Chokes and Consciousness

Deja Jackson

A sports podcast dedicated to the engagement and elevation of Women’s mma and grappling. Michaela, former collegiate athlete, current mma fighter, and jiu jitsu practitioner. Deja, former collegiate athlete, and current jiu jitsu practitioner. Both Michaela and Deja have a love for women’s sports and a passion to continue ascending the voices of women within the mma and grappling world. Come listen and have fun with us!

  1. 2D AGO

    Finding the Real in the Fake

    In this episode, Deja and Michaela explore a wide range of topics, including A.I., UFOs, aliens, and the nature of reality. They share personal insights, theories, and encourage listeners to question what they know and stay curious about the unknown. This episode dives into the recent MVP event, Ronda Rousey's comeback, the state of MMA and BJJ culture, the influence of UFC's monopolization, and the importance of authenticity in sports and entertainment. Deja and Michaela analyze fight outcomes, industry trends, and the impact of ego and marketing on fighters and fans. They discuss the impact of social media and the importance of staying grounded in reality amidst a world of fakeness.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 03:05 Exploring AI and Bots 06:24 The Future of AI and Its Implications 09:31 Aliens and Their Connection to Technology 12:42 Theories of Time Travel and Reality 15:12 The Matrix: Reality vs. Simulation 20:46 Personal Reflections and Life Updates 28:09 Injury Management and Recovery 31:01 Competition Plans and Future Events 33:22 Upcoming Competitions and Training Adjustments 36:23 Financial Struggles and Event Costs 41:00 Economic Concerns and Daily Life 46:15 Gemini Season and Its Implications 51:19 Event Review: MMA and Authenticity 58:30 The Rise of Bare Knuckle Fighting 01:01:48 Nate Diaz's Recent Performance and Future Prospects 01:04:25 Ronda Rousey's Return: A Mixed Bag of Emotions 01:07:06 The Impact of UFC on MMA and Jiu-Jitsu 01:15:59 The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu and Its Belt System 01:22:45 The Future of Jiu-Jitsu in a Monopolized Landscape 01:31:27 The Impact of UFC on Individual Fighters 01:32:52 Staying Real in a World of Fakeness 01:35:04 The Influence of AI on Music and Authenticity 01:38:04 Finding Realness in Nature 01:43:12 Navigating Fakeness in Personal and Professional Life 01:51:54 Inner Peace vs. External Approval 01:55:40 Grounding Yourself in a Noisy World 01:58:51 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

