Blog Posts - The Gracie Jiu Jitsu Rocks! Podcast

The Gracie Jiu Jitsu Rocks! Podcast

Episode 77 Jon Wagner, BJJ Black Belt and certified instructor

7/25/2017

Now on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDEYGUC5GVUwa0jla2Y9mkQ
Intro

Quote:
"A journey of a thousand submissions begins with submitting your ego."
Anonymous

Interview

Jon Wagner
In this episode Marty interviews Jon Wagner (aka Johnny Wags), JJ Black belt and certified instructor through the Gracie Academy. Jon discusses everything from transitioning from the military, his many trips to Brazil, how the mat is a sanctuary, the effect having his son had on his JJ, self defense philosophy, completing the Instructor Certification Program (ICP), attending the Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle Summit and more…..

Make a Difference/Make an Impact Segment:
Chris Bailey, owner of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Scottsdale discusses continuing education....

Episode 76 Ryron Gracie-Special Meet the Listeners Episode

7/11/2017

Now available on You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnvZAYlB_jw
Intro
Quote: "Don't do a technique 5 times and wait for your instructor to tell you what's next. Do the technique 500 times and wait for your instructor to tell you to stop."

Ryron Gracie
In this episode Marty and Ryron team up and surprise listeners with a phone call. Listeners called include Jason Henry, Eric Giulio, Jason Rubin, Dan Thiel, Nelson Ruiz, Chrissie Vogel, Brian Tiura, and Jessie Bennett

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Story of the elephant and self-imposed/created limitations....

EP 75: Injuries: Ty Gay, Roy Dean, Ryron Gracie, Mark Cukro, and Henry Akins

6/29/2017

A discussion on Injuries

In this episode Marty interviews Ty Gay (owner and head instructor of Redline Jiu Jitsu and lead singer for Everybody Panic), Roy Dean (BJJ Black Belt and producer of famed BJJ videos and media on RoyDeanTV), Ryron Gracie (Black Belt and Head instructor at the Gracie Academy in Torrance, CA, Mark Cukro (Pedro Sauer Black Belt and owner of Integrated Martial Arts), and Henry Akins (Rickson Gracie Black Belt and owner of Dynamix Martial Arts). They each discuss their thoughts on injuries: how to prevent them, how to deal with them, and key points to keep in mind with your down time due to an injury. Don’t miss this interesting and insightful discussion….

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
From Lynn Lane's (Warrior of Success) Morning Mojo: “It is my sincere belief that you can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” ~ Zig Ziglar ~ A quote of wisdom and a solid principle to live by. When you help others up or through a challenge you also help yourself. Makes little difference where you are in life as long as you add some value to someone else you will create more value in your life. One good deed, one small compliment or one act of kindness will start the “boomerang effect” and you’ll reap the value of that in the future. We all have talents, skills and abilities that we can share with others to help them along the way. Help someone and help yourself…..today!

Episode 74 5th Degree Black Belt Roy Harris

6/14/2017

Intro:

Quote: "A true Martial Artist is the integration of the warrior and the sage. He is a man of peace, but he has the ability to destroy." Anonymous

Interview

Roy Harris
In this episode Marty speaks with Professor Roy Harris, head of Harris International. Mr. Harris is 5th Degree black belt under professor Joe Morrera, an author, and a world renowned instructor. In this episode he discusses his early start in martial arts, training with Rick Faye, Guro Dan Inosanto, Larry Hartsell, and Paul Vunak; his time at the Gracie Academy; legs locks “then and now”; his time as a law enforcement officer and in the military and training those populations; his book, The Jiu Jitsu Answer Man; Harris International; BJJ over 40 and important considerations for training in your 50’s and beyond; the importance of his faith and more….

Harris International
BJJ Over 40
My Journey in Christ

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
The importance of stopping, looking back, and acknowledging your accomplishments....

EP 73 Roberto Bayona & Alberto Robayo of Miloki Flow

5/30/2017

Intro

Quote: "In life, when presented with any situation, breath, take your time, focus and decide what to do." Rickson Gracie

Interview

Ricardo Bayona and Alberto Robayo
In this episode Marty speaks with Ricardo Bayona and Alberto Robayo, Gracie Academy black belts and the owners and founders of Miloki Flow, which integrates Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Yoga, and Functional Movement and Fitness. Their goal with creating a Miloki Flow was to bring a flow of positive habits, healthy diet, and a richer enjoyment of their students’ everyday lives.
Alberto’s academy is in Narberth, PA a suburb of Philadelphia, Ricardo’s academy is in Key Biscayne, FL. And 1st time I’ve interviewed 2 people at different remote locations at the same time so it was pretty interesting doing so.
In this interview they discuss starting out in Columbia, how cleaning your academy relates to Jiu Jitsu, Ryron’s influence, how Miloki Flow came about, adding functional movement to Jiu Jitsu and the flow roll mindset, life on and off the mats, major influences in their lives, their long enduring friendship, and more….

