Shows
BJJ Mental ModelsMini Ep. 6: FramesIn this week's mini-episode, we're discussing frames! You probably know what a frame is, but I'm guessing you haven't walked through the concept as in-depth as we'll do here today! Let's talk about how we define a "frame," when we want to use frames, what makes frames useful, and when frames become a liability. This is the first in a six-part series of mini-episodes we're doing on the core mechanics of Jiu-Jitsu: frames, levers, wedges, clamps, hooks, and posts. Further study:Ep. 127: Frames, feat. Mat...2024-06-1310 min
BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 272: Common Jiu-Jitsu Mistakes, feat. Matt KwanThis week, Brother Matt joins us again to break down common Jiu-Jitsu mistakes such as failing to regulate tension, failing to fight for the inside channel, failing to manage the distance, failing to set goals, believing your coach knows everything, and failing to clear your trademark with JT Torres.Follow Matt on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/onguardbjjJoin the On Guard BJJ Online Academy:https://onguardbjj.com/p/onlineResources mentioned in this episode:The Fastest Way: To Become An Effective Guard Passer (No Gi), by John...2024-02-191h 12BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 252: Ecological Drilling for Snobs, feat. Matt KwanIn this episode, Brother Matt joins us to discuss his coaching experience with ecological dynamics and drilling. We also get into whether the discourse surrounding the ecological approach in Jiu-Jitsu is productive or toxic.Check out The Essential Jiu-Jitsu Podcast with Brother Matt:https://ejjp.show/Subscribe to EJJP on YouTube:https://youtube.com/@TheEssentialJiuJitsuPodcastCheck out the On Guard online academy:https://onguardbjj.com/Zara Can Do Jiu-Jitsu:https://amzn.to/46tACIHResources discussed in this episode:BJJMM episode 206 feat. Dr. Rob G...2023-10-021h 12
Forever White BeltRaw and Unfiltered: Matt Kwan's Candid Jiu-Jitsu RevelationsI had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Matt Kwan, a powerhouse in the BJJ community.
Matt is the man behind On Guard Academy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada. Matt holds a black belt under Rob Biernacki from Island Top Team, Matt's journey into the world of Jiu-Jitsu ignited at the age of 20. He's been an avid competitor, showcasing his prowess in many tournaments.
Matt's been knee-deep in BJJ since 2009, He's not just a fantastic practitioner; he's also a devoted coach, leading the charge as the Head Coach of the S...2023-08-071h 24
The Mental Dietician#69 - Healing Autoimmune Issues And Standing For What You Believe with Matt KwanIn this captivating episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Matt Kwan, an exceptional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fighter and the esteemed Owner of On Guard Academy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Matt graciously opens up about his extraordinary journey to reclaiming his health after battling formidable autoimmune issues.Matt Kwan brings forth an inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. Throughout the episode, he artfully recounts the transformative path he embarked upon, overcoming the formidable challenges that beset him due to his autoimmune condition.Matt also shares how he stood up for his truth and what he...2023-06-151h 31BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 224: Waypoints and J-Points, feat. Matt KwanThis week we're joined again by Brother Matt! We have a great chat on mental models and strategies regarding waypoints, j-points, and positional camping.Zara Can Do Jiu Jitsu! by Matt Kwan:https://amzn.to/3Z7kR6eOn Guard BJJ Online Academy:https://onguardbjj.com/p/online-academyResources mentioned in this episode:Less Impressed More Involved — YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@LIMIBJJLess Impressed More Half Guard Passinghttps://limibjj.mykajabi.com/Jozef Chen on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/jozefchenjj/2023-03-271h 00BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 204: Coaching With Technology, feat. Matt Kwan & Alex SimoesThis week we're joined by Brother Matt Kwan and Alex Simoes! Alex is the CEO of Tekneek, and Brother Matt is Brother Matt. In this episode, we talk about how recent advances in coaching technology can benefit everyone, from students to coaches.Email Alex to create your Tekneek account:alex@tekneek.ioCheck out the On Guard BJJ online academy:https://onguardbjj.com/p/online-academyMental models discussed in this episode:Feedback Loophttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop/Microtransitionshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/2022-11-071h 16BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 183: Websites for BJJ, feat. Matt "Aesopian" KirtleyThis week we're joined again by Matt Kirtley! Matt, better known by his internet handle Aesopian, is a lead moderator on Reddit's /r/bjj and an instructor at Inverted Gear Academy. During the day, he's also a web development and search engine optimization (SEO) specialist.In this episode, Matt draws on his BJJ and SEO experience to share some website best practices for BJJ gyms. We talk about website hosting services, gym management software, email, digital security, hiring a developer, domain names, SEO, essential website elements, appointment booking, blogs, analytics, and Google reviews. Hopefully, this episode serves as a...2022-06-131h 20BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 158: Catastrophic Injury, feat. Matt Kwan & Seb LavoieSeb Lavoie is a frequent BJJ Mental Models guest, BJJ black belt, CrossFit athlete, gym owner, and retired RCMP Sergeant Major. Earlier in 2021, Seb experienced a freak accident in which the muscles in his leg necrotized and had to be removed. Seb