Newaza Podcast

Stephen Kesting is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt who has nearly 40 years of martial arts wealth and knowledge. Stephen is the founder of Grapplearts.com and beginningBJJ.com which are online sites that provide information about many kinds of martial arts. His online forum is well known and highly regarded for its ability to answer all questions related to martial arts. Stephen has helped tens of thousands of grapplers improve their martial arts. Stephen Kesting received his black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from Marcus Soares, who is an 8th degree black belt directly under the tutelage of the famous Carlson Gracie. Stephen is also a certified instructor under Erik Paulson’s Combat Submission Wrestling. Stephen’s other credentials include a black belt in Kajukenbo Karate, an instructor certification in Dan Inosanto’s Jun Fan JKD, he has also studied Maphilindo Silat, Filipino Martial Arts, Japanese Judo, Russian Sambo, Chinese Kung Fu, Brazilian Capoeira and Muay Thai Kickboxing.  Stephen Kesting also works as a fireman in Vancouver, British Columbia. Stephen’s bravery and ability to adapt to all of his vocations is inspiring.Stephan can be reached at @stephan_kesting

Professor Steve Hordinski III has the profound privilege of sharing the gift of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with others. This martial art has the power to transform lives and improve everyone's quality of life.With decades of martial arts experience, Steve's journey began with Kenpo Karate, where he earned his Black Belt. As a Deep-Sea Navy Diver in the United States Navy, he discovered Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through Relson Gracie Black Belt Phil Cardella. This exposure had a profound impact, transforming his life in ways he never thought possible.After his first class, Steve was hooked. Stationed in Hawaii, he trained at Grandmaster Relson Gracie's school, learning from one of the founding masters of Jiu-Jitsu. This rare privilege allowed him to learn from the source, and now he's honored to share that knowledge with others.As a fourth-degree Black Belt, Steve specializes in self-defense-based Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on takedowns and striking. He has taught seminars nationwide, promoted individuals to Black Belts, and supported non-profits aiding disabled veterans. Committed to leading by example, Steve invites you to experience the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu and looks forward to seeing you on the mat.

Mike Mahaffey is a second-degree black belt in BJJ under Chris Haueter and Matt Linsemier out of Magic BJJ in Lansing, Michigan. Mike is a lifelong martial artist, who started training in Tae Kwon Do at the age of 14. Mike also holds black belt ranks in Tae Kwon Do and Karate and has trained in kali and Kobudo as well. Mike first experienced jiu jitsu in 1995 but didn’t start serious study of the art until 2006 and has been training BJJ ever since. Mike enjoys competing and coaching BJJ, and now at the age of 54, hopes to help older and younger practitioners alike get the most out of their training with his “Old Bastard Jiu Jitsu” style, which focuses on solid fundamentals, and prioritizes base, posture, and structure over flashy and complicated techniques.”Mike can be reached on Instagram at: @oldbastardbjj

Richard Nguyen is an aspired mixed martial arts fighter training out of American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, CA. and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt under Ron Keslar of American Elite Grappling. Richard is also a stand up comedian and is a graduate of San Jose State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Finance.

Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down and speaking with @danielfredell about: strength and conditioningconsiderations for the Jiu-Jitsu athlete; jiu-jitsu training; and diet and recovery considerations.Daniel has studied many different disciplines and have trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Black Belt Under KarelPravec), Krav Maga (Currently Tan Shirt under Caroline Kone at Warriors KravMaga), and Muay Thai.Daniel has an associate degree from Gaston College in the Health and Fitness Science Program. There he wasawarded the Leadership Award, Excellence Award, and Outstanding Graduate Award. Daniel also completed a two-semester dual internship with Hickory Cardiologyand the Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department at Frye Regional Medical Center. Daniel was hired as a Rehab Tech II at Frye shortly after his internship ended.Daniel is a Certified Fitness Professional through ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) and ACE(American Council on Exercise). While Daniel has moved away from the medical facility, he still works closely with local Chiropractors, Acupuncturists, MassageTherapist, and Rehabilitation Therapists through their referrals for patients in need of building functional strength and mobility.Daniel is the author of two books which are books are available in paper-back on Amazon at:Jits-Fit: The Grappler's Guide toFitness: Fredell, Mr. Daniel Ray: 9781536980851: Amazon.com: BooksSimple to Savage Kettlebell:Taking You from Beginner to Advanced - Kindle edition by Fredell, Daniel.Health, Fitness & Dieting Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.Daniel can be reached at: Instagram  @danielfredellFacebook:  DanielFredellWebsite:  www.danielfredell.com

Steve McKinney has been in the fitness industry for nearly 34 years. He is the owner of Fitness and More, Inc. and is a 1st Class Certified Personal Fitness Trainer. In 1990 he won the Mr. Southern Illinois Body Building title and was a top 5 finisher in the Mr. Midwest competition. He is the innovator of the 3-W Approach to Fitness and has personally supervised over 4000 workouts per year for the past twenty plus years! Steve specializes in private 1-2-1 High Intensity Training sessions. Steve is a 2 time pan-am silver medalist in blue and purple belt and currently holds a Black Belt in BJJ under Kyle Watson. Go to www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com to get a download of Steve’s video instructional titled “Efficient BJJ Strength in 15 minutes”. Steve’s book, “The Gospel of Fitness” will be released on January 31, 2025 on Amazon.com. Make sure you go to Amazon and pick up a copy!

Jason Scully is a 4th Degree BJJ Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with 25 + years of experience. Jason is the Owner & Coach of Revel Jiu-Jitsu in East Brunswick New Jersey. Jason teaches both adults and kids Coach. Jason is also the creator of The Grappler’s Guide (one of most popular online learning sites in the world for grappling). Jason is an ADCC trials bronze medalist; Brown Belt World Championship Bronze Medalist; Black Belt No-Gi Pans Bronze Medalist; Multiple IBJJF Open Medalist; Advanced and Expert Division Champion (NAGA, Grapplers Quest, etc..). Jason was inducted In the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame and has a YouTube channel (The Grapplers Guide) dedicated to Jiu-Jitsu with 163,000 Subscribers. Jason can be reached at @the_grapplers_guide in Instagram.

Robert Donofrio is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Rob Khan, who is a black belt under Royce Gracie. Robert is the owner of Gracie Brandon in Riverview, Florida, which is a mixed martial arts facility specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Robert has competed both in the highest level in sport BJJ as well as professional MMA. Robert can be contacted on Instagram at: @robbydjitsu83 @graciebrandonbjj

ATHAN SIAMAS: Athan Siamas is a brown belt under Mike Jaramillo and a co-founder/instructor at Renzo Gracie East Side Martial Arts. His experience as a teacher includes Renzo Gracie Middletown, Renzo Gracie Union Square, and in the famous “blue basement” at Renzo Gracie Academy HQ, in New York City. Through his ambassadorship with We Defy Foundation, Athan participates in seminars around the country, raising funds to provide combat veterans coping with military-connected disabilities a long term means to overcome their challenges through the art of jiu jitsu. Athan is also co-founder of The Happy Pill Project, a social media outlet that promotes the healthy and positive aspects of the jiu jitsu lifestyle with the goal of growing a larger and stronger community. In addition to being the engine behind its YouTube and social media posts, Athan is perhaps best known for his role in front of the camera as Mike’s main uke (the person who helps with the technique demonstration). Although Athan is the first to say that he does not always enjoy competing, he continues to challenge himself by entering competitions ranging from local tournaments to world championships. He believes the process of competition exposes him to different elements of jiu jitsu making him a more effective practitioner and instructor. CYNTHIA YANG: Cynthia Yang is also a co-founder and instructor at RGES. Recognizable on the mats by the orange notebook she writes in during lessons, she is the person behind the free flowcharts & illustrated glossary on The Happy Pill Project’s Linktree. Cynthia received her brown belt from Mike Jaramillo and continues to train at Renzo Gracie Academy HQ. Athan can be contacted on Instagram at: @athanjj Cynthia can be contacted on Instagram at: @cyy.bjj

Randy started his Jiu Jitsu’s journey in 2009 under a Renzo Gracie affiliate and later switched to Vicente Junior as his primary instructor. He began instructing in Dover Delaware with Team Viper as a blue belt. Once he attained his purple belt Randy began instructing on the Dover Air force base and later in November of 2016, he received his brown belt. In December 2018 he earned his black belt under Vicente Junior. Randy currently trains and teaches at Gracie Gulf Coast Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Biloxi, Mississippi. Rancho can be reached on Instagram: @black_belt_randy

This is a great episode for the older grappler! Mike Mahaffey is a second-degree black belt in BJJ under Chris Haueter and Matt Linsemier out of Magic BJJ in Lansing, Michigan. Mike is a lifelong martial artist, who started training in Tae Kwon Do at the age of 14. Mike also holds black belt ranks in Tae Kwon Do and Karate and has trained in kali and Kobudo as well. Mike first experienced jiu jitsu in 1995 but didn’t start serious study of the art until 2006 and has been training BJJ ever since. Mike enjoys competing and coaching BJJ, and now at the age of 51, hopes to help older and younger practitioners alike get the most out of their training with his “Old Bastard Jiu Jitsu” style, which focuses on solid fundamentals, and prioritizes base, posture, and structure over flashy and complicated techniques.” Mike can be reached on Instagram at: @oldbastardbjj

Professor Mike Jaramillo is a 5th Degree black belt, a black belt World Champion, a black belt European Champion, a Pan Am Silver Medalist, a Blue Basement OG and the first student to be promoted to Black Belt by Professor John Danaher. Mike is famous for a ferocious top game and spreading the love of BJJ to everyone in the room, from the high-level pros to the shy hobbyist hiding in the corner. Professor Mike Jaramillo is the head no gi instructor at the Renzo Gracie Academy. Mike can be contacted on Instagram at: @mikejaramillo_bjj or @thehappypillproject

Ethan Ostermeyer has been a student of athletic performance training for 20 years. Ethan played college football at Sacred Heart University (university of Connecticut). Ethan completed an internship for the Strength program at the University of Rhode Island and the football program. Ethan owned and ran his own gym, Elite Performance Systems, for 8 years before passing it on to his mentee where we trained hundreds of athletes from professionals to middle school. Ethan is married with three (3) children who might love Jiu Jitsu more than him and is currently a purple belt and coach at Simmons Jiu Jitsu in Connecticut. Ethan feels that his passion for helping athletes has always felt like one of his major purposes in life. Ethan can be reached on Instagram at @homegrown_jiujitsu.