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
"Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes........Including you."
Ann Lamott

Marty discusses the weight of stress and the importance of taking time to unplug....

EP 72 Pedro Sauer Black Belt Jorge Jimenez

5/3/2017

Intro

Quote: “A tranquil man is tolerant. There is no reason for me to beat someone up if he call me names. This confidence is moral, not physical.” Helio Gracie

Meet the Listener segment:
Meet Richard Bejtlich Rejoiningthetao.blogspot.com

Interview

Jorge Jimenez
In this episode Marty interviews Professor Jorge Jimenez, 3rd degree Black Belt under Professor Pedro Sauer and owner of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Balance Academy in Sharpsburg, GA (a PS affiliate school and a gracie Academy CTC). In this interview Jorge talks about the recent Pedro Sauer camp, his start in Jiu Jitsu and time in Salt Lake City, attending UFC 1, completing the Gracie Academy instructor certification program (ICP), what he gleaned from the Royce Gracie v Matt hughes fight, applying GJJ in your everyday life, lessons learned on the way to black belt, Rener and Ryron’s impact on him, the importance of breathing, and Professor Sauer’s influence on his Jiu Jitsu and life

http://www.graciebalance.com/

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Howard Steele, of Delaware Bushido Academy, discusses self talk

EP 71 Dr. Belisa Vranich

4/20/2017

Intro
Quote: "He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still." Lao Tzu

Interview

Dr. Belisa Vranich
Dr Belisa Vranich, is a clinical psychologist and the author of the book, Breath: the simple revolutionary 14 day program to improve your physical and mental health. She has spent the last decade dedicating herself to the study of breathing. She is the founder of The Breathing Class, and has appeared in dozens national media outlets, including Anderson Cooper 360, CNN, Fox, the Today show, Good Morning America, Inside Edition, The Wall st journal, Cosmopolitan, Men’s Fitness, and the Huffington Post. She is a former sports psychologist for Gold's gym and a columnist for Shape magazine. She’s worked with a variety of populations from average Joes to martial artists and combat athletes, to police and firefighters, helping them all to breath more efficiently and effectively, and thus having a profound impact in their lives. In this interview Dr. Belisa discusses efficient (horizontal) versus inefficient(vertical) breathing; why incorrect breathing leads to anxiety and neck and shoulder pain, working with average Joe’s to warriors and combat athletes; stress and breathing, how prolonged sitting affects our breathing, her breathing classes, the role of breathing in martial arts, rolling and breathing, diaphragmatic breathing and heath, Rickson’s breathing, the causes she supports, such as Liam’s Life, andTAPS: Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors, and animal rescues.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Marty discusses self awareness in our daily lives and relationships....

EP 70 Eve Torres Gracie

4/6/2017

Intro

Quote: "Learn Gracie Jiu-Jitsu so that when a giant walks by, you don't think to yourself 'oh no,' you think to yourself 'how interesting!" Rener Gracie

Interview

Eve Torres Gracie
In this episode Marty speaks with Eve Torres Gracie. Eve heads up the Woman's Empowered program for the Gracie Academy. She has been a WWE 3X diva champion, and has appeared in movies, such as Scorpion King 4 and Jackie Chan’s Skiptrace, as well as Television, with a role in Supergirl, and the NBC primetime reality show Stars Earn Stripes-where she and her partner won the overall competition on that show. She’s been a professional dancer and model, and has inspired and impacted the lives of countless individuals and groups. She’s also married to Rener Gracie. In this interview Eve talks about her days as a WWE Diva, how she met Rener and the effect he’s had in her life, the joys and challenges of motherhood, working with the women empowered program, her mom’s impact on her life, her new business with Sage Gracie, and the importance of believing in yourself….

Make a Difference/Make an Impact
"By my actions....teach my mind" William Shakespeare
In this segment Marty discusses the notion that you become what you practice most......

Episode 69 Ryron Gracie is back to recap the Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle Summit

3/23/2017

Interview

 Ryron Gracie

Ryron Gracie is back to recap the recent Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle Summit. Some of the things he discusses are living Jiu Jitsu on and off the mat; being a student for life/learning from everyone; being the best training partner possible; training Jiu Jitsu well into your years; and Jiu Jitsu as a vehicle for self growth. This episode features clips from various attendees of the event as well, including Ty Gay, Jennifer Gray, Kris Bailey, Marco Moreno, Ron Wilder, Marc Marins, Kris Ratte, Tessa Lyn, Evandro Nunes, Don Cook, and Victoria Gracie…..

