Combat Creative

Jiu-Jitsu academy owners, professors, and entrepreneurs — why do some people panic during hard times while others bet on themselves? In this episode, I sit down with Jiu-Jitsu black belt and entrepreneur Cristian Guzman, owner of Space City Collective in Houston, Texas, to talk about how Jiu-Jitsu helped him navigate difficult seasons, take risks, and build something of his own. After losing his j...

Jiu-jitsu academy owners and professors — why chasing money might be hurting your gym. In this episode, I sit down with Oleksander Humen, owner of BRABO Academy in Virginia Beach, VA, to break down the mindset it takes to build a successful academy that lasts. From coming to the U.S. with $100 to building a thriving gym, Alex shares powerful lessons on leadership, growth, and why it’s never just a...

Recent allegations involving the Atos Jiu-Jitsu organization and its founder, André Galvão, have sparked serious conversations across the Jiu-Jitsu community. As reports and investigations continue, academy owners everywhere should be asking an important question: Is your Jiu-Jitsu academy truly safe? In this episode, I sit down with attorney and Jiu-Jitsu brown belt James Simmons to discuss how g...

A U.S. Marine veteran shares how Jiu-Jitsu helped him battle PTSD — and how that journey led to starting Grapple Cove, a garage-born academy that’s now growing into a supportive community for families and veterans alike.

From the Octagon to building one of the most successful Jiu-Jitsu and MMA programs in his city, UFC fighter and head coach Alex Morono shares his mindset for creating unstoppable success. In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to grow a thriving academy, lead a team, and keep improving as a fighter, coach, and business owner. Whether you’re a UFC fan, a Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, or an ac...

Opening a Jiu-Jitsu academy is one thing. Building one that actually thrives? That’s a different story. In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Yamada, co-founder and instructor at Lokahi Jiu-Jitsu in Omaha, Nebraska, to break down what it really takes to stand out and succeed as a gym owner today. From branding and community to the real work behind running a business, Ryan shares hard-earned lesson...

Why do so many people wait to start Jiu-Jitsu? In this episode, Kenny from the BJJ Balance Podcast shares his honest story of why he didn’t start training sooner — and what finally pushed him to commit. From funny gym trials to early No-Gi struggles, it’s a story every grappler can relate to. Kenny also talks about how he co-founded the BJJ Balance Podcast with his friend and black belt Matt, and...

In this episode, I sit down with Mat Veiga from Oss Nation BJJ and the BJJ Balance Podcast for a fun, honest, and sometimes hilarious conversation about Jiu-Jitsu. We cover everything from the frustrations with IBJJF, to the wild world of BJJ content creation and share plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you train, coach, or just love the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle — you’ll enjoy this one. 👉 Want he...

In this full episode, we sit down with Nelson from Be The Undisputed, a Jiu-Jitsu soap company focused on helping athletes train hard and stay clean. We talk about the importance of proper hygiene, how infections spread on the mats, and the habits that every grappler should build to stay healthy and respectful in the gym. 🧼 The truth about hygiene in Jiu-Jitsu 👃 Avoiding ringworm, staph, and bad...

Thinking about competing in Jiu-Jitsu? In this episode, I sit down with two world champions—Lucas Pinheiro and Daniel Sathler—to talk about what it really takes to step onto the competition mats. Whether you’re a hobbyist considering your first tournament or a seasoned athlete chasing gold, this conversation is full of honest insights, mindset advice, and hard-earned wisdom from two of the best in...

🔥 How do you develop a champion’s mindset in Jiu-Jitsu? In this episode, we sit down with Enderson Dias, a dedicated competitor who shares his journey from starting Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil to building his life in the USA. Enderson breaks down the mental shifts that separate winners from the rest, why focusing on performance over medals is key, and how patience and mindset can transform your Jiu-Jitsu...

In this episode, we sit down with Thor from Emerald Coast BJJ, a gym owner and entrepreneur who’s built a thriving Jiu-Jitsu academy from the ground up. Thor shares his journey of growing Jiu-Jitsu in a small city, the importance of community, and why he believes Jiu-Jitsu people are the best people in the world. Plus, we dive into his unique approach to running a business-first academy and how he...

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Sathler, one of the most exciting pro Jiu-Jitsu competitors today. Daniel shares what it takes to succeed in the world of Jiu-Jitsu—both on and off the mat. From the grind to the mindset, this conversation offers an inside look into the life of a professional athlete. Whether you're a competitor or a fan, you won’t want to miss this!