Theo Haig is a 27-year-old Middleweight (184) Pro MMA fighter training out of AKA in San Jose, CA. Theo has a record 4-0-0 (wins-loss-draw). Theo is currently ranked 43 of 177 in the West; 21 of 87 in California and 163 of 634 in the United States. Theo holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Ron Keslar of American Elite Grappling and is a strength and condition coach.

Alberto Juarez is the Founder of Team Daruma Dojo. He is a 3rd degree blackbelt under MMA veteran and 4th degree blackbelt Ricardo Barros and Judo blackbelt under Olympic Trials silver medalist and Sr National Champion David Williams from the legendary SJSU Judo team. Alberto is a lifelong martial artist starting Jiu Jitsu in 2003. Immediately, within a few years, he found his passion for teaching. Amassing 15 years of experience working with adults & kids to help them learn martial arts, gain confidence, and learn the importance of fitness and discipline. Earning his BS in Kinesiology from SJSU during his journey to master his craft, Alberto possesses a massive amount of technical knowledge, skill, and experience. Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Carlos Gracie Junior > Ryan/Ralph Gracie > Ricardo Barros > Alberto Juarez

Matt Guffey is a brown belt in Brazilian jiu Jitsu under Caio terra, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, functional range conditioning mobility specialist, and functional strength coach. He owns Victory High Performance, a strength and conditioning facility for grapplers in San Jose, CA. Today, Matt and I discussed prepping for competition from approximately 4 weeks out, warming for competition the day of the tournament using full body CARs, as well as distance management from long, medium and close-range engagements in jiu-jitsu. As a reminder and or announcement, Matt will be conducting a free mobility seminar at Samurai Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on July 23, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. There will also be an open mat from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Samurai Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is located at 2125 S. Winchester Blvd. #130, Campbell, CA 95008.

Miko Hytonen is a Brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and an instructor at Lilius Barnatt Martial Arts in Torremolinos, Malaga, Spain. Miko can be found on Instagram @chokes_and_more where Miko demonstrates a plethora of Jiu-Jitsu submissions and technical knowledge with his personal flare. Miko has two instructionals available on BJJFanatics.com titled “Lapel Chokes from Everywhere” and “No Gi Chokes from Everywhere”. During our conversation, Miko and I discussed Gi vs. No Gi, grip setups for guard passing, competition, growing up in gang life and how his life has changed for the better due to Jiu-Jitsu, the BJJ belt system, the process to successfully add new systems or techniques to your game, tattoos, and Jiu-Jitsu injuries. Miko was a generous and engaging guest. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

James “Tenacity” Tomlinson otherwise known simply as “JT” is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is one of the first certified kettlebell trainers in Australia. James has helped to pave the way for kettlebells in the Aussie Strength & Conditioning scene. JT is a Co-Founder of Bulletproof for BJJ as well as Co-Host of the Bulletproof for BJJ Podcast. JT is also the developer of the JiuGo tabletop card game. During our conversation we discuss how James became involved in strength and conditioning, personal training, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as well as the Bulletproof for BJJ “Standards” program. Standards is a program created specifically for Jiu-Jitsu athletes which combines mobility and specific strength training exercises to increase your performance on the mats while trying to reduce your likelihood of injury. If you would like more information on the Standards program or any of the other programs offered by Bulletproof for BJJ, visit their website at www.bulletproofforbjj.com.

Vernon Kirk is a dedicated BJJ Black Belt under Rubens Rodriguez as well as a Bushido Judo back belt. Vernon returns for his second appearance on the podcast! We discuss various aspects of competing in Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Sanbo; the kimura and knee slicing passing; drop seoi-nage and tamoe-nage.