Episode 68 JKD expert and BJJ Black Belt Burton Richardson

3/15/2017

Intro:
Quote "Self-knowledge is the basis of jeet kune do because it is effective not only for the individual's martial art but also for his life as a human being." Bruce Lee

Quote about Burton Richardson: Burton has always been on the cutting edge in training, researching & experimenting in the martial arts. His skill and ability to teach and coach his students and fighters make him a remarkable martial artist. Burton knows how to develop training methods, progressions & tactics in all ranges."
Guro Dan Inosanto, First Generation Student of Bruce Lee, Jeet Kune Do Instructor, &
Founder of Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts

Interview

Burton Richardson
Burton Richardson is an extremely well respected teacher and practitioner in the martial arts world. He has a vast background and history in the martial arts and runs JKD Unlimited, an online source for training videos, books, etc. He has trained with countless masters such Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo, Master Tony Diego, and Master Christopher Ricketts, as well as many top BJJ exponents, including the Machado Brothers, Carlson Gracie, Ensen Enue, Baret Yoshida, Charuto Verissimo, and Marcelo Garcia. Burton is one of the original “Dog Brothers” (brutal stick fighting team), and has even journeyed to South Africa several times to train with Zulu warriors in their method of stick fighting. Burton is a full Instructor in Jun Fan JKD under Guro Dan Inosanto, full Instructor in Filipino Martial Arts under Tuhon Dan Inosanto, full Instructor in the JKD Grappling Association under Sifu Larry Hartsell, Instructor in Thai Boxing under Master Chai Sirisute, Guro in Penjak Silat under Pendekar Paul De Thouars, Instructor in Kali Ilustrisimo under GrandMaster Ilustrisimo, Third Degree Black Belt in BJJ (brazilian Jiu Jitsu) under Egan Inoue.
Burton is the author of 4 books and has written for martial arts magazines such as Inside Kung Fu, in Budo, and Ultimate MMA. He was elected self defense instructor of the year by Black Belt Magazine and inducted into their hall of fame.
In this interview he discusses the many influences on his martial arts development; Bruce Lee’s philosophy of no way as the way; the importance of sparring; adapting your arts to your individual strengths; his first lesson with Rickson Gracie; fixed mindset and the importance of an open mind in training; the concept behind his “For the Streets” video training series and how the programs developed; the importance of incorporating weapons into your training (BJJ) and how it changes the priorities in a self defense situation; and more.

Make Difference/Make an Impact:
Marty discusses the subject of leaving your comfort zone and challenging yourself.....

Episode 67 GJJ Black belt Eddie Kone

3/7/2017

Intro:
Quote: “Jiu Jitsu is about much more than winning medals and titles. Those things will be forgotten long before we’re gone, but the effect we have on our students and fellow practitioners, as part of the lessons we share with them, will live on forever!” James “300” Foster

Interview

Eddie Kone
Professor Eddie Kone, is a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and owner/ head instructor of The Eddie Kone Academy of Jiu-Jitsu,. He is director of EKBJJ Association with affiliate schools throughout the UK. Eddie Received his Black Belt in 2008 from Master Royler Gracie, at the time making him Royler’s first European Black Belt. He received his first Degree from Professor Rafael Lovato Jr.in 2012. He has been a coach to many MMA fighters champions including UFC fighter Paul ‘Semtex’ Daley, W.E.C & UFC Fighter Brad ‘One Punch’ Pickett,and others. In the interview we talk about his introduction to MA, his BJJ competition experience, his MMA career (Pro MMA Record 4-0-0). We also discuss his acting career including his recent involvement in the film “Romans,” his upcoming camp with Ryron Gracie, and much more.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Guest host, Cary Hokama (Holistic transformation coach and author of the book, Own your Life) talks about “info-sponging.”

Episode 66 Robb Wolf, Strength & Conditioning Specialist, best selling Author (The Paleo Solution), and BJJ Practitioner

2/19/2017

Intro
Quote: "I never trained jiu Jitsu for recognition or money. I did it because I loved it, because it was a constant companion in my life that allowed me to connect with others in a meaningful way. Jiu Jitsu is an art which allows us to magnify our potential. It's about protection of self and others. It's about humility. It's about compassion." -Roy Dean

Interview:

