Forever White Belt

Join us for an enlightening conversation with jiu-jitsu innovator Javier Vazquez as he unveils insights from his new book, "The Master Plan." Discover how this groundbreaking work challenges traditional jiu-jitsu approaches and offers a fresh perspective on mastering the art. In this episode, Javier shares the core principles of his JVOS system, emphasizing the importance of biomechanics...

What if becoming a better martial artist had less to do with collecting techniques and more to do with learning how to truly move? In this episode, I sit down with Cameron Shayne to explore a radically different approach to movement, martial arts, strength, and self-expression. Cameron shares how his background in martial arts, yoga, and movement training led him to create Budokon, a system design...

Most jiu-jitsu advice misses the mark. Wim Deputter, a fourth-degree black belt from Belgium, unveils a revolutionary approach that shifts the focus from memorized techniques to core principles like connection, control, and timing, clarity that transformed his long, injury-free career and now offers a fresh perspective for practitioners at every level. In this episode, Wim shares how early experie...

Our next guest is Steve Hordinski, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the founder of Katharo Training Center in Littleton, Colorado. Steve has spent decades studying and teaching martial arts, with roots in traditional striking arts, before dedicating himself to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Before becoming a full-time instructor, Steve served in the U.S. Navy as a deep-sea diver, conducting underwater reco...

In this episode of Forever White Belt, I sit down with Kyvann Gonzalez, black belt and co-owner of Bodega Jiu Jitsu in Maplewood, New Jersey. Kyvann has built a unique academy culture focused on skill development, time efficiency, and community. At Bodega, the emphasis isn’t on chasing belts or stripes, it’s on showing up, learning, and improving together. We talk about Kyvann’s journey through ji...

Most successful martial artists know that mastery isn’t just about techniques; it's about relentless self-awareness, intentional training, and building a community grounded in authenticity. Dan Covel, a decorated black belt and seasoned gym owner, reveals how his unwavering focus on purpose, culture, and honest communication transformed his academy. This episode uncovers the core principles be...

Most martial arts gyms assume they’re safe, but many are missing critical protections for kids and women. In this eye-opening episode, black belt Milton Campis exposes a hidden safety crisis inside martial arts and jiu-jitsu gyms, and explains what must change. After seeing repeated stories of misconduct, unsafe environments, and ignored warning signs, Milton created Academy Safe, a system designe...

In this candid episode, Elizabeth Clay opens up about how pregnancy and postpartum recovery affected her competition results, leading to tough losses and a major life decision to move from Alaska to Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu in Texas with her husband and newborn son. A 6-time No-Gi World Champion, Elizabeth reflects on resilience, support systems, and her recent dominant comeback, winning double gold a...

Join Charles Harriott and Adolfo Foronda as they reflect on how 2025 has impacted the state of Jiu-Jitsu. From the traditional roots of the gi to the modern dynamics of no-gi, they explore the cultural shifts and personal journeys that shape the martial arts landscape. Discover insights on teaching methodologies, the impact of AI, and the ever-changing roles within the community. Whether you'r...

In this episode of Forever White Belt , I sit down with Nick Salles, a black belt under Mikey Musumeci and co-owner of Movement Art Academy alongside Daniel Maira. Nick shares his journey through jiu-jitsu with a deep focus on something that often gets overlooked: culture. We dive into why a positive gym environment is critical for learning, long-term growth, and athlete development—and how the ri...

Join host Adolfo Foronda on a special edition of Forever White Belt as he unveils the ultimate 2025 Holiday Gift Guide for Jiu-Jitsu enthusiasts. From budget-friendly essentials like finger tape and electrolytes to luxurious splurges like custom mats and AI grappling dummies, this episode covers a wide range of gift ideas for every budget. Whether you're shopping for yourself, your academy, or...

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Dr. Wes Hendricks, who has a unique blend of expertise in exercise science and human biology. Wes shares his journey of integrating rehabilitation and training, offering a fresh perspective on managing pain and empowering individuals to take control of their health. From the importance of movement to the psychological and social aspects of pai...

Join us in this engaging episode as Sid Nanda, CEO & Co-Founder of SubmissionSensAI, delves into the future of AI in sports coaching. Discover how AI-driven feedback is revolutionizing training in movement-based sports, particularly in jiu-jitsu. Sid shares his journey, the challenges faced, and the innovative solutions being developed to enhance self-study and training efficiency. Whether you...

