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

It has been a heavy time in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community. In this episode, AJ and Risser discuss how to create safeguards in your gym. Trigger Warning: This episode does mention SA. If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

How are your expectations impacting your Jiu-Jitsu journey? You get two black belts this week! Jennifer Risser is back in the co-host seat. If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

With more Jiu-Jitsu gyms and schools popping up all over the place, it’s easier for people to switch gyms and find the one that is right for them and their goals. How do you integrate new members into your Jiu-Jitsu gym and culture when they’ve been training for a while and are transferring from another gym? Chapter Highlights: (00:00) Why Experienced Grapplers Still Feel Awkward When Joining a New Gym (03:30) The Coach’s Perspective: Questions Every Instructor Should Ask Transfers (04:08) How to Use Social Media and Off-Mat Hangouts to Build Connection (07:08) Supporting a Transplant’s Personal Goals (Competing, Teaching & More) (09:54) Why Gym Fit and Culture Matter Most for Retention (11:17) Upcoming Events: Costa Rica Camp, White Belt Camp, and Role Model Women’s Camp If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

We’re unwrapping our Jiu-Jitsu year together, looking beyond goals and numbers, and exploring what it means to honor your capacity and find joy in the journey. This episode helps you recognize wins you might have overlooked and carry forward the pieces that fuel your love for the sport. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re actually improving, wrestled with self-doubt after a rough roll, or wondered what “success” in BJJ looks like for you, this episode is your invitation to reflect—unconventionally. We share the real highlights (and lowlights) of our year on the mat. You’ll hear stories about capacity, boundaries, health struggles, and Jen’s new favorite metric to track. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with fresh self-awareness, permission to celebrate more than just the obvious victories, and a new lens for reflecting on your own Jiu-Jitsu journey. This isn’t a “goal-setting” episode and it’s definitely not about pushing harder or feeling guilty for what you didn’t achieve. It’s about taking stock, honoring where you’re at, and discovering what really lights you up—even on the messy days. Highlight Reel (00:00) Why Unwrapping Your Jiu Jitsu Year is more than promotions and competitions (01:26) Is Jiu Jitsu Progress Really Linear? Reflecting on Subtle Wins (03:40) Jen’s New Favorite Metric to Track (06:20) Honoring Your Capacity: How to Set Boundaries on the Mat (08:34) How Health and Real Life Impact Your Training (10:51) Using the Pareto Principle to Focus Your Jiu Jitsu Growth (13:13) What Changes After Getting Your Purple Belt? (15:37) Podcast Wrapped: Listener Wins, Top Episodes, and Global Reach Mentioned in This Episode Staying Solo Podcast https://bsfreebusiness.com/real-metric-of-success/ If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram |

Have you ever wondered what really keeps women coming back to the mats—even after tough days, rough matches, or feeling stuck? We believe that “a rising tide lifts all ships.” Small acts of support, encouragement, and connection transform not just your game, but everyone around you. No matter your belt color or whether you step on the podium, this episode is about finding purpose and fulfillment by building up others as you grow. Do you know how powerful your presence, support, and effort can be in Jiu-Jitsu, both inside and outside the gym? We’ll share real stories from tournaments, training, and community life, and give you practical ways to champion the women around you, celebrate their wins, and show up when it really counts (even when you’re not feeling 100% yourself). By the end, you’ll feel inspired to take your part in the rising tide, knowing that growing together means everyone wins. Let’s raise the tide together. The Highlight Reel (00:00) What does it mean to be part of the Rising Tide in Jiu-Jitsu? (01:05) Inspiring stories from women who step up and compete for the community (03:15) Why supporting women’s brackets at tournaments really makes a difference (05:24) How to support your teammates when you aren’t competing and they are (08:13) How sponsoring teammates (with gis, classes, or camp fees) can change a life (09:50) The “How to Beat So-and-So” class: leveling up everyone, including yourself (11:57) Welcoming new people and using social media to build your gym’s community (13:00) Easy things you can do today to rasie the tide (15:07) The magic of inviting someone to try their first Jiu Jitsu class (16:48) Why inviting others to camp reignites the spark for you AND your team (17:46) On and off the mat tips: tiny habits for personal and collective growth Register for Roll Model Camp at Hero BJJ in Costa Rica https://herobjj.com/retreats/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. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram –

Are you ready to get your mat bestie the most epic Jiu-Jitsu holiday gift—or finally land on something YOU secretly wish would show up under the tree? If you’ve ever scrolled endless gear sites or wondered what your teammates actually want (besides another gi…), this episode breaks down the real, practical, and delightfully quirky gifts that’ll light up any grappler’s holiday—and why thoughtful presents mean more in our community than you think. In this special Holiday Gift Guide episode, we open up about what makes gifts matter (even when training feels “meh”), and share some of the best stocking stuffers and big-ticket camp ideas. By the end, you’ll have an easy list for gift-giving, be ready for those gym holiday sales, and know what helps teammates feel supported and cheered on as they chase their goals. The Highlight Reel (00:00) Jiu Jitsu Holiday Excitement (02:14) Real-Life Grappler Gift Stories: What Actually Gets Used & Loved (03:59) The Ultimate Stocking Stuffers for Grapplers (07:03) Gym Bags and Hygiene Musts (09:17) Jiu-Jitsu Stickers, Notebooks, and Artistic Gifts for the Jiu-Jitsu Soul (12:00) Jiu-Jitsu Apparel Picks: Rash Guards, Spats, and Singlets (13:47) Sleigh Day Sales & How to Score Jiu-Jitsu Gear Discounts (14:10) Gifting Camp Experiences: New Holiday Packages & Certificate Details (15:25) Jiu-Jitsu Performance Journals: Setting Up for Jiu-Jitsu Success (17:32) How to Guide Gift Buyers (and Your Loved Ones) to Exactly What You Want (18:32) Upcoming Events Roll Model Grappling Events This episode is your inside guide to gifts that lift you up, keep you rolling, and inspire your Jiu-Jitsu journey all year long. If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ:

What happens when a brand-new face walks into your Jiu-Jitsu class? Do you feel welcoming, nervous, or excited like a shark that smells fear and fresh meat? Whether you’re the seasoned black belt, a relatively new white belt, or somewhere in between, how you welcome a newcomer can shape their entire Jiu-Jitsu journey. Or, you might unknowingly end it. In this episode, we’re sharing the moments where your smallest gestures can change someone’s story…and yours. Every time someone new steps on the mats, it’s an opportunity for growth—yours and theirs. We dig into why the way you welcome new students matters more than you think, and how the health of your gym depends on rising together to create an inviting and welcoming culture. You’ll get actionable dos and don’ts straight from our own growth experiment, plus ideas for making anyone feel at home, even if you’re an introvert (head nods count, promise!). By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to bring warmth and positivity to every class, build your training pool, and create the kind of environment people want to come back to. Here’s the thing —it’s not all up to your coach. You and your teammates play a huge role in creating a gym culture that grows your team and brings people back for more. If you’re a coach, you’ll want to listen to this episode and share it with your students. Chapter Highlights (00:00) How to welcome new people when they walk into Jiu-Jitsu class (03:08) How your behavior changes the experience for new students (04:15) Simple ways to help beginners feel comfortable on the mats (05:44) How to make rolling safe and less overwhelming for first-timers (07:13) Finding the balance between being friendly and teaching technique (08:49) Why the coach needs to understand someone’s “why” for starting Jiu-Jitsu (11:03) What not to do with a new person (14:38) How to frame Jiu-Jitsu’s adaptability for new students (17:45) Should you share Jiu-Jitsu horror stories with the new girl? (22:05) Growing gym culture—why new students make you a better practitioner We’re here to help you be the reason someone comes back for their second class. If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram

Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you train, you’re never quite “enough?” There’s a fine line between pushing to be your best and letting the pressure to be “excellent” suck the joy right out of Jiu-Jitsu. This week, we’re grappling with what excellence actually means, why perfection is a trap, and how you can make progress) no matter how much time you’ve got on the mat. If you find yourself replaying mistakes on your drive home or wondering whether you’re improving fast enough, this episode is for you. We share stories about our own struggles with expectations, how to spot real progress, and what happens when you let go of perfection and focus on getting a little better every day. By the end of this episode, you’ll have new ways to measure success (even when class feels tough), tips for enjoying the journey, and a fresh perspective on what really matters—both on and off the mat. This is about finding what lights you up and building a practice that makes you proud. Highlights (00:00) How would you define excellence in Jiu-Jitsu? (01:25) How your attitude, expectations, and coachability shape every class (03:11) The battle: Perfection vs. Progress in your Jiu Jitsu journey (05:47) Tiny wins count: Tracking progress no matter what (09:02) How to keep moving forward—even when you can only train a little (11:02) Wrestling with slow Jiu-Jitsu progress and plateaus (12:49) Why journaling and video can totally change your perspective on your Jiu-Jitsu (16:29) Creating a culture of growth (not perfection) in your gym (18:34) Making progress on and off the mat (20:05) Our Jiu-Jitsu community challenge If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram |

Do you ever catch yourself downplaying how much you care about Jiu-Jitsu just because you don’t compete? If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “serious enough” about your training as a non-competitor, this episode is for you. What does it mean to take your Jiu Jitsu seriously—even when chasing gold medals isn’t your focus? We dig into what purposeful training looks like for recreational practitioners, how to balance goal-setting with busy grown-up life, and why “serious” Jiu Jitsu is more about intention than intensity. This episode is about helping you create a meaningful, purpose-driven path in Jiu-Jitsu that fits your life. Chapter Highlights (00:00) Why Do So Many Hobbyists Downplay Their Jiu Jitsu Commitment? (01:28) Jiu-Jitsu Training with Purpose: How to Create Meaningful Goals Without Competing (03:35) Simple Ways to Add Intention and Focus to Your Rolling (04:50) Healthy Expectations: Finding Balance Between Fun and Progress in Jiu-Jitsu (05:51) Navigating Busy Seasons: How to Prioritize Jiu Jitsu When Life Gets Hectic (07:30) Can You Be a “Serious” Practitioner If You Don’t Compete? (08:31) How to Be Taken Seriously by Your Coaches and Teammates (Without Competing) (09:41) Size, Strength, and Technique: When Does It Really Matter? (12:47) Tips for Smaller Grapplers—Using Your Unique Attributes on the Mat (13:47) How To Support and Communicate With Training Partners (15:05) Boosting Confidence: What If Your Technique Doesn’t Work Against Bigger Opponents? (16:19) Managing Expectations—So You're Not Crying in the Car Post-Roll (17:32) On & Off the Mat Tips for Setting Realistic, Personalized Jiu Jitsu Goals We’d love to hear about your own experience—drop a comment or DM us on Instagram @beautyandthegipodcast and let’s keep this conversation rolling! If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram |

Where is the line between fierce competition and compassion on the mats? Imagine the split-second decisions grapplers must make—do you trust the referee, or is it your duty to protect your opponent even at the risk of losing your match? Do you prioritize victory or the safety of your opponent during a Jiu-Jitsu competition? We’re exploring the moral dilemmas, emotional moments, and the culture that shapes competition and community in BJJ. Would you risk injuring someone for a medal, or would you let go of a submission to keep your opponent safe? DM us your answer on Instagram or leave a comment if you’re watching this on YouTube or Spotify. Chapters and Episode Highlights (00:00) Jen’s return from summer sabatical to the podcast (01:17) Do you protect your opponent? (03:10) Does your answer change when there is big money on the line? (04:48) What do you do when the ref isn’t paying attention? (09:44) Is there a place for empathy on the mat? (13:00) Equal pay and opportunities for women in high-stakes tournaments (14:52) What would you do? Listener reflection and calls to action (15:12) On and off the mat tips (17:03) Upcoming camps and Jen's thoughts on being a new purple belt If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting...

We're answering your Jiu-Jitsu questions in this episode. Thanks for sending your questions in! If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

What are the Do's and Don'ts of including women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

What should you know when starting Jiu-Jitsu, restarting Jiu-Jitsu after being out for a while, or changing gyms? Camp Promo code mentioned in the episode: BG100 If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

What is a Jiu-Jitsu black belt? If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.

Roll Model Grappling Camp 2025 has come and gone. Here's what happened! Links and Resources Mentioned in the Episode Jocko - https://jockofuel.com Defense - https://www.defensesoap.com Lmnt - https://drinklmnt.com Fit Feral fam - https://www.feralfam.org/ Gaidama - https://gaidama.com/ Kindra Barrett - https://www.kindrabarrett.com Vida jiu jitsu - https://www.vidajiujitsu.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopWdewUGW7lPMEx13BFKsOxjEEzLl6-q0IFPsx3IaBHZ7-eKDM4 Lauren McAdams - https://www.instagram.com/jitz_hair_dont_care?igsh=MW50dzdlYnd5NTFjbQ== Color Street - https://linktr.ee/kirasklawpolish The Might Dames - https://www.themightydames.com/ Chubbies - https://www.chubbiesshorts.com/ Erin Ziegler - Meridian Insurance - https://www.mymeridianinsurance.com/staff-directory/ErinZiegler Mary's soap - https://www.facebook.com/latheristhebest If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram –

Megan Timler visits the podcast this week! Connect with Megan Timler on Instagram @nuttmeg012 If you love the Podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp https://rollmodelswanted.com/ New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes https://open.spotify.com/playlist/19P8KcTyNTIA0hZPQYAbuN?si=f841456b4906439f https://beautyandthegi.libsyn.com/category/Start+Here Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App https://episodes.fm/1458389465 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7EBCzi7znNuvxKlpLvue-w Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI Beauty and the Gi on Audible https://www.audible.com/pd/Beauty-and-the-Gi-Podcast/B08JJMFS1D? Connect with Jen and AJ Beauty and the Gi Podcast on Instagram @beautyandthegipodcast Jen on Instagram @brassybroadjen Jen on TikTok @brassybroadjen AJ on Instagram @ajclingerman AJ on TikTok @roll_model Roll Model Grappling on Instagram @rollmodelgrappling Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company 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.

What are the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu traditions and etiquette you need to know? If you love the Podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp https://rollmodelswanted.com/ New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes https://open.spotify.com/playlist/19P8KcTyNTIA0hZPQYAbuN?si=f841456b4906439f https://beautyandthegi.libsyn.com/category/Start+Here Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App https://episodes.fm/1458389465 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7EBCzi7znNuvxKlpLvue-w Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI Beauty and the Gi on Audible https://www.audible.com/pd/Beauty-and-the-Gi-Podcast/B08JJMFS1D? Connect with Jen and AJ Beauty and the Gi Podcast on Instagram @beautyandthegipodcast Jen on Instagram @brassybroadjen Jen on TikTok @brassybroadjen AJ on Instagram @ajclingerman AJ on TikTok @roll_model Roll Model Grappling on Instagram @rollmodelgrappling Connect with Megan Timler and Kindra Barrett on Instagram Megan Timler - @nuttmeg012 Kindra Barrett - @kindra_barrett Theme Music by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company 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.

This episode is all about building up the Jiu-Jitsu community. If you love the Podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp https://rollmodelswanted.com/ New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes https://open.spotify.com/playlist/19P8KcTyNTIA0hZPQYAbuN?si=f841456b4906439f https://beautyandthegi.libsyn.com/category/Start+Here Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App https://episodes.fm/1458389465 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7EBCzi7znNuvxKlpLvue-w Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI Beauty and the Gi on Audible https://www.audible.com/pd/Beauty-and-the-Gi-Podcast/B08JJMFS1D? Connect with Jen and AJ Beauty and the Gi Podcast on Instagram @beautyandthegipodcast Jen on Instagram @brassybroadjen Jen on TikTok @brassybroadjen AJ on Instagram @ajclingerman AJ on TikTok @roll_model Roll Model Grappling on Instagram @rollmodelgrappling Recording, Theme Music, Editing, and Production of this podcast by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company 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.