Robb Wolf
In this episode Marty interviews Robb Wolf, former research biochemist, and New York Times Bestselling author of The Paleo Solution – The Original Human Diet. Robb has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people around the world via his top ranked iTunes podcast, book and seminars. Robb has functioned as a review editor for the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism and is a consultant for the Naval Special Warfare Resiliency program. He serves on the board of Directors/Advisors for: Specialty Health Inc, Paleo FX, and Paleo Magazine. Rob is also a former California State Powerlifting Champion and a 6-0 amateur kickboxer. He coaches athletes at the highest levels of competition and consults with Olympians and world champions in MMA, motocross, rowing and triathlon. He has provided seminars in nutrition and strength & conditioning to a number of entities including NASA, Naval Special Warfare, the Canadian Light Infantry and the United States Marine Corps.
In this interview Robb discusses everything from how wrestling can work for or against you in learning BJJ; how often to train hard; his friendship with Roy Dean; how training “invisible Jiu Jitsu” with Henry Aikin has profoundly affected his Jiu Jitsu; Training with Patrick Johnson and John Frankl; the joys and challenges of training self defense and sport JJ; best exercises for Jiu Jitsu related postural dysfunctions; the Paleo lifestyle and diet; the gut-brain connection; information from his new book, Wired To Eat, including the neural regulation of appetite; why personalized nutrition is much better than rigid black and white type thinking regarding food and nutrition, and more…..

Wired to Eat: Turn Off Cravings, Rewire Your Appetite for Weight Loss, and Determine the Foods That Work for You

The Paleo Solution

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Robert Heath, founder of the Legacy Foundation and creator of the Legacy Challenge. He is also an attorney in the USMC, and the owner of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Jacksonville, in Jacksonville, NC, a CTC through the GA.

Episode 65 Professor David Adiv

2/4/2017

Intro
Quote:
“Jiu-Jitsu is a mousetrap. The trap does not chase the mouse.
But when the mouse grabs the cheese, the trap plays its role...”
GM Helio Gracie

Interview:

Professor David Adiv
In this interview Marty speaks with professor David Adiv, 5th degree black belt and Co Founder of the original RGDA Association, which is now known as the Gracie Humiata association. He is the owner of Fightzone: Fit to Fight, a fighter clothing and products company, as well as the owner and head instructor of Gracie New Jersey. In the interview Professor Adiv discusses training Krav Maga in the Israeli military, Judo training, early training and trips to Japan with masters Royler and Rickson, being part of Royler Gracie’s creative team and assisting in two of his bestselling books: “BJJ Submission Grappling” and ‘Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Submission Essentials” (with Grand Master Helio Gracie). He also discusses the defensive mentality, his dogs, his relationship with Micky Gall, the notion of “when you get you give,” karma, free will, etc. Professor Adiv is a very interesting, knowledgeable, and insightful person, as clearly demonstrated in this interview.
http://gracienewjersey.com/
http://Davidadiv.com
https://fighterzone.com
http://graciehumaita.com/site/en/academias/humaita/

Make an Difference/Make an Impact:
Carlos Diaz, GJJ black belt and owner of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Destin in Destin, FL, talks about life balance....

Ep 64 Steve Kardian

1/24/2017

Intro
Quote: “Self defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a state of mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending.” Rorion Gracie

Interview

Steve Kardian
In this Episode Marty interviews world renowned self defense and security expert, Steve Kardian. Steve is a 3rd degree black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu (under Phil Migliarese), a Kyokushin Karate black belt, and a Muay Thai Kick Boxing coach (serving as Associate Instructor under shootfighting world champion and MMA coach Erik Paulson). He has served as a women's safety, security and law enforcement consultant for a variety of shows, such as Inside Edition, Fox & Friends, CNN, HLN, Nancy Grace, Dr. Drew, CBS, NBC, ABC, among others.
Steve is an American career law enforcement officer, detective, sergeant, chief criminal investigator, and contractor for the United States Marshals Service. He is founder of Defend U, and author of the book The New Superpower for Women: Trust Your Intuition, Predict Dangerous Situations, and Defend Yourself from the Unthinkable.
In the interview Steve discusses His early training in JKD, Kyokushin Karate, CSW, and GJJ (Tony Gioffre), Phil Migliarese, Erik Paulson), the early days at the Gracie academy (including time with GM Helio), law enforcement, the adrenal response, Defend U (and women’s self defense), home and travel security, enhance breathwork with
Dr. Belisa Vranich, and the defining moment in his life when he knew he was destined to serve the public.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Jim Bundy, Pedro Sauer Black Belt, and owner of Team Bundy GJJ, discusses 5 things you need to do to make 2017 great

