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Community stories, history, philosophy, lifestyle

THE SIMPLE MAN PODCAST Ep.124 | WE WATCHED BLOODSPORT WITH DR. MIKE ISRAETEL!

Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!Dr. Mike Israetel is a PhD in Sport Physiology, co-founder of Renaissance Periodization (RP Strength), and one of the leading voices in evidence-based training and nutrition. A former D1 wrestler turned competitive bodybuilder and BJJ black belt, Dr. Israetel combines high-level academic expertise with real-world athletic experience. He's coached Olympic athletes, written some of the most trusted books on hypertrophy and recovery, and built training systems used by elite competitors across strength sports, MMA, and bodybuilding. His content simplifies complex science into practical tools that help athletes train smarter, recover better, and perform at their peak.Take control of your health today! Head to MarekHealth.com and use code SIMPLEMAN for 10% off at checkout.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

Jun 9, 2025 · 2:45:36 · Listen
Q&A: 7 Questions On Fears, Food, and BJJ (Episode 367)

On this episode Chewy and Eugene answer 7 questions from listeners on BJJ, food, and life. We discuss the following questions: - How did you meet your wife? - What are you most afraid of? - What are some tips on remembering techniques? - What is a guilty pleasure food? - What is a good breakfast before training? - Do you ease off of training during the holidays? - How do you feel about lower belts not being able to ask Black Belts to roll? 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

Jun 9, 2025 · 51:26 · Listen

In this episode, we're joined by Francesco Fonte, MMA and Jiu-Jitsu head coach from Sportschule Next Level in Germany! Francesco explores the idea of Jiu-Jitsu as a team sport. He explains how fostering a relaxed, playful training environment not only builds community but also accelerates learning by encouraging experimentation and removing the fear of mistakes. Drawing on his experiences organizing camps and running a diverse gym, Francesco highlights the value of humor, inside jokes, and a “third place” culture where people feel at home on the mats. Together, they discuss how hobbyists and competitors alike can thrive in inclusive gyms that prioritize connection over competition. Follow Francesco on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/francescofonte76](https://www.instagram.com/francescofonte76) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Gamification [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/)- Keep it Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/)- Self-Competiton [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/) **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)

Jun 9, 2025 · 50:50 · Listen

Have you missed training a few days in a row? Maybe a few weeks? Maybe a few months? It happens to all of us along the journey for various reasons. The biggest part of this is the fact that you do get back on the mats. Even though it may seem daunting to head back to the gym, getting the first class out of the way is the biggest part. ---------------------- 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

Jun 5, 2025 · 25:28 · Listen
Why This MMA Fighter Walked Away — And Built a Jiu-Jitsu School Instead

Why did he walk away from fighting — and what did he build instead? This is the untold story of Professor Matt Sung Lee — a fighter who traded the cage for the classroom, and found something far more lasting. From early MMA bouts in the late 90s to earning his black belt under Ricardo Liborio, Matt’s journey spans continents, cultures, and combat disciplines. But his greatest transformation came not in the ring — but in what he chose to pass on. Now the founder of Ithaca BJJ in New York, Professor Matt is more than a black belt. He’s a mentor. A teacher. A builder of people. This video is a tribute to that legacy. Not just a life of discipline — but one of impact. 00:00 Intro 00:32 Early Inspirations 01:01 Mas Oyama (God Hand) 02:04 MMA Fight Footage 03:12 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 03:43 Opens First Gym 04:12 Liborio Black Belt 04:46 Teaching in Bali and Jakarta 06:18 Teaching in Riyadh 07:24 Ithaca BJJ 10:48 Outro

Jun 5, 2025 · Watch

Neo-Nazis are infiltrating Jiu-Jitsu—and most of us don’t even know it’s happening. In this episode of Fighting Matters, we’re joined by investigative journalist Mack Lamoureux to expose the rise of “active clubs”: decentralized extremist groups using martial arts like Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai as recruiting tools for white supremacist and neo-Nazi causes. Mack spent nearly a decade reporting on far-right extremism for VICE News and now works with the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, tracking extremist movements around the world. He explains how these groups organize in secret, how they weaponize the power of community, and how they’re already competing in tournaments and running covert training groups in cities across North America. This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone who thinks Jiu-Jitsu is immune to radicalization—and a roadmap for how we push back. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Mack Lamoureux – Investigative Journalist Jesse Walker ‪@RoughHandsBJJ‬ Mike Mahaffey ‪@OldBastardBJJ‬ Steve Kwan ‪@bjjmentalmodels‬ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • What are active clubs—and how do they recruit? • How extremist groups use martial arts to radicalize • Why community is both a powerful tool and a dangerous weapon • The terrifying overlap between fight culture and fascism • What coaches and gym owners can do to fight back ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 01:28 Understanding Active Clubs 05:11 Recruitment Tactics of Active Clubs 08:33 Training for a Race War 10:50 The Nature of Active Clubs 13:31 Community and Cult-like Tactics 15:29 Evolution of Active Clubs 20:41 Decentralized Structure and Terrorism 23:08 Identifying Active Clubs 26:27 The Power of Community Influence 31:14 Normalization of Extremism in Jiu-Jitsu 33:20 The Ethical Decline in Society 35:43 Understanding the Overton Window 41:13 The Role of Community in Combatting Extremism 49:46 Mental Health and Coping with Dark Subjects 54:48 The Power of Local Influence

