The Chewjitsu Podcast
The Chewjitsu Podcast features your host BJJ Black Belt Nick "Chewy" Albin of chewjitsu.net and his co-host BJJ Black Belt and Physical Therapist Dr. Eugene Tsozik. The show covers topics such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, training, diet, health and injury-prevention, Q&A sessions, and interviews.
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Episode 304 - How To Overcome Fear Of Takedowns In BJJ
03/25/2024
Episode 304 - How To Overcome Fear Of Takedowns In BJJ
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss how to overcome the fear of takedowns in Jiu-Jitsu. We discuss one of the main things Jiu-Jitsu does wrong when training takedowns, the importance of training takedowns with someone that is similar to your weight to decrease injuries and to improve success, how to build confidence in your takedowns, when it is ok to “cherry pick” your training partners, why takedowns have the highest risk of injury, the first thing to focus on when working on takedowns, one of the most important attributes of an experienced BJJ practitioner, Chewy’s preferred takedowns to teach BJJ white belts, the lowest risk and highest reward Gi takedown, how to train Judo throws, the most dangerous standing techniques, and the benefit of having wrestling-specific or takedown specific grappling classes. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 303 - Chad "The Beast" Hardy
03/18/2024
Episode 303 - Chad "The Beast" Hardy
On this episode, we are joined by Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and Owner of Guardian MMA, Chad “The Beast” Hardy. Chad discusses recovering from a severe injury, the crazy story of Chad competing against a 300 lb. wrestler when he was 14 years old, how to modify training to get through a major injury, how Chad improved his BJJ while injured, “The Hardy Hit Squad,” becoming a leader in the gym, changing gyms as a black belt, gym owership, the importance of choosing your training partners, and being a "Mat Enforcer." Also check out the after podcast conversation about gaining life experience through Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of movement, and the brain-body connection. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 302 - What Is The Toughest Belt To Get In Jiu-Jitsu?
03/11/2024
Episode 302 - What Is The Toughest Belt To Get In Jiu-Jitsu?
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the toughest belt to get in Jiu-Jitsu and also the toughest transition between belts in Jiu-Jitsu. We also discuss the secret to learning a new skill, why the white belt is not the toughest belt to get, how Jiu-Jitsu can impact your life in a positive way, enjoying the process of training, why you should think about Jiu-Jitsu like a “relationship,” the most difficult transition between belts in Jiu-Jitsu, finding a formula that works for achieving your goals, the easiest transition between belts in Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of getting experience outside of your normal gym environment, and what is the most important belt in Jiu-Jitsu. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 301 - Zoltan Bathory and "Epic" Matt
03/04/2024
Episode 301 - Zoltan Bathory and "Epic" Matt
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene are joined by Judo Black Belt, BJJ Black Belt, and the guitarist from the band “Five Finger Death Punch,” Zoltan Bathory. We are also joined by BJJ Black Belt and owner of "Epic Roll," Matt Wahlstrom. On this episode, Zo discusses his dream of moving to the United States to become a musician, starting Judo at 9 years old, the discipline instilled through martial arts, achieving the impossible through martial arts, the martial arts mindset, how Zo met Matt from “Epic Roll” and became a co-owner in the company, the crazy story of when Zo first met Royce Gracie, the process of learning BJJ, training your worst positions in BJJ, adjusting Judo takedowns to work for BJJ, the value of competition, building a partnership with the PGF (Professional Grappling Federation), what makes the PGF competition so unique, exciting, and different, and longevity for BJJ. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 300 - 10th Planet Black Belt Andy Varela
02/26/2024
Episode 300 - 10th Planet Black Belt Andy Varela
Andy Varela is a 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and high level competitor. Andy joins the podcast to discuss his start in training MMA and then eventually focusing on Jiu-Jitsu at 21 years old, what it was like having a father who was an MMA coach, moving to Las Vegas to pursue a career MMA, competing in a grappling match against former UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland, how he developed Jiu-Jitsu style focused around attacking the back, the inspiration to elevate his Jiu-Jitsu game, the decision to stop training MMA, Jiu-Jitsu inspirations, favorite tournament format, how he trains for longer matches, the value and benefit of teaching, tournament prep for ADCC, and the main lessons learned form losses. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 299 - How To Reinvent Your BJJ Game With BJJ Black Belt Jeff Alexander
