent and Communication in Martial Arts 01:01:58 Challenging Toxic Masculinity in Martial Arts 01:09:00 Addressing Misconceptions About Women in Jiu Jitsu 01:13:17 Cultural Sensitivity in Self-Defense Training

Jiu Jitsu Dummies Podcast, presented by [Black Belt Digital Marketing](https://www.bbdigitalmarketing.com/) and [AcademySafe.org](https://academysafe.org/) Welcome back to Jiu Jitsu Dummies! This week, we dive into the crucial topic of injury prevention and recovery for grapplers with expert guest Dr. Diana Wang, DPT. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Diana brings invaluable insights into understanding common Jiu-Jitsu injuries, effective rehabilitation strategies, and practical tips to keep you healthy and on the mats longer. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting your BJJ journey, this episode is packed with knowledge to optimize your training and well-being. Guest Instagram handle: @openmatphysio 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.

Get an uncensored and raw look into the mind of jiu-jitsu legend Megaton Dias! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Adam dives deep into winning his first World Championship, his favorite rock bands, getting into nature, and more! 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 Victor Hugo— BJJ black belt under Saulo and Alexandre Ribeiro of the Six Blades Association. In this podcast we follow Victor Hugo's journey from a hesitant beginner to a dominant force in both Brazilian jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts.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 we are joined by Cameron Shayne. Cameron pioneered the phrase and concept of Mixed Movement Arts in 2001 by combining the combat arts of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts together with Yoga, Crawling Patterns, Mobility, Calisthenics, and Cognitive Studies into a single black belt system known as Budokon. Cameron also holds black belts in Olympic style Taekwondo (5th Degree), Yoshikai Karate (3rd Degree), and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Cameron joins the podcast to discuss how he started working with MLB team the Philadelphia Phillies, how his mobility work is used for muscle activation and training, the difference between an athlete and a non-athlete, how to age athletically, why acting like a hobbyist leads to injury, his unique take on Gi vs No-Gi training, and how to work with Cameron. 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 Brennan Strimple! Brennan is the black belt head coach at RPMA (Rochester Phoenix Martial Arts). In this episode, Brennan shares his playbook for building a thriving kids' Jiu-Jitsu program, as well as leading the development of affordable kids' tournament circuits in the local community. Follow RPMA on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/rphxma](https://www.instagram.com/rphxma) Train at RPMA in Rochester, NY: [https://rochesterjiujitsu.com/](https://rochesterjiujitsu.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/)- Keep it Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/)- Investing in Loss [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/)- Resulting Fallacy [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/) **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)

🎙️ Jay Rod was removed from B-Team. The community response was just as revealing as the offense. In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan, Jesse Walker, and Jeff Shaw dissect the fallout from the Jiu-Jitsu world after Jacob “Jay Rod” Rodriguez was kicked out of B-Team following revelations of inappropriate behavior. While the gym acted swiftly and decisively, parts of the community rushed to defend him—and that’s where the real conversation begins. This isn’t about legal definitions or criminal charges. It’s about what kind of culture we’re building on the mats—and why so many in Jiu-Jitsu still treat predatory behavior with a shrug, if not outright support. The team breaks down the incident, the excuses, and what it says about power, values, and safety in martial arts spaces. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Jeff Shaw ‪@BellinghamBJJ‬ Jesse Walker ‪@RoughHandsBJJ‬ Steve Kwan ‪@bjjmentalmodels‬ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • Why B-Team made the right call • The myth of “he didn’t break the law” • How power dynamics warp gym culture • Why community pushback matters more than you think • The real cost of prioritizing athletes over safety ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Community Reaction to Jay Rod's Removal 02:48 Understanding Inappropriate Conduct in Jiu-Jitsu 06:07 The Impact of Power Dynamics in Gyms 08:55 Moral Standards vs. Legal Standards 11:42 Consequences and Redemption in the Jiu-Jitsu Community 14:50 The Path Forward for Jay Rod

Brian Glick returns to talk about the importance of strong communication skills as a teacher, the skill of simplifying complex concepts to make them more digestible and why he chose Judo over Wrestling for BJJ. He also breaks down escaping back control

