Uke is a Japanese word meaning the person who receives a technique. A good uke can amplify the effectiveness of your drilling. This week, Steve and Matt discuss how to be a good uke. Mental models discussed in this episode: Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ Raise the Level in the Room https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room Beginner's Mind https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/ Incremental Learning https://bjjmentalmodels.com/incre...
Dec 30, 2019•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 52
You don't need to compromise your ethics to build a successful gym. Rob Biernacki, head coach of Island Top Team and bjjconcepts.net, shares his insights on how to build an ethical Jiu-Jitsu business. Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Let them know you're an educated grappler with our ...
Dec 23, 2019•1 hr 57 min•Ep. 51
It all begins again. For our 50th episode, Steve and Matt revisit the topic of our very first episode: the alignment framework. But this time around, we've invited Rob Biernacki - the innovator of the concept - to explain alignment. Mental models discussed in this episode: Theory of Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/ Alignment over Position https://bjjmentalmodels.com/alignment-over-position/ Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/ Rotational Contr...
Dec 16, 2019•1 hr 45 min•Ep. 50
Modern Jiu-Jitsu has dozens, if not hundreds, of different types of guard...and that number is only going to grow as we continue to innovate. This week Steve and Matt discuss how you can group guards into categories to more easily understand them. Mental models discussed in this episode: Types of Guard https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/ Phases of Guard https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-guard/ Kinetic Chains https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/ Dictate the Pace https://bjjment...
Dec 09, 2019•56 min•Ep. 49
We've always said growth comes from pushing yourself...but giving yourself time to recover is just as important. This week, Steve and Matt teach how to grow physically and mentally by using a combination of stress and recovery. Mental models discussed in this episode: Stress and Recovery https://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery/ Growth from Discomfort https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our ...
Dec 02, 2019•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 48
This week, Steve and Matt discuss systems thinking for Jiu-Jitsu. Organizing ideas into systems is one of the best ways to truly understand any difficult discipline. Mental models discussed in this episode: Making Smaller Circles https://bjjmentalmodels.com/making-smaller-circles/ Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ Form to Leave Form https://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/ Alignment over Position https://bjjmentalmodels.com/alignment-over-position/ D...
Nov 25, 2019•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 47
When you get greedy, you make mistakes...and if you want to win, avoiding mistakes is key. This week Steve and Matt discuss frugality as a strategy for Jiu-Jitsu. Mental models discussed in this episode: Grips Dictate Position https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/ Plus, Minus, Equals https://bjjmentalmodels.com/plus-minus-equals/ Raise the Level in the Room https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/ Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-respons...
Nov 18, 2019•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 46
This week Steve and Matt discuss how some techniques require a greater level of commitment than others. We discuss commitment both as a strategy and a method for preventing injury. Mental models discussed in this episode: Committed Techniques https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques/ Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ Overwhelming Force https://bjjmentalmodels.com/overwhelming-force/ Body Tethering https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/ Need mor...
Nov 11, 2019•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 45
This week Steve and Matt discuss rulesets in Jiu-Jitsu. We talk about specific examples such as IBJJF and ADCC, as well as strategies for optimizing your gameplan under a specific ruleset. Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: https://bj...
Nov 04, 2019•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 44
This week Steve and Matt weigh in on the age-old debate between sport and self-defense BJJ. Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/store/ Get the latest BJJ Mental Models updates from Facebook: https://facebook...
Oct 28, 2019•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 43
This week we were privileged to speak to Oliver Taza from the Danaher Death Squad. Oliver shares his thoughts on competing at the highest levels, PEDs, and training with the Danaher Death Squad. Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Let them know you're an educated grappler with our merch: http...
Oct 21, 2019•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 42
You'd be surprised how often we're asked to cover this topic. Well, we're finally going to do it. This week Steve and Matt discuss how to shut down a much smaller opponent. Mental models discussed in this episode: Grips Dictate Position https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position/ Theory of Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/ Do What Works https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/ Phases of Guard https://bjjmentalmodels.com/phases-of-guard/ Growth Mi...
Oct 14, 2019•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 41
As the great mathematician Carl Jacobi said, "invert, always invert." This week Steve and Matt discuss inversion, not just as a strategy for Jiu-Jitsu but also as a strategy for breaking out of your thought patterns. Mental models discussed in this episode: Inversion https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inversion/ Path of Least Resistance https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/ Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ Myopia https://bjjmentalmodels....
Oct 07, 2019•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 40
This week Steve and Matt discuss inside channel control, also known as inside position. It's a tremendously powerful mental model, especially if your strategy involves leglocks or getting underneath your opponent. Mental models discussed in this episode: Inside Channel Control https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control/ Controlling the Distance https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlling-the-distance/ Dominant Angles https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles/ Limb Coiling https://bjjm...
Sep 30, 2019•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 39
Steve and Matt continue sharing your stories on Jiu-Jitsu and mental health. This week we share some very raw and personal stories about depression, PTSD, coping with loss, and suicidal thoughts. This episode does get heavy at times. We thank our listeners for sharing these stories, which couldn't have been easy. Note that we advocate Jiu-Jitsu as a SUPPLEMENT to therapy, NOT a replacement. If you need help - and we all do at times - please seek out professional and medical expertise. Need ...
Sep 23, 2019•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 38
How much benefit does Jiu-Jitsu really have for your mental health? We all know exercise is beneficial, but is there something special about Jiu-Jitsu? Matt and I decided to find out. In Part 1, we discuss confidence, addiction, and expert advice. Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our mailing list: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/join/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Let them know ...
