Old Man On The Mat

Tony Jones
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

 Follow Old Man On The Mat — Where Real Talk, and Real Life Meet! Old Man On The Mat is your home for BJJ stories, martial arts insight, fitness motivation, veteran support, and down-to-earth conversations with athletes, coaches, and everyday warriors. Whether you’re over 40 getting back in shape, a lifelong martial artist, or someone who loves raw, honest conversation — this page brings weekly podcasts, training tips, gear drops, and behind-the-scenes content you won’t find anywhere else.  Hit FOLLOW now to stay connected, learn, laugh, and grow with a community built on grit, humility, and the love of the mat.Let’s roll! #OldManOnTheMat #BJJLifestyle #JiuJitsuCommunity #PodcastLife #BJJOver40 #VeteranSupport #TrainHardLiveHard #Fitness #MartialArts #Podcast 

  1. 4d ago

    How Jiu-Jitsu Saved His Life & Inspired A Movement / Steven Hordinkski

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Can Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu do more than teach self-defense? In this powerful episode of Old Man On The Mat, Tony Jones sits down with Steve Hordinski, founder of Forge of Unity, to discuss how martial arts, military discipline, and mindset helped him overcome adversity and dedicate his life to supporting other men. Steve shares his journey from military service to becoming a successful Jiu-Jitsu instructor, entrepreneur, and leader focused on men's mental health, resilience, and personal growth. In this episode: 🥋 How Jiu-Jitsu became a turning point in Steve's life  💪 Building resilience through martial arts  🤝 Why brotherhood and community matter for men's mental health  🧠 The role of mindset, manifestation, and purpose in achieving success  ⚔️ Leadership lessons from the military and the mats  🔥 Creating Forge of Unity to help men become stronger together Whether you're a martial artist, veteran, entrepreneur, or simply looking for inspiration to overcome life's challenges, this conversation delivers practical wisdom and powerful perspective. 🚨 The FULL episode is LIVE NOW! 🎥 Watch on YouTube 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, and wherever you get your podcasts. 👍 If this episode inspired you, Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss future conversations with leaders, martial artists, veterans, and changemakers. What lesson from Steve's story resonated with you most? Drop a comment below—we'd love to hear your thoughts. #OldManOnTheMat #SteveHordinski #JiuJitsu #BrazilianJiuJitsu #MensMentalHealth #Brotherhood #ForgeOfUnity #MartialArts #Veteran #Mindset #PersonalDevelopment #Leadership #Resilience #SelfDefense #MentalHealth #Motivation #Podcast #YouTubePodcast #BJJ #MartialArtsPodcast Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  2. Jul 21

    Michael Spyrou / The Martial Arts School Growth System Every Academy Owner Needs to See | AI, Marketing & Automation

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Want to grow your martial arts school without working longer hours? In this episode of Old Man On The Mat, Tony Jones sits down with Michael Spyrou to discuss how AI, automation, and proven business systems are transforming the way martial arts schools attract students, improve retention, and build thriving communities. If you're a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, karate school owner, taekwondo coach, MMA gym owner, or martial arts entrepreneur, this episode is packed with practical advice you can implement immediately. Inside this episode: 🥋 How AI is changing martial arts marketing  📈 Lead generation systems that convert prospects into students  🤖 Automation strategies that save time and improve communication  👥 Building a community students never want to leave  💼 Business systems that help scale your academy sustainably  🔥 The importance of relationships, culture, and leadership Whether you're opening your first academy or looking to take your existing school to the next level, this conversation delivers real-world insights from someone helping martial arts businesses grow every day. 🚨 The FULL episode is LIVE NOW! 🎥 Watch now on YouTube! 🎧 You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss future interviews with world-class martial artists, coaches, entrepreneurs, and leaders. What's the biggest challenge you're facing in growing your martial arts school? Let us know in the comments! #OldManOnTheMat #MichaelSpyrou #MartialArtsBusiness #MartialArtsMarketing #AI #Automation #LeadGeneration #BusinessSystems #JiuJitsu #BrazilianJiuJitsu #Karate #Taekwondo #MMA #GymOwner #SchoolOwner #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneur #Marketing #Podcast #YouTubePodcast Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  3. Jul 14