survived, but now has significantly reduced functionality in his leg and is facing the possibility of amputation. Seb has always worked in physically demanding fields, so this loss significantly alters his life moving forward.In this episode, Seb shares his story, his experience with prescription painkillers, his recovery process, and his understanding of what life wil...2021-12-271h 04BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 142: Learning From Instructionals, feat. Matt KwanThis week, Steve and Matt share their best practices for learning from BJJ instructionals. There's more high-quality content than ever, so we tackle the problem of having too much good information to absorb.Mental models discussed in this episode:Idea Communismhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-communism/Learning Modalitieshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/learning-modalities/Concepts Over Techniqueshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques/Incremental Learninghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/Effortful Retrievalhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/effortful-retrieval/Spaced Repetitionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/spaced-repetition/2021-09-061h 05BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 139: Posts, feat. Matt KwanThis week, Steve and Matt discuss posts: one of the core mechanics of Jiu-Jitsu. Posting, or connecting with the floor to create base, is a concept that's often not discussed in detail. In this episode, we break down the mental models for posting.Mental models discussed in this episode:Core Mechanicshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/Force Vectorshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/force-vectors/3 Joint Rulehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/3-joint-rule/Ratchet Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/ratchet-control/Head Positionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/head-position/2021-08-1658 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 136: The Anaconda System, feat. Matt SkaffThis week we're joined by Matt Skaff! Matt is a 10th Planet black belt who specializes in the anaconda choke. The anaconda is powerful because it's not just a choke: it's a powerful positional system with a lot of submission options.Matt's key advice for the anaconda:Don't squeeze too early!Don't go deep too early: you don't want them to control your elbow.Use your lat for power: pinch your elbows to your core.Grab your tricep, not your bicep. Internally rotate your thumb down.Before you gator roll, pull them back and sprawl at 45°.Li...2021-07-2656 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 132: Wedges, feat. Matt KwanThis week, Steve and Matt do a super detailed breakdown of wedges: a core mechanic of Jiu-Jitsu that's critical to offense. Frames and wedges have a lot in common, but frames are primarily used for defense, whereas wedges are primarily used for offense. If you liked our prior conversation on frames, you'll love this one on wedges.Mental models discussed in this episode:Core Mechanicshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/Inside Channel Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/Kinetic Chainshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/Double Tr...2021-06-281h 03BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 127: Frames, feat. Matt KwanThis week, Steve and Matt talk about frames. Can you believe we made it 127 episodes deep without doing a full episode on this topic? This is probably the most in-depth and conceptual discussion of frames you'll ever hear.Some key points about frames:Frames are a structural barrier used to keep your opponent at a distance.Frames and wedges are very similar.Frames are used for defense - as opposed to wedges, which are used for offense.Frames are strongest when "solid" - meaning there are no structural weaknesses from yo...2021-05-2457 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 124: Ratchet Control, feat. Matt KwanThis week, Matt and Steve talk about ratchet control: a powerful mental model for using limb rotation to break alignment.There are two directions of ratchet control:Internal rotation: Kimuras, heel hooks, reapsExternal rotation: Americanas, knee flares.While both are effective, internal rotation normally breaks alignment more than external rotation. Internal rotation also offers a path to the back.Mental models discussed in this episode:Ratchet Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/ratchet-control/Theory of Alignmenthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/Breaking Mechanicshttps://bjjmentalmodels.c...2021-05-031h 01BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 115: The BITE Model and Influence Continuum, feat. Matt "Aesopian" KirtleyThis week, Steve is joined by Matt Kirtley, best known as Aesopian. In addition to being a moderator of Reddit's /r/bjj and a long-time Jiu-Jitsu blogger, Matt is a critic of martial arts cults. Matt joins us today to discuss the BITE (behavior, information, thought, emotional control) Model and influence continuum.The BITE Model and influence continuum are concepts defined by cult expert Steven Hassan. They can help identify whether an organization's influence is positive or negative. They're a great way to determine if you or a loved one are being manipulated by a cult or cult...2021-03-081h 10BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 114: Methods vs. Outcomes, feat. Brian GlickThis week Steve is joined by Brian Glick, black belt from the Danaher Death Squad. We discuss methods versus outcomes, how to know if we're on the right path, and how to tell if the resulting fallacy is leading us astray.Mental models discussed in this episode:Probabilistic Thinkinghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/probabilistic-thinking/Position Over Submissionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/Habits Over Resultshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/Discipline Equals Freedomhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/discipline-equals-freedom/Form to Leave Form2021-03-0156 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 112: Killing the Ego, feat. Dr. Valerie WorthingtonThis week, Steve and Matt are rejoined by Dr. Valerie "Valhalla" Worthington. We have a thoughtful discussion on the ego, how it can hinder us, how it can help us, and whether "killing" the ego is a good idea.Mental models discussed in this episode:Beginner's Mindhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/Respect People, Not Positionshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-people-not-positions/Kaizenhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/Incremental Learninghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/incremental-learning/Defensive Thinkinghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/defensive-thinking/Mindfulness2021-02-1559 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 111: Position Series: Knee on BellyThis week, Steve and Matt dive into knee on belly and break down the position using the mental models we discuss on the show.Uke's predictable responses from knee on belly:Getting to their side - either turning toward or away from youAttacking your feetGetting their foot on your hip or inverting into a leg entanglementCritical control points for knee on belly:Maintaining good foot position. No gaps between your shoelaces and their hip. Don't let them grab your legs, especially the free leg.Keeping a lower squat, ideally an elbow-knee connection, t...2021-02-081h 08BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 110: The Reverse Classroom Model, feat. Bruce HoyerThis week, Steve is joined by Bruce Hoyer from Next Edge Academy. Bruce is best known for pioneering the reverse classroom model in BJJ. If you've been looking for a new and empowering way to structure your learning or classes, this is the episode for you.IMPORTANT: BJJ Mental Models needs your help.In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the future for Steve and Matt is uncertain. Our gyms are closed, our income is impacted, and we need your help in order to continue providing free content. We've started a Patreon wher...2021-02-0141 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 109: Peak Performance, feat. Emily KwokThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by multi-time world champion Emily Kwok. Having studied directly with Marcelo Garcia and Josh Waitzkin, Emily joins us to share her expertise on the study of peak performance.Mental models discussed in this episode:Kaizenhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/Flowhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/flow/Stress and Recoveryhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery/Shuharihttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/shuhari/Raise the Level in the Roomhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/Feedback Loophttps://b...2021-01-251h 13BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 108: Lessons From Inverted Gear, feat. Nelson PuentesThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by Nelson Puentes, the co-founder of Inverted Gear. Nelson shares the story of the business and is generous with advice to other entrepreneurs who are looking to get started. We discuss the importance of branding, the joy of logistics, and how to pivot during adversity. Oh...and we talk about short shorts.IMPORTANT: BJJ Mental Models needs your help.In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the future for Steve and Matt is uncertain. Our gyms are closed, our income is impacted, and we need your...2021-01-181h 07
Total Movie RecallTMR 054 – Kung Fu Cult Master This week on Total Movie Recall, Steve and Ryan discover that there’s actually an antidote to getting punched really, really hard. The cultural divide proves too much for Ryan in this wild, fantastic, hallucinatory Kung Fu epic of many names. The story is incomprehensible, the fights are nonsensical, but Steve still finds it defensible, while Ryan finds the editing reprehensible. There’s no reason for this rhyme. Kung Fu Cult Master (1993) d. Jing Wong, Sammo Kam-Bo Hung Starring: Jet Li Man Cheung Chingmy Yau Set...2021-01-181h 39BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 107: Information Literacy, feat. Robert DegleThis week, Steve is joined again by Robert Degle. Robert shares his experience with information literacy, and how grapplers can answer the questions: how do I know this technique is a good technique? And what makes a technique good, anyway?Due to incorrect audio settings in this episode, it sounds like Steve is yelling through a megaphone. We did our best to clean up the audio, but it's still noticeable. Sorry about this.Mental models discussed in this episode:Scientific Methodhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/Do What Work...2021-01-111h 28BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 106: Resilience, feat. Stephan KestingThis week, Steve is joined by the internet's favorite professor, Stephan Kesting. We have a post-mortem on the disastrous year that was 2020, discuss how we can develop a resilient mindset, and how the BJJ community can heal and recover in 2021.Mental models discussed in this episode:Raise the Level in the Roomhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/Train With Purposehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/train-with-purpose/Habits Over Resultshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/Investing in Losshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/IMPORTANT: B...2021-01-041h 14BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 105: The Art of Coaching, feat. Valerie WorthingtonThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by one of Steve's personal Jiu-Jitsu heroes, Dr. Valerie “Valhalla” Worthington! Dr. Worthington shares her expertise in coaching, both on and off the mats. We have a great discussion on the ethics of being a coach, getting more women into Jiu-Jitsu, and celebrating our differences.Mental models discussed in this episode:Do What Workshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/Extreme Ownershiphttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/extreme-ownership/Scientific Methodhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/Train With Purposehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/tr...2020-12-281h 14BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 104: Grip Strategy, feat. Shintaro HigashiThis week, Matt is joined by Judo legend Shintaro Higashi for a super detailed and technical discussion of grip strategy.Mental models discussed in this episode:Mirrored Stanceshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/mirrored-stances/Inside Channel Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/Train With Purposehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/train-with-purpose/Staying Loosehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/Kinetic Chainshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/Dilemmahttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/dilemma/Form to Leave Formhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/...2020-12-211h 25BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 100: The Biggest Lessons After 100 EpisodesWhat a milestone! This week, Steve and Matt celebrate 100 episodes of BJJ Mental Models, and share the biggest lessons we've learned so far. We also discuss cat litter options, feline dietary considerations, and fail hard at pronouncing German names.Mental models discussed in this episode:Investing in Losshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/Scientific Methodhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/scientific-method/Surface Areahttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/surface-area/Force Vectorshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/force-vectors/Minimize Attack Vectorshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/minimize-attack-vectors/As...2020-11-221h 04BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 99: Developing Your Style, feat. Lachlan and Livia GilesThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by Lachlan and Livia Giles! Lachlan and Livia share their world-class wisdom on developing your grappling style, and advise how you can consciously guide the process of style development.Mental models discussed in this episode:Inside Channel Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/Prioritize Longevityhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity/Levels of Competitionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/levels-of-competition/Systematic Abandonmenthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/systematic-abandonment/Investing in Losshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/Mask Your I...2020-11-161h 21BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 98: Win Conditions, feat. Robert DegleThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by Robert Degle! We have a deep conversation around the win conditions of our sport, how they influence our behavior, and why it's important to understand WHY we train Jiu-Jitsu.Mental models discussed in this episode:Win Conditionshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/win-conditions/Cognitive Loadhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/cognitive-load/Flowhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/flow/Mindfulnesshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/Do What Workshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/Incremental Learninghttps://bjjmentalmodels.c...2020-11-091h 28
The Sonny Brown BreakdownBJJ Mental Models of Blading, Tempo & Establishing Offensive Cycles With Matt KwanI talk to Matt Kwan who is a BJJ Black Belt under Rob Biernacki and also Co-Hosts the podcast BJJ Mental Models with his brother Steve Kwan. We discuss concepts of belt tests and grading with the differences between adults and children and then explore essential concepts used by Gordon Ryan and the DDS. These include tempo in jiu-jitsu described through the terms of offensive and defensive cycles and blading to redirect frames while attacking and how these can help you learn BJJ faster and more efficiently.2020-11-061h 12BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 97: Position Series: Turtle, feat. Priit MihkelsonThis week, we're joined by defensive strategist Priit Mihkelson! Much to Matt's chagrin, Steve and Priit espouse the benefits of turtle and why it's an underappreciated position. Priit shares some great philosophy on how shoring up your defense can give you the confidence to be more effective in your offense.Priit's tips for turtle:Keep your head on the matUse the boxer shoulder, or "Stephen Hawking" (head tilt)Keep your elbows on your hipsDon't put your elbows on the matProtect your neck with your wrists.Mental models discussed in this episode:...2020-11-021h 24BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 94: The Champion's Mindset, feat. Travis StevensThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by Olympian and Judo legend Travis Stevens. Travis shares how he developed the kind of champion's mindset required to succeed at the highest levels.Mental models discussed in this episode:Levels of Competitionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/levels-of-competition/Habits