Sep 16, 2019•57 min•Ep. 37
Jiu-Jitsu isn't about fighting; it's about making your opponent stop fighting. In this week's episode we discuss strategies for de-escalation, both in Jiu-Jitsu and in real life. Mental models discussed in this episode: Controlled Breathing https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/ Staying Loose https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/ Dictate the Pace https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/ Funneling https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/ Position over Submission ...
Sep 09, 2019•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 36
Respect your opponent, always. This week Steve and Matt discuss the different types of respect and why it's important. Mental models discussed in this episode: Respect your Opponent https://bjjmentalmodels.com/respect-your-opponent/ Investing in Loss https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/ Raise the Level in the Room https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/ Rapoport's Rules https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rapoports-rules/ Growth from Discomfort https://bjjmentalmodel...
Sep 02, 2019•1 hr•Ep. 35
Funneling, as coined by Nelson Puentes from Inverted Gear, is the strategy of forcing your opponent into areas where you are comfortable and experienced. It's key to high-level gameplanning. Mental models discussed in this episode: Funneling https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/ Asymmetric Warfare https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare/ Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ Mindfulness https://bjjmentalmodels.com/mindfulness/ Myopia https://bjjmen...
Aug 26, 2019•1 hr•Ep. 34
Don't worry, this one's not about politics! Today we discuss the pros and cons of Robert K. Merton's idea communism philosophy. The core question answered in this episode is: when should you share your ideas freely, and when should you use them for profit? Mental models discussed in this episode: Idea Communism & Idea Capitalism https://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-communism/ Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/ Race to the Bottom https://bjjmentalmodel...
Aug 19, 2019•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 33
Be an anchor, not a tetherball. This week Steve and Matt discuss when you should and shouldn't tether your body to your opponent. Mental models discussed in this episode: Body Tethering https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/ Alignment over Position https://bjjmentalmodels.com/alignment-over-position/ Controlled Breathing https://bjjmentalmodels.com/controlled-breathing/ Do What Works https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/ We maintain an online database of the mental models governin...
Aug 12, 2019•56 min•Ep. 32
Action creates reaction. This week Steve and Matt discuss predictable responses, a mental model that helps you understand what your opponent is likely to do and decrease your reaction time. Mental models discussed in this episode: Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses/ Dictate the Pace https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/ Form to Leave Form https://bjjmentalmodels.com/form-to-leave-form/ Funneling https://bjjmentalmodels.com/funneling/ Technique Chainin...
Aug 05, 2019•59 min•Ep. 31
This week Steve and Matt discuss double trouble, a mental model popularized by John Danaher. Mental models discussed in this episode: Double Trouble https://bjjmentalmodels.com/double-trouble/ Rotational Control https://bjjmentalmodels.com/rotational-control/ Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/ Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/ Kinetic Chains https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/ Committed Techniques https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-tech...
Jul 29, 2019•1 hr•Ep. 30
This week Steve and Matt discuss the elbow-knee connection: a shockingly simple concept that, when applied intelligently, can improve your game in a variety of ways. Mental models discussed in this episode: Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/ Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/ Anatomic Hierarchy https://bjjmentalmodels.com/anatomic-hierarchy/ Elbow-Knee Connection https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/ First Principles https://bjjmentalm...
Jul 22, 2019•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 29
This week Steve and Matt discuss kuzushi, the Japanese art of balance breaking. Mental models discussed in this episode: Kuzushi https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/ Path of Least Resistance https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/ Technique Chaining https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/ Types of Guard https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/ Microtransitions https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/ Staying Loose https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/ Mask Your...
Jul 15, 2019•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 28
In the final episode of our instructor series, Steve & Matt shed light on the ugly side of Jiu-Jitsu and the instructors' responsibilities to create a healthy training environment. Topics include issues with your students, gym drama, cult mentality, and harassment. A huge thank you to Matt Kirtley, AKA Aesopian, for his detailed research into cults that contributed to this episode. Mental models discussed in this episode: Extreme Ownership https://bjjmentalmodels.com/extreme-ownership/ ...
Jul 08, 2019•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 27
Steve and Matt discuss the business relationships and networking activities critical to running a successful gym. Topics include skill swapping, building logistics, the competitive landscape, neighbouring businesses, privates, seminars, workshops, open mats, tournaments, managing your own promotions, sponsorships, and social media conduct. Mental models discussed in this episode: Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/ Idea Communism https://bjjmentalmodels.com/idea-comm...
Jul 01, 2019•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 26
Once you've opened your gym, how do maintain and grow your membership base? Steve and Matt discuss lead generation, advertising, merchandising, social media, websites, designing your schedule, and retaining students. Mental models discussed in this episode: Investing in Loss https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/ Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/ We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/...
Jun 24, 2019•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 25
In the second episode of the instructor series, Steve and Matt discuss Matt's experience opening a gym. They cover what's involved in making the decision, the qualifications required, targeting your customers, hidden costs, the path to profitability, and affiliation. A must-listen for anyone interested in moving into Jiu-Jitsu as their full-time career. Mental models discussed in this episode: Habits over Results https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/ Loss Aversion https://bj...
Jun 17, 2019•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 24
Today marks the first of a new five-part series on BJJ Mental Models: the instructor series! We're going to cover topics relevant to instructors and gym owners. Today's topic is coaching, and we're going to discuss: going from practitioner to coach, teaching class, one-on-one instruction, coaching children, coaching tournaments, and teaching seminars. Mental models discussed in this episode: Beginner's Mind https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/ Psychological Safety http...
Jun 10, 2019•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 23
