Beauty and the Gi: Gripping Conversations about Jiu-Jitsu and Life

Beauty and the Gi is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu podcast that explores the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu and uncovers the connections between Jiu-Jitsu and life beyond the mat. Whether you are a new white belt, or a seasoned grappler, this podcast offers a unique blend of personal experiences, challenges, and breakthroughs. In each episode, you get the perspectives of the ever-curious Blue Belt Jen Edds, along with Black Belt and coach AJ Clingerman. Episodes are usually 30 minutes or less because we would rather be rolling than talking about it.

208: The BJJ Mindset That Wins On and Off the Mat 02/13/2025

208: The BJJ Mindset That Wins On and Off the Mat Have you ever been told you need to be "more aggressive" on the mats, only to find yourself awkwardly trying to manufacture anger toward your competition or training partners? Or maybe you've been labeled "too aggressive" at work when being direct about your boundaries, expectations, or needs. The line between assertive and aggressive is often blurry for women in BJJ and beyond. It’s time for a mindset shift. Assertiveness isn’t aggression; it’s clarity, confidence, and control. Let’s reframe how we go after what we want, on and off the mats, without forcing anger or being unfairly labeled. Chapters Certainly! Here is the sequence of topics covered in the transcript, now with timestamps: (00:00) Calling out hate speech (05:19) Why your BJJ gym needs to feel safe and supportive (07:11) Mindset shift to reframe aggressiveness as assertiveness (09:16) When your coach tells you to be more aggressive (11:01) Being full of NO (14:18) The role of aggressiveness in Martial Arts (16:45) Learning to be proactive instead of reactive (17:45) Assertiveness vs. Aggression off the mat If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/35256450

207: Fighting Friends in a Jiu-Jitsu Tournament - Can You Compete and Stay Friends? 01/30/2025

207: Fighting Friends in a Jiu-Jitsu Tournament - Can You Compete and Stay Friends? Have you ever had to fight one of your friends or a training partner in a competition? Has the thought of fighting your friend ever kept you from registering for a competition? In this episode, we're helping you navigate that situation with what to do before the match, day of, and after. We’re sharing our insight and experiences from competing against our own teammates and friends. Chapters (00:00) How do you feel about competing against friends and teammates? (03:21) The dynamics of fighting your friends (08:12) Setting expectations prior to the competion (15:56) Coping mechanisms for competition day nerves and stress (17:14) IBJJF Uniform Rules (21:21) Off the Mat Tip If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/35076275

206: Prioritizing Your Life to Manage Jiu Jitsu FOMO 01/16/2025

206: Prioritizing Your Life to Manage Jiu Jitsu FOMO How often do you feel FOMO, the fear of missing out, when it comes to Jiu-Jitsu? It can come up when you're scrolling your phone and you see a new camp or seminar pop up that you can't go to, you might be recovering from an injury, but you're afraid you'll lose ground or get passed by if you have to take time off the mat, and sometimes life, work, and family need to be your top priority instead of Jiu-Jitsu. Jiu-Jitsu is hard enough without FOMO sneaking in and sucking more fun out of it. We've been there. We don't have all the answers, but we can share what works for us, or doesn't work for us. Chapters (00:00) Jiu-Jitsu FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Triggers (03:06) Balancing Family Responsibilities and Events with Jiu-Jitsu (07:31) Financial and Logistical Strategies to Attend Events (10:00) Managing the Desire to Train When You're Injured (14:41) Prioritizing Person Joy (19:46) New Segment on IBJJF Rules If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/34872250

205: Jiu Jitsu Belt Promotions: Imposter Syndrome, Unworthiness, and Expectations 01/02/2025

205: Jiu Jitsu Belt Promotions: Imposter Syndrome, Unworthiness, and Expectations BJJ promotions bring a lot of big feels with them. We're discussing the gamut of Jiu Jitsu feelings in this episode from imposter syndrome to feeling passed over. Promotions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are more than just milestones; they are reflections of personal growth, dedication, and your unique journey. Embracing the process and finding value beyond the belts creates a happier Jiu-Jitsu experience. The Highlight Reel (00:00) Intro and the feels that come along with BJJ belt promotions (01:02) BJJ belt promotions and imposter syndrome (04:48) Why are you doing Jiu Jitsu - is it for the belt? (06:01) What to do when you feel like you’re getting passed over (07:35) The danger of comparing yourself to someone else (11:00) What to do when you don’t feel worthy of your new BJJ belt (12:00) The difference between “Act as if” and “Fake it till you make it” (13:57) Managing expectations and goals in alignment with personal life choices (15:46) But do you REALLY want to work that hard for it? How did you feel about your last promotion? Let us know in the comments or DM us @beautyandthegipodcast on Instagram. Podcast Episode mentioned on Comparison If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/34670600

