PODCAST · health
Forever White Belt
by Adolfo Foronda
Become a VIP Member: https://anchor.fm/foreverwhitebelt/subscribeA podcast about everything Jiu Jitsu / BJJ for those on the constant quest to learn from the perspective of a beginner's mindset.
Episodes
-
Has Jiu Jitsu Coaching Evolved? Matt Kwan Explains
In this episode, Matt Kwan (a black belt under Rob Biernacki, owner and head instructor at On Guard BJJ in British Columbia) shares insights from his recent competition experiences, coaching philosophy, and evolving approach to jiu-jitsu training and teaching. Discover how he integrates adaptive...
-
How Regular People Actually Get Good at Jiu-Jitsu
In this episode I'm joined by Kevin Johnson, black belt, coach, gym owner, content creator, and the man who has somehow managed to build a brand around being the internet's number one mediocre jiu-jitsu coach.Kevin is the co-owner and head instructor at Ivy Jiu-Jitsu in Tennessee, and what really...
-
The Key To The Tall Grappler Game
Most tall grapplers are losing for the same reason, they’re fighting jiu-jitsu like they’re shorter. Rob Bernacki breaks down why long limbs change everything, from overextension and hand fighting to why certain guards, sweeps, and submissions become far more dangerous when you’re six-foot-plus....
-
Being Eco Adjacent: The Next Evolution?
Professor Jay Pages returns to Forever White Belt to talk about how his coaching has evolved, including how he has integrated ecological dynamics and the constraints-led approach into his teaching without feeling the need to go all-in on any single methodology. We get into what "eco adjacent"...
-
Skill Acquisition with Corbin Laporte
Corbin LaPorte may be best known as one of Nicky Rod’s key training partners and a rising talent at Simple Man Martial Arts, but this conversation is less about competition and more about how he became such an effective student and teacher of jiu-jitsu. We discuss Corbin’s unusually rapid…
more -
Funmaxing: The Secret to Better Jiu-Jitsu?
Tom Astarita, founder of Modern Art Jiu Jitsu, is a highly regarded instructor known for his thoughtful, conceptual teaching style and innovative approach to leg locks and guard. He’s trained with some of the best in the world and is dedicated to making Jiu-Jitsu accessible, fun, and sustainable....
-
Controlling Hands Can Make You Unstoppable
Join us for an enlightening conversation with jiu-jitsu innovator Javier Vazquez as he unveils insights from his new book, "The Master Plan." Discover how this groundbreaking work challenges traditional jiu-jitsu approaches and offers a fresh perspective on mastering the art. In this episode,...
-
Why Most Grapplers Train Like Robots | Cameron Shayne
What if becoming a better martial artist had less to do with collecting techniques and more to do with learning how to truly move? In this episode, I sit down with Cameron Shayne to explore a radically different approach to movement, martial arts, strength, and self-expression. Cameron shares how...
-
Connection Over Techniques with Wim Deputter
Most jiu-jitsu advice misses the mark. Wim Deputter, a fourth-degree black belt from Belgium, unveils a revolutionary approach that shifts the focus from memorized techniques to core principles like connection, control, and timing, clarity that transformed his long, injury-free career and now...
-
What Black Belts Wish You Knew Sooner
Our next guest is Steve Hordinski, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the founder of Katharo Training Center in Littleton, Colorado. Steve has spent decades studying and teaching martial arts, with roots in traditional striking arts, before dedicating himself to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Before…
more -
What If Belts Didn’t Exist in Jiu Jitsu? | Kyvann Gonzalez
In this episode of Forever White Belt, I sit down with Kyvann Gonzalez, black belt and co-owner of Bodega Jiu Jitsu in Maplewood, New Jersey. Kyvann has built a unique academy culture focused on skill development, time efficiency, and community. At Bodega, the emphasis isn’t on chasing belts or...
-
What Is Intentional Training? Dan Covel
Most successful martial artists know that mastery isn’t just about techniques; it's about relentless self-awareness, intentional training, and building a community grounded in authenticity. Dan Covel, a decorated black belt and seasoned gym owner, reveals how his unwavering focus on purpose,...
