Higher Jiu Jitsu Podcast John Smallios

And we're back! And what a guest to have on our first episode back than Big Phil Grapsas!
In this episode we discuss ...
Why do we strap up the belt and jump on the mats daily? Why do we persist with jiu jitsu amongst the injuries and busy lifestyles and every other trial and tribulation we encounter with jiu jitsu?
Sure this is a sport, but more importantly it's a martial art that we pursue for self improvement, for life.
We talk about the process of getting started with jiu jitsu, the benefits of the art, the early days of Phil's jiu jitsu, and the Pedro Sauer Association in Australia, and so much more.
Thanks Big Phil Grapsas of Leverage Jiu Jitsu in Thomastown, Melbourne.
Sorry for the audio issues, we'll get it right next time.
If you like this episode, let us know on Instagram @higherjiujitsu. And share with your friends!
Thanks legends.
It's good to be back :)

Coach John updates you on the progress of the HJJ Podcast!

After at least a couple years creating podcasts, let's say Season 1 is done!

A big thanks to Bradley Hamo at Art of Surrender, and co-host Matty Voger Mason, and all the students for helping to create these episodes so far. It's been lots of fun :)

And to you, dear listeners, thanks for checking in and being a part of it!

Please note this is just a break for the time being. We'll be back for an action packed Season 2.

Our school definitely isn't going anywhere but from strength to strength. People of Sydney, we're here to help everyday people build quality of life. Come see us and get in on the action. 

And of course you can scroll down and listen to the existing episodes - and hopefully get lots from them.


For now, it's Oss and Out!


Coach John

In this episode Coach John chats with Morning class regular, HJJKids parent, and the man who keeps the Morning Moves class alive, Mr Gray Negrine. 

Gray was introduced to the martial arts early, starting with different styles before finding jiu jitsu. It's been a couple years at Higher with no end in sight. We've seen Gray progress to multiple stripes on the white, and on the doorstep to the blue belt, all the while having fun and keeping the smile on his face the whole time. 

It's not just Gray that enjoys himself on the Higher mats. His kiddos are also staples of the Kids program, meaning this is a true jiu jitsu fambam.

It was a pleasure to chat with Gray, and we hope you enjoy it lots too!



All the best,



Coach John

Coach John is joined for another Stories show with none other than recently ordained Purple belt and all round nice guy Danny Willmott!
In the four years that Danny has been training, he's experienced a transformation of sorts, in many areas of his life. He attributes lots of this to his jiu jitsu practice. 
In this chat, we speak about how he is coping with this current NSW lockdown, the joys of the mats, what he's learned, his competition experience, travels with jiu jitsu and so much more. 
Of note: Although Danny is an audio engineer, he thought recording a podcast in an open park would be a good idea. We love the sun too, but it means the audio quality is a little off with this one :) Apologies in advance!
We forgive Danny for this, and we thank him for jumping on and having a chat. Hope you enjoy!
Yours in jits, 
Coach John. 
PS. Don't forget about our other HJJStories Show episodes at the previous feed that can be found here. 

Coach John is joined with HJJ purple belt Luke Whiffen. 
Luke is a dad, husband, lawyer, and devout student of jiu jitsu. He is in his second stint of jiu jitsu, and has been training at Higher Jiu Jitsu for over three years. 
Throughout his journey in the art, he has been faced with numerous challenges, and has appreciated the ups and downs for making him stronger off the mats too. 
It was an inspiring chat, and I'm happy to share it with you!
Thanks for tuning in. 
Catchya on the mats!
Coach John
PS. Don't forget about our library of HJJStories on this feed too.

HJJ's very own Pat Osbourne has done the rounds of the martial arts. And he has applied his knowledge in the most stressful situations. We sat down to discuss his martial arts journey so far, as well as where he sees it all going in the future. 
It was a fun chat, and we thank Ozzy for jumping on!
PS. In the name of simplicity, we will now be moving all future HJJ Stories Shows onto this HJJPodcast feed. And with the current situation in NSW, we're hoping for a few more episodes like this one so stay tuned!
All the best, 
Coach John.