02/19/2024
Episode 299 - How To Reinvent Your BJJ Game With BJJ Black Belt Jeff Alexander
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene are joined by BJJ black belt and former MMA fighter Jeff Alexander. Jeff also helps run "The Chewjitsu Open" and shares some details about the upcoming tournaments. Jeff joins the podcast to discuss his start in MMA and taking his first fight without any formal training, the challenges of balancing family life and training, the start of 6 am BJJ classes and their importance in training, the most disciplined people in BJJ, making the most of your time, the advantages of starting in MMA and transitioning to BJJ, how and why Jeff started to change his BJJ game at Brown Belt, the process of adding new elements to your BJJ, how to make the most progress with limited time on the mats, the value and benefit of competition, dealing with competition nerves, the idea behind starting “The Chewjitsu Open” and the unique ruleset, what to expect at a Chewjitsu Seminar, and dealing with injuries as an older grappler. If you want to learn more about "The Chewjitsu Open," you can register or learn more at and on Instagram Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 298 - 10th Planet Black Belt Johnny Buck
02/12/2024
Episode 298 - 10th Planet Black Belt Johnny Buck
On this episode, we are joined by 10th Planet Black Belt, former MMA fighter, and “Rogue Combat Club” owner Johnny Buck. Johnny discusses what sets his gym and business apart from other gyms in Asheville area, the importance of gym culture on and off the mats 15, how to build a balance at the gym for hobbyists and high level competitors, the importance of having stressors in your life, the importance of making an impact on others, the importance of building community, learning how to teach from 10th Planted Black Belt Brandon McCaghren, Johnny’s start in martial arts and transition from MMA to Jiu-Jitsu, how his training has evolved as he has gotten older, the benefits of walking for health, Johnny's proudest achievement in martial arts, book recommendations, and his thoughts on drilling. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 297 - Is BJJ Watered Down?
02/05/2024
Episode 297 - Is BJJ Watered Down?
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the idea of whether BJJ is watered down. We chat about how Jiu-Jitsu has evolved over the years from a traditional self-defense martial art and more toward a sport, how BJJ becoming more of a business changed the martial art, the evolution of training, how social media has impacted BJJ techniques and learning, the evolution and proliferation of techniques, if it is easier to get promoted in BJJ today, the importance of having older grapplers on the mats, and whether the skillset of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners is better today. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 296 - Judo National Champion Austin Cook
01/29/2024
Episode 296 - Judo National Champion Austin Cook
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene talk to Judo U.S. National Champion, U.S. Open Champion, World Cup Medalist, and Medical Doctor Austin Cook. Austin also specializes in teaching No-Gi Judo on his Instagram page @badboymedicine Austin joins the podcast to discuss his start in Judo, his process for learning Jiu-Jitsu, whether Judo or Jiu-Jitsu is more sustainable for longevity, how he got into BJJ, the cross-over between wrestling, Judo, and Jiu-Jitsu, why he stopped grappling for 6 years, whether you should specialize in a sport, how his medical experience changed his ideas on training, ideas on decreasing overtraining, the incredible benefit he got from "shadow drilling," how to handle competition nerves, how high-level Judo practice is structured, the idea behind his Instagram page @badboymedicine, social media trolls, the biggest difference between Judo and BJJ, how he maintains a high level of skill while training once every couple of weeks, and ideas on longevity for grappling. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 295 - 5 More Principles Useful For BJJ and Life
01/22/2024
Episode 295 - 5 More Principles Useful For BJJ and Life
On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss 5 basic principles that are useful in BJJ and in Life. Everything requires repetition and practice. Be open to learning new techniques and doing things that make you uncomfortable. It’s better to be effective with less than be ineffective with more. Your perception shapes everything. Find activities that require less discipline. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Chew Chat 6 - How To Become A More Confident and Better BJJ Coach
01/18/2024
Chew Chat 6 - How To Become A More Confident and Better BJJ Coach
Chewy discusses what makes an effective BJJ Coach, whether you have to be an extrovert to be a good coach, and how to increase confidence. Know the content you are teaching (be prepared) Prepare more content then you think you will need Get your “reps.” Learn your student’s names. The mission is to make your students better. Book recommendations to assist with coaching: “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by “Peak” “Range” “Practice Perfect” Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 294 - 5 Life Lessons From Martial Arts (Youtube Live Q&A)
01/15/2024
Episode 294 - 5 Life Lessons From Martial Arts (Youtube Live Q&A)
On this live recording of the Chewjitsu Podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss 5 life lessons that they have learned from martial arts followed by a live Q&A. We discuss the following ideas: Learning to grind. Being in control of your emotions. Understanding what failure is. Discovering the "After Feeling Focus." Learning to find intrinsic motivation. Q&A Includes the following: How to avoid getting injured after a long layoff. How important is it to have playful rolls? Recommendations on techniques after coming back from a major knee surgery. How to help your child with pre-tournament jitters? How to bond with others at the gym when constantly getting smashed during rolls? Do I have to compete in order to become a coach and to teach BJJ? How to evolve skills when unable to make it to class weekly? How to help with motivation for BJJ? What to focus on when switching from Gi to No-Gi? How to get better when I’m the smallest person rolling? How to go from playing a defensive bottom position to attacking more? Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Chew Chat 5 - How To Deal With Imposter Syndrome After A Belt Promotion
01/09/2024
Chew Chat 5 - How To Deal With Imposter Syndrome After A Belt Promotion
On this episode, Chewy answers a question from Rolo, who says that he is an out of shape 50 year old BJJ hobbyist that doesn’t feel deserving of his belt promotion. Chewy provides some advice and perspective on how to deal with not feeling worthy of the belt promotion and some ideas to work on. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 293 - Why Instructionals Can Beat Live Instruction In Class
01/08/2024
Episode 293 - Why Instructionals Can Beat Live Instruction In Class
On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss how to get the most out of an instructional and successfully implement these techniques into training and competition. We discuss how to decide which instructional to purchase, why Chewy gives less instruction when initially teaching a new position or technique in class, how to break down an instructional, why you should limit watching short-form content, a trick Chewy and Eugene use when watching an instructional, Chewy’s secret weapon to getting better at Jiu-Jitsu faster, how to get the most benefit when rolling with lower belts, how to get the most out of our time when learning, and using an information diet. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Chew Chat 4 - Should You Submit An Upper Belt or Coach When Visiting Their Gym?
01/03/2024
Chew Chat 4 - Should You Submit An Upper Belt or Coach When Visiting Their Gym?
Chewy answers a question from a listener who travels to different gyms, but never approaches black belts to roll. If they are offered a roll with an upper belt such as a black belt or a coach, they can occasionally submit them. The listener asks whether they should train honestly and beat the upper belt when visiting another gym, or not submit the coach in front of their gym. Chewy discusses whether submitting a coach is exposing the legitimacy of their gym, how Chewy rolls when visiting a gym, and some advice when visiting gyms. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 292 - Executing Goals In 2024
01/01/2024
Episode 292 - Executing Goals In 2024
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss how to execute on your goals in 2024. We discuss the importance of having the ability to say “no,” managing your inputs, being strategic and tactical with your goals, making your goals visible, how to utilize the “2 minute drill," why the spark of motivation is your action, how to make your goals into a daily rhythm, dealing with overwhelm of achieving a goal, limiting your focus on outcome and putting more focus on the process, and the importance of making a routine. If you want to join Chewy’s 30 Day Challenge then head over to Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 291 - Old Man Jiu-Jitsu Tips #1
12/26/2023
Episode 291 - Old Man Jiu-Jitsu Tips #1
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss 5 fundamental ideas to implement into your training as an older grappler: Be ok with getting older. Use nasal breathing to moderate your pace. Positional choice (cooking your opponent). Tactical retreat (conserving energy). Diet/Lifestyle off the mats. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at If you want to join Chewy’s 30 Day Challenge then head over to to sign up.