    1h 59m
  2. MAR 31

    Decluttering the Soul

    In this episode, Michaela and Deja explore the importance of decluttering not just in our physical environment, but also within our minds and spirits. Deja and Michaela share personal insights on how seasonal transitions inspire reflection, growth, and a more intentional way of living. Key Topics included the symbolism of spring for renewal and decluttering; emotional and mental clutter; recognizing and letting go; how physical clutter impacts mental clarity; the significance of awareness before initiating change; and UFC/MMA and current BJJ news.    Chapters:  (00:00) - Welcome and technical setup; embracing the skillful chaos of spring (02:44) - Observing nature: signs of spring around the backyard (06:07) - How time accelerates as we age and the significance of seasonal awareness (08:50) - The importance of environmental comfort in education; variations across regions (09:30) - Predictions and speculations about the upcoming week and cosmic shifts (10:40) - Shadow realm and spiritual dimensions: insight into UFC's wild finish (12:44) - Training updates: resilience, progress, and managing age-related challenges (15:12) - The mental grind of blue belt in martial arts and progressing through stages (16:37) - The joy of learning in purple belt and the nuances of belt progression (17:42) - Transitioning from competitive to mentoring roles in brown belt (19:17) - The jump in skill and strategy from purple to brown belts of competition (21:15) - The impact of competition on strength and confidence development (22:36) - Measuring physical growth: challenges and reality check (24:26) - The value of promoting fighters and promotions: UFC and fight event insights (26:33) - Exciting upcoming events: chess boxing and women’s grappling competitions (28:22) - Reflecting on the evolution of self-defense training and community engagement (29:24) - Nostalgia and humor around April Fools' pranks, themes of deception (32:02) - Curiosity about the origins: cultural stories behind April Fools’ Day (36:11) - The legend of Gotham and early April Fools’ traditions (37:16) - Practicing street-level deception: humor and distraction strategies (38:22) - Creative pranks: from harmless jokes to optional chaos at work (40:07) - The energy and tension of current social interactions and personal responses (44:46) - Highlights and shocking moments from UFC fights (47:42) - Retirement announcements and career milestones of fighters (48:42) - Notable knockouts and injuries in women’s MMA (50:08) - Spotting signs of unconsciousness; fighter safety in the cage (52:24) - The importance of quick referee intervention during dangerous moments (54:15) - The trauma of brutal knockouts and the boundaries of fighter resilience (55:49) - The evolution of fighter recovery and the importance of mental health (66:16) - The decline of UFC's entertainment value and industry critique (69:17) - Industry drama: John Jones, Dana White, and fighter negotiations (70:25) - The debate around fighter strength, age, and weight classes (77:10) - The future of combat sports: innovative event ideas and prize pools (81:49) - Decluttering ego and training focus for better development (83:49) - Managing emotional and mental clutter: stress and reactive patterns (85:52) - The importance of awareness in mental and emotional pruning (87:14) - The grounding power of grounding sounds and music in mindfulness (88:57) - Practicality of decluttering space and mental clarity through awareness (90:12) - Discovering new techniques and the joy of learning in martial arts (91:57) - Recognizing patterns of frustration and the importance of self-awareness (94:47) - Analogies of hoarding: material and emotional accumulation (96:16) - The spiritual spring cleaning: clearing mental, emotional, and social clutter (97:19) - Reflective practices: morning routines and quiet moments of insight (98:19) - Encouragement to keep decluttering and embracing fresh energy

    1h 40m
  3. MAR 16

    I, Thou, We

    For this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss their last few weeks, recent competitions for fellow teammates, recent UFC events and news, fight strategies, and the evolving landscape of MMA, the UFC business model, and BJJ. We analyze the controversial UFC White House card, upcoming competitions, and the impact of monopolization in the sport. Plus, a humorous dive into a bizarre dolphin kidnapping story and reflections on dinosaurs and Earth's history. Deja and Michaela explore Alan Watts's philosophical insights on freedom and interconnectedness.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and Updates 03:36 Wrestling Season Reflections 06:31 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation 09:37 Health and Wellness in Sports 12:32 Gym Hygiene and Cleanliness Concerns 18:29 Upcoming Events and Topics of Discussion 28:50 Celebrating Competition Success 30:43 Competitor Insights and Experiences 33:15 Upcoming Competitions and Events 37:05 Astrological Influences on Energy 44:49 UFC and Fight Updates 56:06 Controversies in MMA Titles 57:50 Fighter Reactions to UFC White House Card 01:00:57 Negotiation and Star Power in UFC 01:03:23 The Impact of UFC's Financial Decisions 01:06:32 Ronda Rousey's Comeback and UFC's Star Power 01:10:27 UFC BJJ and the Future of Grappling 01:13:10 UFC's Monopolization of BJJ Competitions 01:19:05 Upcoming Fights and Women's Division 01:19:41 Dinosaurs and the Netflix Documentary 01:28:10 The Evolution of Dinosaurs and Plants 01:30:46 The Concept of Time and Human Existence 01:32:44 The Dolphin Man: A Wild Story 01:48:31 The Paradox of Freedom and Interdependence 01:58:23 The Flow of Connection in Training 02:01:37 Finding Freedom Through Connection 02:05:04 The Interconnectedness of Life 02:07:27 Legacy and Impact in Jiu-Jitsu 02:10:32 The Illusion of Control 02:12:36 Ego and Experience in Training 02:16:33 The Collective Consciousness of Jiu-Jitsu 02:21:33 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

