Tapped In: A JiuJitsu Podcast

David Figueroa-Martinez
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Sports
  • Updated Weekly

I am a dedicated practitioner and coach on a mission to help you navigate the complex, rewarding world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you are a White Belt trying to survive your first stripe or a seasoned grappler looking for a competitive edge, I created this show to be your technical and mental mat-side companion. In every episode of Tapped In, I break down the nuances of submission grappling. I dive deep into the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle, discussing how to overcome mat burnout, manage BJJ injuries, and develop the "black belt mindset" both on and off the mats. Why Listen to Me? Beyond my fifteen years on the mats, I’ve had the honor of sharing my philosophy as a recurring guest on BJJ Mental Models and Fighting Matters. I believe in a structured tactical approach and I bring that same level of high-level conceptual analysis to every episode of this show. The Training Schedule: I know your time is valuable. That’s why I release twice new episodes every week, each designed to fit perfectly into your daily routine. With a runtime of 14–24 minutes, these episodes are built to give you tactical clarity in the time it takes to drive to the academy or finish a warm-up. If you live for the grind, the flow, and the constant pursuit of the tap, this podcast is for you. Subscribe and let's level up your game, one episode at a time.

  1. 1d ago

    E237 | The Mats as a Mental Sanctuary: Vulnerability, Brotherhood, and Dropping the Armor

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj About This Episode In this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez reflects on the unique role the mats play as a mental sanctuary, speaking directly to the heavy emotional armor that men carry daily. Drawing parallels between military camaraderie and the shared physical adversity of jiu-jitsu, David discusses how training shuts down mental noise and survival-driven "what-ifs," creating a rare flow state where only the present moment exists. He explores why the tap is an act of total vulnerability, why genuine mentorship on the mats matters, and why the grappling community must serve as an outlet where people can drop the tough facade and support one another through life's heaviest moments. 3 Key Takeaways Shared Struggle Builds Real Brotherhood: Just like in the military, grinding through physical adversity on the mats creates deep, authentic bonds that bridge the gap from training partners to trusted friends. A Forced Flow State for an Overactive Brain: The intense physical problem-solving of live rolling forces the conscious thinking mind to shut off, offering a true mental break from daily anxieties and hypervigilance. The Tap Is a Practice in Vulnerability: Admitting defeat on the mats teaches men how to put ego aside, embrace failure without shame, and normalize asking for help both on and off the mats. Chapters 0:00 – The Heavy Armor Men Carry 0:50 – Military Parallels: Shared Struggle and Authentic Bonds 2:10 – Being a Good Partner: Mutual Elevation vs. Crushing Ego 3:30 – Embracing the Suck: Why Failure on the Mats Feels Different 4:55 – When the Mat Community Steps Up Outside the Gym 6:00 – Quieting the Noise: Jiu-Jitsu as a Mental Reset 8:30 – Tapping Out as an Act of Honest Vulnerability 10:45 – The Power of Mentorship: Giving Back to the Room 12:15 – Holding It Together at Home While Carrying the Load 14:00 – Dropping the Facade: Why We Can't Carry It Alone Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E237 | The Mats as a Mental Sanctuary: Vulnerability, Brotherhood, and Dropping the Armor

  2. 4d ago

    E236 | BJJ Movement Styles: Leaps vs. Climbs and the Reality of Control

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj About This Episode In this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez explores two core approaches to movement, passing, and transitions: leaps versus climbs. Whether you rely on youth, speed, and agility to jump between positions, or prefer slow, grinding pressure that denies space at every step, both styles offer distinct tactical advantages and clear risks. David breaks down the illusion of 100% control, the math of calculated gambles, and how older or heavier grapplers can reverse-engineer movement to keep their training safe, deliberate, and effective. 3 Key Takeaways Leaping Prioritizes Speed Over Connection: Dynamic transitions—like flying attacks or quick guard leaps—exploit brief openings and athletic speed, but inherently create windows of separation where control drops and scrambles can occur.Climbing Imposes Psychological and Physical Pressure: Methodical climbing relies on unbroken points of contact, steady weight distribution, and incremental advancements, cooking opponents under heavy pressure while minimizing their escape routes.Control Is a Fluctuation, Not a Guarantee: True mat control is never an absolute 100% during live grappling; advancing position always requires trading a fraction of control, making calculated risk management essential for long-term longevity on the mats. Chapters 0:00 – Introduction: Leaps vs. Climbs in Jiu-Jitsu0:25 – Defining the Leaper: Athleticism, Speed, and Bold Moves1:10 – Defining the Climber: Points of Contact and Positional Control2:15 – The Calculated Risk: Safety and Distance in Transitions3:50 – Age, Cardio, and Body Types: Adapting Your Game4:55 – The Control Pie Chart: Managing Risk in the Scramble6:15 – Offensive Pressure: Top Control and Giving Up Space to Advance7:45 – Blending Styles: Knowing When to Dart and When to Grind9:05 – The Slow-Moving Avalanche: Psychological Pressure in Action10:45 – Closing Thoughts and Connect with DFM Coaching Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E236 | BJJ Movement Styles: Leaps vs. Climbs and the Reality of Control

  3. 6d ago

    E235 | Do BJJ Black Belts Look for Street Fights?

