BJJ Mental Models

This week we're joined by Riley Stearns! Riley is a BJJ black belt under Shawn Williams, and a film director best known for The Art of Self-Defense, starring Jesse Eisenberg. In this episode, Riley shares his advice on achieving work-life balance, and how to maximize your enjoyment of Jiu-Jitsu without letting it take over your life. Follow Riley on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/rileystearns/](https://www.instagram.com/rileystearns/) Check out Riley's Jiu-Jitsu project, Hobbyist: [https://www.instagram.com/hobbyistinc/](https://www.instagram.com/hobbyistinc/) Watch Riley's films: The Art of Self-Defense: [https://bit.ly/3Zdncy7](https://bit.ly/3Zdncy7) (HBO Max) [https://bit.ly/3t01bqc](https://bit.ly/3t01bqc) (Apple TV) Faults: [https://bit.ly/3PcjpfT](https://bit.ly/3PcjpfT) (Amazon Prime) Dual: [https://bit.ly/3RlT9Cw](https://bit.ly/3RlT9Cw) (Hulu) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - First Principles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/)- Self-Competition [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/)- Raise the Level in the Room [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/)- Consistency [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/)- 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)

"I truly believe I can create luck." That's something you'll hear if you listen to interviews with Wesley Seek. Wesley, better known by his handle LambySeries - or Lamby for short - is a world-class competitive card gamer, previously achieving Grandmaster status in Hearthstone and currently considered the best Marvel Snap player in the world. This episode serves two purposes. First, to feed Steve's crippling Marvel Snap addiction. And second, to give Lamby a platform to share his sport-agnostic advice on creating luck, shaping the meta, and playing through tilt. Follow Lamby on Twitch: [https://www.twitch.tv/lambyseriestv](https://www.twitch.tv/lambyseriestv) Follow Lamby on Twitter: [https://twitter.com/LambySeriesGG](https://twitter.com/LambySeriesGG) Subscribe to Lamby's YouTube channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@lambyseriesgaming](https://www.youtube.com/@lambyseriesgaming) Join Lamby's Discord: [https://discord.gg/aHjyMnvNQh](https://discord.gg/aHjyMnvNQh) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Table Selection [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/table-selection/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/table-selection/)- Predictable Responses [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/)- Asymmetric Warfare [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/)- Kaizen [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/)- Investing in Loss [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/)- Shuhari [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/)- Do What Works [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/)- Beginner's Mind [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/)- Mindfulness [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/)- Building Your Triggers [http://bjjmentalmodels.com/building-your-triggers/](http://bjjmentalmodels.com/building-your-triggers/) **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/) ⚠️**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 Shawn Williams! Shawn is a black belt under Renzo Gracie, and is both a renowned competitor and teacher. In this episode, Shawn Williams explains his "closed loop" strategy for Jiu-Jitsu, wherein you're always advancing without compromising position. Follow Shawn on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/shawnwilliamsbjj/](https://www.instagram.com/shawnwilliamsbjj/) Visit Shawn's website: [https://shawnwilliamsbjj.tv/](https://shawnwilliamsbjj.tv/) Visit Shawn's digital academy: [https://jiujitsuedu.com/](https://jiujitsuedu.com/) Buy Shawn's instructionals: [https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/shawn-williams](https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/shawn-williams) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Position Over Submission [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/)- Return on Investment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/)- Technique Chaining [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/)- Windows of Opportunity [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/windows-of-opportunity/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/windows-of-opportunity/)- Form to Leave Form [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/)- Teach to Learn [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/teach-to-learn/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/teach-to-learn/)- Committed Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/) **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)

This week we're joined by Anthony "El Toro" Birchak! Anthony is a UFC, Bellator, and Rizin MMA veteran, as well as a BJJ black belt under Casey Halstead. In this episode, Anthony draws on his wrestling background to explain the importance of wrestling, both mentally and technically, in Jiu-Jitsu. Follow Anthony on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/abirchakmma/](https://www.instagram.com/abirchakmma/) Follow Anthony on Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/AnthonyBirchak/](https://www.facebook.com/AnthonyBirchak/) Train with Anthony at 10th Planet Tucson: [https://www.10thplanettucson.com/](https://www.10thplanettucson.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Mask Your Intentions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/)- Respect People, Not Positions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/)- Beginner's Mind [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/)- Controlling the Distance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/)- Asymmetric Warfare [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/) **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)

