Best Matt Kwan Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 344: Ankle Lock Strategy, feat. Jake O'Driscoll 59:02

2d ago59:02

59:02

In this episode of BJJ Mental Models, Steve Kwan is joined by Jake O’Driscoll from Essence BJJ in Perth for an in-depth discussion on the straight foot lock game. Jake explains his unique finishing mechanics, how his method differs from the popular “Woj Lock,” and how he uses straight foot locks not just for submissions but to control, off-balance,…

1
The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 114: Liam Crelinsten 1:03:28

7d ago1:03:28

1:03:28

Liam Crelinsten is a BJJ competitor representing Tristar Montreal and B-Team, and is the younger brother of Ethan Crelinsten. We discuss his early days training in the blue basement at Renzo’s, growing up with Ethan, PEDS, and getting his leg broken by Nora Schultz. Look out for Liam when he competes at the ADCC East Coast Trials later this year (I…

1
The CEO shift: Why you need to step out of the day-to-day 26:30

7d ago26:30

26:30

You’ve built something powerful with your business, but if you’re still running every part of it, you’re not leading—you’re managing. If sustainable growth is the goal, then the way you operate has to evolve. There’s a difference between owning your business and running it like a CEO. It's time to get out of the weeds and uplevel your leadership! L…

1
Mini Ep. 60: Flow 8:30

7d ago8:30

8:30

In this week's mini-episode we discuss the concept of flow, a mental model for peak performance first proposed in 1975 by the psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Resources mentioned in this episode: Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, by Mih…

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Ep. 343: Living Your Values, feat. Giles Garcia 1:24:53

9d ago1:24:53

1:24:53

In this episode, we're joined once again by Giles Garcia, head coach of Ronin Grappling in Glasgow, to tackle the complex topic of living your values in Jiu-Jitsu. Giles explores the challenges coaches and students face when trying to uphold personal and gym-wide values, especially in situations involving discrimination, safety, and accountability.…

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Mini Ep. 59: Growth Mindset 8:10

13d ago8:10

8:10

In this week's mini-episode we discuss growth mindsets, a mental model popularized by Carol Dweck in her hit 2006 book, "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success." Growth mindsets are defined by belief in our ability to improve, as opposed to fixed mindsets, which assume our attributes can't be changed. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normal…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 113: Top 10 Myths of a Jiu Jitsu Competitor 54:16

14d ago54:16

54:16

Being a competitor in Jiu Jitsu comes with highs and lows, but it is important to know what you are getting into. In this episode, I discuss the biggest myths you will hear surrounding BJJ competitors, plus I talk about my recent visit to a hand physiotherapist (it didn’t go well), and I briefly go over WNO results from last weekend. Please leave a…

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Ep. 342: Developing Coaches, feat. Cody Maltais 57:57

16d ago57:57

57:57

In this episode, Steve sits down with Cody Maltais, head coach at Elevate MMA in Durham, North Carolina, to explore the art of developing coaches in Jiu-Jitsu. Cody shares his journey from Marine Corps veteran to academy leader and emphasizes the importance of fostering a collaborative, student-centered culture. He advocates for empowering students…

1
Mini Ep. 58: The 80/20 Rule 10:42

20d ago10:42

10:42

In this week's mini-episode we discuss the 80/20 rule, a mental model that's well-known, but misunderstood and overapplied. The 80/20 rule refers to an uneven distribution where the majority of results are produced by a minority of efforts. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Resources …

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 112: Fearless Feat. Lance Gibson 1:19:28

21d ago1:19:28

1:19:28

Lance Gibson is a retired mixed martial arts competitor, UFC and ADCC veteran, Actor, and MMA gym owner. He is widely regarded as a Canadian MMA pioneer. He has worked with notable celebrities such as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jessica Alba, Jackie Chan, Jet Li, and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. We discuss street fight stories, the early days of train…

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CollabCast: The Vendor Table ft. Mike Cassara & Lauren O'Brien 1:03:50