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Felipe Simplicio, a third-degree black belt under the legendary JT Torres and owner of Red Zone Jiu-Jitsu Academy. From his early days in Brazil to establishing a thriving academy in Connecticut, Felipe shares his passion for teaching, the importance of continuous learning, and the unique programs he offers, including a scholarship initiative for fa...

In this engaging episode, Chris "Bones" Burns, a second-degree Rickson Gracie black belt, shares his unique journey through the world of Jiu-Jitsu. From his early struggles and injuries to his teaching philosophy and the founding of Zero Point Academy, Chris offers insights into the art of Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of foundational skills, and the balance between sport and self-defense. D...

In this episode, I sit down with Clay Mayfield, a Pedigo Submission Fighting black belt under Heath Pedigo and the founder of Triangle Academy. Clay shares his inspiring journey from being homeschooled to becoming a respected black belt and academy owner. We discuss the importance of finding the right training environment, building a strong community, and balancing the demands of competition, busi...

In this episode, we are joined by none other than Heath “The Ref” Massery, ADCC referee, PGF referee, and one of the most knowledgeable voices when it comes to understanding the rules that shape elite-level Jiu Jitsu. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of optimizing your Jiu Jitsu for competition. Heath shares insights from his unique perspective on the mat—what competitors often overlook,...

In this episode, we are joined by the insightful and candid Bird Wiltse. Known for his unique approach to teaching and his journey through the highs and lows of the sport, Bird shares his experiences from competing on the world stage to his passion for creating instructional content. Join us as we explore the art of Jiu-Jitsu, the evolution of techniques, and the personal stories that have shaped...

In this episode, host Adolfo Foronda speaks with Matt Kwan, a black belt and owner of On Guard Jiu-Jitsu Academy, about the recent CJI 2 (Craig Jones Invitational) event. They discuss the production quality, match dynamics, standout performances, and the controversies surrounding the event, including tiebreaker rules and referee decisions. Kwan shares insights on the women's competition, inclu...

Welcome to Forever White Belt, where we dive into the dynamic world of Jiu-Jitsu with the insightful Christos Papadelos. A PGF athlete, money maker, and 3x ADCC Open Champion, Christos is also the creator of the Enigma Jiu Jitsu grappling events and EnigmaJiuJitsu.tv. Training under the legendary Jon Danaher and Gordon Ryan at Kingsway Jiu Jitsu in Austin, TX, Christos shares his unique perspectiv...

This episode's guest is one of the most exciting names in competitive grappling right now—Max Hanson. A Canadian BJJ Black Belt under Dante Leon, Max represents Pedigo Submission Fighting and is currently considered one of the top 170 lbs. grapplers in the world. His resume includes major titles at IBJJF No-Gi Pans, No-Gi American Nationals, The Enigma Invitational, The Sapateiro Invitational, Mid...

In this episode, I'm joined by Jiu Jitsu Black Belt, brilliant thinker, and true renaissance man, Drew Weatherhead. You may know him from his hilarious and insightful Because Jitsu page, his mind-expanding book "Fractures," or his world-class instruction on DrewJitsu Online, but there’s so much more to Drew than that. Drew and his family live as digital nomads, traveling the world wh...

In this episode of the show, I’m joined by Shawn Melanson — a Jiu-Jitsu black belt, highly respected instructor, and the owner of Precision Jiu Jitsu in New Hampshire. Known for his incredibly refined and effective teaching style, Shawn is a coach’s coach — a technician with a deep understanding of wrestling for BJJ integration and a powerful advocate for intelligent grappling. Shawn has become a...

In this episode, I’m joined by one of the most original and dynamic minds in Jiu-Jitsu today — Daniel Schuardt. A black belt competitor and coach currently training under John Danaher with the New Wave / Kingsway team in Austin, Texas, Daniel is the perfect blend of high-level athlete, thoughtful instructor, and unapologetically weird internet personality — and I mean that in the best way. He'...

In this episode, I sit down with one of the most brilliant minds in the world of Jiu Jitsu—Malachy Friedman. Widely respected as a true scientist of the art, Malachy is a black belt whose innovative approach to coaching, technique, and strategy has earned him admiration across the global Jiu Jitsu community. Many of us have looked up to him for years, not just for his depth of knowledge, but also...