Emerald Grappling

Emerald Grappling

Welcome to the Emerald Grappling Podcast, your monthly deep dive into the dynamic world of grappling in Ireland. Each episode explores the vibrant scenes of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling across the country. Join us as we feature insightful conversations with top competitors and esteemed coaches, offering unparalleled perspectives on the sports you love. Tune in for expert analysis, compelling stories, and invaluable insights from the heart of Ireland's grappling community. All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts! 🎙️

  1. #19 Oisin McCabe: Building Champions, Judo for BJJ & The Art of Coaching!

    12/29/2025

    #19 Oisin McCabe: Building Champions, Judo for BJJ & The Art of Coaching!

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Oisin McCabe, the owner and Head Coach of Compound Martial Arts and a rare "triple threat" in the combat sports world. As a triple Black Belt in Karate, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (under Andy Ryan), Oisin brings a unique, multidisciplinary perspective to the mats. He catches us up on his martial arts origins, explaining how his background in Karate eventually led him to the grappling arts and how the Judo-heavy influence of Team Ryano shaped his overall style.We discuss the crossover between Judo and Jiu Jitsu, with Oisin identifying specific concepts, such as kuzushi timing and footwork patterns - that he believes BJJ athletes often overlook. He argues that the understanding of pinning in Judo is miles ahead of standard Jiu Jitsu control.Our conversation delves into the science of skill acquisition, with Oisin breaking down the critical power of repetition and technical drilling. He shares his ambitious goal of becoming the best coach in the world and details the specific methods he uses to ensure he is constantly evolving, from deep study to cross-training. He offers insight into his role at Compound Martial Arts, explaining the common principles he applies to build champions, whether the student is training for BJJ, MMA, or striking.Finally, Oisin offers critical advice for listeners on the values and habits necessary for long-term success and highlights the specific mindset required to evolve from a student into a high-level martial artist.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 - 05:42 Intro & Oisin's Origin Story05:43 - 07:55 Becoming a Beginner Again07:56 - 11:53 Seeing Judo as a Superpower11:54 - 14:13 Pinning in Judo is Elite14:14 - 15:48 Judokas hitting Triangles from EVERYWHERE15:49 - 18:34 Leg Grabs in Judo18:35 - 20:58 The Power of Kuzushi / Off Balancing20:59 - 23:37 Getting the Takedown or Setting up the Guard Pull23:38 - 27:02 Competing in Judo to get your next belt27:03 - 35:40 Quality Control in Martial Arts35:41 - 39:51 Weight is what Matters, Not Belts39:52 - 42:02 Not taking BJJ so Serious42:03 - 43:51 Belts as Seasons43:52 - 53:52 Developing as a Coach53:53 - 56:47 Chase Skills Not Belts56:48 - 01:07:00 What is the Hardest Part of a Coach's Job?01:07:01 - 01:09:44 Fionn's Performances at ADCC Ireland And IBJJF NoGi Euros 202501:09:45 - 01:12:36 Having Confidence in Yourself at Competitions01:12:37 - 01:16:42 Performance is when Preparation and Comfort Meets01:16:42 - 01:20:48 Helping Students to Reach Their full Potential01:20:49 - 01:26:36 Building Champions at Compound Martial Arts01:26:37 - 01:28:29 Connect with Oisin Online01:28:30 - 01:28:57 Like, Share & Subscribe & Outro🟢 FOLLOW OISIN ON INSTAGRAM⁠Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/coach_oisin_mccabe/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW COMPOUND MARTIAL ARTSFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/CompoundMartialArts/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/compoundmartialarts/Website → https://compoundmartialarts.com/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → @emeraldgrapplingTikTok → @emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#IrishBJJ #BJJ #Judo #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #OisinMcCabe #CompoundMartialArts #JiuJitsu #JudoForBJJ #MartialArtsCoaching #Grappling #TeamRyano #BJJTraining #BJJDrills #SkillAcquisition #BJJLifestyle #Kuzushi #Newaza #BJJBlackBelt #JudoBlackBelt #MMA #CombatSports #JiuJitsuIreland #BJJTechnique #WrestlingForBJJ #MartialArtsPhilosophy

    1h 29m
  2. #18 David Zamora Returns: Scramble Camps, Recovery Secrets & The Elite Athlete Mindset!

    11/24/2025

    #18 David Zamora Returns: Scramble Camps, Recovery Secrets & The Elite Athlete Mindset!

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by returning guest David Zamora, a BJJ brown belt, the striking coach at Lakeland Jiu Jitsu, and one of the most active competitors on the circuit. David catches us up on his incredible run since his last appearance, which includes securing Quad Gold at the Galway International Open, a Gold and two Bronze medals at the ADCC Ireland Pro Divisons, and a strong performance at the IBJJF NoGi Euros.We discuss the power of consistency and how it has been the driving force behind his recent competitive success and his promotion to brown belt. David shares the story of how he became a sponsored athlete for Scramble Brand and takes us inside the two Scramble Camps he attended in Malaga. He describes what it was like training alongside some of the best competitors in the world and recounts a memorable "final boss battle" roll that took place on the second to last day of the camp.Our conversation delves into the lifestyle of a full time athlete, with David breaking down his daily non negotiables regarding sleep, supplements, and recovery both in and out of camp. He explains how his approach to training has evolved over the last year and offers insight into his role as a coach, detailing the work that goes into growing a business and building a high level room for both striking and Jiu Jitsu.Finally, David reflects on whether losses serve as a more powerful motivator than wins and shares his mindset on waiting for big opportunities to present themselves. He offers critical advice for listeners on the importance of listening to your coach to become the best version of yourself and highlights the one aspect of Jiu Jitsu that he feels too many grapplers are currently neglecting.⏱️ CHAPTERS🟢 FOLLOW DAVID ON INSTAGRAM⁠Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/daviid__0909/⁠----------------------------------------------------------------------------SPEND LESS, SUPPORT MORE 🫶🏻Make sure to check out David's sponsor, Scramble, for some of the highest quality grappling gear on the market. They offer slick designs and a comfort-fitting feel, and they're a company that actively supports many local competitors!https://www.scrambleireland.com/ https://www.instagram.com/scrambleireland Make sure to mention David Zamora in your delivery notes!----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrapplingTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#EmeraldGrappling #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #ScrambleBrand #BJJRecovery #AthleteMindset #BJJCompetitor #BrownBelt #JiuJitsuLifestyle #NoGiGrappling #BJJTraining #Grappling #BJJ #LakelandJiuJitsu #ADCCIreland #BJJCoach #JiuJitsuCommunity #BJJLife #EliteMindset #MartialArtsIreland #LakelandJiuJitsu #TeamLakeland #DavidZamora #ElitePerformance #HighPerformanceTraining #AthleteRecovery #ProMindset #BJJConditioning #MullingarBJJ #FightPrep #TrainingCamp #FullTimeGrappler #ChampionMentality #SportsPerformance #NextLevelTraining