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj About This Episode In this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez addresses the common misconception that Jiu-Jitsu black belts itch to test their skills in street fights or physical altercations. Drawing from personal experiences—including growing up around real violence, handling everyday disputes like a late-night noise issue with a neighbor, and reflecting on viral altercation clips—David emphasizes the importance of emotional maturity, professional accountability, and the power of de-escalation. Directed at white through purple belts and academy coaches, this conversation makes it clear that while grappling builds quiet confidence, our martial art belongs strictly inside a controlled, padded room; stepping outside to feed the ego only risks life-altering legal and physical fallout. Key Takeaways The Illusion of Street Control: Having dominant position or technical superiority on the mats doesn't guarantee safety on the pavement; in the real world, a single miscalculation or sucker punch can instantly escalate an altercation into a life-threatening disaster. Confidence Enables De-Escalation: The deeper you progress in Jiu-Jitsu, the less you need to prove your manhood or pride; true confidence gives you the quiet strength to defuse tension, swallow ego, and walk away from unnecessary conflict. Professional Accountability and Legal Reality: Slamming or submitting someone on concrete carries devastating legal and medical consequences—from paralysis to criminal prosecution—making physical force an absolute last resort when retreat is impossible. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Tapped In & Addressing the Black Belt Street Fight Myth 00:54 – Zero Interest in Conflict: Why Real Life Isn't the Movies 01:34 – The Illusion of Polite Society & Workplace Incidents 03:00 – Analyzing Confrontations & The Shock of Physical Violence 04:16 – Growing Up Around Violence & How Fast Situations Turn Sour 05:12 – Lessons from the Mats: How Quickly Dominance Can Flip 05:49 – Controlled Violence: Why Jiu-Jitsu Belongs in Padded Rooms 06:36 – Mature Confidence: Walking Away with Nothing to Prove 07:44 – De-Escalating in Real Life: The Late-Night Neighbor Confrontation 10:48 – Ego Control & The Professional Standard of a Martial Artist 11:42 – The Severe Legal and Physical Repercussions of Concrete Violence 13:08 – Moving Past Challenge Matches: Advice for Students and Academies 13:48 – Connect with DFM Coaching: Instagram & Final Thoughts Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E235 | Do BJJ Black Belts Look for Street Fights?

  4. Oct 18

    E234 | Choosing Your Intentional Mindset on the Mats

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj About This Episode In this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez breaks down the importance of showing up to the academy with a clear, deliberate mindset. Most practitioners step onto the mats without a plan, reacting to whatever happens during the roll. David outlines the three core mindsets he uses to guide his own rounds: working an aggressive comp-style pace, shifting into pure economical defense when energy is low, and isolating specific positions or techniques from instructional study. Geared toward white through purple belts and fellow coaches, this discussion focuses on taking direct ownership of your mat time, experimenting without ego, and building longevity in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Key Takeaways The Aggressive Mindset (The "Comp" Day): Choosing to be assertive doesn't mean injuring training partners; it means actively dictating the pace, hunting submissions, refusing passive sweeps, and treating the round like your own personal competition prep.The Defensive Mindset (Economical Jiu-Jitsu): On days when energy is depleted or you are managing fatigue, shift into survival mode by prioritizing frames, minimizing unnecessary movement, remaining calm under pressure, and allowing yourself to work out of bad spots without ego.The Focused Objective (Position-Specific Intent): Rather than rolling aimlessly, pick a single technique or checkpoint from an instructional video—such as establishing half guard or securing an underhook—and measure success strictly by how often you reach that position, regardless of the finish. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Tapped In & The Value of Intentionality00:46 – Morning Classes vs. Evening Classes: Entering the Right Headspace01:42 – The 3 Core Training Categories02:08 – Mindset 1: Bringing an Aggressive, Comp-Style Edge03:00 – Submission Hunting & Dictating the Round04:47 – The Lesson from Tyler Bishop: Experiencing the Skill Gap06:05 – Mindset 2: Economical Defense & Framing Under Fatigue07:22 – Rolling with Royler Gracie: Smooth Mechanics Over Athleticism08:52 – Mindset 3: Isolating a Specific Position or Technique10:48 – Celebrating Small Mat Milestones11:42 – Advice for Coaches: Encouraging Student Autonomy & Experimentation12:54 – Connect with DFM Coaching: Instagram, Patreon & CoachNow Reviews Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E234 | Choosing Your Intentional Mindset on the Mats