Mike Mahaffey is a first-degree black belt in BJJ under Chris Haueter and Matt Linsemier out of Magic BJJ in Lansing, Michigan. Mike is a lifelong martial artist, who started training in Tae Kwon Do at the age of 14. Mike also holds black belt ranks in Tae Kwon Do and Karate and has trained in kali and Kobudo as well. Mike first experienced jiu jitsu in 1995 but didn’t start serious study of the art until 2006 and has been training BJJ ever since. Mike enjoys competing and coaching BJJ, and now at the age of 51, hopes to help older and younger practitioners alike get the most out of their training with his “Old Bastard Jiu Jitsu” style, which focuses on solid fundamentals, and prioritizes base, posture, and structure over flashy and complicated techniques.” Old Bastard BJJ YouTube video: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTY4EjR3DKLXSXEN6fchEBWQA373vKUYq

Terry Seeton is the co-host of the Limitless Radiocast along with Chad Kuhn. Terry is a BJJ Blue belt and trains at East Coast Martial Arts in Canton, Ohio under BBJ Black Belt Chad Kuhn which is an affiliate of 4th degree black belt, James Clingerman.   Terry can be reached on Instagram @limitless_radiocast

Josh McKinney is a 20x IBJJF gold medalist and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under UFC veteran Kyle Watson. Josh is the Owner of Head Nod HQ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academies in Granite City and Jerseyville, IL., and the host of the successful podcast “I Suck at Jiu-Jitsu Show”. I had a great conversation with Josh McKinney today. Josh is one of my favorite Jiu-Jitsu podcasters who I have personally learned a lot from by listen to his podcast the I suck at jiujitsu show. I always look forward to Tuesdays and Thursday when Josh puts out new content. Today’s conversation will not disappoint. I am confident that you will get a lot out of our conversation as Josh is a wealth of knowledge who also talks the talk and walks the walk. I am very excited to announce that this episode of the Newaza podcast is sponsored by Leao Optics! Leao Optics is the original Jiu-Jitsu sunglasses company, founded in Southern California and trusted worldwide! They make unique, high quality, handcrafted wood sunglasses with a Jiu-Jitsu influenced design. This is truly a brand made by Jiu-Jitsu people for Jiu-Jitsu people. They have several different styles all featuring different types of wood and frame shapes. All of their sunglasses are light weight and durable. They also feature TAC polarized lenses that are scratch and shatter resistant! Also, if you order a $5 protective case with your glasses, you automatically get signed up for their “Oh No” plan! This plan will give you a 40% discount and free shipping for a new pair if you break them within 6 months. Head over to leaooptics.com and take a look! Be sure to use the coupon code “Newaza” to get 10% off your order and also support the show!

Matthew is a 41-year-old San Jose native, married father of three and has been tattooing since 2005. Matthew owns and operates his own tattoo show, The Holy Scythe Tattoo in San Jose, CA. Matthew Tillman is a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Caio Terra. The Newaza Podcast is now sponsored by Leao Optics!! Leao Optics is the original Jiu-Jitsu sunglasses company, founded in Southern California and trusted worldwide! They make unique, high quality, handcrafted wood sunglasses with a Jiu-Jitsu influenced design. This is truly a brand made by Jiu-Jitsu people for Jiu-Jitsu people. They have several different styles all featuring different types of wood and frame shapes. All of their sunglasses are light weight and durable. They also feature TAC polarized lenses that are scratch and shatter resistant! Also, if you order a $5 protective case with your glasses, you automatically get signed up for their “Oh No” plan! This plan will give you a 40% discount and free shipping for a new pair if you break them within 6 months. Head over to leaooptics.com and take a look! Be sure to use the coupon code “Newaza” to get 10% off your order and also support the show!

Matt Guffey is a brown belt in Brazilian jiu Jitsu under Caio Terra, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, functional range conditioning mobility specialist, and functional strength coach. He owns Victory High Performance, a strength and conditioning facility for grapplers in San Jose, CA.

Tim Stinson is a purple belt under Chad Kuhn at East Coast Martial Arts (see episode 7 for an interview with Chad). Tim is a career fireman with the city of Canton Ohio for 9 years and recently was promoted to Fire Investigator. Tim and I had a fun conversation about high school sports, family, careers, Jiu-Jitsu, and competing and medaling at Pans, but we also got into a “cellar dweller” washed up meathead conversation about home gyms at one point. If that does interest you, feel free to fast forward, but nevertheless, I hope you enjoy the conversation!

James Clingerman is a 4th degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt from Indianapolis, Indiana. James owns the Indiana Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Endurance BJJ and www.TheFightHub.com and www.bjj.foundation.com. James can be reached on instagram at @james_clingerman

Joe Worthington is a BJJ Black Belt and Co-Founder/Director at Jungle Brothers Strength &Movement Gym in Sydney, Australia. Joe is also Co-Founder of Bulletproof for BJJ as well as Co-Host of both, the Jungle Brothers and Bulletproof for BJJ Podcasts.

Chasen Hill is a First Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and instructor at Redline Jiu-Jitsu in Edmond, Oklahoma. Chasen has been teaching since blue belt. Chasen quickly realized he had a passion for teaching & helping others vs focusing on the competition route. Chasen has taught thousands of adults and kids over his career via group instruction, private lesson, and seminars. Chasen is currently a fill time Jiu-Jitsu professor teaching in person and online coaching. Chasen continues his Jiu-Jitsu education under Ty Gay and Henry Akins. Chasen has a successful YouTube channel titled Chasen Hill which currently has with 3.87K subscribers and hosts his own podcast called the “Jiu-Jitsu Secrets Podcast”.