Over Resultshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/Investing in Losshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/Dictate the Pacehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/Win Conditionshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/win-conditions/Do What Workshttps://bjjmentalmodels.c...2020-10-121h 27BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 93: Teaching Kids, feat. Cal McDonaldThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by Cal McDonald to discuss best practices for educating kids. In addition to being a black belt under Rob Biernacki, Cal is a specialist in creating educational frameworks for children. Cal shares his knowledge on the topic in a wonderful conversation with implications well beyond teaching children. This is one of our favorite conversations ever on the podcast.Learning strategies discussed:Effortful Retrieval: Make them work to pull concepts back out of their memories.Chunking: Manage their cognitive load.I...2020-10-051h 23BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 92: Integrating New Techniques, feat. Jon ThomasThis week, Steve and Matt are joined by Jon Thomas, the legendary black belt and BJJ instructor. Steve, Matt, and Jon have a spirited discussion about the best way to integrate new techniques into your game. We also discuss the limitations of principles and how being dogmatic about them can hinder your development.Jon suggests four ways to integrate new techniques:ask your coachwatch an instructionalwatch competition videocreativityMental models discussed in this episode:Beginner's Mindhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/Investing in Losshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/in...2020-09-281h 18BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 91: Single vs. Double Lever ControlThis week, Steve and Matt break down the differences between single and double lever control. In general, single lever control affords more damage, whereas double lever control affords more control.Learn more about this mental model here:https://bjjmentalmodels.com/single-vs-double-lever-control/Mental models discussed in this episode:Single vs. Double Lever Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/single-vs-double-lever-control/Rotational Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/rotational-control/Position Over Submissionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission/Double Troublehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-trouble/Economy of Motion2020-09-211h 11BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 90: Expertise, feat. Rob BiernackiThis week, Steve is once again joined by Rob Biernacki from Island Top Team. If you follow Rob, you know how passionate he is about respecting expertise and calling out impostors. We live in a world where identifying expertise is harder - and more important - than ever. In this episode, we give you the tools to do so.When assessing an expert, beware these red flags:Does the expert speak with 100% certainty at all times?Does the expert avoid disclosing the limits of their knowledge?Does the expert try to win arguments with quantity instead of...2020-09-141h 55BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 89: Open Guard Series: Seated GuardsThis week, Steve and Matt talk about seated guards! Seated guards are a great way to track and harass your opponent from the bottom. In this episode, you'll also learn why supine guard is sometimes referred to as Ali-Inoki position - which is a much more dignified nickname than how seated guard is referred to as "buttscooting."Mental models discussed in this episode:Inside Channel Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/Predictable Responseshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/Dictate the Pacehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/Grips Di...2020-09-071h 22BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 88: Open Guard Series: Gi-Based GuardsThis week, Steve and Matt talk about gi-based open guards! There are a lot of variations, including spider guard, collar and sleeve, and worm guard. The sheer number of grip configurations can be overwhelming. Rather than trying to memorize each variation, we suggest thinking in a concept-based approach. In this episode, we discuss how.Mental models discussed in this episode:Direct vs. Proxy Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/direct-vs-proxy-control/Grips Dictate Positionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/Inside Channel Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/Phases of Guar...2020-08-311h 09BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 87: Open Guard Series: Butterfly GuardThis week, Steve and Matt talk about butterfly guard! Butterfly is a hook-based guard that works in both gi and no-gi, and excels against larger opponents.Mental models discussed in this episode:Inside Channel Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/Body Tetheringhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/Types of Guardhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/Kuzushihttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/Head Positionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/head-position/Single vs. Double Lever Controlhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/single-vs-double-lever-control/Principles Over Techniques2020-08-241h 07Forever White BeltSteve Kwan of BJJ Mental ModelsWelcome to episode 2 of Forever White Belt, in this episode I have the pleasure of chatting with Steve Kwan, co-host of my favorite BJJ podcast BJJ Mental Models. Steve is a black belt under Don Whitefield from West Coast Martial Arts and he teaches and trains at Ascension Martial Arts in British Columbia, Canada.
