Annabelle Christie’s journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began like many others—with curiosity and uncertainty—but her progression from white belt to IBJJF Pan Champion reveals the discipline behind early success. In this conversation, Annabelle reflects on her first classes, the challenges of balancing school with training, and the moments that shaped her competitive mindset. She discusses how training at Crazy 88 influenced her development, what she learned from competing across divisions, and how she approaches the mental side of preparing for major tournaments. Annabelle also shares her thoughts on adapting to purple-belt competition, refining her technique, and the lessons she’s learned from testing herself against larger opponents. The episode closes with insight into her future goals in BJJ, her life away from the mats, and the values that continue to guide her as both an athlete and a person.

Host Jake Dante reconnects with his former coach, Danny Ives, the founder of Ivey League MMA in Maryland. In this episode, they explore the evolution of Ives’ martial arts journey—from his early days training in the 1990s to building a thriving academy that shaped hundreds of grapplers across the region. They discuss the birth of Ivey League MMA, how the local Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA community has evolved, and the lasting lessons that martial arts teach beyond competition. Danny also opens up about what it takes to run a successful gym, mentor young athletes, and maintain balance as both a coach and lifelong student of the art. It’s a full-circle conversation filled with insight, humor, and respect between two people whose paths crossed on the same mats years ago. Topics Covered: The founding and growth of Ivey League MMA Danny Ives’ martial arts background and influences Coaching philosophies and teaching kids Lessons in leadership, discipline, and longevity in BJJ 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream.

In this episode of Off the Mats Podcast, host Jake Dante sits down with Laith Hyali, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt training out of Crazy 88 MMA in Severna Park and the owner of No MoSquitos MD. Laith shares how Jiu-Jitsu shaped his discipline, his approach to business, and his ability to stay grounded through life’s challenges. From his early days as a white belt to refining his pressure game as a brown belt, Laith opens up about lessons learned on and off the mats — from mindset shifts, competition takeaways, and mentorship at Ivey League MMA and Crazy 88 to balancing family life. Whether you’re chasing your next belt or trying to find balance between your passions and responsibilities, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and that signature Off the Mats energy that reminds us: BJJ isn’t just a sport — it’s a lifestyle. We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI”. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

In Off the Mats Podcast #280, host Jake Dante sits down with Chris “CH” Houck, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt from Crazy 88 MMA – Severna Park. Chris opens up about his evolution in BJJ, from early training days to becoming a seasoned purple belt under coaches Julius Park, Keith Cebula, and Tye Ryan Murphy. He discusses how balancing family, work, and training has shaped his mindset, discipline, and patience—both on and off the mats. Listeners will hear about the technical growth in Chris’s game since blue belt, including his passing style, favorite guard setups, and go-to submissions, along with the challenges he’s tackling now. The conversation highlights the culture of Crazy 88 Severna Park, known for its high-level coaching, team camaraderie, and championship-driven mindset. Off the mats, Chris shares how he stays motivated, plus the lessons Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to teach him in everyday life. The episode wraps with a rapid-fire Q&A covering his favorite submissions, toughest training partners, post-training snacks, and the song that gets him hyped before a roll. Whether you’re a BJJ beginner, a competitive grappler, or someone chasing balance between life and the mats, this episode offers real insights into growth, perseverance, and mindset. We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI”. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

