BJJ Mental Models

This week we were privileged to speak to Oliver Taza from the Danaher Death Squad. Oliver shares his thoughts on competing at the highest levels, PEDs, and training with the Danaher Death Squad. **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/) Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: [https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.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)

You'd be surprised how often we're asked to cover this topic. Well, we're finally going to do it. This week Steve and Matt discuss how to shut down a much smaller opponent. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Grips Dictate Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/)- Theory of Alignment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/)- Do What Works [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/)- Phases of Guard [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-guard/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-guard/)- Growth Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/)- Isolate a Single Target [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/isolate-a-single-target/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/isolate-a-single-target/)- Shifting Platforms [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shifting-platforms/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shifting-platforms/)- Microtransitions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/) Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: [https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.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)

As the great mathematician Carl Jacobi said, "invert, always invert." This week Steve and Matt discuss inversion, not just as a strategy for Jiu-Jitsu but also as a strategy for breaking out of your thought patterns. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Inversion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inversion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inversion/)- Path of Least Resistance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/)- Predictable Responses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/)- Myopia [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/)- Investing in Loss [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/)- Interleaving [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/interleaving/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/interleaving/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/) Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: [https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.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 Steve and Matt discuss inside channel control, also known as inside position. It's a tremendously powerful mental model, especially if your strategy involves leglocks or getting underneath your opponent. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Inside Channel Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/)- Controlling the Distance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/)- Dominant Angles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles/)- Limb Coiling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/limb-coiling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/limb-coiling/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/)- Grips Dictate Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/)- Myopia [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/)- 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/) **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/) Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: [https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/](https://facebook.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)

Steve and Matt continue sharing your stories on Jiu-Jitsu and mental health. This week we share some very raw and personal stories about depression, PTSD, coping with loss, and suicidal thoughts. This episode does get heavy at times. We thank our listeners for sharing these stories, which couldn't have been easy. Note that we advocate Jiu-Jitsu as a SUPPLEMENT to therapy, NOT a replacement. If you need help - and we all do at times - please seek out professional and medical expertise. **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/) Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: [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)

How much benefit does Jiu-Jitsu really have for your mental health? We all know exercise is beneficial, but is there something special about Jiu-Jitsu? Matt and I decided to find out. In Part 1, we discuss confidence, addiction, and expert advice. **Need more BJJ Mental Models?**Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/) Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/) Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/) Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: [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)