    1h 31m
  3. #17 Kieran Davern: Competition Mindset, Wrestling & ADCC Ireland

    10/06/2025

    #17 Kieran Davern: Competition Mindset, Wrestling & ADCC Ireland

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Kieran Davern, a 2nd degree black belt, the head coach of Éire Grapple, and the President of ADCC Ireland. Kieran shares his journey from starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2008 to becoming a prominent figure in the Irish grappling community, and a top-level competitor on prestigious stages like Polaris and Grapplefest.We discuss the rapid evolution of the sport in Ireland over the past decade, and Kieran offers his perspective on the key factors that have driven its growth. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at his mental and physical preparation for elite-level competitions and offers advice for aspiring competitors. Kieran also explains his "hybrid" coaching style, which blends traditional methods with the Constraints-Led Approach to encourage creativity and problem-solving on the mats.Our conversation delves into the specifics of wrestling, with Kieran breaking down how he teaches students to chain takedown attempts together. As the President of ADCC Ireland, Kieran recaps the most recent event, highlighting standout matches and giving a shout-out to his student, Kathy Foy, for her successful performance. He also makes an exciting exclusive announcement for the upcoming 2026 ADCC Ireland season: an invitational show where top athletes will compete on a big stage, a testament to the high level of talent in Ireland.Finally, Kieran shares his long-term goals for both Éire Grapple and ADCC Ireland, and offers listeners a way to connect with him online to train or book a seminar.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 02:18 Intro & Kieran's Origin Story02:19 - 04:00 Early Days of Irish Jiu Jitsu 04:01 - 06:07 Improved Standards growing the sport06:08 - 08:20 Learning from DVD Instructionals & Tom Egan08:21 - 12:40 Opening Éire Grapple & Something Special Building Up12:41 - 15:24 Competing on Grapplefest & Polaris 715:25 - 18:06 Mental Preparation for Invitationals & Matches18:07 - 20:44 Researching your opponents 20:45 - 25:34 Competition Mindset25:35 - 26:45 Training Consistently26:46 - 28:35 Refining your Techniques as a Black Belt28:36 - 33:20 Developing out your game33:21 - 34:02 Having Fun During Training34:03 - 42:52 Wrestling & Chaining Takedowns42:53 - 46:45 Constraint Led Approach for BJJ46:46 - 49:22 Kieran's Hybrid Coaching Approach 49:23 - 53:53 ADCC Ireland & Recapping the last ADCC Ireland Events53:54 - 1:01:39 Getting more ADCC Experience for Irish Athletes1:01:40 - 1:04:21 Standout Performances from the last ADCC Ireland1:04:22 - 1:08:44 Upcoming ADCC Ireland 2026 Season1:08:45 - 1:11:30 EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENT: ADCC Ireland Invitational Event coming in 20261:11:31 - 1:13:31 Kathy Foy Shoutout Performance1:13:32 - 1:14:19 Mark Dowd Shoutout1:14:20 - 1:17:10 Kieran's Goals for the future1:17:11 - 1:18:01 Connect with Kieran Online1:18:02 - 1:18:27 Like, Share & Subscribe & OutroMake sure to follow Kieran on the following:https://www.instagram.com/kierandavern1/https://www.instagram.com/eiregrapple/https://www.instagram.com/adccireland/https://www.linktr.ee/kierandavern If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------SPEND LESS, SUPPORT MORE 🫶🏻Want to save money while supporting your favourite BJJ athletes? Use Kieran's discount code to support his BJJ journey!https://eu.tatamifightwear.com/ DAVERN20 ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #BJJPodcast #KieranDavern #ADCCIreland #EireGrapple #IrishGrappling #JiuJitsuIreland #Grappling #SubmissionGrappling #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJ #ADCC #NOGI #GrapplingNews

    1h 18m
  4. #16 Ellie Hassell-Cramer: BJJ for Self-Defence, Gracie Jiu Jitsu Lineage & Coaching Kids

    09/08/2025

    #16 Ellie Hassell-Cramer: BJJ for Self-Defence, Gracie Jiu Jitsu Lineage & Coaching Kids

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Ellie Hassell-Cramer, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt under Symmetry Jiu-Jitsu and the head coach of BJJ Gort. Originally from the United States, Ellie began training at just four years old alongside her parents, both third-degree black belts and academy owners, giving her a rare upbringing on the mats that continues to shape her journey today.We discuss Ellie’s unique start in jiu-jitsu, the influence of the Gracie family lineage on her approach to the art, and what it was like deciding to open her own academy in Ireland, encouraged by her husband as a way to reconnect with the sport. With nearly a decade of experience coaching kids, Ellie shares her insights on the differences between teaching children and adults, how she adapts her methods for different age groups, and the key lessons she hopes young students carry into their everyday lives.Our conversation explores the importance of self-defence in the Gracie tradition, how Ellie incorporates it into her classes, and why it remains an essential foundation for complete beginners. We also touch on the balance between coaching and personal progression, the role of community in building a welcoming gym environment, and the broader changes Ellie has witnessed in the jiu-jitsu landscape over the years.Finally, Ellie offers advice for coaches, especially those starting kids’ programs, and highlights the core benefits for parents considering enrolling their children in jiu-jitsu. She also shares where you can connect with her online and how to get involved at BJJ Gort.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 03:12 Intro & Ellie 's BJJ Origin Story 03:13 - 06:20 Gracie Jiu Jitsu Lineage 06:21 - 08:02 Did Ellie always want to open a gym? 08:03 - 09:07 Difference Coaching Kids & Adults 09:08 - 11:06 Ellie's Approach to Coaching Different Age Groups 11:07 - 14:20 How Ellie Runs a Kid's Jiu Jitsu Class 14:21 - 15:43 Kids Enjoying Jiu Jitsu 15:44 - 16:50 Advice for Coaches Starting a Kid's Jiu Jitsu Class 16:51 - 18:40 How Ellie Balances her own Jiu Jitsu Training 18:41 - 21:30 Self Defence in Ellie's BJJ Classes 21:31 - 22:38 Using BJJ for Self Defence & Wristlocks! 22:39 - 26:52 BJJ for Self Defence Key Lessons 26:53 - 28:09 How Jiu Jitsu Influences your life off the mats 28:10 - 30:55 How BJJ Builds a Community 30:56 - 33:04 Biggest Change in BJJ over the Years for Ellie 33:05 - 34:37 How Kids are getting so good at jiu jitsu 34:38 - 35:28 BJJ Gort & Ellie Competing in Jiu Jitsu 35:29 - 37:45 Future of Jiu Jitsu 37:46 - 38:21 Connect with Ellie online 38:22 - 38:48 5 Star Review & Subscribe 38:49 - 39:28 Key Benefits for Kids training Jiu Jitsu 39:29 - 39:38 Outro, Remember to Like Share & Subscribe!Make sure to follow BJJ Gort on the following:https://www.bjjgort.com/https://www.instagram.com/bjjgort/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570234120304If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅#EllieHassellCramer #BJJGort #SymmetryJiuJitsu #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #WomenWhoRoll #BJJWomen #BJJPurpleBelt #BJJCoach #BJJForKids #KidsJiuJitsu #BJJParents #BJJCommunity #BJJFamily #JiuJitsuJourney #BJJLifestyle #GracieLineage #SelfDefenseBJJ #MartialArtsForKids #MartialArtsIreland #BJJInspiration #JiuJitsuForEveryone #BJJTraining #BJJTeaching #BJJGrowth #BJJAdvice #BJJMotivation #IrishMartialArts #WomenInMartialArts

    40 min
  5. #15 Patrick Sheridan Returns: Irish Jiu Jitsu Nationals, No-Gi Growth & The BJJ Community in Ireland!

    08/11/2025

    #15 Patrick Sheridan Returns: Irish Jiu Jitsu Nationals, No-Gi Growth & The BJJ Community in Ireland!