21d ago1:03:50

1:03:50

Welcome to another CollabCast episode, where we feature powerful podcast episodes by hosts we love! In today's bonus episode, we're highlighting The Vendor Table with Mike Cassara & Lauren O'Brien featuring an interview with our host, Akua Konadu. If you're ready to get more organized in your business, this episode is for you! If you love this epis…

1
Ep. 341: Jiu-Jitsu Is a Team Sport, feat. Francesco Fonte 50:54

23d ago50:54

50:54

In this episode, we're joined by Francesco Fonte, MMA and Jiu-Jitsu head coach from Sportschule Next Level in Germany! Francesco explores the idea of Jiu-Jitsu as a team sport. He explains how fostering a relaxed, playful training environment not only builds community but also accelerates learning by encouraging experimentation and removing the fea…

1
Mini Ep. 57: The Map Is Not the Territory 6:32

27d ago6:32

6:32

In this week's mini-episode we discuss how the map is not the territory, a foundational concept for working with mental models and other abstractions. The key lesson: no "map" is a 100% accurate reflection of the territory it describes. Similarly, no Jiu-Jitsu "concept" is 100% applicable all the time...including this one! Get our Intro to Mechanic…

1
The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 111: Biggest Myths For Gym Owners 1:10:00

28d ago1:10:00

1:10:00

Owning and operating a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school is both a labour of love and a huge responsibility. Speaking from 10 years of experience running my own academy, I talk about the biggest myths that I heard surrounding gym ownership. Some topics of discussion are kids programs, building customer loyalty (the right way), ordering gear overseas, buil…

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Ep. 340: Awkward Turtles, feat. Sonia Sillan 1:05:08

1M ago1:05:08

1:05:08

In this episode of BJJ Mental Models, Steve Kwan welcomes back Sonia Sillan from Combat Arts Academy to explore the concept of the “awkward turtles:” the introverted, unsure, or atypical students who often feel like outsiders in Jiu-Jitsu. Sonya unpacks how gym culture, coaching priorities, and interpersonal communication affect whether these stude…

1
Mini Ep. 56: Controlled Breathing 5:46

1M ago5:46

5:46

In this week's mini-episode we discuss the importance of controlled breathing when sparring. Managing your breath effectively creates a positive ripple effect in your Jiu-Jitsu performance by reducing anxiety, avoiding adrenaline dumping, and concealing your emotional state from your opponent. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, …

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 110: The Kipping Escape 46:04

1M ago46:04

46:04

Do you even kip, bro? If you don't know the kipping escape, or if you have given up on learning this move, then this is the episode for you! I discuss the mechanics of the kipping escape, when to use (and when not to use) the kip, common mistakes, and how to shut down and counter the kipping escape. Simply put, if you want to thrive in the modern B…

1
How to turn client relationships into long-term revenue 5:51

1M ago5:51

5:51

Did you know 87% of people say they’ll return to a business that gives them a personalized experience? The truth is, your services might get clients in the door, but your relationships are what keep them coming back. Join us as we dive into the power of client relationships, why they’re your biggest asset for long-term success, and how to turn ever…

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Ep. 339: Developing Youth Programs, feat. Brennan Strimple 51:20

1M ago51:20

51:20

This week we're joined by Brennan Strimple! Brennan is the black belt head coach at RPMA (Rochester Phoenix Martial Arts). In this episode, Brennan shares his playbook for building a thriving kids' Jiu-Jitsu program, as well as leading the development of affordable kids' tournament circuits in the local community. Follow RPMA on Instagram: https://…

1
Mini Ep. 55: Staying Loose 5:22

1M ago5:22

5:22

In this week's mini-episode we discuss the importance of staying loose when sparring. Being relaxed makes it easier to conserve energy, avoid being controlled, and conceal your intentions. There are times to be tense, such as when completing a throw or finishing a submission, but your "default mode" should be staying loose. Get our Intro to Mechani…

1
The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 109: Uncensored Feat. Kyle Boehm 1:16:21

1M ago1:16:21

1:16:21

Kyle Boehm is a 10th Planet Black Belt, a world-class competitor, an ADCC, EBI, and CJI veteran, and the winner of the BJJ Fanatics Grand Prix and the King Of The Mats Invitational. We discuss training with Rob Biernacki, being a better competitor, surfing, and several controversial conspiracies. This one is a banger. Enjoy! Please leave a review, …

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Ep. 338: Gaze Tracking, feat. Timothy Lee Peterson 1:00:39

1M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

This week we're joined by Timothy Lee Peterson! In this episode, Timothy explains why gaze tracking — or where your eyes are looking — is a surprisingly important aspect of Jiu-Jitsu. Follow Timothy on social media: https://www.instagram.com/timothyleepeterson https://www.threads.com/@timothyleepeterson Resources discussed in this episode: Free+Sty…

1
Mini Ep. 54: Controlling the Distance 9:08

2M ago9:08

9:08

In this week's mini-episode we discuss controlling the distance, a key lesson in most martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As general advice, many instructors will coach you to close the distance when attacking and make space when defending. While this is often true, in this mini-episode we'll explore the exceptions to that rule and settle …

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 108:Tips To Optimize Your No Gi Game 56:19

2M ago56:19

56:19

Are you a Gi grappler looking to get better control of those slippery No Gi guys? This is the episode for you! I share my 11 tips to optimize your No Gi game. I also touch on my recent stem cell treatment in Spokane, Washington. Please leave a review, subscribe, like, share, and comment if you can. It really helps to grow the show! Contact/Support …

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The mindset work that builds wealth with Jaime Gordon 1:00:33

2M ago1:00:33

1:00:33

If you're only talking about money in terms of spreadsheets and sales goals, you're missing the deeper conversation—and this episode delivers it. Let’s be honest: most of us think that if we work hard enough or say the right affirmations, we’ll finally feel financially secure. But what if your biggest money block isn’t about your strategy—it’s abou…

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Ep. 337: Gatekeepers Ruin Everything, feat. Charles Harriott 1:20:55

2M ago1:20:55

1:20:55

This week we're joined again by Charles Harriott! In this episode, Charles discusses the problem of "gatekeepers" in Jiu-Jitsu, or people who try to enforce their way of thinking over others. Charles explores how gatekeeping can shut down creativity, personal development, and fun. Follow Charles on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesharrio…

1
Mini Ep. 53: Kuzushi 6:28

2M ago6:28

6:28

In this week's mini-episode we discuss kuzushi, the Japanese concept of breaking balance! Kuzushi is critical in Judo, but it's just as important in Jiu-Jitsu — both standing and on the ground. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Resources discussed in this episode: Mini Ep. 51: Techniq…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 107: Tales From the Blue Basement Feat. Jon Calestine 1:12:04

2M ago1:12:04

1:12:04

Jon Calestine is a BJJ competitor, coach, and black belt under Daisuke Yamaji. Known for his vicious leg attacks and winning championships at the Eddie Bravo and Sapateiro Invitationals, Jon Calestine cut his chops in the blue basement with the Danaher Death Squad at Renzo Gracie New York. We discuss his beginnings in BJJ, his extensive time traini…

1
Ep. 336: Growing Your Academy, feat. Hillary Witt & Nelson Puentes 1:03:26

2M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

This week we're joined by the founders of Inverted Gear: Hillary Witt and Nelson Puentes! Three years ago, Hillary and Nelson took the Inverted Gear brand beyond Jiu-Jitsu equipment and opened a physical academy in Pennsylvania! In this episode, Hillary and Nelson share key lessons learned from their journey into academy ownership. Follow Inverted …

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Mini Ep. 52: Shifting Platforms 10:45

2M ago10:45

10:45

In this week's mini-episode we discuss shifting platforms, wherein you as the bottom player use continuous movement to prevent your opponent from fully establishing their base on top of you. Moving away from big, explosive escape attempts and toward smaller, continuous movement makes a huge difference in your success from bottom positions. Get our …

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 106: The Long Step Pass 47:15

2M ago47:15

47:15

The long step pass is one of the best guard passes in all of Jiu Jitsu, and is one of the premier guard passes used by the AOJ team. After studying Tainan Dalpra's masterclass on the long step pass, I share my thoughts and takeaways from the instructional. I talk about grips, mechanics, drilling methods, common problems, and blending the long step …

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Monetizing your content with Danielle Corbett 33:28

2M ago33:28

33:28

Are you looking to add new revenue streams to your business? Author, podcaster, and coach Danielle Desir Corbett joins us to share how she turned her podcast into a very successful revenue stream for her business. Listen in as Danielle teaches us how podcasting can be a great way to connect with your audience on a deeper level while also leveraging…

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Ep. 335: The PLAY Framework, feat. Erin Herle 1:03:33

2M ago1:03:33

1:03:33

This week we're joined again by Erin Herle! In this episode, Erin introduces the PLAY framework and explains why humor is a fundamental element of good culture and learning. Follow Erin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinherle/ Get Erin's new book, If You’re Not Laughing, You’re Losing: https://amzn.to/4jP5x8K Work with Erin: https://www.e…

1
Mini Ep. 51: Technique Chaining 10:28

2M ago10:28

10:28

In this week's mini-episode we explain the importance of technique chaining, and why "Jiu-Jitsu is the space between the techniques." Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium memb…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 105: The Anaconda Strangle, Mistakes Make Us Better 45:20

2M ago45:20

45:20

The Anaconda is easily one of the most effective front headlock submissions one can learn. This attack is a very high percentage and works well with the other premier front headlock submissions. I talk about entries, finishing mechanics, common problems and solutions, and blending the Anaconda with other headlocks. Nobody’s front headlock game is c…

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Ep. 334: Project-Based Gameplanning, feat. Josh Vogel & Dr. Mike Israetel 57:28

2M ago57:28

57:28

This week we're joined by two BJJMM alumni: Josh Vogel and Dr. Mike Israetel! In this episode, Josh and Mike discuss the unique way they build gameplans at The Jiu-Jitsu Company. Follow Josh and Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshrvogel https://www.instagram.com/drmikeisraetel Subscribe to Josh and Mike on YouTube: https://www.youtube…

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Mini Ep. 50: Phases of Passing 9:19

3M ago9:19

9:19

In this week's mini-episode we explain the phases of passing: disentangle, control, pass. Resources mentioned in this episode: Mini Ep. 49: Phases of Guard https://podcast.bjjmentalmodels.com/243161/episodes/16950582-mini-ep-49-phases-of-guard Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't f…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 104: False Reaps Feat. Max Hanson 1:02:14

3M ago1:02:14

1:02:14

Max Hanson is a Canadian BJJ Black Belt under Dante Leon. Representing Pedigo Submission Fighting and Team ADAMAS, Max is currently one of the top 170 lbs. grapplers in the world. He has won some big tournaments such as IBJJF No Gi Pans, No Gi American Nationals, The Enigma Invitational (multiple times), The Sapateiro Invitational (multiple times),…

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The SECRET to perfect client kickoff meetings! 5:28

3M ago5:28

5:28

Congratulations, you signed a client! Now what? In this episode, we’re breaking down the secret to perfect client kickoff meetings so you and your new client can get started on the right foot. When it comes to client work, communication is key. The kickoff call sets the stage and makes sure that your client is going to have an amazing experience wi…

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Ep. 333: Coaching for All Levels, feat. Nick Volpe 1:03:32

3M ago1:03:32

1:03:32

This week we're joined by Nick Volpe! Nick is the black belt head coach at Dark Bear Jiu-Jitsu in Staten Island, New York. In this episode, Nick explains how he makes Jiu-Jitsu coaching accessible to students and coaches of all experience levels. Topics include: self-organized learning, teaching the "why" behind techniques, the importance of timing…