Historian Daniele Bolelli joins us to define fascism and authoritarianism, break down the historical context of fascism, and explain the alliance between oligarchs and fascist governments, the role of fear and propaganda, and the potential role of martial arts in combatting authoritarianism. Catch Daniele's excellent History on Fire podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts or check out his site: https://historyonfirepodcast.com/ Follow him on Substack: https://danielebolelli.substack.com/ And check out his book, On the Warrior's Path: https://www.amazon.com/Warriors-Path-Second-Philosophy-Mythology/dp/158394219X

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. 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 Chapters: 00:00:00 Intro00:01:37 Nicky Ryan the coach00:04:53 Video Games00:12:06 Puerto Rican Hospital00:17:49 Who is in Better Shape?00:25:01 Does the USA have a drug problem?00:27:06 OF Model Wanted00:28:27 Kyle Snyder Arrest00:38:10 Bantamweight Division 00:43:00 UFC Fights00:48:20 Simple Man Tangent00:57:05 Movies01:01:11 Could we survive the end of civilization?01:08:51 Fat people Bacteria01:09:53 Is nick Ryan Dying01:12:40 Liam is delusional01:15:06 Simple Man Camp?01:17:28 Rally Car Update01:18:54 House Payments01:23:53 Outro

This week we're joined by Timothy Lee Peterson! In this episode, Timothy explains why gaze tracking — or where your eyes are looking — is a surprisingly important aspect of Jiu-Jitsu. Follow Timothy on social media: [https://www.instagram.com/timothyleepeterson](https://www.instagram.com/timothyleepeterson) [https://www.threads.com/@timothyleepeterson](https://www.threads.com/@timothyleepeterson) **Resources discussed in this episode:** Free+Style: Maximize Sport and Life Performance with Four Basic Movements, by Carl Paoli [https://www.amazon.com/dp/1628600209](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1628600209) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Theory of Alignment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/)- Head Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/head-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/head-position/)- Kuzushi [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/)- You Are What You Train [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/you-are-what-you-train/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/you-are-what-you-train/)- Teach to Learn [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/teach-to-learn/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/teach-to-learn/) **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)

Today, I (@thejoshmckinney) sit down with Rickson Gracie black belt Jack Taufer (@jacktaufer) to explore the mindset and methods behind becoming a true master of the fundamentals. Jack shares his unique approach to training, emphasizing how to be black belt level at white belt moves. We dive deep into the learning process, discussing how to improve your jiu-jitsu skills and become a better student, regardless of your belt level. Jack also shares some incredible stories from his years training under legends like Rickson Gracie and Dave Kama, offering insights into how timeless principles from the mat translate to real life. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this episode will inspire you to rethink your approach to training. Hit play and get ready to level up your fundamentals with Jack Taufer! [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)

🎙️ The UFC has become more than a fight promotion—it’s a political statement. In this episode of Fighting Matters, Jeff Shaw, Stephan Kesting, and Steve Kwan sit down with journalist Albert Samaha to unpack his explosive Washington Post article, “Two Nights in Vegas with the Fan-Bros of the UFC.” What begins as a story about fandom becomes a deep dive into the cultural and political forces shaping fight sports today. From MAGA hat sightings to Dana White’s unwavering support for Trump, the crew explores how the UFC became a haven for right-wing ideology—and what that means for the young men growing up in its orbit. This conversation isn’t about partisan politics. It’s about understanding how power, masculinity, and media converge in the cage—and what kind of future we’re fighting for. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Albert Samaha – Journalist & Author Jeff Shaw ‪@BellinghamBJJ‬ Stephan Kesting ‪@StephanKesting‬ Steve Kwan ‪@bjjmentalmodels‬ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • Why the UFC embraced Trumpism • The blurred lines between sport, spectacle, and propaganda • How fight sports influence young men’s identities • The grifter economy and “hustle culture” in MMA • What responsibility promoters have in shaping culture ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 02:55 The Intersection of Sports and Politics 06:17 Understanding the UFC Fanbase 09:14 The Role of Authenticity in Politics 12:04 Masculinity and the Appeal of Simplicity 14:56 The Complexity of Political Messaging 17:54 The Andrew Tate Phenomenon 21:07 Human Stories in Fight Sports 24:12 The UFC's Political Landscape 27:13 Conclusion and Reflections on the Future 33:25 UFC's Controversial Support for Problematic Figures 36:08 The Shift in UFC's Image and Strategy 40:21 The Wrestling Influence on UFC's Marketing 44:36 Free Speech and the UFC's Ethical Dilemmas 47:13 Economic Class and Masculinity in the UFC 01:01:47 Navigating Modern Masculinity and Influencer Culture