In Off the Mats Podcast #279, host Jake Dante sits down with Joe Huggins, a dedicated MMA fighter, coach, and new dad, to talk about life’s biggest transitions. Joe shares how becoming a father has reshaped his mindset, training schedule, and approach to competition. The two discuss finding balance between family, fight camp, and coaching, and how discipline on the mats translates into parenthood. Plus, Jake and Joe dive into some nerd talk, breaking down the latest Marvel and DC projects, and giving honest takes on where superhero films are heading. Whether you’re a fighter, parent, or pop-culture fan, this episode offers motivation, laughs, and real talk about staying grounded when life evolves. You can follow Joe’s continued journey and success on Instagram at @avrgjo3 We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI”. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt Brandon Epps joins the Off the Mats Podcast to talk about his journey from starting BJJ later in life to becoming a multi-time IBJJF Masters champion. We dive into his early years on the mats, his mindset in competition, his training with Crazy 88, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re a new grappler, a Master’s athlete, or just a fan of BJJ competition, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a rapid-fire Q&A to close things out. To keep up with Brandon’s journey, go follow him on Instagram at @brandon.epps5 We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Welcome back, folks. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu white belt Robyn Henderson-Diederiks and talk about her early journey in BJJ and the lessons she’s learning along the way. Robyn opens up about stepping onto the mats for the first time, overcoming the challenges of white belt life, and finding motivation to keep showing up despite the struggles. Known off the mats as a private chef and founder of Robyn’s Kitchen, Robyn shares how she balances her career with training and how discipline, patience, and handling pressure carry over into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The conversation highlights the importance of community, humility, and embracing the beginner’s mindset, making it a relatable listen for grapplers of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out in BJJ or looking for inspiration to keep going, this episode is packed with insights into training, growth, and the balance between life and jiu jitsu. Robyn’s journey can be followed over on Instagram at @spoonfulofrobyn and also check out @robyns_kitchen also on Instagram. And if you’re in the Hamptons, visit @hamptonsjiujitsu We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

What’s up, folks? This week on the podcast, I sit down with young MMA prospect out of Crazy 88 MMA, Beltus Tabot. Known for his relentless drive and well-rounded skills, Beltus opens up about his journey into martial arts, the grind of training camp, and what it takes to keep a fighter’s mindset sharp under pressure. We discuss his early influences, the highs and lows of his fight career so far, and where he sees himself in the world of MMA in the years to come. Outside the cage, Beltus shares the passions that keep him grounded, the lessons fighting has taught him about life, and advice for the next generation of athletes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the fight world, this episode gives you a raw and inspiring look at the life of a fighter chasing greatness. To keep up with Beltus and his journey, go follow him on Instagram at @monsieur_logombina We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

