In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron chats with Lisa Houston, a Purple Belt and coach from SBG Strabane in Ireland. Lisa is a seasoned competitor, having graced the mats at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, including the IBJJF Worlds and ADCC. Despite coming from a pole dancing background with no prior combat experience, Lisa quickly became obsessed with BJJ. We delve into her unique journey, which saw her debut at the IBJJF European Championships – a bold move for a newcomer! Lisa discusses the challenges of navigating the competitive scene, including the mental health struggles that can accompany both wins and losses. She shares her inspiring story of overcoming these challenges and her plans for a triumphant return to competition at the IBJJF Masters Gi Europeans in May. Lisa also offers valuable advice for all levels of BJJ practitioners, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey and embracing the competitive experience.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 3:19 Intro & Lisa's BJJ Origin Story3:20 - 6:21 Lisa's First Experience with BJJ6:22 - 8:43 SBG Strabane's first female Blue & Purple Belt8:44 - 11:21 Lisa's First Gi BJJ Competition was the IBJJF Europeans11:22 - 17:22 Reflecting on loses and posting competition results online17:23 - 18:42 The sacrifices of being a competitor18:43 - 19:57 Time off the Mats but still learning19:58 - 25:02 Role as a Coach and Coaching Style25:03 - 31:00 Student & Coach Relationship Dynamic31:01 - 31:35 Approaching Higher Belts to Roll31:36 - 34:55 Advising Students on training & rolling34:56 - 44:54 Lisa's Mental Health as a Competitor44:55 - 48:48 Master Gi Europeans Return48:49 - 50:03 Gi or NoGi?50:04 - 52:43 Find your form of meditation52:44 - 54:05 Future of Jiu Jitsu54:05 - 56:05 Advice for Beginners56:06 - 58.32 OutroMake sure to follow Lisa on Instagram & TikTokhttps://www.instagram.com/lisa_houston11/https://www.tiktok.com/@lisahoot Make sure to check out SBG Strabane if you're around Donegal!

https://www.instagram.com/sbg_strabane/If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------If today’s episode resonated with you or brought up familiar feelings, know that you’re not alone. Mental health challenges affect many, and support is available. Free resources and helplines are listed below if you’d like to talk or seek help.Samaritans: Samaritans services are available 24 hours a day, for confidential, non-judgmental support.Freephone 116 123, any timejo@samaritans.iesamaritans.ieText About ItText About It is a free, 24/7 service, providing everything from a calming chat to immediate support for your mental health and emotional wellbeing.Free-text HELLO to 50808 for an anonymous chat with a trained volunteer, any time.textaboutit.ieAwareInformation, support and peer groups for people experiencing anxiety, mild to moderate depression, bipolar disorder and mood-related conditions. Support also for friends and family members.Freephone 1800 80 48 48, 10am to 10pm every daysupportmail@aware.ieaware.ieMyMind: Online and in person counselling services, including options for free appointments and sessions.hq@mymind.orgmymind.org----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on Instagram & TikTok:https://www.instagram.com/emerald.grappling/https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