Old Man On The Mat

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Old But Not Dead... Just More Dangerous | Shane Close What if getting older actually made you a better martial artist? In this inspiring conversation, Shane Close of Graybeard Grapplers shares why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn't just a sport—it's a lifestyle that keeps you moving, learning, and growing for life. From mobility and n...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" For Brandon Ryan, martial arts isn't about belts, trophies, or proving people wrong. It's about helping others discover what they're truly capable of. Despite living with cerebral palsy, Brandon found his purpose in teaching, inspiring, and creating opportunities for people who thought martial arts wasn't for them....

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of Old Man On The Mat, Tony Jones reconnects with Daniel Nunez of Grapple Cove to discuss the journey of building a community-focused Jiu-Jitsu academy in Melbourne, Florida. We dive into faith, perseverance, business growth, overcoming struggles, and how staying true to your core values can help build something meaning...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this powerful interview, Tiffany Trixtr shares how she transformed her life from depression into strength through martial arts , dog training, and firearms. From learning how to protect herself to empowering other women, her journey is about more than skills—it’s about confidence, mindset, and refusing to stay stuck. “I built my par...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" On this episode of Old Man On The Mat , we sit down with Damian Bunting—whose journey from military and law enforcement into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu shows exactly what it means to start over after 40. This isn’t about being the best in the room. It’s about refusing to stay the same man. We break down: What it’s like starting BJJ later in l...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing"  Strong body means nothing without a strong mindset.  Coach Cal on Mental Toughness, Faith & Building Winners | Wrestling & Jiu Jitsu Mindset  In this powerful conversation, Coach Cal shares his journey of overcoming challenges, building a successful wrestling program, and helping others grow through discipline and relationship...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging interview, Nakapan Phungephorn shares his journey through martial arts, from overcoming childhood health challenges to becoming a multi-disciplinary martial artist and school owner. Discover his philosophies on training, community, and the evolution of martial arts in modern society. In this engaging interview, Nakapan...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Join us as Christopher Ryan shares his inspiring story of overcoming homelessness, addiction, and life challenges to becoming a skilled martial artist, gym owner, and sobriety advocate. Discover the power of resilience, discipline, and giving back through fitness and self-defense. 00:00 - Introduction and shout-out to North Bay Cigar C...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging conversation, Tony Jones interviews Kung Fu Kendra, a martial artist and author, who shares her journey into the world of Kung Fu, the philosophy behind Wing Chun, and her experiences as a female instructor in a male-dominated field. Kendra discusses her personal motivations for starting martial arts, the importance of...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of 'Old Man On The Mat', host Tony Jones dedicates the show to his late mother, who had a deep love for wrestling. He interviews Angel Medina, a professional wrestler, who shares his journey from being a fan to becoming a wrestler. They discuss the culture of wrestling, the injuries wrestlers face, and how tra...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode, Tony Jones interviews Ryan Hurst, co-owner and head coach at GMB Fitness, who shares his extensive journey in martial arts, including his experiences living in Japan for nearly 30 years. Ryan discusses his early beginnings in martial arts, the cultural differences in training, and the importance of mental toughness in...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of Old Man on the Mat, host Tony Jones engages with Isaac Wilson, a young martial artist from Florida, discussing his journey through various martial arts disciplines including Muay Thai, karate, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and more. They explore the influence of martial arts movies, the evolution of training styles, the impor...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode, Cole Stanley shares his journey in martial arts, starting from his early days in judo to becoming a dojo owner and instructor. He discusses the evolution of martial arts in small towns, the challenges of starting a martial arts school, and the importance of community support. Cole emphasizes the significance of teachin...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of Old Man on the Mat, host Tony Jones welcomes Jerry Coleman, a dynamic individual who balances a career as a prosecuting attorney with his passions for photography, storytelling, and martial arts. Jerry shares his journey into martial arts, starting with judo in high school and later transitioning to taekwondo to supp...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging episode of Old Man on the Mat, host Tony Jones speaks with Hollie Avery, a fitness manager and personal trainer from the UK. Hollie shares her inspiring journey from a shy teenager who avoided sports to a confident fitness professional. They discuss the importance of body image, the challenges faced by clients, and the...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode, We sit down with DonnaJean Wilde, a Guinness World Record holder for the longest plank and the most push-ups in an hour. Donna shares her inspiring journey from fitness enthusiast to record breaking athlete, detailing how a wrist injury led her to discovering planking. She discusses the mental and physical challenges s...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging conversation, Master George Rego shares his journey in traditional Ju-Jitsu, discussing the evolution of martial arts training, the importance of testing, and the balance between self-defense and sport. He emphasizes the significance of connecting with diverse students in a dojo and the role of failure in personal grow...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode, Tony Jones interviews Ivan Zarate, the founder of Major League Grappling. Ivan shares his journey from soccer to grappling, emphasizing the importance of community, family values, and cultural insights. He discusses the innovative structure of his league, which allows athletes to earn money for each win, and his vision...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Her journey from a 12-year battle with anorexia to becoming one of the most elite athletic coaches in the game is nothing short of inspiring. She’s a Muscle Activation Techniques practitioner, certified sports nutrition coach, fitness trainer, endurance athlete, former women’s physique bodybuilder, HYROX competitor, and now a student o...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this conversation, Kayl Bryant discusses bringing his vision to reality. He talks about his dream of building a gym that welcomes all. He also discusses the challenges of running a business, particularly the financial burdens that come with growth and how to stay focused on your goal.  Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://w...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging conversation, Jabari Irons shares his journey from a young boy in a daycare wrestling club to becoming an elite wrestler and coach. He discusses his early experiences with wrestling, the influence of coaches, the challenges faced in modern coaching, and the rigorous training techniques that set wrestlers apart. Jabari...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging episode of Old Man on the Mat, host Tony Jones converses with Joel Potter, the creator of the Bourbon and Ballistics podcast. They delve into the challenges of promoting a firearms-related business in a restrictive social media environment, the evolution of their respective podcasts, and the importance of training and...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging conversation, Kevin Caliber shares his journey from a Midwest upbringing to becoming a fitness model and actor in Los Angeles. He discusses the impact of travel on personal growth, overcoming injuries, and the discipline required in bodybuilding. Kevin emphasizes the importance of maintaining a fitness mindset, adaptin...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing"         *****PLEASE FORGIVE US FOR THE POOR SOUND QUALITY***** In this engaging conversation, Andrea Harkins shares her journey in martial arts, starting from her initial reluctance to embrace the discipline to becoming a black belt and a respected author. She discusses the evolution of martial arts, the importance of self-defense trai...

"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode, Tony Jones interviews John Didio, a personal trainer who specializes in helping divorced dads regain their power and confidence. John shares his journey from a troubled youth to a successful personal trainer, detailing the challenges he faced in his career, marriage, and health. He discusses the impact of his divorce o...