    Train Smarter. Recover Better. Keep Fighting. | Nathan Ng

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Train Smarter After 40 | Nathan Ng on Injury Recovery, Mobility & Martial Arts Longevity 🔥 The new episode of Old Man On The Mat is LIVE! In this episode, Tony Jones sits down with Nathan Ng to explore what it really takes to keep training for life. Nathan shares his journey through Muay Thai, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and strength & conditioning, along with the lessons he's learned from injury recovery, competition, and adapting his training over the years. In this episode, you'll learn: 🥋 How mobility can extend your martial arts journey 💪 Why training smarter beats training harder 🩹 How injuries can become opportunities for growth 🧠 The mindset needed to stay competitive as you age ⚔️ The differences between Gi and No-Gi training 👊 Why passing on knowledge is one of the greatest legacies a martial artist can leave Whether you're a lifelong martial artist, a weekend warrior, or someone looking to stay active after 40, this conversation is full of practical advice and inspiration. 🎥 Watch the full episode NOW on YouTube! 🎧 Prefer audio? Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 If you enjoyed this episode, LIKE, FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, and share it with a training partner who's committed to staying on the mats for life. #OldManOnTheMat #NathanNing #MartialArts #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJ #MuayThai #Judo #Mobility #InjuryRecovery #FitnessOver40 #FitnessOver50 #Longevity #StrengthAndConditioning #SelfDefense #Mindset #HealthyAging #YouTubePodcast #Podcast #TrainSmart #KeepRolling Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  4. Jun 30

    Why You're NEVER Too Old for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Shane Close | Graybeard Grapplers

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Old But Not Dead... Just More Dangerous | Shane Close What if getting older actually made you a better martial artist? In this inspiring conversation, Shane Close of Graybeard Grapplers shares why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn't just a sport—it's a lifestyle that keeps you moving, learning, and growing for life. From mobility and nutrition to injuries, mindset, and building a welcoming community for older grapplers, Shane proves that age isn't the end of your journey—it's just another chapter. 💥 "Old but not dead... dangerous old men." 🎥 Watch the full episode NOW on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Like, Follow & Subscribe to Old Man On The Mat for weekly conversations about martial arts, fitness, longevity, and living life with purpose. #oldmanonthemat #bjj #jiujitsu #graybeardgrapplers #fitnessover40 #fitnessover50 #martialarts #mobility #longevity #healthyaging #grappling #mindset #nutrition #mentalhealth #podcast #youtubepodcast #staystrong #keeprolling 🥋🔥 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shane Close and His Journey 03:38 The Evolution of Martial Arts Training 06:39 Transitioning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 09:37 Injuries and Their Impact on Training 12:39 The Importance of Staying Active 15:36 Mindset and Ego in Jiu-Jitsu 18:36 Balancing Jiu-Jitsu with Other Activities 21:57 Training Regimens and Recovery Strategies 24:54 Nutrition and Dietary Adjustments 28:42 The Role of Supplements in Fitness 30:35 Welcoming Newcomers in Martial Arts 33:12 The Evolution of Martial Arts Culture 39:39 The Therapeutic Benefits of Jiu Jitsu 41:36 The Healing Power of Physical Activity 43:42 The Birth of Graybeard Grapplers 51:57 Building a Community for Older Grapplers 59:11 Connecting with the Graybeard Grapplers Brand 01:00:27 1756849464234 (2).wav Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  5. Jun 9