  5. Oct 15

    E233 | Grapplers Retreat Breakdown: Details, Culture, and Balancing Life

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj AboutIn this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez of DFM Coaching shares an honest, calm breakdown of his week at Grapplers Retreat. Stepping away from the daily routine in San Diego, David reflects on how stepping into a completely secluded environment helps grapplers reset mentally and physically. From the craftsmanship of the facility—complete with spring-loaded competition mats—to top-tier hospitality and food from Chef Jack, the camp provided an unforgettable experience. David also analyzes specific technical insights taught by Adam Wardziński, contrasting butterfly half and guard details with standard approaches, while observing the high standard of training on the mats. Finally, David shares a deeper reflection on observing Adam’s dedication to keeping his family involved and present, offering white to purple belts and coaches a valuable lesson in balancing high-level martial arts progression with personal life. Key TakeawaysThoughtful Facility & Active Recovery: Spring-loaded mats dramatically minimize impact, while quiet surroundings, dedicated recovery amenities (sauna, hot tub, professional massage), and top-tier nutrition allow grapplers to train hard without burning out. Technical Nuance Over Force: Adam Wardziński’s technical instruction highlighted small, pivotal adjustments—such as twisting bunched sleeve grips, hooking under the grapevining leg in butterfly half, and posting the foot outside the knee for the John Wayne sweep—that reshape standard positions. Mat Dedication vs. Family Balance: True martial arts longevity requires harmony; watching a world-class competitor prioritize family presence throughout camp is an essential reminder for competitors and coaches not to neglect home for the mats. Chapters00:00 – Welcome to Tapped In & Trip Overview 00:46 – An Introvert’s Perspective on Getting Away 01:34 – The Grounds: Seclusion, Silence, and Disconnecting 03:52 – World-Class Hospitality: Chef Jack and Camp Details 05:43 – The Spring-Loaded Mat Experience 06:40 – Technical Insights with Adam Wardziński 08:16 – Mat Culture, Diverse Belts, and Recovery 09:44 – Beyond the Mats: Adam’s Family Dynamic & Life Balance 11:28 – Final Thoughts and Recommendations Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E233 | Grapplers Retreat Breakdown: Details, Culture, and Balancing Life

  6. Oct 13

    E232 | How Instructors Fail Their Students

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj AboutIn this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez dives into the ways instructors fail their students—often unintentionally. From teaching like competitors instead of meeting older or recreational grapplers where they are, to turning instruction into an overwhelming firehose of details, David unpacks the gaps in modern BJJ pedagogy. He shares personal insights on adjusting instruction across belt levels, ditching the toxic "shark tank" mentality, emphasizing defense, and helping students cultivate their own unique expression of the art rather than trying to build mini-me clones. Key TakeawaysTeach the practitioner in front of you: Instructors fail when they treat every student like a full-time competitor rather than respecting the commitments, ages, and recovery demands of working adults. Avoid the firehose effect: Overloading students with excessive techniques in a single class hinders learning; stick to two connected concepts so students can truly digest the movement. Guide personal expression over cloning: Coaching is not about manufacturing carbon copies of yourself; it is about giving students the framework and defensive safety to express their own game. Chapters00:00 – Why the Instructor-Student Relationship Breaks Down 00:54 – Competitors vs. Hobbyists: Understanding the Everyday Practitioner 02:40 – Remembering the White Belt Mindset and Adjusting Delivery 04:14 – Retiring the "Shark Tank" Mentality 05:44 – Pacing the Class: Two Techniques Over the Firehose 07:22 – Balancing the Curriculum: Why We Must Teach Defense 08:35 – Stop Cloning Yourself: Building Autonomous Martial Artists 11:00 – Connect with DFM Coaching and Closing Thoughts Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E232 | How Instructors Fail Their Students

  7. Oct 11

    E231 | The Power of "Good Enough" in Jiu-Jitsu

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj AboutIn this episode of Tapped In, David Figueroa-Martinez explores the liberating concept of "good enough" in Jiu-Jitsu and life. We often hold ourselves to impossible standards—chasing the flawless highlight-reel submission or comparing our day-to-day progress to elite competitors. David breaks down why perfectionism stalls development, how coaches calibrate standards across different belt levels, and why giving yourself grace turns training into a sustainable, lifelong practice. Key TakeawaysYou are a work in progress: Clean execution takes years of invisible repetition; stop measuring your daily mat time against a finished highlight reel. "Good enough" scales with your belt: For white belts, grasping the basic framework is a win, while advanced belts refine deeper layers—coaches adjust expectations accordingly. Showing up counts: Rough rounds and messy technique still provide vital data; surviving a tough session or simply stepping onto the mats is a victory. Chapters00:00 – The Trap of the Highlight Reel 01:17 – Viewing Yourself as Unfinished Art 02:04 – How Coaches Scale "Good Enough" by Belt Level 03:42 – Surviving Bad Days and Messy Reps 05:15 – Applying "Good Enough" Off the Mats 06:40 – Redefining Success and Long-Term Enjoyment 08:24 – Closing Thoughts and Connecting with DFM Coaching Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E231 | The Power of "Good Enough" in Jiu-Jitsu