What’s happening, folks? This week on the podcast, I catch up with Mannuel, host of the Off the Saddle Podcast, for a fun and wide-ranging conversation. We delve into the world of pro wrestling and banned footage, the ongoing debates surrounding cancel culture, and how entertainment in the 1980s—especially PG and PG-13 movies—impacted audiences in a significantly different way than it does today. We shift gears into fantasy football talk, breaking down what it’s like to run a league, strategies for prepping for the upcoming NFL season, and why this year might be one of the most exciting yet. On the fitness side, we get into motivation hacks, gamifying workouts, and the importance of staying active when life gets busy. Mannuel also shares his journey of reviving the Off the Saddle Podcast, while we brainstorm new podcasting ideas and talk about the creative side of building content. Along the way, we explore hobbies, the benefits of oversharing, and the lost art of real conversation. Whether you’re into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, NFL football, or podcast culture, this episode is packed with stories and insights you’ll relate to. Be sure to check out Mannuel as he returns to podcasting with the @offthesaddlepodcast We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI”. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Greetings, again. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Maryland Phil to break down Marvel Studios’ Fantastic Four: First Steps. Together, we dive into the film’s plot, character development, and the strengths and weaknesses of Marvel’s First Family. From the striking retro-futuristic aesthetic to how this version stacks up against both the broader MCU and earlier Fantastic Four adaptations, no stone is left unturned. The conversation also touches on the Silver Surfer and Galactus, fan-favorite elements that spark plenty of debate. We share our overall scores while running through the good, the bad, and the ugly of the film. And of course, it wouldn’t be a true Nerdcast without veering into general nerd territory—discussing upcoming movies, shows, action figures, and the never-ending cycle of comic books restarting at issue #1. Maryland Phil can be found on Twitter hosting @nerdragecast where he keeps us updated on the Nerd Rage happenings and comic and movie news. He’s also on Instagram at @metalliphil Thank you all for listening to and supporting the podcast. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episode on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE IN TO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Hello, again. This week on the podcast, I sit down with John Harris, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt and founder of TapInRoll.com, a platform designed to connect traveling grapplers with open gyms around the world. John shares his BJJ journey, what inspired him to create the site, and how Tap In Roll is streamlining drop-in bookings, digital waivers, and gym visibility. Whether you’re a competitor constantly on the road or a hobbyist just looking to train while traveling, this episode unpacks the future of BJJ accessibility and community building—one drop-in at a time. You all can follow  the continued growth of Tap In Roll at tapinroll.com and on Instgram at @tapinroll  Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Happy Monday, folks! This week on the podcast, I sit down with white belt Devin Coley to dive into his experiences of being at the very start of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey. Devin shares what it felt like stepping onto the mats for the first time, the nerves of his first roll, and the challenges he’s faced early on as a beginner. From those “aha” moments where techniques finally start to click, to lessons in patience, humility, and resilience, Devin offers a glimpse into the mindset of a new grappler navigating the ups and downs of training. We also explore how BJJ has impacted his life outside the gym, the importance of supportive mentors and training partners, and the goals that keep him motivated. Whether you’re just tying your first belt or years into your practice, Devin’s story is a reminder of where we all started and the growth that comes from embracing the grind. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Welcome back, happy people. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Michael Pereira, the founder of The Autism Voyage, to explore his journey from corporate finance to becoming a dedicated advocate for families navigating autism. Michael opens up about the life-changing moment when his son’s autism diagnosis shifted his priorities from career to family. We discuss the real challenges parents face beyond the diagnosis, from daily routines and communication barriers to managing diet, hygiene, and emotional burnout. Michael shares practical strategies for self-advocacy, including how to approach IEP meetings, build a reliable care team, and avoid common financial pitfalls when planning for long-term care. We also talk about the unexpected role Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has played in his son’s growth, helping with focus, body awareness, and confidence, while strengthening their bond as a family. Wrapping up, Michael dives into why entrepreneurship can be a lifeline for parents of special needs children, and how turning personal experience into purpose can change not just your life, but the lives of others. To keep up with Michael and their voyage or for more information, you can follow on Instagram at @theautismvoyage https://theautismvoyage.com/ https://theautismvoyage.com/newsletter/ We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mad10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Today marks 5 years since I launched Off the Mats Podcast. What started during the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic as a way to stay connected with friends has turned into something bigger than I ever expected. To every guest who’s come on to share their story, and to every listener who’s tuned in, shared an episode, or reached out—thank you. You’ve helped build a space that’s about more than jiu-jitsu. It’s about people, growth, and community. Joining me on this week’s episode is returning guest, teammate, and friend of the show, Mark Rollamas, for a wide-ranging conversation that blends BJJ, life, and a little pop culture. We kick things off by catching up on what Mark’s been up to lately—especially his focus on helping newer grapplers develop effective ankle lock attacks. We get into the grind of intense practices and how age and injuries impact training. We also talk about whether YouTube and Instagram techniques actually hold up in live rolls. Then, of course, we veer into movie talk—sharing thoughts on the new Fantastic Four, our favorite time travel flicks, and some horror film themes (plus a quick nod to the So, You Like Horror? podcast). We wrap it all up by talking about the future of Off the Mats and where my personal jiu-jitsu journey is headed next.  This show has kept me grounded, introduced me to amazing people, and reminded me why these conversations matter. Here’s to 5 years of stories, lessons, laughs, and everything in between—and to whatever comes next. 🖤 Thank you for rolling with me.