-
The Hidden Safety Crisis in Martial Arts Gyms | Protecting Kids & Women
Most martial arts gyms assume they’re safe, but many are missing critical protections for kids and women. In this eye-opening episode, black belt Milton Campis exposes a hidden safety crisis inside martial arts and jiu-jitsu gyms, and explains what must change. After seeing repeated stories of...
-
Losses, and a Team Move — How Elizabeth Clay Came Back to Win Double Gold
In this candid episode, Elizabeth Clay opens up about how pregnancy and postpartum recovery affected her competition results, leading to tough losses and a major life decision to move from Alaska to Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu in Texas with her husband and newborn son. A 6-time No-Gi World Champion,...
-
2025 Changed Jiu Jitsu - Charles Harriott
Join Charles Harriott and Adolfo Foronda as they reflect on how 2025 has impacted the state of Jiu-Jitsu. From the traditional roots of the gi to the modern dynamics of no-gi, they explore the cultural shifts and personal journeys that shape the martial arts landscape. Discover insights on…
more -
Why Gym Culture Matters More Than Technique
In this episode of Forever White Belt, I sit down with Nick Salles, a black belt under Mikey Musumeci and co-owner of Movement Art Academy alongside Daniel Maira. Nick shares his journey through jiu-jitsu with a deep focus on something that often gets overlooked: culture. We dive into why a...
-
Ultimate Jiu Jitsu Holiday Gift Guide
Join host Adolfo Foronda on a special edition of Forever White Belt as he unveils the ultimate 2025 Holiday Gift Guide for Jiu-Jitsu enthusiasts. From budget-friendly essentials like finger tape and electrolytes to luxurious splurges like custom mats and AI grappling dummies, this episode covers…
more -
Overcoming BJJ Pain with Wes Hendricks
Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Dr. Wes Hendricks, who has a unique blend of expertise in exercise science and human biology. Wes shares his journey of integrating rehabilitation and training, offering a fresh perspective on managing pain and empowering individuals to take...
-
AI in Jiu Jitsu Training
Join us in this engaging episode as Sid Nanda, CEO & Co-Founder of SubmissionSensAI, delves into the future of AI in sports coaching. Discover how AI-driven feedback is revolutionizing training in movement-based sports, particularly in jiu-jitsu. Sid shares his journey, the challenges faced, and...
-
Positive Mental Attitude BJJ
Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Felipe Simplicio, a third-degree black belt under the legendary JT Torres and owner of Red Zone Jiu-Jitsu Academy. From his early days in Brazil to establishing a thriving academy in Connecticut, Felipe shares his passion for teaching, the…
more -
Invisible Jiu Jitsu - Chris Bones Burns
In this engaging episode, Chris "Bones" Burns, a second-degree Rickson Gracie black belt, shares his unique journey through the world of Jiu-Jitsu. From his early struggles and injuries to his teaching philosophy and the founding of Zero Point Academy, Chris offers insights into the art of...
-
Clay Mayfield
In this episode, I sit down with Clay Mayfield, a Pedigo Submission Fighting black belt under Heath Pedigo and the founder of Triangle Academy. Clay shares his inspiring journey from being homeschooled to becoming a respected black belt and academy owner. We discuss the importance of finding the...
-
Heath The Ref Massery
In this episode, we are joined by none other than Heath “The Ref” Massery, ADCC referee, PGF referee, and one of the most knowledgeable voices when it comes to understanding the rules that shape elite-level Jiu Jitsu. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of optimizing your Jiu Jitsu for...
-
Bird Wiltse - The Odyssey
In this episode, we are joined by the insightful and candid Bird Wiltse. Known for his unique approach to teaching and his journey through the highs and lows of the sport, Bird shares his experiences from competing on the world stage to his passion for creating instructional content. Join us as…
more -
CJI 2 What Went Right And Where It Goes From Here
In this episode, host Adolfo Foronda speaks with Matt Kwan, a black belt and owner of On Guard Jiu-Jitsu Academy, about the recent CJI 2 (Craig Jones Invitational) event. They discuss the production quality, match dynamics, standout performances, and the controversies surrounding the event,...