Ryan Ford is a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the Director of Podcasting at BJJ Fanatics. Ryan began his podcasting career as the owner and host of The Grappling Central Podcast, which was the #1 ranked Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/Grappling podcast on iTunes. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is Ryan’s life's passion and has been practicing for more than fifteen years and have had the privilege to learn from several high-level black belts both in the U.S. and in Brazil. While acting as the Directors of Podcasting for BJJ Fanatics, Ryan continues to highlight the life stories and experiences of world-famous practitioners, teachers, fighters and champions from the grappling scene, while also providing training advice, humor and insightful opinions. When he is not working on the podcast, Ryan trains avidly in Brazil where he lives with his wife and two children a daughter and son. Ryan also enjoys the outdoors, long boarding and music.

Anthony Baker is a Marine veteran with a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. For the last 10 years Anthony has been a trainer and athletic coach for corporate America. Anthony’s goal is to help others transform their bodies, increase their resiliency and strengthen their minds. Anthony’s fields of study include kinesiology, exercise physiology, human anatomy, combat sports and strength and conditioning.

Francisco “kiko” Gonzalez is black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and an instructor at Solidarity Jiu Jitsu in San Jose, CA. Kiko is also one of the founders of Koffee Krew which provides Northern California open mats without politics. Contact Kiko on instagram: @thekoffeekrew Website: www.nodojotrippin.com

Todd Fox is the founder and owner of the Close Protection Group. He is a former U.S. Marine and was assigned duties that spanned the Corps’ broad gamut, ranged from washing dishes to operating with JTG-6. His access to “B” billets offered insight into unique realms outside the military. Mr. Fox is also a former law enforcement officer. He was responsible for the creation, development and training of a regional law enforcement Special Response Team. His team participated in the protection of humans and assets during several pivotal notional events. He is a graduate of multiple advanced programs at the Counterterrorism Division of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Mr. Fox has been a lifelong martial artist. He holds three black belts in uniquely different arts. While in the Martine Corps, he fought in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and retired with a professional record of ten wind and two losses. Mr. Fox is a black blet U.S. National Champion, U.S. Open Champion and Pan American Medalist in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He continues to actively train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. Mr. Fox has authored three books on protective service operating and numerous articles as a protectives security subject matter expert (SME). Todd can be reached at: Instagram - @tourtraining www.tourprotection.com

This week I sat down and had a spontaneous and very entertaining conversation with Chad Kuhn who is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and head instructor at East Coast Martial Arts in Canton, Ohio which is an affiliate of 4th degree black belt, James Clingerman. Chad co-hosts the “Limitless Radiocast” Jiu-Jitsu Podcast with his student, Terry Seaton. We discussed Chad’s beginnings in martial arts, martial arts in the 80’s, training in the gi vs no gi, the hardest colored belt for Chad to get through, competition, Chad’s basic but unique approach to strength training for BJJ, combat Jiu-Jitsu, which Jiu-Jitsu personalities influenced Chad’s Jiu-Jitsu game as he climbed the ranks, tattoos and addictive personalities, and eating a vegan diet. Chad can be reached on Instagram @teameastcoast_bjj

Today, I had the abosulte pleasure to sit down and talk to Travis and Jon who host the ver, y successful postcast, “Elbows Tight”. We had a very casual and enjoyable conversation on topics such as recovery, the blue belt “blues”, jiu-jitsu injuries, balancing your jiu-jitsu training as a honnyist with a family and a job, competition, reflecting on Jiu-Jitsu in the micro-sense and thinking about Jiu-Jitsu in a philosophical way. We also gave our non-expert opinon on jiu-jitsu positions which serve as both submission and control simultaneously. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did engaging in it. And…my appologies for my loud obnoxious laughing (I will work on that in the future). My audio was much higher than Travis and Jon’s during the playback and my laughs were booming. Without further delay let’s get to the interview! Travis and Jon can be reached on Instagram @elbowstight

Kristina Barlaan is a 2nd degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Caio Terra, having also trained extensively with Gustavo Dantas. Widely regarded as one of her generation’s main light-featherweight competitors, Barlaan’s reputation was earned through important wins in some of the sport’s prime tournaments, particularly in the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation circuit, where she won Asian, European and Pan American titles in the 118 lbs weight division. Kristina’s main achievements at black belt include: IBJJF      American National No-Gi Champion (2015) IBJJF      American National Championship 3rd Place (2015 Absolute) IBJJF      European Open Champion (2016) IBJJF      Pan American Championship 2nd Place (2016/2017) IBJJF      Asian Open Champion (2018) Kristina’s main achievements at colored belts include: IBJJF American National No-Gi      Champion (2009 Weight and Absolute /2010 blue) IBJJF American National No-Gi      Championship 3rd Place (2011 Absolute at purple) IBJJF American National Championship      3rd Place (2011 Absolute at purple) IBJJF American National No-Gi      Championship 2nd Place (2011 purple) IBJJF American National Championship      2nd Place (2011 purple) IBJJF World Championship 2nd Place      (2012 Absolute) IBJJF Pan American Championship 2nd      Place (2012 purple) IBJJF World Championship 3rd Place (2010      blue, 2012 purple, 2013/2014/2015 brown) IBJJF Pan American Championship 3rd      Place (2010 Absolute at blue, 2011 purple, 2013 Absolute at brown) IBJJF World No-Gi Championship 2nd      Place (2014 brown) IBJJF World No-Gi Championship 3rd      Place (2013 brown) IBJJF American National Champion      (2012 purple, 2014 brown) IBJJF Pan American Champion (2010 blue,      2013/2014/2015 brown) Kristina and I had a really good conversation about and mindset and confidence, positional awareness, training with large partners, mount escapes, anxiety and metal health challenges, the “I suck” mentality associated with BJJ, strength training, training challenges faces by women practitioners as well as rolling with the opposite gender. Kristina can be reached on Instagram at: @kbjiujitsu

