Tapped In: A JiuJitsu Podcast

In this episode of Tapped In , I reflect on my journey as a white belt and the pivotal lessons that shaped my progression. I dive into the "big picture" elements of Jiu-Jitsu that often get lost in the day-to-day grind of learning techniques. I discuss why we must stop accepting bad positions, the evolution of drilling versus situational games, and the vital importance of being your own advocate w...

In this episode, I dive into the current economic challenges affecting the Jiu-Jitsu community; from gym owners and gear manufacturers to the students themselves. I share my personal frustrations with the rising costs of gear, academy fees, and even the gas needed to get to training. We discuss the "economic squeeze" that is forcing many to make difficult decisions about their memberships and the...

In this episode, I share my perspective on why every session on the mats is a valuable opportunity for growth, regardless of who you’re rolling with. I dive into how advanced students can stay challenged when training with beginners by creating "man-made deficits," like rolling one-handed or starting from disadvantaged positions. We’ll also discuss the unique feedback that white belts provide and...

About This Episode In this episode, I break down the fundamental "laws" or rules I follow to maintain and weaponize top position. I discuss how top control isn't just about holding someone down; it’s about strategic weight distribution, constant connection, and anticipating your opponent's next move. I share my personal philosophy on why I rarely sacrifice top position for a submission unless it's...

About This Episode In this episode, I dive deep into the "Black Belt Blues"—that unexpected emotional letdown that often follows one of the greatest achievements in a martial artist's life. I compare this experience to the "post-Olympic slump" and discuss why reaching the rank of black belt can feel more like a finish line than a new beginning if we don't shift our perspective. I share my personal...

About This Episode In this episode, I dive into the concept of "Downstream" Jiu-Jitsu. I explore how fighting upstream, forcing techniques that aren't there leads to wasted energy and missed opportunities. I share personal experiences from a recent workshop and practical examples of how resisting a roadblock can actually lead you to your next best submission. Whether you are a white belt strugglin...

About This Episode In this episode, I dive deep into a topic that hits close to home for many of us on the mats: burnout . I’ve personally navigated burnout several times during my Jiu-Jitsu career, and I’ve learned that it doesn’t always manifest as a "loud" or obvious explosion of stress. Sometimes, it’s a quiet, creeping exhaustion that drains your drive before you even realize it’s happening....

About This Episode In this episode, I break down why new students often feel like their "cardio" is failing them, when the real culprit is excessive physical tension. I discuss how gripping too hard, holding your breath, and "panic" movements rob you of the energy you need to finish a round. I also share my "1A and 1B" focus points—Breathing and Framing—that every beginner should prioritize to sur...

About This Episode In this episode, I reflect on the power of building a Jiu-Jitsu network long before a crisis hits. I share my personal journey from feeling isolated during a gym departure as a blue belt to having a strong, supportive community when I faced a similar situation as a black belt. I talk about the value of cross-training, attending open mats, and building an authentic reputation tha...

About This Episode In this episode, I dive into the nuance of "letting people work" on the mats and why it’s a fundamental tool for both student development and my own technical growth. I share my philosophy on rolling with lower belts, explaining how I move in accordance with their speed and strength to create a productive environment for us both. I also reflect on a pivotal moment from my time a...

About In this episode, we dive deep into the Turtle Position —a spot that’s often controversial in the BJJ community. While not technically a guard, David explains how top-tier competitors like Eduard Telles have turned it into an offensive powerhouse. We break down the strategic advantages of turtling up to prevent guard-pass points, the common pitfalls that lead to back-takes and chokes, and spe...

About I’ve spent 14 years in the BJJ world, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that your reputation is far more important than your rank. In this episode, I explain why the "big small city" of the Jiu-Jitsu community means that your actions on the mat follow you everywhere. I share personal stories about how my own reputation has opened doors for me—even from people I didn't realize were...

About This Episode In this episode, I challenge the common belief that you need to train at a world-renowned "super gym" to get high-quality Jiu-Jitsu instruction. Drawing from my own experiences in San Diego, I explain why a solid, consistent guide—even a purple or brown belt—is often more valuable than a big-name facility for the average practitioner. I dive into why "soft skills" like emotional...

About This Episode In this installment of our Positional Playbook series, I dive deep into the strategic advantages of the North-South position. I share why this became a cornerstone of my game as a white belt and how it offers a unique solution to opponents with exceptionally "tricky" guards. You'll learn my specific techniques for creating suffocating pressure, the subtle "soft skill" adjustment...

About This Episode In this candid episode, I pull back the curtain on the realities of being a Jiu-Jitsu instructor. Beyond teaching techniques and coaching rounds, I explore the "invisible hours" and emotional labor that define the role. I share personal stories of technical slip-ups, the necessity of continuous self-evaluation, and the heavy responsibility of managing the diverse emotional lands...

Lets talk about the benefits of being the Uke in class. There are some major benefits and uncomfortable moments. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 Choke Point Media Long-form storyte...

These are the dirtiest moves in Jiu-Jitsu. One of which, I find incredibly vile and disgusting. I unfortunately have been the victim of it. Let's chat. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2...

Let's talk about the "skeleton key" of JiuJitsu that allows practitioners the ability to transition, attack, defend, restrain and sweep all in one. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099...

In this episode I explore my thoughts surrounding the phrase, "It's not who's best, but who's left” and why It’s governed so much of what drives me as an athlete. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ Yo...

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!! In this episode I talk about the changes I went through with Jiu-Jitsu and how I view it as a 45 year old athlete and instructor. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099...

Lets discuss how I use the CLA method when I teach, and more importantly, how students themselves can use it while training outside of class hours. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099...

While I don't think we need the Mat Enforcer of old roving the mats, it doesn't mean that they can't still play an important part in today's JiuJitsu. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM20...

Let's discuss the tools I'm using for the start of 2026, both as an instructor and as a coach. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 Choke Point Media Long-form storytelling, deep strate...

Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 Choke Point Media Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 www. ChokePointChronicles.com BJJ Mental Models Sup...

Due to the recent Atos/Checkmat issues, I decided to discuss Jiu-Jitsu's obvious leadership blind spots. We cannot fix this without understanding these. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay Connected DFM Coaching For remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community . 🌐 www. DFMCoachingBjj. com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching. Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM...