Today on the show I have the honor to engage in conversation with the 4th degree eligible BJJ black belt Stephen Whittier.
Stephen is one of the most decorated martial arts instructors in the country, he is one of only a handful of head coaches with Straight Blast Gym International (under SBG founder Matt Thornton) as well as the organization's Director. He is also the South Coast region's highest-ranking instructor in both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (under New England's senior ranked black belt, Roberto Maia) and Muay Thai kickboxing (under Sityodtong USA director, Mark DellaGrotte). In 2018, he became only the 4th trainer ever to earn the rank of Red Monkgol in Sitydtong Muay Thai.
In addition, he has earned black belts and instructor ranks in a number of martial arts disciplines over decades of study and has trained a broad range of students and athletes – from local, state, and federal law enforcement to multiple UFC competitors.
Due to his parallel background as a former University lecturer and consultant, Stephen brings a unique and deeply analytical perspective to his martial arts and business instruction.
He also runs 40 Plus BJJ which is dedicated to the unique tactical and technical needs of Jiu-Jitsu students and instructors 40 and up.
Stephen truly is a renaissance man and deep thinker as I researched and spoke to the man I quickly came to this conclusion both by seeing his vast body of work, experience, and products available as well as his systems thinking approach to almost everything. If you are a practitioner or BJJ business owner I think you will gain much inspiration and more importantly immediate value out of listening to Stephens's story and ever-evolving perspectives. It was both a joy and honor to speak to Mr. Whittier and I hope this is the first of many conversations we eventually have.