This week I had the pleasure of sitting down with Yoshi Yamaguchi who is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Ralph Gracie and trains at Ralph Gracie, San Francisco. Yoshi is currently working on his Doctorate at the University of San Francisco in Organizational Leadership Studies. Yoshi has a YouTube Channel and Instagram page, both titled “Yoshi_SF” where he uploads shorts demonstrating various Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Yoshi and I discussed his 15-year journey to black belt as well as how his judo experience influences his Jiu-Jitsu. This was a really good conversation and I hope you enjoy the interview! YouTube: Yoshi_SF Instagram: @yoshi_SF

Jake has been training Jiu Jitsu for 7 years and is a purple belt under Mike Murrell of Cave Academy in Pacific, California (See Newaza Podcast Episode 1 for an interview with Mike Murrell). in 2021, Jake moved to Hawaii with his wife and started the YouTube channel, “Less Impressed More Involved BJJ” which to date has 29,000 subscribers. Today, Jake and I sat down to discuss his process of breaking down jiu-jitsu into understandable concepts and strategies to improve as quickly as possible by primarily studying live jiu-jitsu matches and instructional videos by credible sources. Specifically, we discussed half guard passing and touched on a bit of guard retention and methods of drilling to develop timely and accuracy as well. Jake can reached through his YouTube channel or through Instagram @shorthairedjake

Alex Sterner is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Brown Belt under Andre Galvao of Atos BJJ. Alex earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut as well as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist accreditation through the National Strength and Conditioning Association resulting in a wealth of expertise in strength and conditioning. Alex is a co-founder and head coach of Electrum Performance which is a facility that offers strength and conditioning workout programs designed for many types of athletes. Alex is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at the Atos Headquarters in San Diego, CA. Alex personally led the Strength and Conditioning training camp that resulted in the Atos academy winning consecutive team Gi World Championships in 2017 and 2018. Electrum Performance’s website can be found at www.electrumperformance.com and offers online workout programs that give the user many options from EP Custom to EP at Home. This allows customers to train in the convenience of their own facility and at their own pace, with a program that’s designed to enhance client’s abilities to reach their goals. Alex has two instructionals available; the first is available at www.bjjfanatics.com  titled, “Simplified Strength Training Templates For BJJ'' and the second is available at www.jiujitsux.com, titled, “Strength and Mobility For the Guard Player”. Alex offers free content at: Instagram: @alex.sterner YouTube: Electrum Performance Alex is available for contract via Instagram at @alex.sterner

This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down and speaking to Mike Murrell who is a 1st degree blackbelt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Ralph Gracie. Mike earned his blackbelt in Judo in 2008 before training Jiu-Jitsu full time under Kurt Osiander in San Francisco, CA. Mike is the founder and head instructor of Cave Academy in Pacifica, CA. We discussed how Mike began his martial arts journey eventually leading him from Judo to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling. We discussed Mike’s thoughts on takedowns for no gi jiu-jitsu as well as his methods for learning from instructional videos to deepen his knowledge of jiu-jitsu and submission grappling. Mike has had the honor of training with some of the best athletes and coaches in the sport. Mike is known for his highly detailed instruction and voracious study habits. Mike’s instructional “The Triangle Territory” can be found at www.the-tiger.io

In Part 1 of this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Uke Mike who is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Jordan Presinger of Limitless Brazilian Jiujitsu and Kickboxing in Ontario, Canada (see Episode 24 for an interview with Jordan). Uke Mike is one of the two cohosts of the Jordan Talks Jiujitsu Podcast and is featured in videos on Jordan's YouTube channel, "Jordan Teaches Jiujitsu". We discussed how Mike discovered Martial Arts and Jiu Jitsu, as well as his experiences with addiction and mental health and how Jiu Jitsu has been a positive solution or management tool for both.  In Part 2 of this episode, I share my personal experience with strength and conditioning for the average Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast, and maybe help you try to unravel all the red tape to get to a plan that is simple and effective, which doesn’t demand numerous days in the gym and doesn’t have you burnt out and overtrained balancing strength and conditioning, jiujitsu training, work, family and just life in general. Please be sure to leave a five-star rating on Spotify to spread the podcast. Every little bit helps, and I genuinely appreciate any support you choose to give. Thank you for listening!!!

