This week, we're joined by Heather Morgan! Heather is a jiu-jitsu black belt, competitor-turned-coach, and content creator based in San Diego who teaches in person at the Collective in Ocean Beach and online to students worldwide. In this episode, Heather shares how she coaches students to find their own game rather than copying hers, and why making people feel capable is the real job of a teacher. Topics include: developing individual jiu-jitsu style, psychological safety in the training room, the gap between being good at jiu-jitsu and being a good coach, gamification and constraint-led training, and coaching hobbyist students. Follow Heather on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/heather_morganbjj](https://instagram.com/heather_morganbjj) Watch Heather on YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@Heather_MorganBJJ](https://www.youtube.com/@Heather_MorganBJJ) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Psychological Safety [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety)- Curse of Knowledge [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/curse-of-knowledge](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/curse-of-knowledge)- Constraints-Led Approach [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach)- Gamification [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification)- 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) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
BJJ Mental Models
Conceptual BJJ, strategy, and mental frameworks for all levels.
Hosted by Steve Kwan.
In this mini-episode, we explain the concept of **open knowledge** and when information should be kept secret, charged for, or shared freely. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined by Justin Relph! Justin is a self-described die-hard hobbyist, event marketer, and the black belt coach behind Jiu Jitsu Invermere, a not-for-profit gym in the mountains of British Columbia. In this episode, Justin shares his experience building community through jiu-jitsu in a small resort town, and we revisit the concept of third places: the social spaces beyond home and work that so many of us are missing. Topics include: the decline of third places in modern life, how to build gym culture around community rather than competition, bringing jiu-jitsu to where people are, and the power of unstructured social time after training. Follow Jiu Jitsu Invermere on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/jiujitsuinvermere](https://instagram.com/jiujitsuinvermere) Train with Justin at Jiu Jitsu Invermere in Invermere, BC: [https://invybjj.ca](https://invybjj.ca/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Third Places [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/third-places](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/third-places)- Growth from Discomfort [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort)- Ecological Dynamics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 our 100th mini-episode, we explain **the golden rule,** also known as the ethic of reciprocity or the "do unto others" principle. In our opinion, despite not being explicitly about grappling, the golden rule is the most important mental model for jiu-jitsu. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined by Jeff Shaw! Jeff is a black belt, head coach at Bellingham BJJ, and a history professor with peer-reviewed publications on jiu-jitsu history. In this episode, Jeff shares his findings on one of the most obscure and underappreciated figures in jiu-jitsu history: Rorden Gracie. Follow Jeff on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/jeffshawbjj](https://instagram.com/jeffshawbjj) Train with Jeff at Bellingham BJJ in Washington: [https://bellinghambjj.com](https://bellinghambjj.com/) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined by Brad Stulberg! Brad is the author of multiple bestsellers including *The Way of Excellence* and *Peak Performance.* In this episode, Brad shares his findings from a decade of researching excellence: what it actually is, why we chase it, and what separates real pursuit from the performative version flooding our feeds. Topics include: the three Cs of excellence (caring, curiosity, consistency), self-handicapping, reframing nerves as excitement, why plateaus are a feature (not a bug), and how to make intelligent trade-offs so you stop spreading yourself too thin. If you've ever beaten yourself up for not progressing fast enough, this one's for you. Get The Way of Excellence and Brad's other books: [https://bradstulberg.com](https://bradstulberg.com) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Process Over Outcomes [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/process-over-outcomes](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/process-over-outcomes)- Feedback Loop [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop)- Defensive Thinking [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking)- Consistency [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency)- Compounding [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compounding](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compounding)- Surface Area [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/surface-area](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/surface-area)- Keep It Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 week's mini-episode, we explain the **elbow-knee connection:** a defensive (and also offensive) concept where we shrink the gap between our elbow and knee. Closing this space makes guard passing and retention easier by denying our opponent access to our hips, arms, and legs. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined again by Tum Energia! In this episode, we explain the real challenge facing grapplers today: not finding good technique, but filtering through way too much of it. Tum breaks down how concepts and mechanical cues beat memorizing techniques, and why simple games like "dirty feet" build better jiu-jitsu than drilling the latest viral submission. Follow Tum on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/tumenergia](https://instagram.com/tumenergia) Subscribe to Energia Martial Arts on YouTube: [https://youtube.com/@EnergiaMartialArts](https://youtube.com/@EnergiaMartialArts) Train with Tum at Energia Martial Arts in Nijmegen, Netherlands: [https://energia-martialarts.com](https://energia-martialarts.com) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Concepts Over Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques)- Hick's Law [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/hicks-law](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/hicks-law)- Cognitive Load [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/cognitive-load](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/cognitive-load)- Ecological Dynamics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics)- Inside Channel Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control)- Kuzushi [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi)- Theory of Alignment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment)- External Cues [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/external-cues](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/external-cues)- Abundance Paradox [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-paradox](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-paradox)- Red Queen Effect [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/red-queen-effect](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/red-queen-effect) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 week's mini-episode, we explain **shuhari:** a Japanese concept from the traditional martial arts explaining the three stages of mastery. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined again by fan favorite Josh "Kintanon" Wentworth! Josh explains one of the most overlooked concepts in jiu-jitsu: having a "game." Drawing inspiration from the Mendes brothers, Josh explains why a repeatable, deliberate path from standing to finish beats reactive rolling every time. Topics include: decision-making loops, why "taking what they give you" is a trap, and how to actually build a game plan that works under pressure. Follow Josh on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/apexconyers](https://instagram.com/apexconyers) Train with Josh at Apex MMA Conyers in Covington, Georgia: [https://www.apexconyers.com](https://www.apexconyers.com) Argue with Josh on Reddit: [https://reddit.com/u/kintanon](https://reddit.com/u/kintanon) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Feedback Loop [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop)- Technique Chaining [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining)- Funneling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling)- Tokui Waza [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/tokui-waza](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/tokui-waza) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 week's mini-episode, we explain the **double tap:** a deceptive way to trick your opponent into lowering their defenses. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined again by Livia Giles! In this episode, Livia explains why growing your gym's female membership isn't just the right thing to do, it's smart business. Livia shares what actually moves the needle on women's participation, the culture shifts that make women feel welcome, why intimidation kills retention before it starts, and how gym owners can practically double their potential clientele by taking women seriously. Follow Livia on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/livia_giles](https://instagram.com/livia_giles) Train with Livia at Absolute MMA in St. Kilda, Australia: [https://absolutemma.com.au](https://absolutemma.com.au/) Learn online with Livia at SUBMETA (seriously, do it): [https://submeta.io](https://submeta.io/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Psychological Safety [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 week's mini-episode, we explain the relationship between **direct control** and **proxy control.** *Direct control* means a dominant grip through immediate contact; *proxy control* means using something else (like the gi). Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of jiu-jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, Rob Biernacki is back! In this episode, Rob explains the 90/90: a yoga-style "pigeon pose" position ideal for defending leglocks and getting to the running man escape (AKA the "Captain Morgan"). Follow Rob on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/islandtopteam](https://instagram.com/islandtopteam)Train with Rob at Island Top Team in Nanaimo, BC: [https://www.instagram.com/islandtopteambjj](https://www.instagram.com/islandtopteambjj) [https://islandtopteam.com](https://islandtopteam.com) Learn online with Rob at BJJ Concepts: [https://bjjconcepts.net](https://bjjconcepts.net) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - 3 Joint Rule [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/3-joint-rule](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/3-joint-rule)- Knee Line [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/knee-line](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/knee-line)- Myopia [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia)- Prevention Over Cure [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prevention-over-cure](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prevention-over-cure)- Universal Defenses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/universal-defenses](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/universal-defenses)- Proximal and Distal Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/proximal-and-distal-control](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/proximal-and-distal-control) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 week's mini-episode, we tackle **impostor syndrome:** the common (but false) belief that you are unworthy of your rank or accomplishments. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined by Cal Jones! A 32-year grappling veteran with a master's in advanced coaching practice, Cal is one of the most recognized voices in the constraints-led approach (CLA) space. In this episode, Cal breaks down why the quality of your reps matters more than the quantity and how to design training that actually transfers to competition. Topics include: repetition and representation, the PVCT model (a framework for layering increasingly representative training tasks), perception-action coupling, invariants in BJJ, open mat intention, and the role of fun and confidence in long-term skill development. Follow Cal on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/calwjones](https://instagram.com/calwjones)Connect with Cal for consulting: [https://calendly.com/calumwalkerjones/consultancy](https://calendly.com/calumwalkerjones/consultancy) **Resources discussed in this episode:** Ecological Dynamics in Sport Coaching: An Essential Guide, by Steve M. Smith: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWCTGND5](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWCTGND5) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Ecological Dynamics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics)- Invariants [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/invariants](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/invariants)- Perception-Action Coupling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/perception-action-coupling](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/perception-action-coupling)- Intention [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/intention](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/intention) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 week's mini-episode, we discuss **kinetic chains:** a concept from mechanical engineering and physiology that explains how movement in our joints affects the other joints in that limb. Kinetic chains are **open** when the hand/foot is unconnected, or **closed** when connected to a surface. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)
This week, we're joined again by Margot Ciccarelli! In this episode, Margot shares mindset advice on staying present and escaping the mental trap of "anticipating" negative outcomes. Margot covers important mental reframing topics like fear, hesitation, our internal dialogue, intentional exposure, pattern interrupts, and rhythm changes. Follow Margot on Instagram: [https://instagram.com/margotciccarelli](https://instagram.com/margotciccarelli)Margot's mindset coach, Dr. Frazer Atkinson @ Kaizen: [https://kaizenmp.com](https://kaizenmp.com/) **Resources discussed in this episode:** BJJMM Ep. 131: Movement Vocabulary, feat. Margot Ciccarelli [https://bjj.plus/131](https://bjj.plus/131) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Acute Stress Response [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/acute-stress-response](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/acute-stress-response)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness)- Emotional Contagion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion)- Reframing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reframing](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reframing)- Pattern Interrupts [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/pattern-interrupts](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/pattern-interrupts)- Ecological Dynamics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics)- Predictable Responses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses)- External Cues [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/external-cues](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/external-cues) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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 bonus episode for BJJ business owners, we're joined again by David Bayarena! David is a BJJ black belt, a longtime BJJMM community member, and the founder of RONIN: a financial planning & training firm specialized in working with Jiu-Jitsu gyms. This conversation focuses on how BJJ gym owners can survive economic volatility and build real wealth, not just create a job for themselves. Topics include: cash flow discipline, break-even analysis, liquidity reserves, entity structure (LLCs vs. S-Corps), tax strategy, insurance protection, inflation, and smart use of leverage. Email David: [david@roninwealth.com](mailto:david@roninwealth.com) Work with David at RONIN Wealth: [https://www.roninwealth.com](https://www.roninwealth.com/) **Resources discussed in this episode:** BJJMM Ep. 303: Building Wealth in BJJ, feat. David Bayarena [https://bjj.plus/303](https://bjj.plus/303) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels) Music by Enterprize: [https://enterprize.bandcamp.com](https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/)
In this week's mini-episode, we discuss **plus, minus, equals:** a team-based training concept often attributed to UFC legend Frank Shamrock. It teaches that you get the best results when training with a combination of people who are *better* than you (the "pluses"), *worse* than you (the "minuses"), and *on par* with you (the "equals"). Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro) ⬆️ **LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium!** The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?** Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter) Learn more mental models in our online database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database) Follow us on social: [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels) [https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels) [https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social](https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social/) [https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels](https://youtube.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)