What is the secret sauce for building a thriving women’s Jiu-Jitsu team, along with a culture that keeps women on the mats for years, not just through their 30-day trial? If you’ve ever felt like jiu-jitsu gyms are more about rivalry than real connection, this episode will flip that script. We’re talking about how genuine collaboration, not cutthroat competition, transforms the Jiu Jitsu experience for women. Our guest is Alannah Reeves. She’s a black belt, co-owner of Vital Combat Team, and a fierce advocate for building the Jiu Jitsu community, regardless of where you train. Alannah spills what’s really working to bring women through the door, keep them hooked, and help them thrive from day one. We go deep into how you can shape a positive, inclusive environment for women in Jiu-Jitsu, no matter if you’re a brand-new white belt or leading a room full of purple and brown belts. Alannah shares the blueprint: from tearing down “gym rivalry” mindsets, to what actually makes women want to stick around (spoiler alert: it’s not just another women’s class). By the end of this conversation, you’ll have practical tools to foster collaboration, welcome newcomers, and maybe even spark changes in your own team culture. This isn’t about growing your numbers for bragging rights or winning every medal. It’s about building real support, safe spaces, and friendships that last far beyond stripes and competitions—so every woman finds her place, her power, and her people in jiu-jitsu. This episode isn’t about quick fixes or magic marketing tricks. It’s about crafting the deeper, more sustainable kind of women’s jiu-jitsu community we all want to be a part of. Let’s raise the tide together. CHAPTERS & KEY TAKEAWAYS (00:00) Why collaboration, not competition, is the future of women’s jiu-jitsu (01:04) How to break old-school gym rivalry mindsets (06:54) The real reason women’s teams grow (09:30) Making women feel welcome: what actually works (13:09) How to bring new women onto the Jiu Jitsu mats (15:14) Supporting nervous beginners: Tips for creating safety (20:00) Building a culture of generosity: Why it matters for your team (23:35) The biggest lessons black belts can still learn at women’s Jiu Jitsu camps (27:14) How you can join a community that lifts everyone up Connect with Alannah Reeves https://vitalcombatteam.com/ https://www.facebook.com/vitalcombatteam1 If you love the Podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts. https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp https://rollmodelswanted.com/ New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes https://open.spotify.com/playlist/19P8KcTyNTIA0hZPQYAbuN?si=f841456b4906439f https://beautyandthegi.libsyn.com/category/Start+Here Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App https://episodes.fm/1458389465 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7EBCzi7znNuvxKlpLvue-w Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI Beauty and the Gi on Audible https://www.audible.com/pd/Beauty-and-the-Gi-Podcast/B08JJMFS1D? Connect with Jen and AJ...

Have you ever walked into a room and wished you felt as strong on the inside as you try to look on the outside? Whether you’re stepping onto the mats, into a leadership role, or just trying not to spiral after a tough roll, developing a commanding presence is more than posture and projection—it’s mindset in action. And the good news? It’s a skill you can train, just like your jiu-jitsu. We’re digging into what it means to have a commanding presence—and why it matters far beyond jiu-jitsu competition. We’re joined by one of our favorite returning guests, Rachel Casias, third-degree black belt and 14-time Pans champion, to talk about the mental muscle that’s too often left out of training: mindset. Whether you’re gearing up for your first tournament, teaching your first class, or just trying to keep your head straight after a rough roll, this episode is for you. This conversation isn’t about being perfect—it’s about building the kind of confidence that radiates before you step on the mat or walk into a room. Rachel shares her playbook for developing presence, mental toughness, and visualization skills that can transform your training, your teaching, and your life. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with simple strategies you can use right now to build discipline, set focused goals, and show up with purpose, especially on the days motivation is nowhere to be found. This isn’t about “faking it till you make it.” It’s about learning how to believe in yourself before the world catches on. Chapters (00:00) Why commanding presence matters in life and jiu-jitsu (01:50) Rachel explains how mindset shapes everything (03:00) The myth of mental toughness and what actually builds it (05:20) What command presence looks like and how it’s created (07:15) The real reason we get anxiety before Jiu-Jitsu competitions (08:45) How to prevent adrenaline dumps from wrecking your match (10:30) Rachel’s 5:30 AM training strategy and why consistency beats motivation (13:00) Rachel reveals the key to staying focused (17:20) Goal setting when you’re not the version of yourself you used to be (20:00) The secret to training while running a gym or business (22:15) Rachel’s recommended mindset books and visualization practices (24:30) How to use visualization to shape your reality (26:40) When your mind betrays you—and how to retrain it (29:45) Visualizing during training rounds to sharpen your game (33:00) Creating emotional anchors for confidence in competition (35:20) What to do when the mental plan doesn’t work out (38:30) Learning from Jiu-Jitsu losses without spiraling (44:15) How to deal with mistakes and ego bruises on the car ride home (49:20) Why ego and growth in jiu-jitsu always go hand in hand (50:30) How to lead and teach—even when you don’t feel ready (53:00) What to say when you don’t know the answer (56:10) Teaching with confidence and reading the room like a pro If you Love the Podcast, Share it with a Friend! You can also leave us a 5 Star Rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/3IHT3BNicukNtCVa3AAwBI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Learn More about Roll Model Grappling Camp https://rollmodelswanted.com/ New to the Podcast? Start with these episodes https://open.spotify.com/playlist/19P8KcTyNTIA0hZPQYAbuN?si=f841456b4906439f Subscribe to Beauty and the Gi on YouTube or in your Favorite Podcasting App https://episodes.fm/1458389465 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7EBCzi7znNuvxKlpLvue-w Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beauty-and-the-gi/id1458389465?mt=2 Spotify...