The Grappling Podcast

Episode 16: Mats Across the World: Unraveling the Grappling Mosaic

Delve into an episode where Matt and Levi journey through the rich tapestry of grappling disciplines. From the fluid moves of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the dynamic throws of Judo, the complex legwork of Sambo, and the foundational maneuvers of Wrestling, we touch upon what sets each style apart. By tracing their historical origins, philosophies, and techniques, we provide a comprehensive guide to the essence of each art. Join us in celebrating the diverse yet interconnected world of grappling, and discover the common threads and unique attributes of each discipline. Subscribe and be part of our ongoing exploration into the fascinating universe of grappling.

Episode 15: Tailoring Your Technique: Navigating Different Opponents

In this reflective episode, Matt and Levi delve into the complex world of adjusting your grappling game to effectively navigate the array of opponents you are likely to face in your studio. Whether it's handling the sheer strength of larger opponents, the youthful agility of younger adversaries, or the calculated strategies of more experienced practitioners, we explore it all.
We discuss the essentials of adapting your techniques and strategies to suit different physical attributes and skill levels. How do you preserve your style while remaining flexible enough to tailor your approach to your opponent's strengths and weaknesses? From mindset to physical preparation, we share insights that can help you become a more versatile and adaptive grappler.
Join us as we unpack the nuances of developing a well-rounded grappling game that stands resilient in the face of diverse challenges. Don't forget to subscribe for a continuous dose of grappling wisdom and discussions that delve deep into the heart of the art.

Episode 14: Dells Diaries / Unveiling Winners and Diving into Top Grappling Combos

In this episode, we rewind and revisit the whirlwind of events and electrifying atmosphere at the recent Grappling Industries tournament in Wisconsin Dells. Matt and Levi dissect their firsthand experiences, the unexpected encounters, and the vibrant community spirit that reverberated throughout the venue. We give you a front-row seat to the tales from our booth, where we met an array of passionate grapplers, each sharing their unique stories and perspectives that added to the colorful mosaic of the tournament day.
As we unravel the day’s highlights, we gear up to announce the champions of our "Test Your Might" grip strength challenge and reveal the fortunate winner of our raffle drawn from the enthusiastic participants of the “Tell Us How it Went” segment. The drumroll builds as we recount the anticipation and fervor that surrounded our booth during these exciting contests.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. In the latter part of the episode, we navigate from the energetic scenes of Wisconsin Dells to a focused discussion on our favorite grappling combinations. Leveraging our enriched experiences from the tournament, we delve deeper into the strategies and techniques that often define victory in the grappling world. From the classical to the unorthodox, we dissect various combinations, underlining the potency and versatility that grappling holds, offering listeners insights into sequences that can potentially elevate their own grappling game.
Join us on this vibrant journey as we encapsulate the celebration of grappling artistry seen both off and on the mat. Hit subscribe to keep up with all things grappling as we continue to bring the vibrant world of Jiu-Jitsu and grappling to your ears.

Episode 13: From White to Blue: The Unwritten Rules of Reaching Your Blue Belt

In this reflective episode, Matt steps into the interviewer's seat to probe Levi's perspectives on what truly defines a blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu. The discussion navigates through the history and the evolution of this early milestone in a grappler's journey, touching upon the range of criteria considered by institutes globally and the personal dimensions of achieving this rank.
Levi, bringing his experience to the table, shares his thoughts on the modern significance of a blue belt, all while diving into the nuanced factors that play a pivotal role in the grading system. From technical know-how to the indefinable spirit of a grappler, they tackle the many layers that constitute this rank, offering listeners a comprehensive yet personal viewpoint on the subject. Tune in for an episode that encourages both new and seasoned grapplers to reflect deeper on their martial arts journey.

Episode 12: Aaron Taylor (8 Month White Belt)

Remember what it was like to be a beginner, stepping onto the mat for the first time? We take you back to the basics in this eye-opening episode where we interview Aaron Taylor, a close friend who embarked on his grappling journey just 8 months ago. Aaron offers a fresh perspective on what it's like to be new to the grappling world—from the challenges and misconceptions to the adrenaline-pumping victories and lessons learned.
Hear Aaron talk about how he got started, the techniques and strategies that have resonated with him, and why he believes grappling is more than just a sport—it's a lifestyle. As someone who is still in the early stages of his journey, Aaron provides valuable insights that seasoned grapplers might have forgotten and that newcomers will find incredibly relatable.
Whether you've been grappling for years or you're considering trying it out, Aaron's experiences and enthusiasm will remind you why this sport is so compelling and rewarding. If you've been hesitant to dive into the world of grappling, let this episode be the nudge you need.
Hit that subscribe button for more enlightening discussions. Your grappling journey is as exciting for us as it is for you, and we're thrilled to share these engaging stories and tips to help you succeed on and off the mat!

Episode 11: The 80/20 Rule of Jiu-Jitsu: Mastering the Submissions that Truly Matter

In this enlightening episode, Matt and Levi delve into the application of Pareto's Principle—the 80/20 rule—in the realm of jiu-jitsu submissions. Is it possible that a small subset of submissions is responsible for a majority of successful taps at the elite level? We've crunched the numbers, observed the trends, and are here to discuss what our research reveals.
We explore the submissions that keep rising to the top in high-stakes competitions and analyze why they're so effective. Should you dedicate more time to mastering these high-performing techniques? We argue that understanding the efficiency of specific submissions can fast-track your progress and make your training more effective.
Whether you're an aspiring competitor or just want to refine your game, this episode offers practical insights into focusing your efforts for maximum impact. By the end, you'll have a newfound appreciation for the age-old principle of "less is more" in the world of grappling.
Be sure to hit the subscribe button for more eye-opening discussions. Your journey in the grappling world is ours, too, and we're eager to explore these intriguing topics together.

Episode 10: To Compete or Not To Compete: Navigating the Tournament Scene in Grappling

In this milestone 10th episode, Matt and Levi explore the exciting, sometimes nerve-wracking, realm of grappling tournaments. Whether you're an enthusiastic newcomer curious about your first competition or a seasoned veteran looking for an edge, this episode has something for you. We break down the preparatory phases, from physical conditioning to mental readiness, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at what tournament day is really like. Ever wondered if participating in tournaments is for you? We discuss the pros and cons, sharing personal stories that will help you decide whether to take the plunge.
Competing can be a transformative experience that takes your grappling to a new level. But how do you make sure it's a positive, growth-enhancing experience? Tune in for practical advice, key takeaways, and a dose of motivation.
Don't forget to hit that subscribe button! We have more fascinating topics to dig into and we're excited to have you along for the ride.

Episode 09: Unlocking the Game: The Do’s and Don’ts of Grappling Instructionals

In today's episode, Matt and Levi delve into the intricate world of grappling instructionals. From the ubiquity of YouTube videos to specialized courses, the options for learning are vast but can be overwhelming. We tackle the challenge of discerning quality content from mere fluff and discuss how to integrate these tools into your training regimen. Whether you're a white belt seeking foundational knowledge or a black belt aiming to refine your skills, grappling instructionals offer a treasure trove of information. Yet, using them effectively is an art in itself. Tune in as we share tips, pitfalls to avoid, and personal experiences to help you make the most of your digital learning journey in grappling.