Jiu-Jitsu isn't about fighting; it's about making your opponent stop fighting. In this week's episode we discuss strategies for de-escalation, both in Jiu-Jitsu and in real life. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Controlled Breathing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/)- Staying Loose [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/)- Dictate the Pace [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/)- Funneling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/)- Position over Submission [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/)- Double Trouble [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-trouble/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-trouble/)- Rotational Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rotational-control/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rotational-control/)- Resulting Fallacy [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/resulting/)- Economy of Motion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/)- First Principles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Respect your opponent, always. This week Steve and Matt discuss the different types of respect and why it's important. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Respect your Opponent [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-your-opponent/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-your-opponent/)- Investing in Loss [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/)- Raise the Level in the Room [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/)- Rapoport's Rules [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rapoports-rules/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rapoports-rules/)- Growth from Discomfort [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Funneling, as coined by Nelson Puentes from Inverted Gear, is the strategy of forcing your opponent into areas where you are comfortable and experienced. It's key to high-level gameplanning. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Funneling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/)- Asymmetric Warfare [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/)- Predictable Responses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/)- Myopia [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/)- 80/20 Rule [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/80-20-rule/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/80-20-rule/)- Respect People, not Positions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Don't worry, this one's not about politics! Today we discuss the pros and cons of Robert K. Merton's idea communism philosophy. The core question answered in this episode is: when should you share your ideas freely, and when should you use them for profit? Mental models discussed in this episode: - Idea Communism & Idea Capitalism [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-communism/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-communism/)- Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/)- Race to the Bottom [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/race-to-the-bottom/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/race-to-the-bottom/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Be an anchor, not a tetherball. This week Steve and Matt discuss when you should and shouldn't tether your body to your opponent. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Body Tethering [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/)- Alignment over Position [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/alignment-over-position/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/alignment-over-position/)- Controlled Breathing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/)- Do What Works [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Action creates reaction. This week Steve and Matt discuss predictable responses, a mental model that helps you understand what your opponent is likely to do and decrease your reaction time. Mental models discussed in this episode: - 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/)- Form to Leave Form [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/)- Funneling [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/)- Technique Chaining [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/)- Mask Your Intentions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/)- Controlled Breathing [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/)- Staying Loose [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/)- Incremental Learning [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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 Steve and Matt discuss double trouble, a mental model popularized by John Danaher. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Double Trouble [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-trouble/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-trouble/)- Rotational Control [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rotational-control/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rotational-control/)- Alignment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/)- Core Mechanics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/)- Kinetic Chains [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/)- Committed Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/)- Body Tethering [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/)- Predictable Responses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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 Steve and Matt discuss the elbow-knee connection: a shockingly simple concept that, when applied intelligently, can improve your game in a variety of ways. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Alignment [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/)- Core Mechanics [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/)- Anatomic Hierarchy [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/anatomic-hierarchy/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/anatomic-hierarchy/)- Elbow-Knee Connection [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/)- First Principles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/first-principles/)- Microtransitions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/)- Kinetic Chains [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/)- Shifting Platforms [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shifting-platforms/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/shifting-platforms/)- Principles over Techniques [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/principles-over-techniques/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/principles-over-techniques/)- Do What Works [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/)- Making Smaller Circles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/making-smaller-circles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/making-smaller-circles/)- Economy of Motion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/economy-of-motion/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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 Steve and Matt discuss kuzushi, the Japanese art of balance breaking. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Kuzushi [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/)- Path of Least Resistance [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/)- Technique Chaining [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/)- Types of Guard [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/)- Microtransitions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/)- Staying Loose [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/)- Mask Your Intentions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mask-your-intentions/)- Predictable Responses [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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 the final episode of our instructor series, Steve & Matt shed light on the ugly side of Jiu-Jitsu and the instructors' responsibilities to create a healthy training environment. Topics include issues with your students, gym drama, cult mentality, and harassment. A huge thank you to Matt Kirtley, AKA Aesopian, for his detailed research into cults that contributed to this episode. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Extreme Ownership [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/extreme-ownership/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/extreme-ownership/)- Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/)- Emotional Contagion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/emotional-contagion/)- Mindfulness [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Steve and Matt discuss the business relationships and networking activities critical to running a successful gym. Topics include skill swapping, building logistics, the competitive landscape, neighbouring businesses, privates, seminars, workshops, open mats, tournaments, managing your own promotions, sponsorships, and social media conduct. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/)- Idea Communism [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-communism/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-communism/)- Investing in Loss [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)

Once you've opened your gym, how do maintain and grow your membership base? Steve and Matt discuss lead generation, advertising, merchandising, social media, websites, designing your schedule, and retaining students. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Investing in Loss [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/)- Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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 the second episode of the instructor series, Steve and Matt discuss Matt's experience opening a gym. They cover what's involved in making the decision, the qualifications required, targeting your customers, hidden costs, the path to profitability, and affiliation. A must-listen for anyone interested in moving into Jiu-Jitsu as their full-time career. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Habits over Results [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/)- Loss Aversion [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/loss-aversion/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/loss-aversion/)- Abundance Mindset [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/) ⚠️**NEW course from BJJ Mental Models!** **MINDSET FOR BETAS,** our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta)

Today marks the first of a new five-part series on BJJ Mental Models: the instructor series! We're going to cover topics relevant to instructors and gym owners. Today's topic is coaching, and we're going to discuss: going from practitioner to coach, teaching class, one-on-one instruction, coaching children, coaching tournaments, and teaching seminars. Mental models discussed in this episode: - Beginner's Mind [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/)- Psychological Safety [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/psychological-safety/)- Respect People, not Positions [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/)- Incremental Learning [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/)- Learning Styles [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/learning-styles/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/learning-styles/)- The Golden Rule [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/golden-rule/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/golden-rule/)- Kaizen [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/](https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/) We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: [https://bjjmentalmodels.com/](https://bjjmentalmodels.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)