Richard Jackson is the owner and head instructor at Samurai Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, located at 2125 Winchester Blvd, in Campbell, CA. Richard trained for over 10 years at the Renzo Gracie NYC Academy’s world-famous “Blue Basement” and was promoted to brown belt by Master Renzo Gracie and Professor John Danaher.  After relocating to Northern California with his family, Rich was awarded his black belt by Professor Alan “Gumby” Marques, who is a third-degree black belt under the legendary Master Ralph Gracie. Rich was also recently promoted to 2ndDegree Black Belt by Professor Alan “Gumby” Marques. Rich also holds the rank of black belt in Judo. Rich can be reached for group classes, privates and seminars at: Samurai Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy 2125 Winchester Blvd, Campbell, CA 95008 (917) 685-1853 Website: www.bjjsamurai.com Instagram: @bjjsamurais

GO to https://rolacademy.tv/ and get 20% off on Rol Academy TV by entering code: AJJJP at checkout! Thomas Rozdzynski is back for his second appearance on the Average Joe Jiu-Jitsu Podcast. Thomas’s first time on the podcast was Episode 13. Be sure to go back and listen to that episode if you haven’t already, it was a good one. Thomas Rozdzynski who is a 3rdDegree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a Judo Black Belt. Thomas owns and teaches out of ROL Academy located at15629 S 71st Court, Orland Park, Illinois. Thomas is also the host of the ROL Radio Podcast and the Ask a Black Belt Podcast. Thomas and I had a great conversation about How can we continue training as we get older, the vortex of YouTube, what is the best belt, how do I track my progress, difference between surviving and defending, Should I start sparring standing or seated, working in sprints, hand ow do you implement new techniques? I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Thomas can be reached on Instagram at: @rozdzynskibjj @rol_academy @therolradio Or, on the internet at: www.rolacademy.com

Jordan Preisinger is a BJJ black belt and MMA fighter out of Ontario, Canada. Jordan is the owner and head instructor at Limitless Brazilian Jiujitsu and Kickboxing located at 67 Dufferin Ave. Ontario, Canada (phone number is (613) 827-1684). Jordan hosts a very popular YouTube channel, titled, “Jordan Teaches Jiujitsu”. Jordan and I had a great conversation today discussing methods of self-learning and a concepts-based approach towards mastery of Brazilian Jiujitsu. I hope you enjoy the episode. Remember to like, subscribe and share! Thank you! Jordan can be reached at: Email: [email protected] Youtube: Jordan Teaches Jiujitsu Instagram: @jordanteachesjiujitsu Patreon: www.patreon.com/jordanteachesjiujitsu

Matt is the owner of several Jiu-Jitsu related business including Epic Roll BJJ and the One Bottle Company. Matt has been practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for 16 years and is a brown belt and soon to be black belt under Tom DeBlass. Matt is a full-time real estate agent and also flips homes. Matt has competed in off-road races like the Baja 500 and Vegas-to-reno (a 1,000 mile, 3-day-race). Matt has been married for 17 years and is the father of two boys. Matt is an entrepreneur who wants to inspire other entrepreneurs to go out and accomplish big goals in their lives!

Eli Knight is a 2nd degree black belt under Royce Gracie and had been the Senior Supervising Instructor at Three Rivers Martial Arts, located at 3055 N Friendship Rd Unit 4, Paducah, KY for 2 decades. Eli Knight is best known for his contributions to self-defense and adapting jiu-jitsu to address the needs of the real-life altercation. Eli’s social media presence is quite large (252,000 subscribers on YouTube), making him one of the most visible advocates for the art and he's been producing helpful content for years, sharing his approach to jiu-jitsu with the masses. Eli has a way of molding jiu-jitsu to fit any setting with a simple and easily digestible curriculum that all practitioners can subscribe to. He is incredibly well spoken, and his instruction is clear, concise, and direct, creating a very enjoyable learning experience for the student. Eli can be Contacted At: · Exclusive Class Content at Patreon.com/KnightJiuJitsu · BJJ Fanatics Instructionals here: Search: 10 results found for "Knight" (bjjfanatics.com) · Instagram @knight_jiu_jitsu_ · TikTok @knightjiujitsu · Follow me on DTube: https://d.tube/#!/c/knightbjj · Follow me on Steemit: https://steempeak.com/@knightbjj