This week we're joined by Alexander Darwin! Alexander is a black belt at Boston Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is best known as the author of the BJJ-inspired sci-fi/fantasy novel, The Combat Codes. In this episode, Alexander talks about the ethos of keeping it playful: a statement we've all heard before, but also a philosophy that significantly increases your enjoyment of — and performance in — Jiu-Jitsu over the long term. Follow Alexander and The Combat Codes on social: [https://www.instagram.com/combatcodes/](https://www.instagram.com/combatcodes/) [https://www.facebook.com/CombatCodes/](https://www.facebook.com/CombatCodes/) [https://twitter.com/combatcodes](https://twitter.com/combatcodes) Read The Combat Codes on Amazon: [https://www.amazon.com/Combat-Codes/dp/0316493007](https://www.amazon.com/Combat-Codes/dp/0316493007) Listen to The Combat Codes on Audible: [https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Combat-Codes-Audiobook/B0BJ56BWCQ](https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Combat-Codes-Audiobook/B0BJ56BWCQ) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Consistency [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/)- Keep it Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/)- Self-Competition [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/)- Feedback Loop [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/)- Emotional Contagion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion/) **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)

This week we're joined by Shama Ko! Shama is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Penny Thomas and is best known for her role as Program Director at Girls in Gis. In this episode, Shama shares advice on the obstacles we encounter in our Jiu-Jitsu journey, and the power of community in overcoming them. Follow Shama on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/shamasko/](https://www.instagram.com/shamasko/) Visit the Girls in Gis website: [https://www.girls-in-gis.com/](https://www.girls-in-gis.com/) Follow Girls in Gis on social: [https://www.instagram.com/girlsingis/](https://www.instagram.com/girlsingis/) [https://twitter.com/_girls_in_gis_](https://twitter.com/_girls_in_gis_) [https://www.facebook.com/GirlsinGis/](https://www.facebook.com/GirlsinGis/) Subscribe to Girls in Gis on YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/user/GirlsinGis](https://www.youtube.com/user/GirlsinGis) Listen to the Girls in Gis Podcast: [https://www.girls-in-gis.com/girls-in-gis-podcast/](https://www.girls-in-gis.com/girls-in-gis-podcast/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Path of Least Resistance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/)- Keep Your Identity Small [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/)- Permission Paradox [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/permission-paradox/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/permission-paradox/)- Consistency [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/\) **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)

This week we're joined by Shanti Abelha! Shanti is a multi-time black belt world champion, management consultant, and head coach at Hive BJJ in Copenhagen. In this episode, Shanti draws upon her business management experience to introduce lean methodologies and explain how they can transfer to skill development in BJJ. Follow Shanti on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/shantibjj/](https://www.instagram.com/shantibjj/) Train with Shanti at Hive BJJ: [https://hivebjj.com/](https://hivebjj.com/) Resources discussed in this episode: Toyota Kata, feat. Mike Rother — YouTube [https://youtu.be/ARbMvYQaRGg](https://youtu.be/ARbMvYQaRGg) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Shuhari [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/)- Investing in Loss [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/)- Habits Over Results [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/)- Scientific Method [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/)- Kaizen [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/) **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)

This week we're joined by David Figueroa-Martinez! David is a black belt, instructor, and writer training out of Gracie La Mesa in California. In this episode, David discusses how Jiu-Jitsu, while not a replacement for therapy, can still be a powerful tool for assisting in trauma recovery. Follow David on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/dfm.2099/](https://www.instagram.com/dfm.2099/) David's website: [https://dfm2099.me/](https://dfm2099.me/) Dawnbreakers BJJ: [https://www.dawnbreakersbjj.com/](https://www.dawnbreakersbjj.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/)- Emotional Contagion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion/)- Consistency [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/)- Incremental Learning [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/) **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)

This week we're joined again by Brandon Mccaghren! In this episode, Brandon breaks down the concepts behind an essential 10th Planet guard: the lockdown. Follow Brandon on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/brandonmc.ninja/](https://www.instagram.com/brandonmc.ninja/) Subscribe to Brandon's YouTube channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@brandonmcninja](https://www.youtube.com/@brandonmcninja) Get Brandon's lockdown instructional at BMAC academy: [https://bmac.mykajabi.com/](https://bmac.mykajabi.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Prevention Over Cure [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prevention-over-cure/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prevention-over-cure/)- Myopia [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/)- Shuhari [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/)- Center of Gravity [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/center-of-gravity/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/center-of-gravity/)- Do What Works [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/)- Concepts Over Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/)- First Principles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/)- Controlling the Distance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/)- Kuzushi [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/) **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)