204: Reflection, Resetting, and Rising: Your BJJ Roadmap for a Purposeful 2025 12/19/2024

204: Reflection, Resetting, and Rising: Your BJJ Roadmap for a Purposeful 2025 Did you do what you set out to do in 2024? Have you taken the time to review and reflect on the goals you set for 2024? Did you do any resets during the year? Who do you want to be in 2025? Do you have a gameplan to become the person you want to be a year from now? Did unexpected setbacks keep you from achieving your Jiu-Jitsu goals this year? AJ’s reflects on how her battle with a shoulder injury impacted her ability to reach one of her big goals and how she adjusted. Struggling with consistency or motivation? We’re diving deep into the power of showing up—even when it’s tough. From early morning classes to celebrating small wins, learn how these moments shape your transformation and pave the way for success. Feeling stuck and frustrated? Resilience is your superpower. AJ shares her insight and experience in creating solutions that can help you grow through adversity. Turn your challenges into your greatest strengths. Ready to ignite your goals for 2025? We’re sharing themes, acronyms, and frameworks to keep your passion alive and your progress on track. Success isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence and the practice. Commitment, consistency, and self-care are the ultimate keys to thriving in your goals, whether in martial arts, business, or personal development. What’s your theme for 2025? How will you fuel your fire? Share your goals and insights in the comments or on social media. Let’s build a community of dreamers and doers, inspiring each other to greatness. Chapters (00:00) Reflecting on Goals and Achievements (01:51) Keeping Goals Visible and Regular Check-ins (03:51) Jiu-Jitsu Game Plan Strategies (05:46) Balancing Competition and Training (12:12) Overcoming Challenges and Injuries (16:19) Creating Yearly Themes (18:30) Setting Intentions for 2025 (26:52) Overcoming Fears and New Experiences If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/34521545

203: Grappling with Age and Injuries - Increasing Training Longevity in Jiu Jitsu 12/05/2024

203: Grappling with Age and Injuries - Increasing Training Longevity in Jiu Jitsu Does your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey have an expiration date? How can we ensure a lifelong journey with Jiu-Jitsu? We lay out the core elements of achieving longevity in Jiu Jitsu, from injury prevention to smart recovery strategies in this episode. AJ reflects on navigating injuries and the importance of listening to your body. Jen shares her perspective on starting Jiu Jitsu at 47 and the deliberate decisions she makes to sustain her practice. We also discuss complementary practices like yoga, strength training, and mobility exercises. From Epsom salt baths to theragun therapy, AJ outlines a mix of free, low-cost, and more expensive recovery methods that can keep you rolling longer and stronger. So, how do we thrive in Jiu Jitsu for the long haul? Tune in to discover effective, actionable strategies that both safeguard and enhance your BJJ journey. If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/34294525

202: Finding and Creating Community in Jiu-Jitsu 11/21/2024

202: Finding and Creating Community in Jiu-Jitsu How important is your Jiu-Jitsu community? On a bad day, it might be the one thing that gets you to come back. On a good day, your teammates are there to cheer you on and celebrate your victories. Community forms the backbone of our Jiu Jitsu journey, whether it's the encouragement from a favorite training partner or the magnetic pull of the friendships we've formed along the way. This episode is packed with actionable advice on building and sustaining community, whether it’s being intentional about welcoming newcomers, hosting out-of-gym activities, or encouraging people to reach out when they haven’t seen a training buddy in a while. So, if you're curious about how to create or enrich your Jiu-Jitsu community, or if you need a boost to get you back on the mat, this episode is one you don’t want to miss. And if we haven’t met yet, know that we’re glad you’re here. Welcome to the Beauty and the Gi community! Chapters (00:00) The power of your Jiu-Jitsu community (04:58) Growing the Roll Model Community (07:07) How to create a welcoming environment (08:46) Strengthening your gym community off the mat (14:09) How to build your community when you’re an introvert (17:59) How to get the kids parents to start training (25:11) Shoutouts to some of our Roll Model community members If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Starting Women's Jiu-Jitsu Program epiosode Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/34072361