Jun 5, 2025 · 1:00:57 · Listen
Mini Ep. 57: The Map Is Not the Territory

In this week's mini-episode we discuss how **the map is not the territory,** a foundational concept for working with mental models and other abstractions. The key lesson: no "map" is a 100% accurate reflection of the territory it describes. Similarly, no Jiu-Jitsu "concept" is 100% applicable all the time...including this one! 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/) ⚠️**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)

Jun 5, 2025 · 6:27 · Listen

We talk about the Somedays Porrada lifestyle and you may have even gotten a shirt repping our mantra. In this episode we give you the framework to live this lifestyle and make your BJJ journey one of longevity and prosperity. Try out these principles and let us know how you go, and comment below if you think we missed anything. ---------------------- 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

Jun 3, 2025 · 36:40 · Listen

In this episode of Fighting Matters, Steve Kwan and Stephan Kesting are joined by scientist and author Kristi Charish to investigate how Jiu-Jitsu became a hotbed for pseudoscience, supplement scams, and influencer grifts. We explore how a culture of male insecurity and anti-intellectualism has opened the floodgates to misinformation—fueled by algorithm-chasing gurus and podcast personalities more interested in profit than truth. From testosterone fads and supplement sponsors to sunning your testicles (yes, really), we unpack the deep societal forces that make grapplers uniquely vulnerable to snake oil. If you’ve ever been told that breathing through one nostril will double your growth hormone, this episode is for you. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Kristi Charish – Scientist & Novelist Stephan Kesting ‪@StephanKesting‬ Steve Kwan ‪@bjjmentalmodels‬ ⸻ 🧠 Topics We Cover: • Why Jiu-Jitsu is especially vulnerable to pseudoscience • The myth of the supplement “quick fix” • How science actually works (and why grifters hate it) • Why confidence sells better than expertise • The parasocial trap of podcast influencers • What “adaptogens” actually mean (hint: nothing) ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:06 Kristi's Science Background and Transition to Fiction 04:25 The Challenge of Science Misinformation 10:03 The Role of Influencers in Misinformation 16:02 Regulation of Supplements vs. Prescription Drugs 24:03 Understanding Scientific Research and Publication 38:32 The Nature of Expertise and Certainty in Science 46:54 The Risks of Superfoods and Supplements 48:46 Trust in Science and Misinformation 50:19 The Dangers of Distrust in Institutions 53:13 The Impact of Influencers on Health Perception 01:02:47 Misinformation Targeting Young Men 01:09:44 The Dangers of Male Beauty Standards 01:19:27 Improving Science Literacy in Society

Jun 2, 2025 · 1:23:43 · Listen
THE SIMPLE MAN PODCAST Ep.123 | Bryce Mitchell On Flat Earth, NASA & The Firmament

Don't forget to Like & Subscribe to GET SIMPLIFIED!In this podcast, we have guest Bryce "Thug Nasty" Mitchell— Thug Nasty is a top-ranked featherweight contender in the UFC known for his elite grappling, unorthodox fighting style, and outspoken personality. Hailing from Cabot, Arkansas, Bryce brings a blue-collar work ethic and country toughness into every fight, making him a fan favorite both in and out of the Octagon.With a black belt-level ground game and a highlight-reel twister submission on his record, Mitchell has carved out a reputation as one of the most dangerous grapplers in the division. But beyond the cage, Bryce is just as compelling—openly sharing his views on everything from farming and self-sufficiency to government mistrust and life off the grid.Whether he's hunting deer, raising chickens, or taking down top UFC talent, Bryce Mitchell brings raw authenticity and fierce intensity to everything he does. Tune in as we dive deep into the mindset, lifestyle, and mission of "Thug Nasty."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 Intro00:01:36 Fatherhood00:03:14 Farm Life00:07:45 Flat Earth00:20:40 Moon Landing00:30:33 Bryce's crazy story00:41:12 School00:46:11 Over population00:49:48 Are we winning the war?00:54:54 Father, Son & Holy Spirit01:03:16 Ethan Chimes in01:08:50 Early MMA life01:10:55 Weather machines01:13:37 The Last Straw for Bryce01:16:39 The Illuminati01:22:47 Evolution01:26:12 Satellites01:30:54 The Ocean01:34:01 Antartica and the Ice Wall01:38:02 Simple man things01:48:01 Outro