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Episode 290 - NAIA National Wrestling Champion and BJJ Purple Belt Brandon Reed
12/18/2023
Episode 290 - NAIA National Wrestling Champion and BJJ Purple Belt Brandon Reed
On this episode, we are once again joined by 3 x NAIA National Wrestling Champion, Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt, and high level competitor, Brandon Reed. We discuss using social media to grow your brand, how to deal with negative comments and internet trolls, why Brandon went back to college but left after 6 months to pursue grappling full time, how releasing an instructional impacted his life, building trust at new gyms, training with MMA fighters and wrestlers, the most difficult part of transitioning from wrestling to BJJ, the importance of drilling, tournament prep, learning from your losses, and what makes an athlete or grappler “elite.” Follow Brandon on social media and check out his instructionals here: If you want a unique and well-run BJJ tournament experience with multiple matches guaranteed, then head over to Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 289 - This Mindset Will Help You Learn Techniques Faster
12/11/2023
Episode 289 - This Mindset Will Help You Learn Techniques Faster
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss how the mindset you take into training is going to dictate what you learn and how you improve. We also discuss why you should get used to losing, having a curious mindset, learning from your losses, how to counteract a negative feeling with something positive, what prompted Chewy to change his mindset on training, the importance of a coach and gym to cultivate growth, how to help your students decease frustration, utilizing goal setting, and how big changes start from small actions. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 288 - BJJ Black Belt Greg Souders
12/04/2023
Episode 288 - BJJ Black Belt Greg Souders
On this episode, we are joined by Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and the owner of "Standard Jiu-Jitsu," Greg Sounders. Greg joins the podcast to discuss his start in Jiu-Jitsu, training with Lloyd Irvin, his methodology of training, why Greg doesn’t teach Jiu-Jitsu techniques, how and why Greg uses the “Ecological Approach” to teaching Jiu-Jitsu, how Greg structures class, what has the least variability in Jiu-Jitsu, how to correct and coach students using the “Constraints Approach.” using “task-based games,” the two main functions of a coach, how much time to spend in a certain area in Jiu-Jitsu when learning, the other sports utilize the “Ecological Approach” to learning, Greg’s thoughts on the evolution of teaching in Jiu-Jitsu, and tournament prep. You can follow Greg on Instagram @gdsouders and check out his gym at Here is a list of books that Greg recommends: “How We Learn To Move” by Rob Gray “Learning To Optimize Movement” by Rob Gray “The Constraints-Led Approach” by Ian Renshaw “Nonlinear Pedagogy In Skill Acquisition” by Jia Yi Chow Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 287 - 10th Planet Black Belt Sean Applegate
11/27/2023
Episode 287 - 10th Planet Black Belt Sean Applegate
On this episode, we chat with 10th Planet Black Belt and head coach at 10th Planet Atlanta, Sean Applegate. Sean discusses how he discovered Jiu-Jitsu, how he learned Jiu-Jitsu without high level coaches nearby, becoming a head coach with less than 2 years of training, the process of balancing training and coaching, the value and importance of competing, the three Layers of Jiu-Jitsu (the physical, spiritual, and the mental aspects), the importance of accountability, why the Jiu-Jitsu mats bring out the good and bad in people, coming to terms with getting older and slowing down in Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of personality when formulating a BJJ competition game plan, Sean’s preferred way to teach technique, the importance of creating necessity for your students, how to balance running a gym with professional grapplers and hobbyists, why coaching in Jiu-Jitsu contradicts high level coaching in other sports, how Sean trains while being a full time coach, and his definition of a black belt. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 286 - 10 Sure-Fire Methods To Having The Worst BJJ Game Ever
11/20/2023
Episode 286 - 10 Sure-Fire Methods To Having The Worst BJJ Game Ever
Want the worst BJJ game at your gym? Well then join us on this episode to get the 10 sure-fire ways to have an awful BJJ game. It’s no secret that consistency is important for skill development, so if you want to be terrible at BJJ, then train as inconsistently as possible. Strength training is an important part of decreasing injury risk and improving your performance on the mats, so make sure to avoid lifting weights. Your body is a machine that runs as well as you fuel it, so eat a terrible diet of fast food and processed foods to make it run inefficiently. Sleep is crucial for recovery and performance, so make sure to get some terrible sleep. Adjusting training intensity is important in skill development and being a good training partner, so to be terrible, always train as hard as possible. Instead of focusing on improving your weak areas in grappling to be more well-rounded, just only play your “A-Game” and never improve your BJJ skills. Having a great relationship with your coaches and training partners is important to building community and being a part of a great gym environment, so to be terrible, just brag about all of the submissions you get on your training partners and essentially be one of the training partners who “taps and talks.” Jiu-Jitsu requires endurance and a controlled pace, so make sure to get as hyper as possible and drink lots of caffeine before training so that way your heart will beat out of your chest and you will need a rest round ASAP. Focused drilling will make your BJJ game improve significantly, but if you want to be terrible, just don’t pay attention in class and take plenty of breaks while thinking about other things. Hygiene is important to having a healthy gym and a good training environment, so don’t wash your gear and never trim your nails so that you can spread infections and mat funk. We thought it would be fun to come up with some terrible ideas and make the podcast more of an “opposite” episode. Make sure that you continue to improve your game, take care of yourself, and your training partners to keep training fun and to continue your growth in BJJ. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 285 - Reprogram Your Brain For Better BJJ
11/13/2023
Episode 285 - Reprogram Your Brain For Better BJJ
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss how avoiding the initial discomfort of dealing with a problem can lead to a bigger problem that will require more effort to resolve later. We discuss the habit of avoidance, how avoiding discomfort in BJJ can stagnate your game, why we avoid growth in Jiu-Jitsu, how failure and difficulty creates better learning, the importance of being patient with your progress, and learning to enjoy the difficult times. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 284 - The Unknown History of BJJ With Robert Drysdale
11/06/2023
Episode 284 - The Unknown History of BJJ With Robert Drysdale
On this episode of the podcast, BJJ black belt and ADCC Champion Robert Drysdale returns to discuss the history of Jiu-Jitsu and his new book, “The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.” Robert discusses his motivation behind writing his new book on the history of Jiu-Jitsu, the reception he has gotten from the book, how early Jiu-Jitsu rulesets were a reflection of the style of Jiu-Jitsu during that time, the Helio and Carlson Gracie rivalry, the difference between Helio and Carlson Gracie’s teaching styles and gyms, the most astonishing part about the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, the important role of the second generation of the Gracie family to the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, gym culture, why Carlson Gracie stopped teaching “self-defense” in his gym, how live rolling weeded out ineffective BJJ techniques, Robert’s Ideal training style and ruleset for Jiu-Jitsu, the idea of “Taparia” with training, how to keep Jiu-Jitsu from turning into an ineffective martial art for self-defense, creating a space and balance in the gym for different types of BJJ training, the importance of the IBJJF in keeping high standards for BJJ, why wrestling is a more "pure" martial art, Robert’s standards for BJJ Black Belt, how Robert trains as he has gotten older, and where Robert would like to see BJJ evolve to and where he thinks BJJ will go. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 283 - This Isn't A Punishment (But Most Think It Is)
10/30/2023
Episode 283 - This Isn't A Punishment (But Most Think It Is)