1
Mini Ep. 49: Phases of Guard 11:50

3M ago11:50

11:50

In this week's mini-episode we explain the phases of guard, as taught by Rob Biernacki: engagement, maintenance, and retention. Resources mentioned in this episode: BJJMM Ep. 16: Guard Series: Engagement Phase https://bjj.plus/16 BJJMM Ep. 17: Guard Series: Engagement Phase https://bjj.plus/17 BJJMM Ep. 18: Guard Series: Engagement Phase https://bj…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 103: Leg Locks For Kids? 58:42

3M ago58:42

58:42

Years ago, leg locks were considered taboo in the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. While they are widely accepted as effective and fair today, they still remain taboo for children. So naturally, I felt it my duty to think outside the box and begin teaching my kids competition team leg attacks! I discuss why leg locks are important for kids, training s…

1
Ep. 332: Half Guard Passing, feat. Mo Black 59:18

3M ago59:18

59:18

This week we're joined by Mo Black! As of this writing, Mo is a reigning champion at Main Character Jiu-Jitsu and an instructor at Tabula Rasa BJJ in Colorado Springs. In this episode, Mo shares key concepts behind one of her favorite Jiu-Jitsu skills: half guard passing. Follow Mo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mo.jiujitsu Train with Mo a…

1
Mini Ep. 48: Kaizen 6:14

3M ago6:14

6:14

In this week's mini-episode we explain kaizen, a Japanese concept translating roughly to "continuous improvement." Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. T…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 102: Canada vs. USA Roll-A-Lot Recap/Mexican Vacation 46:13

3M ago46:13

46:13

I talk about my Mexican vacation and my last super fight vs. Charlie Gilpin. My foot hurts. I’ll be fine, though. Please leave a review, subscribe, like, share, and comment if you can. It really helps to grow the show! Contact/Support The Show: Website: ejjp.show Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theeverydayjiujitsupodcast/ TikTok: https://www.t…

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Data-based pricing strategies with Ashlyn Carter 51:00

3M ago51:00

51:00

Ready to get clearer on your pricing strategy? Your own data might be the key! Copywriter Ashlyn Carter joins us to share her foolproof formula for how business owners can set up their pricing. Listen in to hear the common pricing mistakes that business owners make and how instead, they should be using data to determine their prices. The Unbreakabl…

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Ep. 331: The Problem With Lapel Guard, feat. Stephan Kesting 34:36

3M ago34:36

34:36

In this bonus emergency episode, we're joined by legendary Jiu-Jitsu instructor Stephan Kesting to discuss the immediate dangers of the lapel guard position, why it is so harmful, and why the IBJJF must ban it immediately. Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership off…

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Ep. 330: The Student's Guide to Eco, feat. Noah Shaffner & Greg Souders 1:08:31

3M ago1:08:31

1:08:31

This week we're joined by Noah Shaffner and Greg Souders from Standard Jiu-Jitsu in Maryland! Noah shares his unique perspective as a competitor trained exclusively under the constraints-led approach (CLA) since he began grappling in 2021, while Greg describes Noah's journey from his coach's perspective. Follow Noah on Instagram: https://www.instag…

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Mini Ep. 47: Investing in Loss 6:53

3M ago6:53

6:53

In this week's mini-episode we explain investing in loss, a learning mindset often attributed to Tai Chi and other internal martial arts. In his excellent book The Art of Learning, Josh Waitzkin discusses the concept and its relevance to the martial arts. Investing in loss means reframing our thinking to view failure as an investment in our skill d…

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The Everyday Jiu Jitsu Podcast Ep 101: Doctors of Physio for BJJ Feat. Dr. Diana Wang 1:07:21

3M ago1:07:21

1:07:21

Diana Wang is a BJJ practitioner, certified athletic trainer, and a doctor of physical therapy. She is also the owner of Open Mat Physio, a physiotherapy practice based out of Los Angeles that exclusively focusses on educating and rehabilitating Jiu Jitsu athletes. We talk about being a medic at BJJ tournaments, submissions for kids, the most commo…

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