Greetings, all. This week on the podcast, I sit down with BJJ purple belt, John Ramos, to hear how his journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began with a Google search about Married with Children star Ed O’Neill and led him from Florida International University to Carlos Gracie Miami and eventually to Crazy 88 MMA. John reflects on his early days as a white belt competitor, the importance of training safely, and how the world of BJJ intersects with his experiences in the military. He opens up about the emotional challenges of transitioning between gyms and how the mats became a lifeline during tough moments in his personal life. John also shares what he looks for in a new training environment and offers valuable advice for fellow service members who might feel hesitant to try BJJ. We close out the episode with a fun round of rapid-fire questions to get to know him even better—on and off the mats. We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Welcome back, folks. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt Navarro Chamberlain, training out of Crazy 88 MMA. Known for his tireless work ethic, technical precision, and dedication to the craft, Navarro shares the story of how he first discovered Jiu-Jitsu and the early struggles that shaped his journey. He reflects on what it’s like to train in one of the most competitive gyms in the region, learning from elite coaches and training partners who constantly push him to evolve. Navarro discusses the mental and technical transitions that come with advancing in rank, reveals his favorite positions and submissions, and offers valuable advice for lower belts aspiring to progress. We also talk about his long-term goals in the sport, including thoughts on coaching, reaching black belt, and staying motivated through the grind. To close out, Navarro takes on our Rapid Fire segment, answering questions about his toughest rolls, go-to submissions, and how the art has influenced life beyond the mats. You can keep up with Navarro’s journey and accomplishments by following him on Instagram at @frankenstein_bjj  We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Welcome back, friends. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Ben Kovacs, co-founder of Guardian Gym, a nonprofit martial arts academy with locations in Los Angeles, Baltimore, Ethiopia, and more, with a mission to empower youth through free access to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mentorship. Ben shares the personal experiences that ignited his passion for community work and the story behind the gym’s inception. From securing funding for their first location to building a culture rooted in connection rather than competition, Ben walks us through how Guardian Gym challenges the stereotypes surrounding combat sports. We explore the emotional, psychological, and social benefits that martial arts can offer, especially for at-risk youth, and discuss why BJJ is far more than a sport—it’s a transformative tool for growth, self-respect, and community healing. To keep up with Ben and what Guardian is up to, you can follow on Instagram at @guardiangym and guardiangym.org We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mad10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

What’s up, nerds? This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and passionate collector Sam Bracamonte. Sam shares the story of how he began his BJJ journey, the hard-earned lessons he’s learned while climbing the ranks, and how he prepares mentally and physically for major competitions. We also dive into the challenges that come with training—nerves, injuries, and plateaus—and how he overcomes them. But Sam isn’t just a grappler—he’s also a serious Marvel Legends collector. He breaks down how his collecting passion began, shares his favorite releases, talks about the hunt for rare figures, and reflects on the highs and lows of building an epic collection. To wrap up, we explore the unexpected ways the BJJ and collector communities overlap, from shared camaraderie to the thrill of the chase. Whether you’re on the mats or on the hunt for your holy grail, this episode’s got something for you. Thank you all for listening to and supporting the podcast. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episode on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE IN TO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

Well, hello, again. This week on the podcast, I sit down with grappler Phille Eriksson, whose journey on and off the mats is nothing short of inspiring. After facing severe health challenges that led to an ileostomy, Phille refused to let his circumstances define him—or stop him from returning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. From his first day on the mats to the emotional rollercoaster of surgery and recovery, Phille shares how he is adapting to life with a stoma and how this will effect his game, modifying his gear, and finding strength in the support of his family and team. Together, we dive deep into the physical and mental toll of living and training with an ostomy, confronting misconceptions and redefining what resilience looks like in the grappling community. Phille opens up about the importance of representation, the role BJJ plays in healing, and how he is working his way back—not just as a grappler, but as a symbol of what’s possible. Whether you’re a fellow practitioner, someone facing health battles, or simply a fan of stories that challenge limits, this episode is a testament to the power of grit, adaptation, and community. To keep up with Phille, you can follow him on Instagram at @gymnecessity We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mad10, and you’ll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com

What’s up, friends? This week on the podcast, I welcome back David Riedman—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, writer, and creator of the Rules of BJJ Substack. In this episode, David breaks down key topics from his articles, including what every grappler should know before stepping onto the mats for the first time. We explore the dangers of mindless drilling and the difference between volume and intentionality in training. David also unpacks how analytics and data can shape the future of Jiu-Jitsu performance, offering a look at how elite teams already apply metrics (whether consciously or not). Plus, we dive into the parallels between surfing and BJJ, and how his time on the waves helped him better understand flow, pressure, and presence on the mats. Whether you’re a white belt or a black belt, this episode delivers practical advice, nuanced discussion, and thoughtful reflections that will sharpen your training and deepen your appreciation for the art. For more information on David’s work, please follow the links below where you will find his Rules of BJJ and School Shooting Data Analysis and Reports Substacks. rulesofbjj.substack.com k12ssdb.substack.com We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you’ll get 10% off. Again, thank you to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you’ll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code ”BJJWIKI.” Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: offthemats2020@gmail.com