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss the idea of discipline and the benefits of using restraint in daily life. We discuss why people look at discipline as a punishment initially, but how it actually leads to greater rewards in the long term, why enjoying the pleasures of life on your own terms make them much better, ideas on how to more easily practice restraint, the benefits of avoiding too much of a good thing, when to back off of training, creating an environment to support your goals, the limitations of willpower, using fear as a motivator, and the importance of discipline with developing BJJ techniques. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 282 - ONE Atomweight World Champion Danielle Kelly
10/23/2023
Episode 282 - ONE Atomweight World Champion Danielle Kelly
Danielle Kelly is a BJJ black belt and the inaugural ONE Championship Atomweight World Champion. Danielle discusses her recent championship match at ONE Championship against Jessa Khan, her training camp leading into the match, how to approach a match against an opponent who has a win against you, training for a grappling match in a cage, what it felt like to win the ONE Championship belt, how Danielle deals with nerves and the pressure of competition, if she prefers drilling or just rolling for training, how she continues to evolve her game, her start in BJJ and her first tournament opponent, when she decided to train BJJ full time, and advice for younger grapplers. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 281 - The Difference Between White Belt and Black Belt Techniques
10/16/2023
Episode 281 - The Difference Between White Belt and Black Belt Techniques
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss what makes the difference between white belt and black belt level techniques and how black belts make “basic” techniques so effective. We discuss one of the biggest factors to developing black belt level techniques, the intuition and feel that develops with experience, learning physical cues of BJJ techniques, the process of learning and developing black belt level techniques, why training hard isn’t the fastest way to get better, the value of focused drilling, when you should focus on your best techniques, how to utilize solo drills as well as the benefits of solo drills, and the main concepts and ideas of what make a black belt level technique. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 280 - An Uncomfortable Truth About Achieving Your Goals
10/09/2023
Episode 280 - An Uncomfortable Truth About Achieving Your Goals
On this episode of the podcast, Chewy and Eugene discuss an uncomfortable truth about achieving your goals. We chat about the idea of desire vs. discomfort, the reasons why people quit Jiu-Jitsu, why barrier of entry is important to attrition, the three types of BJJ students, two useful ideas for chasing goals, how to increase desire and decrease discomfort in BJJ, why a Jiu-Jitsu gym is a “walled garden," and how to overcome tough patches as a white belt. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 279 - 8 Techniques To Tap Out Anxiety
10/02/2023
Episode 279 - 8 Techniques To Tap Out Anxiety
On this episode, Chewy and Eugene discuss 8 ways you can decrease anxiety in your life and on the mats. Here are some of the ideas we discussed on the episode: Meditation and breath work. Exercise and movement. Be a “Stoic” about your anxiety. Flood your mind. What can I do about it (productive worry). Have a hobby. Have a "Worry Journal." Looking to the past (evidence of previous struggle). Bonus ideas include focusing on your diet, improving sleep quality, having a supportive community, and the importance of meaning and purpose in life. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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Episode 278 - A Dirty Gym Almost Cost My Buddy His Leg
09/25/2023
Episode 278 - A Dirty Gym Almost Cost My Buddy His Leg
On this episode, Chewy shares a story about his buddy training at another gym and getting a severe infection that almost forced him to get his leg amputated. Chewy and Eugene also chat about dirty gym stories and share 7 tips on gym hygiene that can help you from getting an infection. The 7 tips include: shower and be clean, trim your nails, stay home if you are ill, clean your gear and equipment, clean your gym/have a clean gym, be mindful of cuts and open wounds, and take care of your health. Thanks to the podcast sponsors: Charlotte's Web CBD. Head over to and use the promo code Chewjitsu30 to get 30% off of your total purchase. Epic Roll BJJ. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off of your total purchase. Manscaped. Check out and use the promo code Chewjitsu20 to get 20% off and free shipping! Check out podcast exclusives including conversations with guests, Q&A sessions, and tons more at
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