Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu

Joe Motes
  • 5.0 (5)
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  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

 Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu: Fuel for Your Roll, On and Off the Mats Whether you're fresh into your white belt journey or deep into black belt life, Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu is brewed for you. This podcast explores the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu through the lens of curiosity, community, and a strong cup of coffee. We dive into the topics that matter training plateaus, competition prep, injury recovery, gym culture, mental toughness, belt progression, and yes, even that first awkward day on the mats. Each episode is crafted to help new practitioners find their footing and give long-time grapplers something fresh to think about. You’ll hear: Real conversations with teammates, coaches, and special guests from all belt levelsHonest takes on the highs, lows, and lessons of BJJFuel and flavor because what’s training without good coffee? Join us for episodes that blend technical insights, off-the-mat stories, and community shoutouts. It’s a podcast that respects the grind, celebrates the journey, and keeps your mind as sharp as your game. Roll with us. Sip with us. Welcome to Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu. Let's Connectcaffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community!!@caffeinated_jiujitsu

  1. OCT 21

    Episode #35 - Caleb Holland and The Iron Wolf Tale

    Send us a text A lot of schools say, “iron sharpens iron.” Few build an entire culture around it. We sat down with Professor Caleb Holland, owner and head coach of Iron Wolf Academy in Braselton, GA, to unpack how a humble school without a sign on the door grew to a packed mat by focusing on faith-driven values, clear standards, and relentless community. Caleb shares the origin of the Iron Wolf name, why the vibe is designed not accidental and the three rules that guide everything: take care of your partner, do your best, and have fun. Caleb’s path to black belt winds through tang so do and judo, into Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a humbling early tournament, and a knee injury right after earning black belt. The turning point? Returning at the Charleston Open, losing on points, and still realizing he belonged at black belt. He credits influence from judo coach Max Andrews and Atos black belt Kristian Woodmansee, plus years of cross-training that shaped his lens on modern leg locks, takedowns, and the balance between Gi and no-Gi. We go deep on coaching: moving from technique lists to concept-first teaching, why short specific rounds sharpen competitive scrambles, and how early exposure to heel hooks actually makes rooms safer. Caleb explains why stand-up matters judo and wrestling included and how a women-led program created space for safer learning and real confidence. We also talk culture at scale: hygiene and standards, clean music and language, the role of faith, and why referrals beat ads when your room delivers consistent results and care. If you’re a practitioner, you’ll get practical insights on building a game that fits your body and goals. If you’re a coach or owner, you’ll hear hard-won lessons on structure, growth, and guarding the vibe. Hit play, then tell us: what’s the one standard your gym should never compromise? Enjoyed this one? Follow, share with a teammate, and leave a quick review to help more grapplers find the show. Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    1h 53m

  2. OCT 16

    Episode #34 - Why We Keep Showing Up

    Send us a text Coffee in hand, gi on the chair, and a question that won’t let go: why do we keep showing up to jiu-jitsu long after the first aches fade? I’m back after travel, training in Manila and Vegas, and a much needed reset to unpack the hidden reasons BJJ becomes more than a hobby and why it quietly reshapes who we are. We start with the gateway motives fitness, self-defense, a friend who wouldn’t stop asking and drill down to what keeps us obsessed: earned control in a chaotic world. When life’s loud, the mat simplifies everything to breath, frames, timing, and honest feedback. No judgment, just taps and tries. That clarity draws in high-stress pros, parents, and service members who need a place where effort lands and focus returns. Then there’s connection without words. Rolling builds trust across language, politics, and background. The academy becomes a rare kind of community where names are remembered and absence is noticed. We talk about how those bonds feel tribal and how shared struggle builds respect that lasts longer than any stripe. We also face the hard part: healing through hardship. BJJ doesn’t flatter or pity; it meets you where you are and asks you to breathe, adjust, and try again. For many, that rhythm helps process grief, depression, and anxiety. The mat becomes moving therapy steady, honest, and grounding. From there, identity and belonging take root. Not a purchased persona, but an earned one based on integrity, humility, and consistency. It’s a place to be seen for how you show up, not what you own. By the end, the throughline is clear: we stay because jiu-jitsu helps us become the person, we want to be more patient, disciplined, confident, and alive. If that resonates, hit play, reflect on your own “why,” and share this with someone who might need a nudge onto the mat.  Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what’s your hidden reason to train? Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    33 min