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron welcomes back Patrick Sheridan, a first-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, co-owner of Satori BJJ, and organiser behind SubOnly Events. Over a year since his last appearance, Pat updates us on his training, coaching, and involvement in Ireland’s growing jiu-jitsu scene. We discuss the Irish Defence Forces and Garda BJJ training sessions, his return to the mats after a back injury, his mission to get friends outside the sport involved, and the pressures that come with competition. Our conversation covers the rapid rise of no-gi jiu-jitsu in Ireland, standout Irish athletes making waves internationally, and the build-up to the Irish Nationals on September 28th, including Pat’s vision for the event and its custom trophies. We also examine the current state of Irish BJJ competition, the balance between growth and over-saturation, and Pat’s proposal for a unified competition calendar. He shares his approach to safety and injury prevention, especially for younger athletes aiming for longevity, and offers advice for anyone looking to grow their role in the jiu-jitsu community, whether as a coach, referee, competitor, or event organiser. Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 2:40 Introduction & Open Mat Recap 2:41 - 13:14 Pat's Return to training 13:15 - 16:05 Irish Defence Forces Jiu Jitsu Club & Training Sessions 16:06 - 21:25 UK Defence Forces, Jiu Jitsu Training & the Benefits 21:26 - 22:09 Everyone should try Jiu Jitsu at least once 22:10 - 26:10 Pressure of Competing & Finding your place in Jiu Jitsu 26:11 - 28:30 Growing the Sport & Ref Course 28:31 - 38:25 The Irish Jiu Jitsu Nationals Competition 38:26 - 41:56 Refs & Cross Training 41:57 - 43:17 Plugging the Nationals Competition 43:18 - 44:16 4 Competitions on 1 weekend....Chaos 44:17 - 50:45 Competitions, Politics & Competitions all over Ireland 50:46 - 53:46 Why Pat never ran an Invitational event 53:47 - 59:21 The Growth of NoGi Jiu Jitsu in Ireland 59:22 - 1:03:04 Balancing Competing, Training & Running a gym 1:03:05 - 1:14:08 Injury Prevention Tips & Recovery 1:14:09 - 1:24:31 Full Circle Moment during last Promotion Night in Satori 1:24:32 - 1:26:00 Future Open Mats & Cross Training with Satori 1:26:01 - 1:27:14 Outro, Remember to Like Share & Subscribe! Make sure to follow Satori on the following:https://www.satoribjj.comhttps://www.instagram.com/satoribjj/ https://www.instagram.com/subonlyevents/https://www.facebook.com/Satori.BJJ.Dublin If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling Remember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅ #PatrickSheridanBJJ #SatoriBJJ #SubOnlyEvents #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #NoGiBJJ #BJJCompetition #BJJNationals #IrishNationalsBJJ #BJJEventsIreland #BJJCoach #BJJBlackBelt #FirstDegreeBlackBelt #BJJCommunity #BJJTraining #BJJInjuryRecovery #BJJPressure #BJJGrowth #BJJDevelopment #BJJOrganiser #BJJEventLife #BJJForEveryone #BJJInspiration #BJJLongevity #BJJAdvice #BJJReferee #BJJCompetitor #BJJFuture #IrishMartialArts #JiuJitsuLeadership

    1h 27m
  6. #14 Barry Oglesby: Ireland BJJ Events, The Irish Open and Gi Invitational Event

    07/07/2025

    #14 Barry Oglesby: Ireland BJJ Events, The Irish Open and Gi Invitational Event

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron sits down with Barry Oglesby, a third-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, founder of Kyuzo Jiu Jitsu, and one of Ireland’s original BJJ black belts. Barry shares the story of his early beginnings in jiu-jitsu, transitioning from taekwondo and how training has changed since he began.Beyond the mats, Barry is also a driving force in the Irish BJJ scene as a co-founder of Ireland BJJ, the organisation behind major national tournaments such as the Emerald Cup, Shamrock Cup, and the prestigious Irish Open. He takes us behind the scenes of these landmark events, revealing the vision that inspired them, the challenges of running large-scale tournaments, and the continuous improvements made to elevate the competitor experience.Barry offers valuable insight into the importance of high-quality refereeing, sharing how Ireland BJJ works to maintain consistent standards and the training processes in place for officials. We also explore the exciting launch of Ireland BJJ’s new Gi Invitational, set to debut this September.Listeners will gain an inside look at what it takes to build and sustain a thriving jiu-jitsu community, as Barry shares lessons from his time as a coach, organiser, and competitor. He also offers thoughtful advice for anyone looking to step into the world of BJJ, whether as an athlete, referee, coach, or event organiser. Finally, Barry lets us know where you can find him and Ireland BJJ online, and how to get involved in upcoming events.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 6:42 Intro & Barry's BJJ Origin Story6:43 - 14:36 How training has evolved14:37 - 17:00 Building a foundation and framework17:01 - 21:30 Marcelo in Action & SubMeta21:31 - 24:21 Football highlights analogy & side control24:22 - 26:54 Biggest Changes in Training26:55 - 32:01 Ireland BJJ Events Origin Story32:02 - 36:39 Emerald Cup36:40 - 41:20 Behind the Scenes of Running a BJJ Event41:21 - 45:44 Dealing with Event Feedback45:45 - 49:51 Referees & VRA49:52 - 52:59 Ranking System & Grand Slam for Ireland BJJ Events53:00 - 59:33 Ireland BJJ Gi invitational Event59:34 - 1:08:08 Barry's Goals & Ireland BJJ's Mission Statement1:08:09 - 1:10:46 Gi invitational Criteria1:10:47 - 1:14:37 Future of BJJ1:14:38 - 1:15:42 Where to find Barry Online1:15:43 - 1:15:56 Remember to Subscribe1:15:57 - 1:20:52 Advice for anyone looking to get involved in BJJ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Make sure to follow Barry on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/grapplerman/Make sure to check out Kyuzo Jiu Jitsu for some training!https://www.instagram.com/kyuzojiujitsu/Make sure to check out Ireland BJJ Events:https://www.irelandbjj.comhttps://www.instagram.com/ireland_bjj/Looking to get involved with any of Ireland BJJ's events, reach out to the below email!info@irelandbjj.comMake sure to check out Barry's Podcast, The Kyuzo Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@TheKyuzoPodcastIf you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------#BarryOglesbyBJJ #KyuzoJiuJitsu #IrelandBJJ #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #IrishOpenBJJ #ShamrockCupBJJ #EmeraldCupBJJ #BJJEventOrganiser #BJJCommunity #BJJCoach #BJJBlackBelt #ThirdDegreeBlackBelt #JiuJitsuMindset #BJJCompetition #BJJRefereeing #BJJRanks #BJJGrandSlam #BJJSuperFights #GiInvitational #SmoothcompRanking #BJJGrowth #BJJInEurope #BJJTournamentLife #BehindTheScenesBJJ #BJJForEveryone #BJJInspiration #IrishMartialArts #JiuJitsuLeadership