201: Mastering the Jiu-Jitsu Mental Game: Is Your Ego Helping or Hurting Your Progress? 11/07/2024

201: Mastering the Jiu-Jitsu Mental Game: Is Your Ego Helping or Hurting Your Progress? When it comes to Jiu-Jitsu, our biggest opponent isn’t always the person across from us on the mat. It’s often our own ego. Whether you’re training for competition, personal growth, or the mental and physical health benefits, ego can be both a hidden asset and an invisible obstacle. So, how do you know if your ego is helping you push forward or holding you back? In this episode, we’ll explore the role ego plays in Jiu-Jitsu, how it impacts your growth and relationships on the mat, and practical strategies to manage it. We’ll break down the key ego traps to watch out for, the importance of a ‘beginner’s mind’ at any level, and how to keep upir ego in check and take your Jiu-Jitsu to the next level. Chapters (00:00) Introduction to ways your ego impacts your Jiu-Jitsu progress (03:09) Framing your ego as a positive self image (04:32) How ego impacts your competition mindset (06:18) How to recognize the negative impact of your ego during training (10:12) Ego, belt promotions, comparison, and jealousy (13:10) When you don’t listen to your body (15:22) When ego shows up as frustration (17:00) Creating an ego-free training environment (23:32) Roll Model Grappling Camp 2025 Theme and Party Reveal If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Links and Resources The Book AJ is Reading: With Winning in Mind by Lanny Basham Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/33810092

200: From White Belt to Black Belt: How Your Jiu-jitsu Why Evolves 10/24/2024

200: From White Belt to Black Belt: How Your Jiu-jitsu Why Evolves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is transformational. Why did you start training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Is this the same reason that keeps you coming back, week after week, year after year? Contrary to what you might expect, AJ didn’t immediately become obsessed with Jiu-Jitsu. It wasn't until much later, after over a decade of on-and-off training, that she truly fell in love with Jiu-Jitsu. She dives deep into how the physical empowerment and sense of community eventually fueled her passion for the sport. Jen’s initiation into Jiu-Jitsu was a bit different – it started with a simple invitation from AJ at a speakers group they were in together. Initially motivated by the desire to step out of her comfort zone, Jen reflects on what has changed and why she keeps coming back. We explore the impact of Jiu-Jitsu on our lives beyond the mat - from how we’ve used it to boost our self-confidence, handle clients, and trim the dog. Why do you keep coming back to Jiu-Jitsu? Tune in to Episode 200 of Beauty and the Gi and get ready to reflect on your own journey. You might find, like us, that the reasons are multifaceted and always evolving. We want to hear from you! Is the reason you started training the reason you are still training? What has changed for you? How have you evolved on and off the mat? The Highlight Reel (00:00) Intro (02:09) How Jiu-Jitsu improves our relationship with our bodies (04:09) Who and what got Jen started doing Jiu-Jitsu (05:41) Where Jen used mental Jiu-jitsu to deal with a work client (07:25) The benefits of getting comfortable being uncomfortable (09:19) Applying the ‘when in doubt, shrimp out’ philosophy to life off the mat (12:03) It’s not just women that want to learn self-defense (15:52) When Jen thought about quitting Jiu-Jitsu (16:57) Dealing with the emotional roller coaster of Jiu-Jitsu (20:47) The mantra that keeps us coming back after a rough day on the mat Watch the full video version on YouTube! If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/33600087

199: Funny Things Jiu-Jitsu People Say 10/10/2024

199: Funny Things Jiu-Jitsu People Say We say funny things to each other when we're rolling around on the mat with our Jiu-Jitsu friends. This episode is all about the head-scratching, giggle-worthy quirks that only Jiu-Jitsu folks truly understand. From proudly showing off bruises to the odd bowing when stepping from carpet to mat-like surfaces, we explore the endless scenarios that make our Jiu-Jitsu culture so uniquely its own. We’ve had some reflective and intense episodes recently, but today we’re steering towards pure Jiu-Jitsu silliness - bruises as badges of honor, the peculiar joy of “heaviness,” and why your friends might think you're trying to choke them during a hug (but seriously, who doesn’t love a good overhook?). So whether you’re reminiscing about your latest gi burns or simply need to hear some Jiu-Jitsu banter when your rolling buddies are out of reach, this episode has got it all. Drop us a message with your book recommendations for our next book club episode. Highlights (02:55) Look! new bruises (05:08) When it’s a compliment in Jiu-Jitsu but not anywhere else (06:47) The joy of getting beat up by your friends (08:23) When you see those speckled bruised out in the wild (11:02) That weird sensation when you feel relief and disgust at the same time (12:54) Helpful tips for not practicing Jiu-Jitsu on your family at Thanksgiving If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/33391062