Is Jiu Jitsu a fight? On a previous episode, JT took a hard stance. But now we have brought that into question once again. You want to train differently but the gym (which you love) does not have what you're looking for; what do you do? Is G Souders full of S#@!?, or does he just not care to reexplain if you don't get it? Get all of the 100% correct and true answers here. ---------------------- 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

On this episode of The FloGrappling Show we talk to Elijah Dorsey about his epic competitions on back-to-back weekends in Brazil and we bring on a special guest that plans to take FloGrappling to the moon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED! On today’s episode, we are excited to welcome guests Firas Zahabi and Elton Wells. Firas Zahabi is best known for coaching UFC legend Georges St-Pierre, guiding him to multiple world championships. His analytical and methodical coaching style emphasizes technique and recovery over intense sparring, making Tristar Gym a premier MMA training center. Elton Wells is a respected Muay Thai and MMA coach based in Austin, Texas, and the founder of Ambush Muay Thai. His coaching emphasizes traditional Muay Thai fundamentals, clinch work, and tactical application. Known for his methodical and disciplined approach, Wells fosters a strong community culture at Ambush, producing both national Muay Thai champions and rising MMA talents. 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_creatorChapters: 00:00:00 Intro00:00:55 Who is Firas Zahabi & Elton Wells?00:04:38 Firas Zahabi Origins00:08:10 Meeting GSP00:09:14 What makes GSP so great?00:10:50 Meeting John Danaher00:14:00 Making the shift from athlete to coach 00:15:38 How to train properly00:25:20 Thoughts on CLA learning00:31:37 Strategizing for opponents 00:40:18 MMA camp stories00:42:27 Relationship with coach & fighter00:44:28 How he met Ethan 00:50:50 Evolution of MMA 00:55:30 Coaching his Brother00:57:08 How to help athlete find the their style01:05:14 Importance of Nutrition 01:08:00 How to properly lift01:13:10 How improve your running 01:19:53 Street fights01:27:40 Thoughts on Aliens & Religion 01:37:39 What makes Tristar so great01:45:20 Thoughts on homeschooling 01:51:13 How to manage athlete nerves 01:58:26 How many people will it take to bet a gorilla02:02:45 How to build your team to greatness 02:05:27 Outro

This week we're joined again by Charles Harriott! In this episode, Charles discusses the problem of "gatekeepers" in Jiu-Jitsu, or people who try to enforce their way of thinking over others. Charles explores how gatekeeping can shut down creativity, personal development, and fun. Follow Charles on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/charlesharriott](https://www.instagram.com/charlesharriott) Charles Harriott's website: [https://charlesharriott.com/](https://charlesharriott.com/) Get Charles' instructionals on BJJ Fanatics: [https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/dvd/fighter_charles-harriott](https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/dvd/fighter_charles-harriott) Subscribe to Charles' YouTube channel: [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjQfov7RyQ5fn3TLfqSmezQ](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjQfov7RyQ5fn3TLfqSmezQ) Support Charles on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/charlesharriott](https://www.patreon.com/charlesharriott) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Do What Works [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/)- Shuhari [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/)- Concepts Over Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/)- Ecological Dynamics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics/)- Keep it Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/) **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)

In this Q and A episode Josh answers some of your wildest questions ranging from gorillas fighting blue belts all the way to how to teach a Jiu Jitsu move.There is something for everyone in this episode. [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)

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