This week we're joined by Dr. Nate Zinsser! Nate shares the confidence-building guidance from his essential book, The Confident Mind. Get Nate's book, The Confident Mind: [https://www.natezinsser.com/book](https://www.natezinsser.com/book) Nate's website: [https://www.natezinsser.com/](https://www.natezinsser.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Growth Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/)- Mental Gatekeeping [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mental-gatekeeping/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mental-gatekeeping/)- Self-Competition [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/)- Habits Over Results [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/)- Keep Your Identity Small [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/)- Resulting Fallacy [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/)- Flow [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/flow/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/flow/)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/)- Law of Contrast [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/law-of-contrast/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/law-of-contrast/)- Kaizen [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/)- Technique Visualization [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-visualization/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-visualization/)- Reflecting "As If" [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reflecting-as-if/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reflecting-as-if/)- Permission Paradox [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/permission-paradox/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/permission-paradox/)- Feedback Loop [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/)- Plus, Minus, Equals [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/plus-minus-equals/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/plus-minus-equals/) **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/) ⚠️**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 Priit Mihkelson! In this episode, Priit explains recent developments in what he calls "sideways open guard:" a supine guard where your body is tilted to the side. It's an emerging position being used by competitors such as Lachlan Giles. Follow Priit on social: [https://www.instagram.com/priit_mihkelson/](https://www.instagram.com/priit_mihkelson/) [https://www.facebook.com/priit.mihkelson/](https://www.facebook.com/priit.mihkelson/) Sideways Open Guard — BJJ Fanatics: [https://bit.ly/46HGUFi](https://bit.ly/46HGUFi) Defensive BJJ: [https://www.defensivebjj.com/](https://www.defensivebjj.com/) Resources referenced in this episode: Jon Thomas Instagram reels: [https://bit.ly/3JK95cP](https://bit.ly/3JK95cP) [https://bit.ly/3D1tVkq](https://bit.ly/3D1tVkq) André Galvão vs. Braulio Estima, ADCC 2013 [https://youtu.be/Gui5wWJA4gI](https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FGui5wWJA4gI&e=AT1xZaFGV4Xw8VK5U0BSglpgwRreBJ15_3wJ0Tx6LHrTu_2fMUJ5cwPk5eMs8VvKvVBc1lM4hr_kXnI-d2hEWLSRrwv63vhiWOlMfNCK6smt9R6ktcCNXTCD_wTuGqoAgW0siyFw8nCJEHM4Lc2p6SCVEBM) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Seated vs. Supine Guards [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/seated-vs-supine-guards/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/seated-vs-supine-guards/)- Limb Coiling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/limb-coiling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/limb-coiling/)- Funneling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/)- Predictable Responses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/)- Dictate the Pace [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/)- Controlling the Distance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/)- Committed Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/)- Dominant Angles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles/) **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: ⚠️**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 Greg Sirico! Greg is a Marcelo Garcia black belt and is the head instructor at Odyssey BJJ in Atlanta, Georgia. In this episode, Greg explains how regular folks who aren't BJJ celebrities or world champions can build successful and thriving Jiu-Jitsu careers. Follow Greg on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/gregsirico/](https://www.instagram.com/gregsirico/) Follow Odyssey BJJ on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/odysseyjiujitsu/](https://www.instagram.com/odysseyjiujitsu/) Odyssey BJJ website: [https://odysseybjj.com/](https://odysseybjj.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Double Down on Strengths [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-down-on-strengths/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-down-on-strengths/)- Respect People, Not Positions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/)- Solid Foundation, Flexible Perimeter [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/solid-foundation-flexible-perimeter/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/solid-foundation-flexible-perimeter/) **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)

This week we're joined by Steph Gaudreau! Steph is a popular strength coach, performance nutritionist, and Jiu-Jitsu athlete. In this episode, Steph shares her playbook on performance nutrition for "regular people:" those of us who train for fun and not as a profession. Follow Steph on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/steph_gaudreau/](https://www.instagram.com/steph_gaudreau/) Steph's website: [https://www.stephgaudreau.com/](https://www.stephgaudreau.com/) Listen to Steph on the Fuel Your Strength Podcast: [https://www.stephgaudreau.com/fuel-your-strength-podcast/](https://www.stephgaudreau.com/fuel-your-strength-podcast/) Resources discussed in this episode: Atomic Habits, by James Clear: [https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits](https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Feedback Loop [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/)- Scientific Method [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/)- Certainty Bias [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/certainty-bias/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/certainty-bias/) **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)