  3. JUL 13

    Episode #33 - Maximizing Your Mat Time Through Strategic Note-Taking

    Send us a text Ever walked out of BJJ class feeling like you've just learned the perfect technique, only to completely forget it by the next day? You're not alone. This episode dives into the game-changing practice of strategic note-taking for jiu-jitsu practitioners at every level. The martial journey becomes exponentially more rewarding when you pair physical training with deliberate mental processing. Using the "3S Method" (Situation, Steps, Success/Struggle), you'll learn how to capture essential details from each class in a way that actually sticks. Whether you're struggling to remember basic positions as a white belt or refining complex sequences as a colored belt, this framework transforms scattered impressions into organized knowledge. Timing matters enormously when documenting your training. Those who take notes immediately after class retain significantly more than practitioners who wait until later. We explore practical approaches to make this habit sustainable, from bench-side jotting to voice memos that can be expanded later. The format whether traditional notebook or specialized BJJ app should match your personal style and routine. The true power of BJJ journaling lies in pattern recognition. By consistently documenting your training, you'll start noticing which techniques naturally work for your body type and movement style. These insights help you develop a personalized game rather than simply collecting random techniques. Plus, having a training history to revisit when you're stuck in a technical rut provides immediate solutions from your past successes. Ready to accelerate your progress on the mats? Join our growing Instagram community @caffeinatedjujitsu and share your own note-taking methods. We'd love to see snapshots of your BJJ journals and hear how documentation has transformed your training. Subscribe, leave a review, and remember—drilling plus reflection is where the magic really happens. Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    40 min

  4. JUL 5

    Episode #32- The Other Side of the Mat & The Betrayal: The Return of Bad Jackie

    Send us a text What does it truly mean to be a woman in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Multiple-time IBJJF champion and brown belt Jacqueline "Bad Jackie" Young returns to Caffeinated Jiu-Jitsu to explore this question with raw honesty and hard-won wisdom. From the mat to the competition arena, Jackie shares how being consistently underestimated has become a source of empowerment rather than frustration. "My favorite part about jiu-jitsu is that I'm a woman," she reveals, explaining how the surprise on opponents' faces when technique trumps strength has fueled her competitive fire across 17 IBJJF Open Championships, back to back IBJJF World Championships, and recently her NFT Title win.  The conversation takes a powerful turn when Jackie courageously recounts her recent personal story  who manipulated her for two years, leading to heartbreak just days before her planned wedding. This devastating experience highlights the darker side of gym culture that women must navigate. Yet even more revealing is how the broader jiu-jitsu community rallied around her with unwavering support, demonstrating the true spirit of martial arts at its best. For women considering BJJ, Jackie offers practical guidance on selecting the right gym environment: research thoroughly, look for female representation, and understand the instructor's background. Her advice extends beyond technical aspects to the psychological journey: "Don't pressure yourself to be good immediately—comparison is the thief of joy." Whether you're a woman curious about starting BJJ, a male practitioner seeking to better understand your training partners, or someone who simply loves powerful stories of resilience, this episode offers invaluable perspective from someone who's experienced both the shadows and brilliance of life on the mats. Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    1h 7m

  5. JUN 16

    Episode #31 - Is Jiu Jitsu for Me? I'm Glad You Asked!

    Send us a text Considering stepping onto the jiu-jitsu mats for the first time but feeling hesitant? This episode is your complete roadmap to beginning your BJJ journey with confidence and clarity. After returning from a brief hiatus, I'm diving into everything the curious newcomer needs to know about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – from what it actually is (think chess meets wrestling) to who it's truly for (spoiler: everyone). Drawing from my own experience as someone who once nervously walked into a gym feeling completely out of my element, I break down the myths that might be holding you back. "I need to get in shape first" and "I'm too old to start" are just two of the misconceptions I dismantle, sharing stories of practitioners who began in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. We explore what your first class will really feel like, what to wear, and the unwritten etiquette that will help you feel at home from day one. I also offer crucial guidance on finding the right academy with clean mats, supportive instructors, and a welcoming community. Beyond the physical benefits, we delve into how jiu-jitsu transforms mental health, teaching you to remain calm under pressure and fully present in a world of constant distraction. The most valuable lesson? Consistency trumps natural talent every time. The person who shows up regularly, even when progress feels slow, is the one who ultimately succeeds on this journey. Ready to fold clothes with people still in them? Shoot me an email at caffeinatedjiu-jitsu@gmail.com or connect on Instagram to share your beginnings. The hardest part is walking through that door – everything after that is just showing up. Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    50 min

  6. APR 28

    Episode #30 - White Belt Chronicles: Amanda Cowie's Journey and Beyond

    Send us a text The journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu often begins with unexpected catalysts. For Amanda Cowie, it was her three energetic boys that first brought her to the edge of the mats. After watching from the sidelines for two years, this talent acquisition professional finally stepped onto the mats herself, discovering a world that would transform both her physical capabilities and mental resilience. Amanda's story resonates with anyone who's ever felt out of their element when starting something new. The intimate nature of BJJ initially created discomfort, and technique retention proved challenging. Yet the turning point came not from mastering a specific move, but from forming a genuine connection with a training partner who made the experience fun. This human element of jiu-jitsu—the community that forms around shared struggle—emerges as a powerful theme throughout our conversation. Our discussion weaves between Amanda's recent competition experience (where she earned gold despite overwhelming pre-match nerves), her technical evolution from pressure passer to developing a more well-rounded game, and the fascinating parallels between talent acquisition and martial arts. Both worlds require adaptability when plans falter, patience through rejection, and the humility to acknowledge areas for improvement. Most surprising is how Amanda, like many practitioners, finds mental decompression through an activity that outsiders might view as stressful. For parents juggling careers and family responsibilities, Amanda offers practical insights on fitting training into busy mornings, balancing multiple children's activities, and using jiu-jitsu as a space where work emails and household duties temporarily disappear. Her perspective as both a mother and competitor provides valuable wisdom for anyone struggling to maintain consistency in their training journey. Ready to hear how a self-described non-competitive person transformed into a medal-winning grappler? Listen now and discover why Amanda believes that even when progress feels slow, the benefits of sticking with jiu-jitsu extend far beyond techniques learned on the mat. Reach out to Amanda on IG @mandabears Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    1h 33m