198: What's Possible in BJJ? Setting Realistic Expectations for Your Long Term Jiu Jitsu Progress 09/26/2024

198: What's Possible in BJJ? Setting Realistic Expectations for Your Long Term Jiu Jitsu Progress How can you get a realistic sense of how much skill you COULD get in jiu-jitsu over the years if you stick with it? This question comes to us from one of our listeners! Let's talk a bit about setting realistic expectations in your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey. We know it's tricky, but we're here to give you some guidance. You might be feeling overwhelmed, thinking about how much skill you can realistically develop over the years in BJJ. You're not alone – it’s a broad and subjective topic. One of us sometimes struggles to keep her expectations realistic - can you guess who? We’re taking a three-pronged approach to breaking this down in a way that makes sense and feels achievable. Time and Belt Milestones: Where should you be at different stages in your training? Technical Mastery: What techniques should you focus on as you progress? Mental Mastery: How do you keep your mind in the game? Remember, the ultimate key is persistence. Keep training, keep learning, and don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. AJ was a white belt for 13 and a half years before getting her blue belt. It's as much about your mental growth as the physical skills. Stay the course, because consistency will lead you to success in the deep waters of BJJ, forging you into a strong, knowledgeable black belt. Now, it's your turn. We want to hear about your biggest breakthroughs or aha moments in your Jiu-Jitsu journey. When did it happen and how long had you been training? Highlights (00:00) How can you get a realistic sense of how much skill you COULD get in jiu-jitsu over the years if you stick with it? (03:54) What to expect in your first 6 months as a white belt (02:02) Why this is such a hard question and how we’re approaching it (15:34) What are realistic expectations for YOU? (20:45) Jen’s “aha” moment (22:27) On and Off the Mat Tips (23:52) Indy Base Camp Giveaway details and Roll Model sale info If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/33211932

197: Disappointment to Determination 09/12/2024

197: Disappointment to Determination Let’s turn those setbacks into springboards and disappointments into determination. This is the final episode in our series inspired by the book The Mental Edge: Maximize Your Sports Potential with Mind-Body Connection by Kenneth Baum with Richard Trubo. Highlights (00:00) Introduction (03:51) How long do you celebrate a win or wallow in disappointment (07:49) How can losses be launching pads for improvement? (10:17) What can be learned from losing (12:37) What are you giving meaning (25:09) A reframe to shift your perspective (27:09) Why a sense of humor helps (32:33) The surprising action to try when you’ve hit a plateau Check out these related episodes If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/33016132

196: Developing Your Jiu Jitsu Mindset Pt 2 08/28/2024

196: Developing Your Jiu Jitsu Mindset Pt 2 How is your mental Jiu-Jitsu game? We continue our discussion of the book The Mental Edge: Maximize Your Sports Potential with the Mind-Body Connection. It’s one thing to just read the book. Tune in to learn how we plan to implement what we’ve learned from the book to make our Jiu-Jitsu better. The Highlight Reel (00:00) Why you should listen to Pt 1 of the discussion in the previous episode (01:33) What surprised us most about visualization (04:51) What to do if you can’t think of 5 good things to write down about your Jiu-Jitsu (08:40) Moving past disappointment (09:45) Do you do this when you visualize? (11:58) What is your word? (15:13) Do you have a desire statement? (21:00) Posture and the Power Pose (23:40) What is your anthem? Watch the full episode on YouTube Links and Resources Mentioned Beauty and the Gi Jiu Jitsu Affirmations Beauty and the Gi Anthem Playlist Fried Green Tomatoes - Towanda clip Rebecca Welton Makes Herself Big scene from Ted Lasso The Mental Edge: Maximize Your Sports Potential with the Mind-Body Connection If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/32769632