I’m a huge fan of his and his brother's podcast BJJ Mental Models where they discuss Conceptual Jiu Jitsu in a highly effective technical and humor filled way. Some of the funnier moments for me were their discussions on taint sweeps, Steve’s jumpin...2020-08-201h 14BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 86: Open Guard Series: X GuardThis week, X gon' give it to ya! Steve and Matt discuss X guard and its variants. X guard, while an advanced position and difficult to enter, is an incredibly powerful position that's especially effective against larger opponents.There are three primary types of X guard:X guard - best used when you're right underneath your opponentSingle leg X guard - best used when controlling the far leg is a challengeReverse X guard - best used when your opponent is leaning forward.Mental models discussed in this episode:Committed Techniques2020-08-171h 08BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 85: Open Guard Series: de la Riva GuardIt's time for another series! This week, Steve and Matt begin our new five-part Open Guard Series with a concept-based breakdown of the de la Riva guard and reverse de la Riva guard.Mental models discussed in this episode:Types of Guardhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/Body Tetheringhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/Committed Techniqueshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/Critical Control Pointshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/critical-control-points/Dictating the Pacehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictating-the-pace/IMPORTANT: BJJ Mental M...2020-08-101h 10BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 84: The Third PlaceThis week, Steve and Matt discuss the concept of the third place. It's a sociological concept coined by Ray Oldenburg, who argues that we have three important places in our life:The first place: your homeThe second place: your workThe third place: the anchor to your community.The third place is where we blow off steam, get away from the demands of the first two places, and build relationships. For most of us, our third place is Jiu-Jitsu.You can read more about the third place here:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place2020-08-031h 08BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 83: Fear of the First StepThe most important - and also hardest - part of every journey is the first step. If you can't bring yourself to take the first step, you deny yourself the most important growth opportunities in life. This week, Steve and Matt talk about the psychology of the first step, and how to overcome the natural fear of starting a new initiative. And more importantly, we also talk about Final Fantasy VII Remake.Mental models discussed in this episode:Mindfulnesshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/Return on Investmenthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com...2020-07-271h 05BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 82: Tipping PointsThis week, Steve and Matt discuss tipping points: the concept that, once you have sufficient leverage or momentum, your desired outcome can no longer be denied.We've all experienced tipping points, whether it be on the mats or off.In Jiu-Jitsu, tipping points occur when your opponent gains so much leverage that you cannot realistically fight off their attack anymore, and your only recourse is to change your tactics.In real life, tipping points occur when an idea, product, or movement gains sufficient momentum that its growth becomes exponential.Good strategies...2020-07-201h 08BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 81: Teaching MethodologiesWhat is "the best way" to teach a Jiu-Jitsu class? Is there even an answer to that question? This week, Steve and Matt discuss common BJJ teaching methodologies such as concepts-based, toughness-based, and sequence-based.Mental models discussed in this episode:Train With Purposehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/train-with-purpose/Making Smaller Circleshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/making-smaller-circles/Predictable Responseshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/IMPORTANT: BJJ Mental Models needs your help.In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the future for Steve and Ma...2020-07-131h 03BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 80: Surface Area & BladingThis week Steve and Matt discuss the concept of surface area, and why it's important to expose as little of your body's surface area as possible. This strategy is sometimes referred to by the Danaher Death Squad as blading.When you're on top, minimizing surface area makes it much harder for your opponent to block your guard passes.When you're on bottom, minimizing surface area makes it much harder for your opponent to stabilize an offensive position.Mental models discussed in this episode:Surface Areahttps://bjjmentalmodels.c...2020-07-061h 10BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 79: Online Education, feat. Rory van VlietThis week Steve is joined by Rory van Vliet, an Island Top Team black belt under Rob Biernacki, to discuss online education. Rory is the co-instructor of the BJJ Concepts online academy, the operator behind the RVV BJJ YouTube channel, and the creator of the Guard Retention Formula instructional series alongside Stephan