-
Christos Papadelos - Learning From The Greats
Welcome to Forever White Belt, where we dive into the dynamic world of Jiu-Jitsu with the insightful Christos Papadelos. A PGF athlete, money maker, and 3x ADCC Open Champion, Christos is also the creator of the Enigma Jiu Jitsu grappling events and EnigmaJiuJitsu.tv. Training under the legendary...
-
Max Hanson - Work Ethic and Discipline in Jiu-Jitsu
This episode's guest is one of the most exciting names in competitive grappling right now—Max Hanson. A Canadian BJJ Black Belt under Dante Leon, Max represents Pedigo Submission Fighting and is currently considered one of the top 170 lbs. grapplers in the world. His resume includes major titles…
more -
Drew Weatherhead | Why BJJ Is Changing and How to Keep Up
In this episode, I'm joined by Jiu Jitsu Black Belt, brilliant thinker, and true renaissance man, Drew Weatherhead. You may know him from his hilarious and insightful Because Jitsu page, his mind-expanding book "Fractures," or his world-class instruction on DrewJitsu Online, but there’s so much...
-
Shawn Melanson - Precision Jiu-Jitsu
In this episode of the show, I’m joined by Shawn Melanson — a Jiu-Jitsu black belt, highly respected instructor, and the owner of Precision Jiu Jitsu in New Hampshire. Known for his incredibly refined and effective teaching style, Shawn is a coach’s coach — a technician with a deep understanding…
more -
Winning With New Wave, feat.Daniel Schuardt
In this episode, I’m joined by one of the most original and dynamic minds in Jiu-Jitsu today — Daniel Schuardt.A black belt competitor and coach currently training under John Danaher with the New Wave / Kingsway team in Austin, Texas, Daniel is the perfect blend of high-level athlete, thoughtful...
-
Malachy Friedman - Jiu Jitsu, MMA, and Innovation
In this episode, I sit down with one of the most brilliant minds in the world of Jiu Jitsu—Malachy Friedman. Widely respected as a true scientist of the art, Malachy is a black belt whose innovative approach to coaching, technique, and strategy has earned him admiration across the global Jiu…
more -
Nelson Puentes - Teach With Resistance
In this episode, I'm joined by a true innovator in the Jiu Jitsu world—Nelson Puentes, the co-founder of Inverted Gear and a third-degree black belt who has spent years traveling the globe, training, teaching, and building community. Nelson and his wife, Hillary, launched Inverted Gear in 2012…
more -
Rob Biernacki - Concept Over Chaos
I’m incredibly honored to share a conversation with someone whose work has had a massive influence on my own jiu-jitsu journey, from the earliest stages right up to today—Rob Biernacki. Rob is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the head instructor at Island Top Team in Nanaimo, British…
more -
Randy William
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Randy William, who is quickly becoming a powerful and refreshing voice in the Jiu-Jitsu community.Randy is a BJJ black belt, competitor, and passionate content creator known for his sharp technical insights, detailed instructionals, and thought-provoking...
-
Nathan Haddad
In this episode, Nathan Haddad shares his extensive journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, starting from his early days as a child practitioner to becoming a black belt and esteemed instructor. He discusses his experiences in competition, the evolution of his techniques, and the importance of mindset in...
-
Alex West - No Gi Jiu Jitsu & BJJ Fanatics Uke
In this episode, we are joined by Alex West, a rising figure in the Jiu-Jitsu community, a dedicated instructor, and a fierce competitor. Alex is a BJJ brown belt and one of the most active and successful competitors in his local scene. He trains and teaches at Precision Jiu-Jitsu in New…
more -
Reilly Bodycomb
I am tremendously honored to sit down with one of the most fascinating figures in the grappling world—Reilly Bodycomb. Reilly is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, a Pan-American Sambo Champion, and an expert in dynamic submission grappling. He teaches at Bay Jiu-Jitsu in San Francisco, where he...
