Travis Motl

Elbows Tight Podcast: The Beginners Journey Through Jiu-Jitsu

Sports EN ↓ 158 episodes

Are you a new Jiu-Jitsu practitioner? Do you ever wonder if others are going through the same things as you? If so, then the Elbows Tight Podcast is for you! In this podcast, Travis documents his journey through Jiu-Jitsu. He sits down with everyone from brand-new white belts to well-established black belts to discuss their experiences, challenges, and successes. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out, you'll find something to relate to in the Elbows Tight Podcast. So come in, grab a drink, and talk Jiu-Jitsu!

Author

Travis Motl

Category

Sports

Podcast website

www.elbowstight.com

Latest episode

Mar 3, 2025

Where to listen?

Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soon

Podcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts

Get it on Google Play Install for free Android almost 10M downloads · 4.8 rating iOS soon

Episodes

The Most Underrated BJJ Skill in your Jiu-Jitsu Journey! 03.03.2025

In this episode of the Elbows Tight Podcast, host Travis Motl and guest Steve Kwan discuss the significance of failure in the journey of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners. They explore personal experiences with setbacks, the importance of mindset, and how to foster a supportive gym culture. The conversation emphasizes the value of consistency, the human element in coaching, and the need to encourage women i...

How To Navigate Negative and Bad Jiu-Jitsu Content on Social Media! 20.01.2025

In this episode of Elm's Tight podcast, Travis and Justin Lesko discuss Justin's journey from MMA to Jiu Jitsu, the cultural differences in training environments, and the challenges of navigating intensity and injuries during training. They also explore the importance of recording training sessions for improvement and the impact of social media on the Jiu-Jitsu community. Justin shares his insight...

How to Transition from World Class Athlete to World Class Coach with Jeferson Guaresi 09.11.2024

In this episode, Travis interviews Jeferson Guaresi, who shares his journey from starting Jiu Jitsu in rural Brazil to becoming a successful competitor and coach in New York. Jeferson discusses his challenges, the importance of mentorship, and the cultural shifts he experienced. He emphasizes the significance of teaching and communication in coaching, as well as the role of tradition in Jiu-Jitsu....

Keeping with Tradition vs. Innovation in Jiu-Jitsu 28.10.2024

In this episode of the Elbows Type Podcast, host Travis interviews Fabio Cannela, who shares his inspiring journey of overcoming a severe motorcycle accident that left him unable to train for two years. Fabio discusses the importance of self-study and the role of instructionals in Jiu-Jitsu, as well as the evolution of the sport from traditional practices to modern techniques. He emphasizes the ne...

The BIGGEST Mistakes White Belts Make and How to Fix Them! 17.10.2024

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Zaragoza shares his journey from content creation to podcasting, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. He emphasizes the importance of community, personal growth through Jiu-Jitsu, and the accessibility of podcasting as a medium for anyone with a message to share. The discussion also touches on memorable guests, overcoming anxiety in competitio...

How Jiu-Jitsu Helped Him Become a Better Firefighter! 04.10.2024

In this episode of Elbow's Tight podcast, host Travis engages in a deep conversation with Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and firefighter, Jiu-Jitsu House. They discuss the journey into Jiu-Jitsu, the impact of training on parenting, and the lessons learned through competition. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding techniques, the role of Jiu-Jitsu in first responding, and the ba...

Building a Safe Martial Arts Community with Milton Campis! 12.09.2024

In this episode, Travis interviews Milton Campis, a seasoned Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and advocate for safety in martial arts academies. They discuss Milton's journey in Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of community and respect, and the challenges of injuries. Milton shares his experiences transitioning to a new academy and highlights the need for safety measures in martial arts through his initiative, Aca...

Lessons Learned From over 70 BJJ Competitions! 16.08.2024

In this episode of the Elbow's Tight podcast, Travis interviews his friend Josh, a Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and software engineer. They discuss various topics, including their backgrounds, Jiu-Jitsu journey, competition experiences, and the importance of communication and focusing on personal growth in Jiu-Jitsu. Josh shares his experience transitioning from Muay Thai to Jiu Jitsu and his challenges...

