202. Turning Pain into Power with Julio Rivera of Internal Jiu Jitsu
Release Date: 10/14/2025
Basking in Grace: Marcia Earhart's Journey Through Grief, Healing, and Divine Strength
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In this episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck welcomes Marcia Earhart, a certified life, grief, and trauma coach, along with being a trained educator and mental health first responder. The deeply personal and emotional interview reveals Marcia's arduous journey through chronic illness, the loss of loved ones including her two sons, and how she found healing and purpose through her faith. Discussing her roles as a mother, wife, and coach, Marcia elaborates on the importance of trust, surrender, and abiding in God's presence. Her ministry, the Sterling Rose Sanctuary, and her book 'Gripping Grace...
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205. A Navy SEAL's Redemption: Dr. Tony Dice on Overcoming Addiction and Helping Others
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202. Turning Pain into Power with Julio Rivera of Internal Jiu Jitsu
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This week on Warriors Unmasked, Julio Angel Rivera, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo and Japanese Jiu Jitsu black belt, World Master Champion, author, and founder of Internal Jiu Jitsu, shares his incredible journey from witnessing trauma as a child to building a life of healing, mindfulness, and purpose. At eight years old, Julio witnessed a murder that changed his life forever. What followed were decades of suppressed pain, anger, and depression, until he found his path through therapy, writing, bodybuilding, and the discipline of martial arts. Through his philosophy of Internal Jiu Jitsu, Julio...
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200. Breaking Through Mental Health Barriers with Evan Jarschauer
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198. 10 Life-Changing Lessons From Nearly 200 Warrior Stories
Warriors Unmasked
After nearly 200 episodes of Warriors Unmasked, host Chuck Thuss takes the mic solo to reflect on the most powerful truths he's learned from the courageous athletes, veterans, survivors, and mental health warriors who’ve shared their stories on the show. From vulnerability to quiet courage, Chuck distills the top 10 takeaways that have forever shaped his view on healing, resilience, and connection. Whether you're new to the show or a longtime listener, this episode is packed with wisdom to remind you that you're never alone — and your story matters. Topics include: Why vulnerability is...
info_outlineThis week on Warriors Unmasked, Julio Angel Rivera, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo and Japanese Jiu Jitsu black belt, World Master Champion, author, and founder of Internal Jiu Jitsu, shares his incredible journey from witnessing trauma as a child to building a life of healing, mindfulness, and purpose.
At eight years old, Julio witnessed a murder that changed his life forever. What followed were decades of suppressed pain, anger, and depression, until he found his path through therapy, writing, bodybuilding, and the discipline of martial arts. Through his philosophy of Internal Jiu Jitsu, Julio shows how we can channel resistance into growth and find peace in the midst of chaos.
You’ll hear about:
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How a childhood trauma shaped Julio’s mental health journey
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The healing power of movement, writing, and community
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Why facing pain requires faith, and why asking for help is the first step to strength
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The connection between martial arts and mindfulness and how stillness can quiet a racing mind
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Julio’s two books (Broke Down Sensei and Internal Jiu Jitsu) and his mission to empower others through mental health awareness
Whether you’re fighting battles on the mat or in your mind, Julio’s story is a powerful reminder that healing takes courage, community, and the willingness to “just give it another day.”
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: From Trauma to Triumph
02:15 – Growing Up in the Bronx: The Early Years
05:45 – Addiction, Incarceration & Military Life
09:30 – Finding Recovery Through Peer Support
13:10 – The Power of Storytelling in Mental Health
16:20 – Building Mental Health First Aid USA
20:00 – National Advocacy and White House Influence
23:30 – Challenges of Behavioral Health Policy
27:15 – Leading with Lived Experience
30:00 – Faith, Leadership, and Family
34:15 – Julio's Advice to Aspiring Changemakers
37:20 – Chuck’s Challenge: Reclaiming Your Power Through Service
Chuck’s Challenge:
When life feels too heavy, pause and breathe. Tell yourself to just give it one more day and take one step forward. Sometimes that’s the bravest move you can make.
Connect with Julio Rivera:
Website: Internal Jiu Jitsu
Instagram: @InternalJiuJitsu
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/internaljiujitsu/
Medium: @julioangelrivera1
YouTube: Internal Jiu Jitsu
Connect with Chuck:
Check out the website: https://www.thecompassionateconnection.com/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-thuss-a9aa044/
Follow on Instagram: @warriorsunmasked
Join the Warriors Unmasked community by subscribing to the show. Together, we’re breaking stigmas and shining a light on mental health, one story at a time.