Episode 63 Good-bye to 2016

12/26/2016

Intro
Clips from 2016 episodes:
Mike Moses: Security work with
world famous chelist Yo yo Ma
Pedro Sauer: Carlos and Helio Gracie’s JJ,
the evolution of self defense jj to
the competition aspect of jj.
Little Tony Pecenski: How the JJ Global Federation was formed and developed...
Roy Dean: letting go
Chris Saunders: Early days of training, the dirty dozen, and learning from Rickson
Royce Gracie: Lessons learned from his father as well as his mother’s influence on him
Tom Callos: being BJ Penn’s first BJJ coach…

Interviewees for 2016:
EP 62 Marc Marins
EP 61 Allan Manganello
EP 60 Ryron Gracie
EP 59 Rob Kahn
EP 58 Tom Callos
Ep 57 Perdro Sauer
Ep 56 Royce Gracie
EP 55 Mike Moses
Ep 54 David Porter
Ep 53 Little Tony Pecenski
Ep 52 Alex Stuart
Ep 51 Allen Hopkins
Ep 50 GM Relson Gracie
Ep 49 Marco Moreno
Ep 48 Fabio Santos
Ep 47 Eric Silver
Ep 46 ICP Edition: (featuring Pedro Sauer Black belts: Robbie Singh, David Kristic, and Allan Manganello, as well as Ron Wilder and Bill Osterich (GJJ Cary)
Ep 45 Roy Dean
Ep 44 Chris Saunders
Ep 43 Todd Tanaka

Thank you to the Make a Difference/Make an Impact guest hosts for 2016: Howard Steele and Mark Cukro, Jim Bundy
Thanks to the Meet the listener segment guests: Dwight "Trip" Tripplet, Art LLamas, Alberto Alverez, Trey Davis, Terre Griffin

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Reviewing and recording your year...looking ahead to the coming year....

Episode 62 Gracie Jiu Jitsu Black belt, Marc Marins

12/14/2016

Intro:
Quote: “Thus the principle of Judo, from the very beginning, is not one of aggression, but of flowing with things.” Jigoro Kano

Product Review: Tatami Fightwear Gear-Luggage Bag
Click here for review

Meet The Listener: Trey Davis
http://www.mymemphismma.com/

Interview:

Marc Marins
In this episode Marty speaks with Mark Marins,
Gracie Jiu Jitsu black belt and owner and head instructor of
North Vancouver BJJ (NVBJJ). Marc is an accomplished Jiu Jitsu practitioner with over 20 years of experience. He’s also a black belt in Kodokan Judo and has used it to compliment his Jiu Jitsu. In this interview Mark discusses his start in Jiu Jitsu, training in Brazil, the variety of camps/instructors he been involved with, the Gracie academy instructor program and implementing the GA programs at his school, the upcoming Steve Maxwell visit, and more.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Guest host for the segment, Howard Steele of Delaware Bushido Academy, talks about positivity

Episode 61 Pedro Sauer Black Belt, Allan Mangenello

11/29/2016

Intro
Quote: “Don’t wish it were easier, wish you were better” Jim Rohn (as stated on the poscast by Frank Cucci in Ep 24 of the show).

Meet the Listener: Alberto Alverez

Interview

Allan Manganello
In this interview Marty speaks with Gracie Jiu Jitsu Black Belt, Professor Allan Manganello. Allan is the founder and head instructor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville, in Louisville, KY. . He has over 35 years of martial arts experience and is also currently a police officer in Louisville, KY. Professor Manganello received his Jiu-Jitsu training from Masters Rickson Gracie and Pedro Sauer. He was awarded his Black Belt from Master Sauer in 2006 and currently holds the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt. During the interview Allan talks about the recent Pedro Sauer fall camp, his recent trip to England, his long history in the martial arts (including studying under Cynthia Rothrock and Jene Louis Arseneau), the GST program (and his upcoming GST class at his academy) and the importance of this training for law enforcement officers, and the expected arrival of his new baby boy!

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Marty discusses the power of writing your goals down.

Episode 60 Ryron Gracie is back for an announcement

11/18/2016

Intro:
Quote: “Martial Arts should be a way of life, not a job, hobby, sport, but a part of you and the way you live your life.” Frank Gutting

Interview

Ryron Gracie
In this Episode Ryron Gracie (world renowned instructor, oldest son of Grand Master Rorion Gracie, and grandson of GM Helio Gracie), returns to the show to discuss what makes the best sparring/training partner, why people leave Jiu Jitsu, how often to roll hard, how Jiu Jitsu affects one’s life, and to share a big announcement.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
“One reason so few of us achieve what we truly want is that we never direct our focus; we never concentrate our power. Most people dabble their way through life, never deciding to master anything in particular.” – Tony Robbins
In this segmaent Marty discusses the "inspect what you expect" principle.....