    2h 22m
  4. FEB 16

    Fire and Desire

    In this episode, Deja and Michaela explore various themes, including the fleeting nature of February, the impact of global warming on weather patterns, and the art of manifestation. They dive into the significance of the upcoming Chinese New Year, specifically the Year of the Fire Horse, and discuss the collective energy affecting personal experiences. The duo also shares insights on physical recovery in sports, celebrates achievements in wrestling, and provides updates on the UFC scene, culminating in a thought-provoking discussion about inclusivity in sports and the unique experience of Zion Clark's match. They discuss the implications of recent controversies in the UFC, upcoming BJJ events, and the significance of personal growth and community engagement. The conversation transitions into a deeper exploration of reclaiming one's inner fire and the necessity of controlled burns in personal and collective growth. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of managing energy and responsibility in shaping the future of combat sports and personal journeys.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and February Reflections 03:20 Weather Changes and Global Warming 06:17 Manifesting and Visualization Techniques 09:19 Chinese New Year and Energy Shifts 12:22 Collective Energy and Personal Experiences 15:14 Wrestling Journey and Personal Growth 21:26 Celebrating Achievements in Wrestling 24:20 Healing and Recovery Journey 26:30 Embracing the Fire Horse Energy 29:00 Understanding the Year of the Fire Horse 35:01 Navigating the Energies of Fire and Water 46:23 UFC Updates and Discussions 58:44 Post-Fight Reflections and Competitor Dynamics 01:01:19 Disabilities in Competition: Ethics and Respect 01:03:46 Tom Aspinall's Eye Injury and UFC's Response 01:09:47 Kane Velasquez: Legal Troubles and Consequences 01:12:03 UFC's Star Power Crisis and Future Prospects 01:21:42 Upcoming BJJ Events and Community Dynamics 01:27:39 Reclaiming Your Inner Fire: Healthy Rebellion vs. Impulsivity 01:29:52 Embracing Healthy Rebellion in Fitness 01:32:18 Navigating Change and Growth 01:37:25 The Power of Shedding Old Patterns 01:44:49 Finding Inner Fire and Purpose 01:51:47 Controlling the Collective Energy 02:00:58 Choke and consciousness second intro edit.mp3

    2h 1m
  5. FEB 2

    Intentional Integrity

    In this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss their recent health struggles, the importance of nutrition and supplements, and the significance of Aquarius season. They reflect on personal growth, training experiences, and share updates from the UFC, including fight results and discussions about notable fighters like Thug Rose and Justin Gaethje. Michaela and Deja discuss the current state of UFC, particularly focusing on Amanda Nunes' future and the implications of recent fights. They delve into the culture of Jiu-Jitsu, addressing issues of integrity, grooming, and the responsibilities of practitioners within the sport. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement and accountability in the face of troubling behaviors. They conclude with reflections on personal integrity and the significance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and February Vibes 03:34 Health Struggles and Immune System 06:31 Nutrition and Supplements 09:27 Physical Activity and Recovery 12:34 Growth and Development in Youth 15:34 Mindset and Mental Resilience 18:31 Aging and Wellness Awareness 20:35 Aquarius Season: Embracing Change and Integrity 30:02 UFC on Paramount: A New Era in Fighting 50:20 Thug Rose: The Downfall of a Champion 52:47 UFC 325 Recap and Fight Analysis 01:01:28 Upcoming Local Fight Events 01:03:28 The Culture of Jiu-Jitsu and Its Challenges 01:16:26 Addressing Grooming and Abuse in Jiu-Jitsu 01:23:31 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts 01:24:27 Integrity in Jiu Jitsu: Upholding Personal Values 01:28:20 Authenticity vs. Social Media Pressure 01:32:21 Finding Balance in Chaos 01:36:18 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth 01:40:22 The Impact of Self-Integrity on Others 01:46:44 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