Balancing Expectations and Progression in Your BJJ Journey 03.08.2024

In this episode of the Elbows Tight podcast, host Travis interviews Riley Rogers, the owner of SALT Electrolytes and a brown belt in Jiu Jitsu. They discuss Riley's journey into Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of technicality and leverage in the sport, and the mindset of training at an older age. They also touch on rolling with lower belts and the significance of belts in Jiu-Jitsu. Riley shares his app...

A Hobbyist Blue Belt's Hot Take About CJI and Life Update 21.06.2024

Get $25 off the JordanTeachesJiuJitsu Theory Course and Wrestling for BJJ with ELBOWSTIGHT25 at Checkout -  https://courses.jordanteachesjiujitsu.com Join the El-Bros Facebook and Discord Communities! https://www.facebook.com/groups/elbroscommunity/ https://discord.gg/sp2J8mPS https://www.bjjee.com/bjj-news/mma-veteran-klls-man-in-self-defense-after-being-chased-down-with-a-knife/ LET'S EXCHANGE P...

White Belts Should Ignore These 7 BJJ Myths! 12.06.2024

New to BJJ? Don't let these common myths hold you back! Learn the TRUTH about strength, ego, competition, and more. Today we break down 7 myths you'll hear on your BJJ journey, so you can train smarter and avoid frustration. Get $25 off the JordanTeachesJiuJitsu Theory Course and Wrestling for BJJ with ELBOWSTIGHT25 at Checkout -  https://courses.jordanteachesjiujitsu.com Join the El-Bros Facebook...

BJJ Athletes STOP Overthinking Your Nutrition! 31.05.2024

Rose Miller discusses her new nutrition company and her approach to helping people improve their health and lifestyle. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the overall lifestyle and mental side of nutrition, rather than focusing solely on aesthetics or weight loss. Rose also addresses common misconceptions about nutrition, such as the belief that certain diets like keto or carnivore are...

Tips and Tricks For Training BJJ as a Family! 17.05.2024

In this conversation, Travis Motl interviews Mike and Sheena Bidwell, who run a jiu-jitsu academy. They discuss their teaching methods, the importance of a structured curriculum, and the benefits of jiu-jitsu for families. Mike emphasizes the four-step approach to teaching techniques and the importance of the 'secret sauce' that makes each technique effective. They also discuss the value of testin...

The BJJ Hobbyists Guide to Injury Prevention! 26.04.2024

In this episode is with Chase Yoselowitz, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, about injury prevention for beginner grapplers in Jiu-Jitsu. We discuss Chase's background in Jiu-Jitsu and his work with athletes and hobbyists. We also cover topics such as preventing lower back pain, building muscle for Jiu-Jitsu, energy systems, and conditioning for Jiu-Jitsu. Chase emphasizes the impor...

How To Safely Train Jiu-Jitsu as a Big Guy! 19.04.2024

In this episode, Travis interviews Chris Dickens, a long-time listener and winner of the El-Bros community's name. They discuss Chris's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and his transition from Taekwondo to BJJ. Chris shares how his background in Taekwondo and other martial arts has influenced his BJJ training, including flexibility, mindset, and fearlessness. He also talks about his reservatio...

6 Questions You MUST Ask When Finding a BJJ Academy! 17.04.2024

Today, we're tackling a challenge many of us grapple with—finding the perfect Jiu-Jitsu Academy. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming. But fear not! We've got six essential questions to help you find your Jiu-Jitsu home sweet home. Want to further support this show? Consider joining our Patreon and YouTube Membership for early and exclusive content plus other perks! https://www.p...

These 3 P's Will CHANGE How You Train BJJ! 12.04.2024

In this episode, Travis Motl interviews Joshua Janis about the culture and mindset of jiu-jitsu. They discuss the importance of vulnerability and making mistakes to learn and grow. They also explore the camaraderie and team support in jiu-jitsu and the role of gym culture in creating a positive training environment. They emphasize the principles of being precise, playful, and painless in training...