This week we're joined by Mandy Schneider! Mandy is an up-and-coming young competitive Jiu-Jitsu athlete training out of Dallas, Texas. Despite her young age, she's no stranger to adversity: Mandy has been very vocal about her personal experiences with the dark side of Jiu-Jitsu, including her battles with predatory instructors and mental health. Recently, Mandy shared that she "lost sight of herself for awhile" due to the pressures from full-time competition and her personal life. In this episode, Mandy shares her experience and explains how she came back and regained her passion for the sport. Follow Mandy on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/mandynschneider/](https://www.instagram.com/mandynschneider/) Resources discussed in this episode: The Champion's Mind, by James Afremow [https://amzn.to/46bvvO4](https://amzn.to/46bvvO4) Mindset, by Carol Dweck [https://amzn.to/3qQk7a7](https://amzn.to/3qQk7a7) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Self-Competition [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/)- Mental Gatekeeping [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mental-gatekeeping/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mental-gatekeeping/)- Psychological Safety [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/)- Law of Contrast [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/law-of-contrast/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/law-of-contrast/)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/)- Resulting Fallacy [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/)- Compartmentalization [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compartmentalization/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compartmentalization/)- Growth Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/) **Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!** If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at **a fraction of the cost of a single private.** Sign up here for a free trial: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Follow us on social: [https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/) [https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/) Music by Enterprize: [https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/](https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/) ⚠️**NEW course from BJJ Mental Models!** **MINDSET FOR BETAS,** our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta)

This week we're joined again by Valerie "Valhalla" Worthington! In addition to being a black belt and OG in women's BJJ, Valerie holds a PhD in Educational Psychology and teaches coaching at Saybrook University. In this episode, Valerie explains the importance of empathetic thinking for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coaches and students alike. Follow Valerie on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/worthingtonvalerie/](https://www.instagram.com/worthingtonvalerie/) Email Valerie: [worthingtonvalerie500@gmail.com](mailto:worthingtonvalerie500@gmail.com) Resources discussed in this episode: Training Wheels, by Valerie Worthington: [https://amzn.to/43O2cPs](https://amzn.to/43O2cPs) The Platinum Rule, by Tony Alessandra: [https://amzn.to/3CEgUgB](https://amzn.to/3CEgUgB) Cody Rhodes on "seeing race:" [https://bit.ly/45Xc1ww](https://bit.ly/45Xc1ww) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Survivorship Bias [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias/)- The Golden Rule [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/golden-rule/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/golden-rule/)- Curse of Knowledge [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/curse-of-knowledge/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/curse-of-knowledge/)- Self-Competition [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)

This week we're joined by Gant Grimes! Gant is a black belt training out of Red River Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Wichita Falls, Texas. He holds black belts in BJJ, JJJ, and Judo, and has 30 years of martial arts experience. In this episode, Gant shares his belief that good Jiu-Jitsu looks like a bad marriage: know what makes them happy, and take it away. Contact Gant: [kosotobjj@gmail.com](mailto:kosotobjj@gmail.com) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Theory of Alignment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/)- Defense Paradox [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defense-paradox/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defense-paradox/)- Ecological Psychology [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-psychology/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-psychology/)- Keep it Playful [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/)- Grips Dictate Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/)- Dictate the Pace [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/)- Economy of Motion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/)- Path of Least Resistance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/)- Solid Frames [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/solid-frames/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/solid-frames/)- Mask Your Intentions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/)- Jita Kyoei [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/jita-kyoei/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/jita-kyoei/)- Win Conditions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/win-conditions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/win-conditions/)- Position Over Submission [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/)- Technique Chaining [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/) **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.co](https://facebook.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 Jon Thomas! In this episode, Jon draws on his guard expertise to share mental models and best practices for gripfighting from the bottom. Follow Jon on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/jonthomasbjj/](https://www.instagram.com/jonthomasbjj/) Subscribe to Jon's YouTube channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@JonThomasBJJ](https://www.youtube.com/@JonThomasBJJ) Check out Jon's website for instructionals: [https://www.jonthomasbjj.com/](https://www.jonthomasbjj.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Controlling the Distance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/)- Grips Dictate Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/)- Probabilistic Thinking [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/probabilistic-thinking/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/probabilistic-thinking/)- Economy of Motion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/)- Path of Least Resistance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/)- Controlled Breathing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/)- Staying Loose [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/)- Intention [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/intention/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/intention/)- Concepts Over Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/) **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)