Episode 59 Royce Gracie Black Belt, Rob Kahn

11/8/2016

Intro
Quote: "Jiu-Jitsu is like a philosophy. It helps me learn how to face life."
GM Helio Gracie

Product Review: Yoga 4 Fighters DVD
Click here here to go to product review

Interview

Rob Kahn
In this episode Marty speaks with Royce Gracie black belt, Rob Kahn. Rob is considered Royce’s first black belt, and has been training with Royce since the mid 90s. He is the owner and head instructor of Gracie Tampa, a gym that has produced numerous UFC fighters, as well as several Abu Dahbi competitors and champions. In the interview, Rob discusses his training at the Gracie Academy in the early days and how Rorion Gracie’s teaching style influenced his teaching style, his MMA career and coaching MMA fighters, training his Abu Dabi competitors, No gi training, working with special operations soldiers and the wounded warrior project, his hobbies and interests off the mat (game of thrones and Pit Bull rescue), and his special relationship with Master Royce Gracie.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Life is a test, it is only a test.....try seeing your problems or challenges as a series of tests......

Episode 58 Tom Callos

10/29/2016

Intro

Quote: “Empty your cup so that it may be filled; become devoid to gain totality.”
Bruce Lee

Product Review: The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance (book) by Josh Waitzkin Click here to go to product review

Interview

Tom Callos
In this interview Marty interviews Tom Callos, veteran martial arts teacher, martial arts activist, and martial arts business coach who has helped countless people grow successful businesses, and even more important, become better, more fulfilled people. Tom is a high level black belt in TKD under Ernie Reyes jr and a Brown belt in BJJ under Elliot Kelly and Gustavo Enriquez. He was BJ Penn’s first BJJ coach and is the father of Keenan Cornelius (and , world champion BJJ competitor. Tom recently won bronze in his division at the BJJ Senior worlds (one day to the year after he spiral fractured his leg and had another (of multiple) hip replacements). In this interview he discusses everything from corresponding with Rosa Parks, his sons Keenan and Shannon, training BJ Penn, attracting more students and teaching what’s really important (not just techniques), what “The Ultimate Black Belt Test” is, and how it’s like Joseph Campbell's “The Hero’s Journey;” the Alabama House Building Project, his portrait artwork, promoting your school/academy through community impact; and how he believes success is measured by how you’ve affected your family, your friends, your students, and your community….if not the world..

For more information about Tom and business coaching click here
Click Here for Tom Callos Artwork

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
“The shell must break before the bird can fly.” Tennyson

Episode 57 Master Pedro Sauer

10/11/2016

Intro
Quote: "If you are not comfortable to deal with an opponent 50 Lbs heavier than you, there is something wrong with your Jiu Jitsu. If you are not comfortable to fight with no time limit, there is something wrong with your Jiu Jitsu."
Rickson Gracie

Interview

Master Pedro Sauer
In this interview Marty speaks with Master Pedro Sauer. Master Sauer is an 8th degree Red and Black belt under Rickson Gracie. He was awarded his black belt by Rickson Gracie and Grandmaster Helio Gracie. He has been teaching Jiu Jitsu for decades, and is considered one of the most technical instructors in the world. Professor Sauer moved from Brazil to the US during the early days, initially residing in LA and teaching at the Gracie Academy, until moving to Utah in 1990. In Utah, he taught as as one of only two non-Gracie black belts under the Gracie Academy (run by Rorion and Royce), and literally had to prove the effectiveness of Jiu Jitsu on a daily basis. He now resides in VA and has build one of the biggest Jiu Jitsu associations in the world. Professor Sauer is an amazing example and ambassador for Jiu Jitsu. In the interview he discusses his recent Brazil training camp, his new Grandson, his relationship with his wife and how the met, the early days of Jiu Jitsu, self defense vs competition, the alignment with the Gracie Academy, and how GM Helio turned his life around.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:

“I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” Albert Schweitzer

Success and fulfillment aren’t the same thing. One can be successful and still not be fulfilled. The difference between the two is service……

“Lose yourself in generous service and every day can be a most unusual day, a triumphant day, an abundantly rewarding day!” William Arthur Ward

Episode 56 Royce Gracie

9/22/2016

Intro
Clip from UFC 1

Quote:
“You put the devil on the other side and I’ll come to fight.”
Royce Gracie

Interview

In this episode Marty interviews the one and only Royce Gracie. Royce Gracie is a true martial arts legend. Because of his victories in the early UFCs, he started a martial arts revolution and open millions of people’s eyes to the power of Jiu Jitsu. He has inspired countless people (including myself) to study Jiu Jitsu and continues to spread the word around the world and in 2003 became the first fighter inducted into the UFC hall of fame. In this interview Royce talks about the early UFc days, the influence of his father, growing up with his brothers and cousins, his mother, what inspires him, working with Bellator, traveling and teaching Jiu Jitsu, time off the mat, and more. Royce is a true Jiu Jitsu legend, and I was honored to be able to speak with him (especially since it was my birthday). Hope you enjoy the interview….