    The Adaptive Martial Arts Revolution: Brandon Ryan's Inspiring Journey

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" For Brandon Ryan, martial arts isn't about belts, trophies, or proving people wrong. It's about helping others discover what they're truly capable of. Despite living with cerebral palsy, Brandon found his purpose in teaching, inspiring, and creating opportunities for people who thought martial arts wasn't for them. His passion for helping students build confidence, overcome obstacles, and believe in themselves is what makes this conversation so powerful. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, purpose, leadership, and helping people become the best version of themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brandon Ryan's Journey 02:45 Overcoming Challenges: The Role of Family 05:18 The Early Days of Martial Arts Training 08:38 Defining Moments in Martial Arts 11:05 Teaching Adaptive Martial Arts 14:00 The Evolution of Adaptive Martial Arts 16:25 Building a Community and Following 19:11 The Importance of De-escalation 20:26 Understanding Violence and Legalities 25:03 Responsibility in Self-Defense 26:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 26:46 The Equalizer: Firearms and Self-Defense 28:31 Training for Real-Life Situations 31:11 Challenges in Martial Arts Training 35:05 Becoming an Author: A Personal Journey 37:52 Adapting Martial Arts for Everyone 40:38 Overcoming Physical Limitations 46:15 The Importance of Realistic Training 46:21 What's Next: Life After Adversity 50:42 1756849464234 (2).wav Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  6. May 19

    From Garage Mats to a Thriving Jiu-Jitsu Community | Daniel Nunez & Grapple Cove

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of Old Man On The Mat, Tony Jones reconnects with Daniel Nunez of Grapple Cove to discuss the journey of building a community-focused Jiu-Jitsu academy in Melbourne, Florida. We dive into faith, perseverance, business growth, overcoming struggles, and how staying true to your core values can help build something meaningful both on and off the mats. This conversation is packed with lessons on leadership, mindset, community building, and personal growth for martial artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing a bigger purpose.  Like, follow & subscribe to Old Man On The Mat New episodes weekly Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Daniel Nunez 03:16 Growth and Community at Grapple Cove 06:34 The Importance of Personal Connection in Jiu-Jitsu 09:18 Investing in the Business and Community 12:18 Adding Value to Students' Lives 15:12 Taking the Leap: Business Growth and Challenges 18:07 Overcoming Personal Struggles and Finding Purpose 22:45 Overcoming Darkness: A Personal Journey 25:43 The Power of Faith and Support 28:45 Mindset Shift: Embracing Struggles 32:57 The Importance of Connection and Community 38:17 Future Aspirations: Growth and Expansion 40:36 Core Values: Staying True to Yourself 44:15 1756849464234 (2).wav #bjj #jiujitsu #martialarts #grappling #community #smallbusiness #entrepreneur #faith #motivation #mindset #oldmanonthemat #personalgrowth Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  7. May 5

    From Depression to Dominance: Tiffany Trixtr's Journey of Empowerment

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this powerful interview, Tiffany Trixtr shares how she transformed her life from depression into strength through martial arts, dog training, and firearms. From learning how to protect herself to empowering other women, her journey is about more than skills—it’s about confidence, mindset, and refusing to stay stuck. “I built my parachute on the way down.” If you’ve ever felt lost, this conversation will push you to take action. 👉 Like, follow & subscribe for weekly conversations on strength, mindset, and personal growth👉 New episodes every week on Old Man On The Mat Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tiffany Trixtr 05:30 The Challenges and Rewards of Dog Training 10:22 Understanding Dog Behavior and Training Techniques 15:18 The Importance of Owner-Dog Relationships 20:08 Overcoming Personal Struggles and Finding Purpose 24:00 Embracing Challenges and Learning from Failure 27:47 The Impact of Martial Arts on Personal Growth 30:13 Real-Life Applications of Martial Arts 36:42 Empowerment Through Self-Defense 39:26 Navigating Gender Dynamics in Martial Arts 39:56 Empowering Women in Martial Arts 40:46 Overcoming Gender Bias in Training 41:56 The Love for Firearms 42:57 From Novice to Enthusiast in Shooting 44:36 Exploring Advanced Shooting Techniques 45:53 Training with Law Enforcement 47:39 Future Aspirations in Martial Arts and Firearms 48:44 The Art of Blades and Self-Defense 51:56 Understanding Knife Fighting Dynamics 56:04 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment 59:17 1756849464234 (2).wav #selfdefense #martialarts #womensafety #empowerment #mentalstrength #personalgrowth #dogtraining #confidence #overcomingfear #discipline #oldmanonthemat #motivation #nevergiveup 💪🔥🥋 Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