    1h 47m
  6. JAN 12

    River Endurance

    In this episode, Deja and Michaela reflect on their experiences so far in January, discussing the wrestling season, personal health challenges, and the importance of outdoor play during childhood. They explore themes of motivation and endurance as they transition into the new year, sharing updates on wrestling events and predictions for upcoming UFC fights. They reflect on Rafael Lovato Jr's' return to wrestling at the age of 42, the importance of team dynamics, and how personal experiences shape one's endurance in both sports and life. The discussion also touches on the significance of maintaining relationships and community support, as well as finding one's flow state in various activities. They emphasize the need for steady movement and the importance of being present in the moment, while also acknowledging the challenges of motivation and the impact of external factors on personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and January Reflections 03:32 Wrestling Season and Personal Updates 06:31 Childhood Memories and Injuries 09:26 The Shift in Childhood Fearlessness 12:31 The Contrast of Childhood and Modern Kids 15:25 New Year Motivation and Energy Burnout 18:26 Finding Flow and Endurance in Life 21:38 Updates on Wrestling Events and Competitions 27:10 The Rise of Patty and Marketability in MMA 29:25 Weight Classes and Fight Dynamics 31:11 Health Risks in Combat Sports 32:20 Ben Askren's Recovery Journey 33:20 The Importance of Hygiene in MMA 34:29 Soap Preferences and Personal Care 37:27 Driving Responsibilities and Growing Up 42:23 Upcoming UFC Fights and Predictions 50:42 The Competitive Spirit in Sports 51:39 Age and Athleticism: A New Perspective 54:41 The Dynamics of Team Sports Across Generations 58:43 The Balance of Experience and Youth in Competition 01:01:36 Endurance and Mastery: The Journey of Improvement 01:15:44 Finding Flow: The Muse and Presence 01:20:06 The Power of 1%: Small Steps to Growth 01:23:02 Endurance Over Motivation: The Steady Path 01:28:39 River Flow: Energy and Presence 01:39:34 Commitment and Connection: The Importance of Relationships 01:46:32 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

    1h 47m
  7. 12/29/2025

    Run Like a Horse

    In the last episode of 2025, Deja and Michaela reflect on the year, transitioning from the year of the snake into the year of the horse, and on the importance of grounding oneself and reflecting on personal experiences. Michaela and Deja emphasize the need for awareness and adaptability in the face of change, holding self accountable in breaking loops, and challenging self to move towards internal and external growth. The discussion encourages listeners to shed attachments that no longer serve them and embrace life's fluidity as they transition into the 2026 new year!   Chapters 00:00 End of Year Reflections and New Beginnings 03:33 The Year of the Snake: Transformation and Growth 06:34 Personal Check-Ins: Health and Performance 09:33 Competition Recap: Vegas Experience 12:30 Lessons Learned: Celebrating the Process 15:30 Setting Goals for 2026: Emergence and Growth 18:27 Breaking Cycles: Personal Development and Awareness 21:34 The Transition to the Year of the Horse 24:39 Connecting Experiences: Shedding and Growth 27:34 Looking Ahead: New Year Aspirations 32:06 Personal Growth and Competition Mindset 35:20 Transitioning Energies: From Snake to Horse 38:02 Embracing Movement and Change 41:26 Reflections on Recent Fights and Sports Trends 57:32 The GOAT Debate: Generational Comparisons in Sports 01:05:39 Transitioning from the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Horse 01:08:49 The Process of Shedding and Growth 01:10:35 Reflecting on Past Decisions and Growth 01:13:13 Understanding Plateaus in Personal Growth 01:17:10 Breaking the Loop: Lessons from 'Stranger Things' 01:22:03 The Importance of Connection and Facing Challenges 01:25:30 Characteristics of the Year of the Horse 01:27:40 Pacing Yourself for Growth 01:30:37 Finding Flow and Awareness 01:34:31 Reconnecting with Yourself 01:37:13 Closing Thoughts and Intentions for the New Year 01:39:30 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

    1h 40m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

A sports podcast dedicated to the engagement and elevation of Women’s mma and grappling. Michaela, former collegiate athlete, current mma fighter, and jiu jitsu practitioner. Deja, former collegiate athlete, and current jiu jitsu practitioner. Both Michaela and Deja have a love for women’s sports and a passion to continue ascending the voices of women within the mma and grappling world. Come listen and have fun with us!