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
20 Things Mentally Strong People avoid/Don’t do…..

1. Dwelling On The Past 2. Remaining In Their Comfort Zone 3. Not Listening To The Opinions Of Others 4. Avoiding Change 5. Keeping A Closed Mind 6. Letting Others Make Decisions For Them 7. Getting Jealous Over The Successes Of Others 8. Thinking About The High Possibility Of Failure 9. Feeling Sorry For Themselves 10. Focusing on their weaknesses
11. Trying To Please People 12. Blaming Themselves For Things Outside Their Control
13. Being Impatient 14. Being Misunderstood 15. Feeling Like You're Owed
16. Repeating Mistakes 17. Giving Into Their Fears 18. Acting Without Calculating 19. Refusing Help From Others 20. Throwing In The Towel

Episode 55 Pedro Sauer Black Belt Mike Moses

9/4/2016

Intro

Quote: "Jiu Jitsu is the only art that allows you to win a fight without hurting your opponent. I use striking techniques to open the way for submissions. My objective is not to knock anyone out. I don't want to hurt my opponents. I only want to make them tap so that they can go home and train again. " Demian Maia

Interview

Professor Mike Moses
In this episode Marty interviews Mike Moses, BJJ black belt and Owner/ head instructor of Evolve Academy of Mixed Martial Arts in Gaithersburg, MD. Mike has over 450 students and runs a wide variety of programs including Personal Defense systems, Thai Boxing, BJJ, Primal Skills Fitness, and Women's Self Defense. He has an extensive history and experience in the martial arts. In this interview Mike discusses his martial arts background and history (including having Black Belts in 5 different martial arts and time training with Lloyd Irvin, Frank Cucci, and Pedro Sauer, and doing “mini UFC” type events back before the UFC started), what’s made him successful, executive protection experience, his competition days, deciding to complete the Gracie Academy ICP and making his school a certified training center (CTC), and living in the moment.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact:
Don’t raise your voice, improve your argument. ~Anonymous
The analogy of Jiu Jitsu and language…….Learn to be more technical instead of forcefully pushing through….

Episode 54 Pedro Sauer Black Belt, David Porter

8/20/2016

Intro:
Quote: “Even when you spar during training, you should minimize your natural talents. By limiting yourself, you may find yourself in much worse situation, but you are forced to think your way out, using techniques you would not have otherwise used. When you start doing this, you begin to understand what is really wrong in a certain situation and you begin to understand what actually needs to be done in a technical way in order to improve the situation. You then begin to develop a real, deep progress, understanding the mechanics of any situation.” Rickson Gracie

Interview

David Porter
In this episode Marty speaks with David Porter. Dave is a very accomplished martial artist and Master Pedro Sauer’s newest Black Belt. He is also an instructor at Professor Sauer’s headquarters in Herndon, VA. In this interview Dave talks about his martial arts background and experience, how he got started in Jiu Jitsu, serving in military, competition, his favorite hobbies off the mat, his recent seminar in NC, advice to new students, etc.

Shirt giveaway

Make a Difference/Make an Impact
Professor Mark Cukro, Pedro Sauer Black Belt and owner/head instructor of Integrated Martial Arts in Harrisburg, NC, is the guest presenter for this episode.

"A word of encouragement from a teacher to a child can change the world." John C. Maxwell
Mark elaborates on this thought/concept.....

Ep 53 "Little Tony" Pecenski, BJJ Black Belt and Co-founder of the Jiu Jitsu Global Federation (JJGF)

8/8/2016

Intro

Quote:
" It’s good to compete; it’s good to be a competitor; It’s great to be a Jiu Jitsu fighter"
Rickson Gracie
Interview

"Little Tony" Pecenski
In this interview, Marty speaks with 3rd degree BJJ black belt, “little Tony” Pencensi. Little Tony is a co-founder of the Jiu Jitsu Global Federation with Master Rickson Gracie and Carlos Gama. During the interview Tony discusses training with such notables as Relson Gracie, Royce Gracie, Rorion Gracie, Helio Gracie, Carlos Henrique “Caique” Elias, Phil Migliarese, Steve Maxwell, Saulo and Xande Riberio, Regis Lebre and Rodrigo Medeiros, ultimately receiving his black belt from Rodrigo in 2006. He also discusses launching his Soulfight website, where he released a series of instructional DVD’s received international acclaim for detailed and well-organized instruction. He discusses his latest projects including his book, A Story Of Invisible Power-A Path Towards Jiu Jitsu Principles & Execution, and his SoulFIght Jiu Jitsu App. Little Tony has been featured on Budo Videos Rolled Up, InsideBJJ.com, Mat Time Radio, and Open Mat Radio.

Make a Difference/Make an Impact

“I have not always chosen the safest path. I've made my mistakes, plenty of them. I sometimes jump too soon and fail to appreciate the consequences. But I've learned something important along the way: I've learned to heed the call of my heart. I've learned that the safest path is not always the best path and I've learned that the voice of fear is not always to be trusted.” Steve Goodier

“Before the Plan, there is an Idea. Before the Idea, there is a Purpose. Before the Purpose, there is Your Spirit...aching to express Itself” Paresh Shah

Don't wait until things are perfect before you fulfill your goal and live your dream......

Episode List:
EP 100 Saulo Ribeiro
EP 99 Ralston Gracie
EP 98 Flavio Almeida
EP 97 "Dr Pete" Goldman
EP 96 Alan Baker
EP 95 Regis Lebre
EP 94 Phil Cardella
EP 93 Mike Bidwell
EP 92 Dave Kovar
EP 91 Alvaro Romano
EP 90 Brian Beauchamp
EP 89 Bas Rutten
EP 88 Caique Elias
EP 87 20017 Year End
EP 86 Marcus Kowal
EP 85 Victoria Gracie
EP 84 Yoga & BJJ
EP 83 Greg Nelson
Ep 82 Jennifer Gray
Ep 81 Nic Gregoriades
EP 80 Carlos Machado
EP 79 John Frankl
EP 78 Tamba Hali
EP 77 Jon Wagner
EP 76 Ryron Gracie- Meet the Listeners
EP 75 Injuries
EP 74 Roy Harris
EP 73 Ricardo Bayona & Alberto Robayo
EP 72 Jorge Jimenez
EP 71 Dr. Belisa Vranich
EP 70 Eve Torres Gracie
Ep 69 Ryron Gracie
EP 68 Burton Richardson
EP 67 Eddie Kone
EP 66 Rob Wolf
EP 65 David Adiv
EP 64 Steve Kardian
EP 63 2016 Recap
EP 62: Marc Marins
EP 61: Allan
Manganello
EP 60 Ryron Gracie
EP 59 Rob Kahn
EP 58 Tom Callos
Ep 57 Perdro Sauer
Ep 56 Royce Gracie
EP 55 Mike Moses
Ep 54 David Porter
Ep 53 Little Tony Pecenski
Ep 52 Alex Stuart
Ep 51 Allen Hopkins
Ep 50 Relson Gracie
Ep 49 Marco Moreno
Ep 48 Fabio Santos
Ep 47 Eric Silver
Ep 46 ICP Edition
Ep 45 Roy Dean
Ep 44 Chris Saunders
Ep 43 Todd Tanaka
Ep 42 2015 Recap
Ep 41 Phil Migliarese
Ep 40 Luis "Limao Heredia
Ep 39 Rich Franklin
Ep 38 Erik Paulson
Ep 37 Richard Bresler
Ep 36 John Michael Kaleikini
Ep 35 Ryron Gracie
Ep 34 Jeff Curran
Ep 33 GJJ and the Older Practitioner Pt 2
Ep 32 GJJ and the Older Practitioner Pt 1
Ep 31 Clay Mayfield
Ep 30 Henry Aikins
Ep 29 Ryron Gracie
Ep 28 Rorion Gracie
Ep 27 Rigan Machado
Ep 26 Steve Maxwell
Ep 25 Stuart Cooper
Ep 24 Frank Cucci
Ep 23 Javier Vazquez
Ep 22 2014 Recap
Ep 21 Ed Oneil
Ep 20 Keith Owen
Ep 19 Nico De Hann
Ep 18 Erik Hollon
Ep 17 Gui Valente
Ep 16 Rener Gracie Pt 2
Ep 15 Rener Gracie Pt 1
Ep 14 Guido Jenniges
Ep 13 Chet Schemahorn
Ep 12 Brian T-City Ortega  (Destin Immersion Camp)
Ep 11 Carlos Diaz
Ep 10 Idriz Redzovic
Ep 9   John Carter
Ep 8   Royler Gracie
Ep 7   Chris Raite
Ep 6    Jeff Howard
Ep 5    Jim Phifer
Ep 4    Victor Cammacho Guillot
Ep 3    Mazi Heydary
Ep 2    Ty Gay
Ep1     Bill Odem