-
Josh Vogel - Independent Jiu-Jitsu
In this episode, I have the absolute pleasure of speaking with Josh Vogel—a third-degree Jiu-Jitsu black belt, co-founder of The Jiu Jitsu Company in Old City, Philadelphia, and creator of the 90-Day Project-Based Jiu-Jitsu program. Josh has over two decades of experience on the mats, and his...
-
Clark Gracie
evolving asIn this episode, I have the incredible honor of sitting down with Clark Gracie, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and world-renowned competitor, instructor, and academy owner. Clark is the son of 9th-degree red belt Carley Gracie and the grandson of Carlos Gracie, the co-founder of...
-
Whoop Ass Camps & TRIBE Grappling: Raoul Audhoe
Today, we have the honor of speaking with Raoul Audhoe, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under friend of the show, Priit Mihkelson, and a grappling coach with over 20 years of martial arts experience. Based in Amsterdam, Raoul’s martial arts journey began with Capoeira at the age of 15 and has...
-
Tryfon Stathopoulos - Coaching, Competing, and Creating a BJJ Family
Join us for an incredibly meaningful conversation with Tryfon Stathopoulos, a second-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the owner and head instructor of North Bay Jiu Jitsu in Novato, California—my home academy and a place that has been truly life-changing for me. Tryfon has been among...
-
2025 Jiu-Jitsu Predictions & Recap
In this solo episode, Adolfo Foronda reflects on the past and future of Jiu-Jitsu, discussing trends for 2024, including the rise of the Craig Jones Invitational, the impact of economic factors, subscription fatigue, and the role of AI in training. He also shares personal insights on recovery...
-
Alan Titone - Relentlessly Pursue Your Jiu-Jitsu
In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Alan Titone, a multifaceted individual whose journey spans over two decades in corporate America, a distinguished tenure as an international yoga instructor, and a dedicated role as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach and academy owner. Alan is the...
-
Jake O'Driscoll - BJJ Coaching At The Elite Level
Today, we’re thrilled to have Jake O’Driscoll join us on the show. Jake is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the head coach at Essence BJJ in Perth, Australia. Beyond his impressive competitive accolades, Jake is best known as the coach of double ADCC gold medalist and…
more -
Rick Ellis on the Art of Skill and Sharing Jiu-Jitsu Worldwide
In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Rick Ellis, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Roy Dean and the visionary behind the 'The Art of Skill' platform. Rick shares profound insights into Jiu-Jitsu through his popular YouTube channel and website, featuring some of the world's…
more -
Robert Donofrio - Building a Jiu-Jitsu Community
In this episode of Forever White Belt, host Adolfo Foronda interviews Robert Donofrio, a black belt under Rob Kahn and owner of Gracie Brandon in Florida. They discuss Robert's journey in Jiu-Jitsu, the keys to building a successful academy, and the sense of community he has fostered. The...
-
Priit Mihkelson - Jiu Jitsu Evolution
In this episode, we have the return of Priit Mihkelson. Priit is an Estonian Black Belt, he is one of the preeminent thinkers of defensive Jiu Jitsu and he travels the world as a highly sought-after instructor. You will hear us using terms, like Hawking, Panda, Running Man, Grilled Chicken, Seal...
-
Keelan Lawyer - Documenting BJJ and The Future of PGF
In this episode, we have, Keelan Lawyer. Keelan is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Brandon McCaghren at 10th Planet Decatur in Alabama. As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of Brandon’s work and consider him one of the best instructors in the game today. Keelan, or as Brandon likes to call...
-
Adele Fornarino - ADCC 2X Champion
In this episode, we've got an incredible guest joining us, none other than, Adele Fornarino, the 2024 ADCC double gold champion. Adele has taken the world of grappling by storm, making history as the first Australian to win ADCC and the first to take the open class title. She’s a jiu-jitsu black...
-
Jonathan Satava - Marcello Garcia Black Belt
In this episode, we bring you an incredible interview with none other than Jonathan Satava. Jon is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under the legendary Marcelo Garcia, part of the golden generation of grapplers from Garcia’s New York academy. Regarded as one of the top prospects in the 82kg...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
Loading similar podcasts...