Steve Austin is a 2nd Degree Black Belt who is a Philadelphia native and is the owner and operator of Sion Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Bucks County Pennsylvania. We discussed Steve’s powerful story of how he was born with Legg Perthes (a degenerative disease affecting the hip) which required multiple surgeries into his teen years to address and made him the target of mental and physical bullies. A long interest in martial arts paired with a need for self-defense, Steve found Tae Kwon Do. Then Kempo. And finally Brazilian Jiujitsu. Through jiujitsu, Steve was able at last to find peace and a healthy outlet for the stress in his life. Steve received his brown and black belt from Alison Juca Brites. Over the years studying wresting and judo along with BJJ, Steve now trains with some of the biggest names in the industry; Henry Akins, Ryron and Rener Gracie, and Kroyler Gracie to name a few. He has competed in local tournaments such as Grapplers Quest, Naga, and The Goodfight, along with pro level events such as IBJJ, Metamoris Challenger and is currently a FIGHT TO WIN competitor. Throughout the years, Steve has built up a list of high-profile clients such as Maynard James Kennan, (lead singer of TOOL, A Perfect Circle, and Pusifer) Gil Sharone, (drummer for Marlyn Mason) and Hugh Fitzgerald, head BJJ instructor at 87Eleven Action Design which is responsible for the training and fight choreography of movies such as the John Wick series, and Atomic Blonde. Steve was able to branch out in 2014 and start his own gym called Sion BJJ in Southampton, PA. Sion has since turned into a brand for apparel and retreats around the world. Steve often teaches at other BJJ camps such as BJJ Globetrotters and hosts Sion’s own jiujitsu retreats. Being a certified in GST (Gracie Survial Tactics) Steve works with local police in the Bucks County area. Sion also is a proud affiliate of Balance Studios in Fishtown.

Today, I sat down with returning guest, The BJJ Strength Coach, Josh Settlage to talk about his new Strength Matrix website which is dropping on January 1, 2022. We also discussed programming considerations for a three day a week modified conjugate program from grapplers, as well as how to fit in mobility and kettlebells into your strength program. Josh can be contacted at: Facebook: Joshua Settlage Instagram: @joshuasettlage Internet: Thestrengthmatrix.com

Alan “Gumby” Marques is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Ralph Gracie, and co-founder of On The Mat (OTM), a company that revolutionized jiu jitsu’s industry during the late 1990s and 2000s, through both their journalism and retail trade. Gumby was one of the first grappling journalists in the US, covering the initial growth of the sport in North America. Alan is the founder of Heroes Martial Arts in San Jose, California. Gumby and I discussed his early years in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coming up under Ralph’s tutelage; founding and growing “On The Mat” with Scott (Scotty) Nelson; strength and conditioning considerations for older Jiu-Jitsu athletes; the differences between and the proper application of free rolling, drilling, flow rolling and situational sparing; the arm drag for sport and self-defense; the progression of the belts in Jiu-Jitsu and which one seems to be the most difficult; the concept of “ground, body, body, ground”; and the differences and similarities of gi versus no-gi Jiu-Jitsu. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

Scott is the Owner of Extreme Performance Training Systems, also known as “EPTS Gym” and is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Chris Jones who is the founder of Nucleus Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ​located at 3010 Business Park Drive Unit F, in Norcross, GA. Scott is a Vegan Iron Addict and a Practitioner of Taichi & Chi-gong. Scott is a US Navy Veteran. Scott returns for his second episode on the podcast to discuss recovery factors for the average jiu-jitsu practitioner over 40. Scott can be reached at: Facebook: Scott Shetler Instagram: @ssheltlerfitness Training info: [email protected]

Today I had the privilege of sitting down and speaking to Karel Pravec, commonly known as “the Silver Fox”. Karel is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt of Czechoslovakian descent. Karel was one of the Gracie’s very first students in the United States and studied under both Renzo Gracie and John Danaher. Karel was awarded his black belt by Renzo Gracie in July 2006. Karel is also the author of the Fluid BJJ book, has produced various instructional videos, and hosts his “Roll with the Fox video series” on YouTube each Friday morning (10:30 AM, Eastern Time). Karel has been regularly featured on the Tristar Gym YouTube channel with renowned MMA coach, Firas Zahabi. Karel has demonstrated the success of his style focus on submissionsby winning: · 1st Place – 2006 Tenth Grapplers Quest West (Master Lightweight Division) – all matches won by submission · 1st Place – 2007 NAGA World Championship (Advanced Master – Open Weight) – all matches won by submission, lightest competitor in the division · 3rd Place – 2008 Pan Am Championship No-Gi (Black Belt – ADULTS – Lightweight) · 1st Place – 2010 European Championship (Black Belt Masters – Absolute Division) Karel is recognized as one of the top instructors in the New Jersey area, being behind accomplished competitors such as 2009 ADCC Runner-up Jerry Rinaldi, EBI 12 champion Erin Blanchfield, mixed martial arts fighters Sergio DeBari, Frank Roberts, Enrique Galarza & Juan Galarza and many others. Karel earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Albany and then his master’s degree from Columbia University. During our discussion, we covered Karel’s experience moving to America as a teenager, his start in martial arts (specifically striking arts) and his evolution into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We discussed Jiu-Jitsu competition; the importance of balancing drilling, flow rolling and live rolling; the differences between gi vs. no gi training; Karel’s top three concepts for building an effective guard passing strategy; the pros and cons of focusing on systemized Jiu-Jitsu; and Jiu-Jitsu as self-defense. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!