  8. Apr 7

    He started Jiu-Jitsu AFTER 40… and it changed everything / Damian Bunting

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" On this episode of Old Man On The Mat, we sit down with Damian Bunting—whose journey from military and law enforcement into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu shows exactly what it means to start over after 40. This isn’t about being the best in the room. It’s about refusing to stay the same man. We break down: What it’s like starting BJJ later in lifeThe mental toughness built through adversityWhy ego is the biggest enemy on the matsHow martial arts rebuilds discipline, purpose, and identityIf you're over 40 and feel that pull to do something harder… this is it.  You’re not too old. You’re just untested. Follow & Subscribe to Old Man On The Mat for real conversations on BJJ, fitness, and staying dangerous after 40. www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Community Support 01:31 Meet Damian: A Unique Perspective 02:35 Living in Portland: A Cultural Contrast 03:54 The Politics of Jiu Jitsu 05:03 Creating Spaces for Older Practitioners 06:18 The Challenges of Training Over 40 08:11 Personal Journeys and Emotional Challenges 09:59 Midlife Reflections and Jiu Jitsu 11:15 The Journey of Learning Jiu Jitsu 13:11 The Role of Jiu Jitsu in Personal Safety 15:09 Finding Balance in Training 17:49 Mindset and Enjoying the Process 20:05 Education and Personal Growth 21:50 Measuring Progress in Jiu Jitsu 24:04 The Challenge of Learning New Skills After 40 26:11 The Importance of Perseverance in Jiu Jitsu 29:20 Understanding Growth in a Competitive Environment 31:11 Mindset and Progress in Martial Arts 33:49 Fitness Routines for Older Adults 36:13 Nutrition and Diet for Optimal Performance 39:54 Transitioning from Military to Security Work 46:47 Coping Mechanisms in High-Stress Environments 49:25 The Therapeutic Nature of Jiu Jitsu 50:38 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Martial Arts 55:02 Lessons from Coaching and Business Failures 58:41 Facing Fears and Embracing Competition 01:03:27 Documenting the Journey: Sharing Experiences and Insights 01:05:58 1756849464234 (2).wav #foryourpage #foryou #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viral  #oldmanonthemat #bjjover40 #jiujitsu #bjj #fitnessover40 #mensmentalhealth #mentalwarfare #discipline #resilience #grapplinglife #selfdefense #staydangerous #over40men #hardtokill #combatmindset #nevertoolate #bjjlifestyle #motivationdaily #masculineframe #trainhard Support the show Support Our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/oldmanonthemat Like and comment on our social media below: (1) Facebook https://x.com/oldmanonthemat1 https://www.tiktok.com/@old.man.on.the.mat https://www.instagram.com/oldmanonthemat www.youtube.com/@oldmanonthemat Check out our AMAZING T-Shirts, Hoodies and Rash Guards @ www.OldManOnTheMat.com support us at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2351260/support Thank you for listening!

See All (84)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

 Follow Old Man On The Mat — Where Real Talk, and Real Life Meet! Old Man On The Mat is your home for BJJ stories, martial arts insight, fitness motivation, veteran support, and down-to-earth conversations with athletes, coaches, and everyday warriors. Whether you’re over 40 getting back in shape, a lifelong martial artist, or someone who loves raw, honest conversation — this page brings weekly podcasts, training tips, gear drops, and behind-the-scenes content you won’t find anywhere else.  Hit FOLLOW now to stay connected, learn, laugh, and grow with a community built on grit, humility, and the love of the mat.Let’s roll! #OldManOnTheMat #BJJLifestyle #JiuJitsuCommunity #PodcastLife #BJJOver40 #VeteranSupport #TrainHardLiveHard #Fitness #MartialArts #Podcast 

Information

  • Creator
    Tony Jones
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Old Man On The Mat
  • Show Website
    Old Man On The Mat

You Might Also Like