    1h 21m
  7. #13 Killian Lawlor: NOGI Euro Champion, Cross Training & Competitions

    06/02/2025

    #13 Killian Lawlor: NOGI Euro Champion, Cross Training & Competitions

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Killian Lawlor, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt and the head coach of Barrog Jiu Jitsu. Fresh off his gold medal victory at the 2024 IBJJF NoGi European Championships and a recent bronze at the IBJJF Masters Europeans in the Gi, Killian offers an in-depth look into his preparation for these high-stakes competitions, breaking down his training strategies and the specific techniques that led to his success.Killian shares his personal journey into BJJ, detailing how his approach to training has evolved from a white belt to brown belt, highlighting key differences in his methodology over the years. He provides a unique perspective on the rising tide of Irish Jiu-Jitsu, reflecting on the significant achievement of having three Irish athletes share the podium at the IBJJF Masters Europeans.As both a competitor and a dedicated coach, Killian discusses the delicate balance of managing his own training schedule with the responsibilities of running Barrog Jiu Jitsu and teaching his students. He delves into how his competitive experiences directly shape his coaching philosophy, offering valuable insights for both practitioners and aspiring coaches.Looking ahead, Killian shares his future aspirations for himself as a competitor and his vision for Barrog Jiu Jitsu. He also provides his perspective on the future direction of jiu-jitsu as a whole. Finally, Killian offers essential advice for aspiring practitioners and competitors and lets listeners know the best ways to connect with him and Barrog Jiu Jitsu online.Just a heads up for viewers & listeners: this episode contains a significant amount of strong language and cursing. Viewer discretion is advised. Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 2:00 Intro & Killian's BJJ Origin Story 2:01 - 6:20 Evolution Through the Belts 6:21 - 8:35 Building Mat Experience 8:36 - 13:05 IBJJF NoGi Euros 2024 Recap 13:06 - 15:10 Chasing the Best to Improve 15:11 - 16:56 IBJJF Master Europeans 2025 16:57 - 21:32 Skill Difference between Belts 21:33 - 29:06 Irish Jiu Jitsu Success 29:07 - 32:22 Learning from the Top Athletes/Events 32:23 - 37:02 Balancing Training while running a Gym 37:03 - 44:37 Cross Training 44:38 - 49:25 Game Planning for Gi & NoGi 49:26 - 55:13 Future Plans for Barrog & Killian 55:14 - 1:01:07 Future of Jiu Jitsu 1:01:08 - 1:01:30 Connect with Killian 1:01:31 - 1:03:14 Advice for all Competitors 1:03:15 - 1:03:38 Outro Make sure to follow Killian on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/klawlorbjj/ Make sure to check out Barrog Jiu Jitsu when you're in Athy for some training !https://www.instagram.com/barrogjiujitsu/ If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Emerald Grappling on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling Remember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅

    1h 4m
  8. #12 Ryan Smyth: World-Class Training Camps in Sligo & Mindset

    05/05/2025

    #12 Ryan Smyth: World-Class Training Camps in Sligo & Mindset

    In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Ryan Smyth, a 2nd-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, two-time European Champion, and the head coach of Atlantic Jiu Jitsu in Sligo. Ryan shares his journey from first discovering BJJ to becoming a respected competitor and coach, and the evolution of his training philosophy over the years. As a dedicated instructor, Ryan discusses how he approaches belt testing, what he values most in student progression, and how he integrates modern coaching methodologies such as the ecological approach into his curriculum.We dive into the origins of Atlantic Jiu Jitsu’s renowned training camps, which have featured some of the biggest names in the sport, including Lucas Lepri, Cobrinha, and Jon Thomas, and Ryan offers an exclusive announcement about a major guest for this year’s upcoming August camp. He also shares insights into his newest project: a training initiative that uses jiu-jitsu to promote the Irish language.Ryan shares valuable tips on competition mindset, reflections on his standout moments on the mats, and the life lessons jiu-jitsu has instilled in him beyond the gym. We wrap up with a look at the future of jiu-jitsu and how to connect with Ryan and Atlantic Jiu Jitsu online.Whether you're a student, a coach, or just passionate about the sport, Ryan’s perspective offers inspiration and practical wisdom. Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 9:30 Intro & Ryan's BJJ Origin Story 09:31 - 12:31 Changed Approach to Training 12:32 - 18:29 Ecological Approach in practice at Atlantic 18:30 - 27:53 Belt Testing at Atlantic 27:54 - 29:53 World-Class Training Camps in Sligo 29:54 - 35:20 Selecting Training Camp Instructors 35:21 - 37:30 Favourite Training Camp for Ryan 37:31 - 38:36 EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENT about next camp 38:37 - 41:03 Does Ryan wish he trained differently? 41:04 - 44:59 Ryan's Competition career & coaching 45:00 - 49:05 Life Adjustments for Better BJJ 49:06 - 54:59 Competition Mindset 55:00 - 01:00:35 Future of Jiu Jitsu 1:00:36 - 1:02:59 Outro Make sure to follow Ryan on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/smyth.ryan/ Make sure to check out Atlantic Jiu Jitsu when you're in Sligo for some training https://www.sligobjj.comhttps:// www.instagram.com/atlanticsligo/ https://www.facebook.com/atlanticsligo/ https://www.tiktok.com/atlanticsligo/ If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Emerald Grappling on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling Remember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅ #RyanSmythBJJ #AtlanticJiuJitsu #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #SligoJiuJitsu #BJJBlackBelt #2ndDegreeBlackBelt #EuropeanBJJChampion #MastersBJJ #BJJCoach #JiuJitsuMindset #CompetitionMindset #ModernBJJ #BJJEvolution #CoachingPhilosophy #BJJBeltTesting #FundamentalsFirst #StudentDevelopment #ConstraintLedTraining #BJJTrainingCamp #BJJEventsIreland #LucasLepriSeminar #CobrinhaBJJ #JonThomasJiuJitsu #JiuJitsuSeminars #SummerBJJCamp #BJJGuestInstructor #GaeilgeThroughBJJ #JiuJitsuAsGaeilge

    1h 3m

About

Welcome to the Emerald Grappling Podcast, your monthly deep dive into the dynamic world of grappling in Ireland. Each episode explores the vibrant scenes of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling across the country. Join us as we feature insightful conversations with top competitors and esteemed coaches, offering unparalleled perspectives on the sports you love. Tune in for expert analysis, compelling stories, and invaluable insights from the heart of Ireland's grappling community. All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts! 🎙️