Jun 2, 2025 · 1:49:53 · Listen
Why Calling Yourself A "Hobbyist" In BJJ Is Dangerous (Episode 366)

On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss the idea of training and thinking like an athlete instead of as a hobbyist. We discuss why this mindset shift to training as an athlete is important for longevity, how an athlete treats their body compared to how a hobbyist, the foods chewy avoids before training BJJ, how diet can impact performance, the importance of rhythm and routine, holding yourself accountable, why you have to identify and eliminate your distractions, why lack of motivation is a lack of focus, and how Chewy keeps himself inspired. 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

Jun 2, 2025 · 58:41 · Listen

In this episode of BJJ Mental Models, Steve Kwan welcomes back Sonia Sillan from Combat Arts Academy to explore the concept of the “awkward turtles:” the introverted, unsure, or atypical students who often feel like outsiders in Jiu-Jitsu. Sonya unpacks how gym culture, coaching priorities, and interpersonal communication affect whether these students feel welcome or alienated. Together, they discuss how creating an inclusive, empathetic training environment isn’t just good for business; it’s essential for building resilient practitioners and a healthy mat culture. This conversation offers a roadmap for coaches and students alike to rethink how they engage with the most vulnerable members of their gym. Follow Sonia on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/soniasillan](https://www.instagram.com/soniasillan) Train with Sonia at Combat Arts Academy in Seattle: [https://caaseattle.com/](https://caaseattle.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Jita Kyoei [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/jita-kyoei/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/jita-kyoei/)- Compatible Intent [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compatible-intent/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compatible-intent/)- Controlled Breathing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/)- Staying Loose [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/)- Escalation of Commitment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/escalation-of-commitment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/escalation-of-commitment/)- The Golden Rule [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/golden-rule/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/golden-rule/) **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)

Jun 2, 2025 · 1:05:03 · Listen

On today's QNA episode, we get a call from one of our longtime members of the community Ben with the infamous batman voice. He shares his struggles with his recent health scare and how he plans to go about it. We also get a question about a controversial topic: cutting weight. Is it necessary? Or is it a tradition that needs to die. Find out all in this ep. ---------------------- 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

Jun 1, 2025 · 17:19 · Listen
Kids Jiu Jitsu in Kingston – Confidence & Fun!

Kids Jiu Jitsu in Kingston – Confidence & Fun!

Kingston Jiu-Jitsu - Mauricio Gomes Legacy

Looking for a fun, safe, and empowering activity for your child? Our Kingston Jiu Jitsu Kids Classes help build confidence, discipline, fitness, and real-world self-defence skills — all in a welcoming, structured environment. Join the largest kids' BJJ community in the area! 📍 Tiffin Sports Centre, Kingston upon Thames | 🥋 Ages 5–15 🔗 Learn more: kingstonjiujitsu.com/kids-classes 📧 admin@kingstonjiujitsu.com

May 30, 2025 · Watch
Still Here: Why Seasoned Grapplers Train Differently — And What It Looks Like

This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a statement. We’re not here to dominate. We’re here to refine. This is what Jiu-Jitsu looks like for the seasoned grappler— slower, sharper, more deliberate. It’s not less. It’s just different. At Ithaca BJJ, we’ve built something rare. Not a gym. A lab. A place where seasoned grapplers evolve — technically, mentally, and physically — without sacrificing longevity. If you’re returning after time off… If you’ve had to train around injuries… Or if you just feel like the culture at your gym doesn’t fit anymore… You’re not done. You’re just ready for something different. Welcome to Ithaca BJJ.

May 29, 2025 · Watch
Mini Ep. 56: Controlled Breathing

In this week's mini-episode we discuss the importance of **controlled breathing** when sparring. Managing your breath effectively creates a positive ripple effect in your Jiu-Jitsu performance by reducing anxiety, avoiding adrenaline dumping, and concealing your emotional state from your opponent. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) **Resources mentioned in this episode:** Mini Ep. 55: Staying Loose [https://podcast.bjjmentalmodels.com/243161/episodes/17206785-mini-ep-55-staying-loose](https://podcast.bjjmentalmodels.com/243161/episodes/17206785-mini-ep-55-staying-loose) **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)

May 29, 2025 · 5:42 · Listen
#324 James Driskill: Rickson's Uke | Finding Balance On and Off the Mats

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)

May 29, 2025 · 1:43:17 · Listen

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