Kesting. Rory is uniquely qualified to discuss the topic of online education, so if you've ever wanted to share your knowledge with the world, this episode is for you.Mental models discussed in this episode:Growth Mindsethttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-mindset/2020-06-291h 26BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 78: MotivationThis week, Steve and Matt discuss how to get motivated and stay motivated. It's easy to lose that fire inside and become exhausted through the rigors and routine of everyday life. Every now and then, you need to draw from different sources to become invigorated and motivated again.In this episode we talk about four common sources of motivation:Motivation from failureMotivation from regretMotivation from inspirationMotivation from necessity.Mental models discussed in this episode:Growth From Discomforthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort/Kaizenhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kaizen/S...2020-06-221h 06BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 77: The Ethics of Law Enforcement, feat. Sergeant Major Seb LavoieIt's our honor and privilege to be joined this week by Sergeant Major Seb Lavoie. In addition to a lifetime of experience in the martial arts, Seb is a 19-year veteran of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and previously served in the Canadian Armed Forces. Seb is currently the divisional Sergeant Major for British Columbia, Canada.This week Seb joins us to discuss the killing of George Floyd, police use of force, and where police organizations around the world can go from here.Apologies for the audio quality; we recorded this episode via Zoom so...2020-06-151h 36BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 76: Fear of TimeFear of time, or chronophobia, is a cause of constant anxiety and stress for many of us. It's the persistent fear that you're just not doing enough. This week, Steve and Matt discuss strategies for combating the fear of time.Ways to combat the fear of time:Kaizen (continuous improvement)CompartmentalizingBeing presentRecommended reading if you need help combating the fear of time:How to Stop Worrying and Start Living, by Dale CarnegieMental models discussed in this episode:Self-Competitionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/Mindfulnessht...2020-06-0849 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 75: Submission as PositionSubmissions aren't just fight-ending techniques; they're tools to advance the position even if the submission fails. This week, Steve and Matt discuss how to use submissions as a way to advance position.Mental models discussed in this episode:Myopiahttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/myopia/Body Tetheringhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/Dilemmahttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/dilemma/Technique Chaininghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/Kuzushihttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/Predictable Responseshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/Critical Control Pointshttps://b...2020-06-0152 minBJJ Mental ModelsEp. 74: Position Series: MountThis week, Steve and Matt talk about the mount: an old-school, demoralizing, and devastating position.The mount has three sub-positions:low mount, where you lie on top of uke;high mount, where you bring your knees into uke's armpits and posture up;technical mounts, including jockey mount and S mount.Mental models discussed in this episode:Crossing the Centerhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/crossing-the-center/Defend with Purposehttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/defend-with-purpose/Head Positionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/head-position/Predictable Responseshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/2020-05-251h 00BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 73: Stress ManagementThis week Steve and Matt talk about stress. Stress is a fact of life, and it can be a tool for growth if used properly.Some techniques for managing stress:ExercisingEating wellSleepingControlled breathingMindfulnessChallenging yourself regularlyMaking time for yourselfDoing what you loveNot becoming obsessed with comfortAppreciating when you have enough.Mental models discussed in this episode:Growth From Discomforthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort/Stress and Recoveryhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery/Abundance Mindsethttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/Controlled Breathinghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/2020-05-181h 00BJJ Mental ModelsEp. 72: Technique ChainingAs we've learned from Street Fighter, combos are important. A single technique in isolation is not as effective as a series of chained attacks.There are two ways you can chain attacks together: in a sequence, or in parallel.Mental models discussed in this episode:Technique Chaininghttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/Theory of Alignmenthttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/Alignment over Positionhttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/alignment-over-position/Kuzushihttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/Predictable Responseshttps://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/Dictate t...2020-05-1158 min