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Note: Hey Listeners, we were so excited by this interview that we just had to drop it! So hear it is hot off the press.

In this special episode of The GI Spot, Rachael and Kaz sit down with one of the true pioneers of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in America — Chris Haueter.

A 6th-degree black belt, Chris is one of the famed “Dirty Dozen” — the first 12 non-Brazilians to receive a black belt in BJJ. Known not just for his technical brilliance but also for his philosophical and often humorous takes on the art, Chris is credited with shaping the language and mindset of modern Jiu Jitsu. He's also the one who famously said: “It’s not who’s good, it’s who’s left.”

In this episode, we dive into:

• The early days of BJJ in the U.S. and what it took to earn a black belt back then
• Chris’s thoughts on the evolution of Jiu Jitsu and how it’s changed over the decades
• Why mindset and creativity matter just as much as technique
• Stories from the mats, lessons in perseverance, and how to train smart for longevity
• And of course… what “Jiu Jitsu Is” really means

Chris’s unique blend of deep knowledge, infectious energy, and passion for teaching makes this a must-listen for grapplers of all levels.

Whether you’re a white belt finding your flow or a black belt refining your game, you’ll walk away from this episode inspired and ready to roll.