  8. Oct 8

    E230 | Why Everything in Jiu-Jitsu Is Borrowed

    DFM Coaching Library: https://www.patreon.com/cw/DFMCoachingBjj AboutIn this episode of Tapped In, I get into a mindset shift that has completely changed how I approach the mats: realizing that everything in Jiu-Jitsu is borrowed. From the techniques we learn and adapt, to the students we teach, to the physical attributes we rely on, nothing is permanent and nothing is truly "ours." I discuss how moving away from gym tribalism and the illusion of ownership frees us to appreciate the time we have on the mats, adapt our games as we get older, and show genuine gratitude for the people we share the journey with. 3 Key TakeawaysYou Don't Own the Art or Your Students: Martial arts techniques and lineages are inherited and shared; viewing your students or your game through a lens of ownership only fosters insecurity, tribalism, and stagnation. Physical Attributes Are on Loan: Speed, cardio, youth, and health are temporary; viewing your physical gifts as borrowed forces you to adapt your technical game as your body changes over time. Gratitude Outweighs Gym Numbers: Every round, whether with two training partners or fifty, is borrowed time; shifting your mindset from entitlement to appreciation turns any mat session into a win. Chapters0:00 – Introduction: Understanding That Everything Is Borrowed0:25 – Tracing and Copying: How We Learn Jiu-Jitsu2:18 – The Lineage of Grappling: Borrowing from Judo3:38 – Tribalism vs. Stewardship: Letting Go of Ownership5:58 – Adapting as We Age: The Evolution of My Guard8:12 – The Illusion of Owning Moves and Naming Rights9:45 – The 5:30 Class in Redlands: Perspective Over Numbers12:20 – Time, Health, and Mats Are Temporary13:58 – Outro & Connecting with DFM Coaching Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! 👉DFM Coaching Patreon PageEverything here is pulled from real mats, real classes, and real conversations about what actually works. Choose the tier that fits where you are right now. 👉DFM Coaching In Person and Remote Coaching DFM Coaching works with recreational grapplers who want to get better and actually feel it. Remote coaching and in person seminars available. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj DFM Coaching Skool Community Join the free DFM Coaching Skool Community, the space where the conversation continues after the episode ends. Mindset tools, mat culture, and a community of grapplers who take the mental side seriously. 👉 DFM Coaching | Bjj Skool Community. Stay Connected🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj Blog:Long-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog Affiliate PartnerBJJ Mental Models has one of the deepest conceptual Jiu-Jitsu libraries out there. I use it. I recommend it. 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Help the Show GrowIf this episode gave you something, pass it on. Share it with a training partner, drop a review, or repost it to your story. That is how we keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Mentioned in this episode: Patreon Blueprint Ad

    E230 | Why Everything in Jiu-Jitsu Is Borrowed
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

I am a dedicated practitioner and coach on a mission to help you navigate the complex, rewarding world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you are a White Belt trying to survive your first stripe or a seasoned grappler looking for a competitive edge, I created this show to be your technical and mental mat-side companion. In every episode of Tapped In, I break down the nuances of submission grappling. I dive deep into the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle, discussing how to overcome mat burnout, manage BJJ injuries, and develop the "black belt mindset" both on and off the mats. Why Listen to Me? Beyond my fifteen years on the mats, I’ve had the honor of sharing my philosophy as a recurring guest on BJJ Mental Models and Fighting Matters. I believe in a structured tactical approach and I bring that same level of high-level conceptual analysis to every episode of this show. The Training Schedule: I know your time is valuable. That’s why I release twice new episodes every week, each designed to fit perfectly into your daily routine. With a runtime of 14–24 minutes, these episodes are built to give you tactical clarity in the time it takes to drive to the academy or finish a warm-up. If you live for the grind, the flow, and the constant pursuit of the tap, this podcast is for you. Subscribe and let's level up your game, one episode at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    David Figueroa-Martinez
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    233
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © David Figueroa-Martinez | DFM Coaching Bjj
  • Show Website
    Tapped In: A JiuJitsu Podcast

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