"Is Jiu-Jitsu Even Legal?" In this episode of the Combat Creative Podcast, we share the story of James Simmons, a lawyer and Jiu-Jitsu practitioner. James talks about his journey into the sport and how he uses his legal career to support Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and academy owners. We dive into the intersection of law and martial arts, exploring how legal knowledge can benefit anyone involved in Ji...

In this episode, we sit down with Tarsis Paula, a Jiu-Jitsu entrepreneur who turned his dream of owning a successful gym in America into a thriving reality. Tarsis shares his inspiring journey from Brazil to Orlando, where he built one of the most respected Jiu-Jitsu schools in the area. He opens up about the challenges of growing a Jiu-Jitsu business, how he created a family-oriented environment,...

In this episode, Johnny Naranjo, founder of Liberatus Jiu-Jitsu in Fulshear, Texas, shares the behind-the-scenes of running a new Jiu-Jitsu gym. From building a thriving community to the personal rewards of teaching and mentoring, Johnny offers an honest look at what it takes to grow a Jiu-Jitsu academy. Tune in for an inspiring story about passion, perseverance, and the impact Jiu-Jitsu can have...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Ortiz, a public school teacher and Jiu-Jitsu black belt, who is on a mission to bring Jiu-Jitsu into classrooms to positively impact the next generation. Chris shares his incredible journey of mentoring students and how Jiu-Jitsu can help children build discipline, focus, and resilience. We dive into his passion for teaching life skills through Jiu-Jitsu and...

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Renato Tavares, who celebrates 50 years of dedication to Jiu-Jitsu. As a respected black belt, successful school owner in Vero Beach, and mentor to Jiu-Jitsu schools worldwide, Professor Tavares shares insights from his lifelong journey. We discuss how Jiu-Jitsu can equip us to handle challenges within the gym and beyond, offering valuable life lessons th...

In this episode, we sit down with Carlos Florez, a black belt under Bruno Malfacine and coach at Alliance Orlando. Carlos shares his inspiring journey from discovering Jiu-Jitsu to becoming a competitor, training under some of the sport’s greatest legends. We dive into the impact of mentorship on his development as both an athlete and a coach. Carlos also sheds light on the rise of fake black belt...

In this episode, we sit down with Eric Tansey, a business owner, military veteran, and podcaster who has recently started his Jiu-Jitsu journey. Now sharing his love for the sport through funny and relatable online content, Eric talks with us about the ups and downs of being a white belt. We also dive into parenting tips, business insights, and the lighter side of Jiu-Jitsu that often gets overloo...

In this episode, we dive deep into the recent CJI Jiu-Jitsu tournament, one of the most talked-about events from last weekend! The tournament was a massive success, and the buzz around it is still going strong. To give you an insider's perspective, I invited my friend Michael Craghom, who attended the event live, to join the show. Michael shares his firsthand experience, from the thrilling matches...

In this episode, we sit down with Arman Badrudeen, who, along with his mentor Ricardo Liborio, created the first accredited Jiu-Jitsu program at the University of Central Florida. Arman shares their incredible journey of growing the program to 1,000 students. He also highlights the crucial role mentors have played in his personal and professional development. So whether you're a practitioner or en...

In this episode, we dive into the world of Malachy Friedman, the innovative BJJ school owner and coach behind the popular online instructionals, Mad Lab BJJ. Known for his daily Jiu-Jitsu technique videos and a following of over 500,000 people, Malachy combines humor, science, and a touch of craziness in his approach. Tune in for an engaging conversation on his BJJ journey, creative methods, and v...

In this episode, join us for a fun and engaging conversation with Mathew Veiga, the creative mind behind the hilarious OSS Nation BJJ Instagram page. Known for his entertaining memes and video reels, Mat shares his journey as a successful BJJ content creator. We dive into his unique approach to balancing humor and martial arts, offering positive tips and advice for aspiring content creators. Wheth...

In this Combat Creative episode, we sit down with Jeff, the owner of Revolution Dojo in Houston, Texas. Jeff shares the principles and practices that have helped Revolution Dojo become one of the largest jiu-jitsu schools in the country. Learn about the importance of community, appreciation, and mutual support in building a successful and thriving BJJ school.