The ROL Radio - Jiu Jitsu Podcast - podcast cover

The ROL Radio - Jiu Jitsu Podcast

Thomas Rozdzynskiwww.therolradio.com

The ROL Radio Show features your host BJJ Black Belt Thomas Rozdzynski of ROL Academy and his co-host Gary Pond. Take a listen to the untold stories from the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts as well as a unique take on life itself. 

The RŌL Radio podcast uniquely shines a spotlight on the untold stories within the world of Jiu-Jitsu. Going beyond techniques and competitions, the show delves into the personal narratives and journeys of individuals deeply entrenched in the martial art. It unveils the human side of Jiu-Jitsu, exploring triumphs, challenges, and the transformative power of the discipline. Through intimate interviews with practitioners across the spectrum, the podcast unveils anecdotes and experiences that often go unnoticed. The RŌL Radio podcast is a captivating narrative journey, offering a richer understanding of the people who make Jiu-Jitsu a profound and impactful part of their lives.

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Episodes

#254 Dylan Royce

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his gues discuss the importance of mind set, self directed learning, and the challenges of continous improvement in jiu-jitsu. They also take a deep dive into the importance of jiu-jitsu within the world of law enforcement. Here is The RŌL Radio with 2nd Degree Black Belt, IBJJF No Gi Pan American and American National Medalist at Adult and Master 1, and a man with 10 years in law enforcement who is a lead combatives instructor for the fastest growing co...

Jul 09, 20251 hr 19 min

#253 Rick Ellis

Send us a text On this episode, Thomas and his guest discuss the balance between knowledge and skill, the impact of online learning, and the unique lifestyle that Jiu-Jitsu offers. They also shares insights on aging in the sport, the role of instructors, and the significance of continuous learning and adaptation. Here is The RŌL Radio with the curator of the Art of Skill YOUTUBE channel, the founder of Old Grappler Summit, and a bjj black belt under Roy Dean, Rick Ellis. www.rolacademy.tv 30% di...

Jul 02, 20251 hr 23 min

#252 Kyvann Gonzalez

Send us a text On this episode, Thomas and his guest discuss traveling and expieriencing jiu-jitsu around the world, how he caters to students who have different goals within the same class, the free flowing nature of jiu-jitsu vs having a structured approach to instruction, what he finds frustrating in jiu-jitsu, how his idea of academy growth differs from the norm, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with a comedian, CLA Coach, and the founder, co-owner, and head coach at Bodega Jiu-Jitsu in Maple...

Jun 25, 20251 hr 11 min

#251 Joshua You

Send us a text In this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his journey from the culinary world to becoming a Jiu Jitsu practitioner and instructor. He discusses the balance between luck and dedication in achieving success, the importance of small details in training, and the need for standards in the Jiu-Jitsu community. They discuss people’s tendency to dream without action, the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu in personal growth, and Joshua's excitement about opening a new 10th Planet academy ...

Jun 18, 20251 hr 24 min

#250 Zach Smart

Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Thomas and his guest Zach Smart discuss the deep love and commitment that comes with years of training. They delve into the infinite nature of jiu-jitsu, the balance between fun and fundamentals, and the importance of learning from failure. Zach shares his personal journey from aspiring MMA fighter to dedicated jiu-jitsu practitioner, emphasizing the community and camaraderie he found on the mats. The conversation also delves into the evolution of ji...

Jun 11, 20251 hr 15 min

#249 Jake Mackenzie

Send us a text In this conversation, Jake Mackenzie shares his experiences as a Jiu-Jitsu instructor and competitor, and the importance of building strong bonds with training partners. He emphasizes the therapeutic nature of Jiu-Jitsu and the resilience required to overcome challenges in training and competition. Jake shares his journey from a small town in Canada to becoming a prominent figure in the world of Jiu Jitsu and the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the challenges he ...

Jun 04, 20251 hr 16 min

#248 James Driskill

Send us a text On this episode, Thomas’ guest, James Driskill shares his journey in Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the profound influence that Rickson Gracie has had on his life and training. He discusses the evolution of training styles, the importance of fundamentals, and the challenges of modern Jiu-Jitsu, including the Dunning-Kruger effect and information overload. Here is The RŌL Radio with a Rickson Gracie black belt and bjj instructor out of Vero Beach, Florida, James Driskill. www.rolacademy.t...

May 28, 20251 hr 23 min

#247 Randy William

Send us a text On this episode, Randy William shares his journey through the world of Jiu Jitsu, reflecting on the personal significance of the flags in his life, the evolution of training methods, and the importance of creating a welcoming environment for newcomers. Randy discusses his teaching philosophy that focuses on maximizing training time and ensuring students understand the core principles of Jiu Jitsu. Also in this conversation, Randy and Thomas explore the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, whil...

May 21, 20251 hr 25 min

#246 Josh Presley

Send us a text In this conversation, Josh Presley shares his journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, discussing the evolution of the sport, the challenges of starting as a beginner, and the importance of community and teaching. He reflects on his personal growth, the significance of achieving a black belt, and how Jiu-Jitsu serves as a metaphor for life, emphasizing the mental and physical aspects of the practice. Here is The RŌL Radio with the owner and lead instructor at Presleybjj in Wellington Nova ...

May 14, 20251 hr 2 min

#245 Jasmine Rocha

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss the pressure put on young athletes, mindset, the importance of focusing on what you can control, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with bjj black belt under Vagner Rocha at Vagner Rocha Martial Arts, and a top competetor in both the IBJJF and ADCC, Jasmine Rocha. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio htt...

May 07, 20251 hr 15 min

#244 Cody Smith

Send us a text On this episode thomas and his guest discuss the importance of living a life filled with positivity and purpose, and how that leads to self-disscovery and personal growth. They also discuss how brotherhood and community help you overcome challenges and the impact it has on your journey. Here is The RŌL Radio with the founder of Virtuous Fitness and owner/instructor and Virtuous Grappling in Silverdale Washington, Cody Smith. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at che...

Apr 30, 20251 hr 10 min

#243 Dan Covel

Send us a text On this episode, Dan Covel shares his passion for teaching martial arts and combat sports, emphasizing its importance as a life skill. He and Thomas discuss the community aspect of training, the challenges of overcoming fear and discomfort, and the personal growth that comes from engaging in combat sports. Here is The RŌL Radio with BJJ and Judo black belt, content creator at Digitsu and BJJ Fanatics, and owner and instructor of Dan Covel Jiu-jItsu with locations in New York and N...

Apr 23, 20251 hr 10 min

#242 Tanner Hall

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss the distractions within jiu-jitsu. They discuss the shiny objects that distract us from what’s been proven to work, and the distraction jiu-jitsu provids from everyday life. They discuss the importance of fundamentals. They also discuss the communal aspects of jiu-jitsu, embracing failure and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with BJJ black belt, instructor at Stoutpgh, and creator of The Untappable White Belt, Tanner Hall. www.rolacademy.tv ...

Apr 16, 20251 hr 23 min

#241 Josh Vogel

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss structure and flexibility. The structure and flexibility needed in teaching, coaching, and training, as well as in the business of jiu-jitsu. Here is The RŌL Radio with co-founder and head instructor of Philadelphia’s The Jiu-Jitsu Company, 3rd degree BJJ black belt, and creator of 90 Day Project Based Jiu-Jitsu, Josh Vogel. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE ...

Apr 09, 20251 hr 22 min

#240 Matt Arroyo

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and Matt Arroyo discuss how Matt’s personal growth has affected his transition from fighter to academy owner and instructor, the importance of accepting change, Matt’s time on The Ultimate Fighter, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with the owner of Gracie Tampa South MMA, former Ultimate Fighter competitor, and UFC fighter, Matt Arroyo. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to R...

Apr 02, 20251 hr 17 min

#239 Rachel Nelson

Send us a text Today, Thomas and Rachel Nelson discuss her move to one of the most competition focused academies in the world, how her stubbornness and goal oriented mindset have helped her overcome obstacles, finding personal meaning in our journeys, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with a military veteran, Doctor of Philosophy, Atos Hq team member, and First Degree Black Belt, Rachel Nelson. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journ...

Mar 26, 20251 hr 15 min

#238 David Figueroa-Martinez

Send us a text This week Thomas and his guest discuss the transformative power of jiu-jitsu, the need to embrace failure, the role of instructors beyond the mats, and more. Here is the curator of DFM Coaching, and instructor at Gracie La Mesa in La Mesa California, David Figueroa-Martinez. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https:/...

Mar 19, 20251 hr 15 min

#237 Nakapan Phungephorn

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss the impact jiu-jitsu has on individuals and communities, why martial arts matter, why we need to be vunerable to improve and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with a Brazillian jiu-jitsu black belt under Pedro Sauer and Leo Dalla, Judo brown belt, and certified World Thai Boxing Association instructor, Nakapan Phungephorn. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access t...

Mar 12, 20251 hr 24 min

#236 Jack Taufer

Send us a text Today’s guest shares his unique journey into the world of Jiu-Jitsu, discussing the importance of community, personal growth, and the teachings of legendary figures like Rickson Gracie and Pedro Sauer. He also discusses the evolution of jiu-jitsu and the importance of preserving jiu-jitsu’s roots and self-defense beginnings. Here is The RŌL Radio with a David Kama black belt and Rickson Gracie student, Jack Taufer. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Ove...

Mar 05, 20251 hr 25 min

#235 Joe Scargill

Send us a text Today’s guest is here to discuss the mental aspects of recovering from physical injuries, his training philosophy for kids and adults, the importance of jiu-jitsu in law enforcement and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with a Checkmat black belt, wrestling coach, advisor for Academy Safe, and US Secret Service Agent, Joe Scargill. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/...

Feb 26, 20251 hr 34 min

#234 Sophia Cassella

Send us a text Today’s guest is here to discuss goal setting, personal growth, dealing with criticism, the role of supportive coaches, and more. Here is The ROL Radio with strength and conditiioning coach, legion athlete, and bjj black belt, Sophia Cassella. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio h...

Feb 19, 20251 hr 11 min

#233 Vanessa Griffin

Send us a text Today’s guest shares her insights on trust, vulnerability, and the challenges of asking for help, particularly in the context of Jiu-Jitsu. She reflects on her personal journey, the resilience she developed through adversity, and the importance of community support in her life. Here is The RŌL Radio with a first place IBJJF Pan Nogi champion, and head kids instructor at Crazy 88 MMA in Maryland, Vannessa Griffin. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over ...

Feb 13, 20251 hr 4 min

#232 Chris Burns

Send us a text On this episode, Chris Burns returns to share his insights on happiness, authenticity, and the complexities of life choices. He discusses the essence of Jiu Jitsu, its evolution into a sport, and the importance of preserving the original art of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. With brutal honesty and a great sense of humor, Chris emphasizes the significance of simplicity in martial arts and the value of living life on one's own terms. Here is The RŌL Radio with a 2nd-degree black belt under Jaso...

Feb 05, 20251 hr 23 min

#231 Jeff Messina

Send us a text Today’s guest discusses the evolving perception of Jiu-Jitsu, the significance of the Black Belt, and the personal journey that practitioners undergo. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, mental health, and community in the practice of Jiu-Jitsu. Here is The RŌL Radio with 4th degree bjj black belt, 1st degree judo black belt, and owner of Revolution Dojo in Katy and Houston Texas, Jeff Messina. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos...

Jan 29, 20251 hr 2 min

#230 Robby Donofrio

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and Robby discuss jiu-jitsu in the digital age and the challenges of technology in modern life, the difference between teaching and practicing jiu-jitsu, the sacrifice and dedication, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with the owner of Gracie Brandon in Riverview Florida, Robby Donofrio. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio ...

Jan 22, 20251 hr 10 min

#229 Jacob 'Stitch" Duran

Send us a text Today’s guest has worked with the biggest names in combat sports and has been in the ring for some of the biggest fights in modern history. Jacob “Stitch” Duran joins the show to discuss his career as a cutman, how he takes care of fighters beyond the cuts, and what is in store for his future. Here is The RŌL Radio with the cutman to both the legends of combat sports and those on their way, Jacob “Stitch” Duran. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1...

Jan 15, 20251 hr 8 min

#228 The 2024 Recap

Send us a text On this 2024 re-cap Thomas and newly promoted black belt Russ Usauskas discuss the past years episodes including stats, clips from some of our favorite guests, and more. listen next week for all new episodes for what we are positive will be another great year for The RŌL Radio. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1500 videos for your Jiu Jitsu journey. http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio/ https://www.facebook.com/therolr...

Jan 08, 20251 hr 11 min

Kenny Florian (#84 Re-release)

Send us a text This week we are re-releasing another one of our favorites. So sit back and enjoy episode #84 with Kenny Florian. On this episode, we are excited to have with us someone who is and has been one of the biggest names in martial arts and MMA since the early 2000s. Whether on the mats, in the octagon, or behind a microphone today’s guest has done it all with a warrior's spirit, professionalism, and a passion second to none, Kenny Florian. Kenny discusses his rise to the UFC, the strug...

Jan 01, 20251 hr 19 min

Nick "Chewy" Albin (#132 Re-release)

Send us a text Welcome back everyone. Today we are re-releasing or first episode form 2023. So sit back and see why episode #132 is one of our favorites. A huge social media following combined with a successful competition career, and a successful academy have made Nick “Chewy” Albin one of the biggest names in BJJ. On today’s episode, Nick discusses success, what it means to him and how that meaning has changed over the years, the profound way high school wrestling changed his life, the blendin...

Dec 25, 20241 hr 5 min

#227 Henry Akins

Send us a text Today’s guest returns to share his extensive knowledge of jiu-jitsu, the role it plays in self improvement, how the digital age has influenced jiu-jitsu, and a ton more. Here is The RŌL Radio with the creator of Hidden Jiu-Jitsu, Rickson Gracie’s 3rd American black belt, the man who received his black belt from Rickson faster than any other, and one of the most highly regarded instructors in the world, Henry Akins. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Ove...

Dec 18, 20241 hr 12 min
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