  7. MAR 31

    Episode #29 - BJJ Mat Manners: Essential Etiquette for Every Belt

    Send us a text The difference between being welcomed on the mats and finding yourself on someone's "no-roll list" often comes down to understanding the unwritten rules of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu etiquette. This episode tackles the essential guidelines that make someone a respected training partner, regardless of belt color. Drawing from personal experience—including a humbling story of unknowingly violating these codes— I share practical wisdom on navigating the social dynamics of BJJ. From the non-negotiables of personal hygiene to matching rolling intensity with your partner's capabilities, these principles form the foundation of a positive training environment. You'll discover why tapping early prevents career-ending injuries, how proper mat awareness keeps everyone safe, and why respecting class structure demonstrates your commitment to the art. The episode delves into situations every practitioner encounters: when to ask questions, how to respond when someone declines to roll, and what to do if you're running late to class. Beyond technical skills, your reputation on the mats is built through these daily interactions and decisions. Whether you're a day-one white belt or a seasoned black belt, these etiquette guidelines create the framework for everyone to train safely, improve consistently, and build lasting relationships within the BJJ community. Want to share your own etiquette fails or triumphs? Connect with us on Instagram @caffeinated_jujitsu and join the conversation. Subscribe, leave a review, and remember—train smart, roll safe, and keep your passion brewing strong. Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    44 min

  8. MAR 17

    Episode #28 - Black Belt Chats : Professor DJ Farmer

    Send us a text What does a quarter-century of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience teach you about martial arts, personal growth, and life itself? Fourth-degree black belt DJ Farmer unwraps this question with remarkable clarity, walking us through his 27-year journey from martial arts-obsessed teenager to becoming a first-generation black belt under the legendary Romero "Jacare" Cavalcanti. DJ's story traces the fascinating evolution of BJJ in America—from the wild early days when techniques were measured in "hours with the Gracies" to the systematized curriculum approach that's transformed how we learn today. With refreshing humility, he shares how watching Royce Gracie in early UFC events sparked an obsession that eventually led him to move across states just to train at Alliance, where he witnessed the school's growth from grassroots beginnings to global powerhouse. The conversation illuminates the profound transformation in teaching methodologies over the decades. Where new students were once "thrown to the wolves," modern approaches create accessible entry points for practitioners of all ages and abilities. DJ's insights on instructor responsibility, particularly his stance that teachers should observe rather than participate during class to ensure student safety, offer valuable guidance for anyone in a teaching role. Beyond techniques and training methods, DJ reveals the deeper wisdom that only comes from decades on the mats. His approach to teaching encompasses visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles, while his three simple post-class questions ("Did you learn something new?", "Did you have fun?", and "Did you get a good workout?") provide a framework for evaluating any training session. Perhaps most memorably, he shares colorful stories of Jacare's Brazilian sayings and teaching methods that have shaped multiple generations of practitioners. Whether you're just starting your BJJ journey or already deep into it, DJ's parting advice resonates powerfully: maintain consistency, leave your ego at the door, and always approach learning with an open mind—because "a parachute works best when it's open, just like your mind." Ready to transform your approach to learning and training? This episode is your blueprint. @dj.farmer on Instagram  https://alliancebjj.com/instructors/dj-farmer/ Proud Affiliate of GenXRefined BJJ GearCaffeinated_Jiujitsu/GR Support the show Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community on IG @caffeinated_jiujitsu Got Questions? Want to be a guest? Let's connect caffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com

    1h 20m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

 Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu: Fuel for Your Roll, On and Off the Mats Whether you're fresh into your white belt journey or deep into black belt life, Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu is brewed for you. This podcast explores the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu through the lens of curiosity, community, and a strong cup of coffee. We dive into the topics that matter training plateaus, competition prep, injury recovery, gym culture, mental toughness, belt progression, and yes, even that first awkward day on the mats. Each episode is crafted to help new practitioners find their footing and give long-time grapplers something fresh to think about. You’ll hear: Real conversations with teammates, coaches, and special guests from all belt levelsHonest takes on the highs, lows, and lessons of BJJFuel and flavor because what’s training without good coffee? Join us for episodes that blend technical insights, off-the-mat stories, and community shoutouts. It’s a podcast that respects the grind, celebrates the journey, and keeps your mind as sharp as your game. Roll with us. Sip with us. Welcome to Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu. Let's Connectcaffeinatedjiujitsu@gmail.com Join the Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu Community!!@caffeinated_jiujitsu

Information

  • Creator
    Joe Motes
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu
  • Show Website
    Caffeinated Jiu Jitsu