Cheers: When Coach AJ is your Hype Woman 08/23/2024

That's My Gold Medal: A Jiu-Jitsu Affirmation 08/23/2024

You've Got This: A Jiu-Jitsu Affirmation 08/23/2024

195: Developing Your Jiu Jitsu Mindset 08/16/2024

195: Developing Your Jiu Jitsu Mindset How much time have you spent working on the mental side of your Jiu-Jitsu game? Do you have practices in place to strengthen your mind and keep your focus? "The Mental Edge: Maximize Your Sports Potential with the Mind-Body Connection" by Kenneth Baum and Richard Trubo is the book that has inspired this episode. Coach Rachel Casias recommended this book, so of course, we’re reading it! In this episode and the next, we’ll share what we’ve learned and how we’re applying it to our Jiu-Jitsu and life off the mat. The Chapter Highlight Reel (00:00) Why We Are Reading The Mental Game: Maximizing Your Sports Potential with the Mind-Body Connection (04:23) How to reframe your self-talk after a bad day on the mat (09:36) Why the imagination is more powerful than the will (14:31) How you can control the meaning you give an event (16:14) The statistic that is getting Jen to write her goals down (19:22) The power of practicing like you play (24:16) An exercise to get you working on your self talk Watch the full video here on YouTube If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources The Mental Edge: Maximize Your Sports Potential with the Mind-Body Connection by Kenneth Baum and Richard Trubo Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/32600212

194: Teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: What New Instructors Need to Know 08/01/2024

193: Takedowns to Takeaways: On and Off the Mat Lessons from Roll Model Grappling Camp 2024 07/18/2024

193: Takedowns to Takeaways: On and Off the Mat Lessons from Roll Model Grappling Camp 2024 We share our big takeaways and lessons from this year’s Roll Model Grappling Camp. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how the camp was curated to foster both Jiu-Jitsu skill development and a strong sense of community among women practitioners. This year’s theme was "A rising tide raises all ships," a phrase AJ often employs to emphasize the power of collective improvement. This theme resonated throughout the weekend as attendees and instructors uplifted one another, reinforcing the idea that when one person grows, everyone benefits. Whether you were a white belt or a seasoned black belt, the emphasis was on mutual growth and community support. This year marked a change as the camp featured "homegrown" Roll Models rather than bringing in big-name instructors. With instructors deeply embedded in the community. This approach reinforced the camp's theme of collective growth, proving that the strongest leaders often come from within. Whether you attended the camp or not, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice to elevate your jujitsu journey. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:56) A Rising Tide Raises all Ships (02:31) Inspiring Stories from Camp (03:38) Community, Personal Growth, and Learning Experiences (13:06) Homegrown Role Models (15:58) On and Off the Mat Tips If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/32190967

192: Elevate Your Jiu-Jitsu Faster with Better Note Taking 07/04/2024

192: Elevate Your Jiu-Jitsu Faster with Better Note Taking How can you elevate your Jiu-Jitsu faster? Take notes! This episode is packed with actionable practices to enhance your retention, refine your skills, and improve your overall Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We are big believers in the power of taking notes and keeping a Jiu-Jitsu journal to improve your Jiu-Jitsu. This episode was inspired by a recent blog post from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach Ray Casias. He shares seven critical points on why note-taking is indispensable for any BJJ practitioner. Whether you're a beginner eager to accelerate your learning curve or a seasoned practitioner looking for new ways to refine your techniques, this episode offers valuable perspectives and insights to make your training more focused and effective. We are sharing creative ways to take notes and keep them organized so you can find them when you need them! The Highlight Reel (00:00) Update on AJ’s post-surgery recovery (02:01) Why are we talking about note taking? (03:14) Jiu-Jitsu Retention and Recall (04:45) Tracking Your Jiu-Jitsu Progress (09:40) Setting and Tracking Jiu-Jitsu Goals (14:16) Creative Note Taking Links Mentioned If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/32006037

191: Gameplans and Growth Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu Competition Training Camp 06/20/2024

191: Gameplans and Growth Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu Competition Training Camp How much planning, preparation, and practice have you committed to the first 30 seconds of your match? Taking control and setting the tone of your match by focusing on the first 30 seconds was just one of of the big lessons from our recent adventure to attend Rachel Casias’ competition training camp. Training camps are transformative experiences. They provide targeted, intensive training and the chance to engage deeply with a community of like-minded practitioners. They also serve as a reminder of the continuous nature of learning and the ever-present opportunities for personal and skill development. In this episode, we are sharing lessons learned that apply to life on and off the mat. If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/31814502

190: Finding Your Stand-Up Game in Jiu-Jitsu 06/06/2024

190: Finding Your Stand-Up Game in Jiu-Jitsu How confident are you in your stand-up game? It’s a question that often goes unasked, but it’s one that can make a significant difference in your Jiu-Jitsu practice. Do you have a go-to takedown? Are you a guard puller? Understanding and developing your stand-up game is crucial for a well-rounded Jiu-Jitsu practice. If you don’t have a go-to takedown (like Jen) or guard pull, this episode is for you! We'll explore different approaches to stand-up, from judo-inspired takedowns to wrestling techniques, and discuss how to find the right fit for your style and body type. This episode is packed with actionable steps to help you feel more confident and competent on your feet. The Highlight Reel Experimentation is Key: Try out various stand-up techniques to find what works best for you. Consistency Matters: Regular practice and drilling are essential to mastering any takedown. Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust your techniques based on your opponent's reactions and your own strengths. Purposeful Guard Pulling: If you choose to pull guard, do it with intention and strategy, not out of fear or frustration. Community Support: Engaging with your gym community and seeking advice from experienced practitioners can significantly improve your stand-up game. If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Audible Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/31624857

189: Grace, Growth, and Getting Back on the Mat After an Absence 05/23/2024

188: Brown Belt Jennifer Risser! 05/09/2024

187: Taking Time to Look Back and Celebrate Milestones 04/25/2024

186: Do You Feel Pressure to Bring Value When Rolling with a Higher Rank? 04/11/2024

186: Do You Feel Pressure to Bring Value When Rolling with a Higher Rank? Do you feel pressure to bring “value” when rolling with a higher rank? From brand-new white belts to experienced black belts, we all bring unique value to the mat. Seeing the value we bring can be especially tricky when you’re new to grappling. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re learning a move for the first time, then you go to drill it, and your mind goes blank. We’ve been there and lived to podcast about it. For upper belts, rolling with a less experienced partner is a chance to refine their game. Meanwhile, lower belts have the opportunity to receive guidance and learn from the higher ranks. Every roll or drill has value when you approach it with intention. It’s your responsibility, no matter the color of your belt, to find or create value for yourself. This is your journey. The Highlights (00:00) Do you feel pressure to bring “value” when rolling with a higher rank? (03:04) Rolling with new white belts (08:51) Encouraging lower belts (14:47) We all belong on the mats and bring unique value to every roll If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Audible Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at Disclaimer: The Beauty and the Gi podcast and content posted by Beauty and the Gi is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/30768278

185: Rachel Casias on Jiu-Jitsu, Coaching, and Navigating Alzheimer's 03/28/2024

184: Communication, Competition, and Your Jiu-Jitsu Community 03/14/2024

183: Small Victories, Big Impact: Nurturing an Upward Spiral in Your Jiu Jitsu 02/29/2024

182: The Rise of Women’s Jiu-Jitsu and Our Thoughts on the American Jiujiteira Documentary 02/15/2024

182: The Rise of Women’s Jiu-Jitsu and Our Thoughts on the American Jiujiteira Documentary Have you watched the American Jiujiteira documentary? We watched it and have some thoughts to share with you in this episode. (00:00) Episode Intro (01:29) The American Jiujiteira Documentary Explore the impact of the American Jiujiteira documentary and its significance in showcasing women’s experiences in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. From personal training experiments to the representation of women in the sport, we’re sharing our thoughts on the documentary and the sense of community it fosters. (04:32) Why We Go to Jiu-Jitsu When We Don’t Feel Like It Have you ever felt the dread of going to Jiu-Jitsu class? There are some days you don’t feel like showing up. We’ve all been there. Then we remember why we do it. (11:57) Creativity Under Pressure Jiu-Jitsu provides the opportunity for creative problem-solving in real time! (14:11) Where Jiu-Jitsu Helps Us in Life Off the Mat Taking the lessons we learn in Jiu-Jitsu and applying them to life off the mat (16:09) The Growth of Women Led Classes in Jiu-Jitsu Changing perceptions of women in the sport and how their representation as leaders is reshaping the Jiu-Jitsu community. (24:01) Jiu-Jitsu Will Change Your Life The Jiu-Jitsu survey stat that jumped out at us! Watch American Jiujiteira Follow @ If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Audible Beauty and the Gi on Audible Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp Roll Model Radio Podcast Connect with Jen and AJ @beautyandthegipodcast @brassybroadjen @brassybroadjen @ajclingerman @roll_model on Instagram Links and Resources Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at /episode/index/show/beautyandthegi/id/29977593

Beauty and the Gi: Gripping Conversations about Jiu-Jitsu and Life

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