BJJ is like Video Games? Yes and Here's Why! 10.04.2024

Feeling lost in your BJJ journey? This episode levels you up! We explore how BJJ is like a video game, from building your base stats (cardio, flexibility) to mastering fundamentals and unlocking new techniques. Learn how to find your BJJ playstyle, grind through plateaus, and tap into the same determination you have as a gamer. Even if you're a white belt feeling like a noob, this episode will sho...

How To Create an UNSTOPPABLE Mindset in BJJ (Rose Miller Interview) 29.03.2024

Rose Miller is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner who uncovers the secrets behind building an unstoppable mindset in the sport. Rose shares her journey from a place of fear and uncertainty to finding inspiration in powerful female leaders within the BJJ community. She emphasizes the importance of visualization, urging listeners to see themselves overcoming challenges and succeeding...

10 Tips to Keep Your BJJ Journey FUN and Continue Training! 28.03.2024

In this episode, we'll discuss 10 essential tips for keeping your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey exciting and enjoyable. From setting realistic goals to exploring different training methods, embracing the journey, and celebrating victories, these tips will help you stay motivated and engaged on the mats. Plus, we'll discuss the importance of taking breaks when needed, stepping out of your comfort zon...

Understanding How to Build YOUR Brand in BJJ! 22.03.2024

Laurenz shares his inspiring journey to brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu, the struggles and triumphs along the way, and how the sport became a life-changer for him. They delve into the world of belt testing, its pros and cons, and Laurenz's exciting decision to compete at a new weight class after his brown belt promotion. Plus, hear about future competition goals and the thrill of competing at the brown be...

One Thing EVERYONE in BJJ Can Work On! 20.03.2024

Today, we're discussing something every BJJ practitioner faces: feeling down when things aren't going well. We've all been there, stuck under someone big or failing at moves. But before you let frustration take over, let's chat about giving yourself a break. BJJ is challenging, with ups and downs. It's okay to mess up. Instead of beating yourself up, try being nicer to yourself. Celebrate the smal...

Should You Train BJJ When You Are Sick? 15.03.2024

Get $25 off the JordanTeachesJiuJitsu Theory Course and Wrestling for BJJ with ELBOWSTIGHT25 at Checkout - https://courses.jordanteachesjiujitsu.com   Join the El-Bros Facebook and Discord Communities! https://www.facebook.com/groups/elbroscommunity/ Https://discord.gg/sp2J8mPS   LET'S EXCHANGE PATCHES! SEND A PATCH TO THE PO BOX, AND WE WILL SEND YOU A CUSTOM ELBOWS TIGHT PATCH BACK!   Travis Mot...

Finn Mckenty will DESTROY Internet Trolls | EP. 127 08.03.2024

Finn McKenty a YouTuber, graphic designer and jiu-jitsu practitioner, shares his journey in jiu-jitsu and his experiences in the music scene. He discusses how he got into jiu-jitsu and the evolution of the sport over the years. Finn also talks about the mental health benefits of jiu-jitsu and how it has helped him overcome anxiety. He shares his thoughts on internet trolls and how he handles criti...

Why Your Belt Doesn't Matter and You Should Focus On This Instead! | White Belt Wednesday Ep. 7 06.03.2024

We are diving into the real talk about belt colors in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I'm breaking down the myth that your belt defines everything, making a solid point about focusing more on getting better at Jiu-Jitsu than stressing over the next belt.  Belts are acknowledged as milestones, but the key is your progress and skill development. Don't forget that belts mean different things for everyone, based...

Listen to the Elbows Tight Podcast: The Beginners Journey Through Jiu-Jitsu podcast in Replaio

Radio and podcasts in one app - free, with no sign-up. Install today and do not miss the launch

Get it on Google Play

Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.