Welcome to a BRAND NEW podcast for [BJJ Mental Models Premium](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) subscribers! Going forward you'll need to be a BJJMM Premium subscriber to get this podcast, but we're giving you this first episode for free! We're proud to introduce "Less Impressed More Instructionals," a new premium podcast by Jake Luigi. Jake is the mind behind Less Impressed More Involved, arguably the best analytical BJJ resource on YouTube. Once per month, Jake will give you his full recap on the instructionals he's been studying. Think of this podcast like a Coles Notes or Spark Notes for Jiu-Jitsu instructionals. Jake will explain the best new instructionals available, the key lessons they teach, and ultimately where he'd recommend them. This podcast could potentially save you thousands of dollars, and hundreds of hours of study time. In this first episode, Jake talks about his studies into open guard. **Instructionals referenced:**John Danaher: - [New Wave Open Guard Volume 1](https://bit.ly/3pUHPS7)- [New Wave Open Guard Volume 2](https://bit.ly/41KF7fa) Gordon Ryan: - [Thou Shall Not Pass](https://bit.ly/3BJsCWo)- [Systematically Attacking From Open Guard Supine Position](https://bit.ly/41PgVIs) Lachlan Giles (SubMeta): - [Open Guard Retention](https://submeta.io/@lachlangiles/courses/open-guard-retention/92e31082-f73f-4951-aeb9-d1b2a50f7b77)- [Leg Drag Retention](https://submeta.io/@lachlangiles/courses/leg-drag-retention/bc2a1cd3-f252-4a47-9afe-ca4f311758f3) **Want more of this podcast?** Sign up for BJJ Mental Models Premium and you'll get the Less Impressed More Instructionals podcast, PLUS all the other Premium perks we offer! This includes 50+ hours of Jiu-Jitsu audio masterclasses, direct video coaching from our black belt review team, access to the internet's best BJJ community, and tons more perks and freebies. 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 Less Impressed More Involved?** Subscribe to Less Impressed More Involved on YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@LIMIBJJ](https://www.youtube.com/@LIMIBJJ)Follow Jake Luigi on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/shorthairedjake/](https://www.instagram.com/shorthairedjake/) **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/)

This week we're joined again by Chris "The Villain" Paines! Chris is a BJJ Globetrotter and a black belt under Priit Mihkelson. In this week's episode, Chris shares his strategies for gripfighting from the top. Watch Chris' viral YouTube video, "How to Defend Everything:" [https://youtu.be/BWitv9AKoNU](https://youtu.be/BWitv9AKoNU) Buy Chris' instructionals on BJJ Fanatics: [https://bit.ly/43bQXzW](https://bit.ly/43bQXzW) Follow Chris on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/chrisvillainbjj/](https://www.instagram.com/chrisvillainbjj/) Subscribe to Chris on YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisPainesBJJ](https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisPainesBJJ) Support Chris on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/Vilaobjj](https://www.patreon.com/Vilaobjj) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Grips Dictate Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/)- Phases of Guard [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-guard/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-guard/)- Concepts Over Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/)- Phases of Passing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-passing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-passing/)- Inside Channel Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/)- Center of Gravity [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/center-of-gravity/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/center-of-gravity/)- 3 Joint Rule [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/3-joint-rule/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/3-joint-rule/)- Prevention Over Cure [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prevention-over-cure/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prevention-over-cure/)- Limb Coiling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/limb-coiling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/limb-coiling/)- Win Conditions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/win-conditions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/win-conditions/) **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/bjjmentalmode](https://facebook.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 Josh "Kintanon" Wentworth! Josh is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, the head instructor at Apex MMA in Georgia, and a longtime presence on forums like Bullshido and Reddit. Josh is a small guy in a gym full of giants, and normally competes at light featherweight. In this episode, Josh shares concepts and strategies for smaller grapplers who want to be effective against much larger opponents. Troll Josh on Reddit: [https://reddit.com/u/kintanon](https://reddit.com/u/kintanon) Train with Josh at Apex MMA in Georgia: [https://www.apexconyers.com/](https://www.apexconyers.com/) **Mental models discussed in this episode:** - Types of Guard [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/)- Body Tethering [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/)- Return on Investment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/)- Overwhelming Force [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/overwhelming-force/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/overwhelming-force/)- Static vs. Dynamic Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/static-vs-dynamic-control/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/static-vs-dynamic-control/)- Force Vectors [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/force-vectors/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/force-vectors/)- Surface Area [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/surface-area/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/surface-area/)- You Are What You Train [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/you-are-what-you-train/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/you-are-what-you-train/)- Grips Dictate Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/)- Asymmetric Warfare [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/)- Prioritize Longevity [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity/) **Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium!** If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at **a fraction of the cost of a single private.** Sign up here for a free trial: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Follow us on social: [https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/) [](https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/) ⚠️**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)