What Jiu-Jitsu Can Learn From Skateboarding | Ivan J | Game Plan Ep. 023

Ivan joins the podcast to talk about how jiu-jitsu culture has changed, why big sponsors still keep their distance, and what combat sports can learn from skateboarding, branding, and authenticity. The conversation goes from current jiu-jitsu drama and professionalism to Ivan’s background in Barcelona skate culture, his time working at Nike, and what makes a brand actually connect with people.  We get into: • the current state of jiu-jitsu culture • whether jiu-jitsu is a sport or a lifestyle • why money changes underground communities • why some athletes and brands last longer than others • Ivan’s path from skateboarding to Nike • what authenticity really means in branding and in life  If you’re into jiu-jitsu, skateboarding, creativity, branding, or building something real over time, this one’s for you.0:00 This Conversation Might Upset People1:00 Meet Ivan (Why His Perspective Matters)2:01 Jiu-Jitsu Drama Is Getting Out of Control6:13 The Truth About ADCC Money8:41 Jiu-Jitsu Isn’t Really a Sport12:10 Nobody Is Actually In Charge15:05 Money Changed Everything18:42 Brands Want Nothing To Do With This20:06 You Have to Pick a Lane23:29 Building a Brand on Drama Fails25:10 Say It With Your Chest26:51 Social Media Is Warping People29:23 Why There’s Still No Governing Body33:32 One Mistake Can Cost Millions38:02 From Skateboarding to Nike42:08 How He Actually Got In47:19 The Part of Nike Nobody Talks About50:37 Did Nike Ruin Creativity?55:15 The Qatar Story Is Crazy58:39 This Would Blow Up Jiu-Jitsu1:02:48 Why Skateboarding Took Over1:06:23 Jiu-Jitsu Lost Its Edge