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. 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 #bj 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!

    1h 7m

  2. MAR 31

    Coach Cal on Mental Toughness, Faith & Building Winners | Wrestling & Jiu Jitsu Mindset

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing"  Strong body means nothing without a strong mindset.  Coach Cal on Mental Toughness, Faith & Building Winners | Wrestling & Jiu Jitsu Mindset  In this powerful conversation, Coach Cal shares his journey of overcoming challenges, building a successful wrestling program, and helping others grow through discipline and relationships. From Wrestling to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he breaks down the importance of mental toughness, faith, continuous learning, and maintaining a positive mindset—especially as you get older. This episode is about more than training… it’s about building stronger people and a lasting impact. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Podcast 04:06 Starting Wrestling: Coach Cal's Journey 06:56 Building a Wrestling Program from Scratch 10:48 Success Stories: From Few to Many Wrestlers 12:26 Motivation and Relationships in Coaching 14:45 Involvement in Jiu-Jitsu and Its Impact 16:39 Creating a Positive Team Environment 18:31 The Rise of Women's Wrestling 19:28 The Equalizing Power of Wrestling 20:49 Belief and Responsibility: Shaping Young Minds 23:30 Life Lessons from Adversity 25:22 Faith and Transformation 27:07 Influence and Purpose in Life 30:03 Finding Love and Support 38:46 Facing Fears and New Challenges 40:34 Overcoming Challenges in Martial Arts 42:37 Learning and Growth in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 44:41 The Importance of Community and Mentorship 47:57 The Benefits of Martial Arts for All Ages 49:20 Finding the Right Training Environment 52:52 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Podcasting 56:01 Inspiration and Resilience in Life 59:44 The Role of Experience in Learning 01:02:26 The Impact of Technology on Real-Life Skills 01:02:30 The Evolution of Conflict Resolution 01:08:26 Reflections on Modern Youth and Morality 01:09:36 Faith, Identity, and Personal Beliefs 01:15:00 The Importance of Standing Firm in Beliefs 01:18:34 The Power of Positive Attitude and Connection 01:24:21 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!

    1h 25m

  3. MAR 24

    From Obese Kid to Martial Arts Master: Nakapan Phungephorn's Journey

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging interview, Nakapan Phungephorn shares his journey through martial arts, from overcoming childhood health challenges to becoming a multi-disciplinary martial artist and school owner. Discover his philosophies on training, community, and the evolution of martial arts in modern society. In this engaging interview, Nakapan Phungephorn shares his journey from martial arts enthusiast to successful school owner and mentor. Discover insights on growing martial arts schools, training older athletes, and balancing passion with business acumen. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Martial Arts Journey 03:02 Overcoming Adversity: The Start of a Martial Artist 04:51 The Influence of Martial Arts Movies 07:18 The Evolution of Martial Arts Training 10:09 Cultural Connections and Martial Arts 11:29 The Transition to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 14:36 The Importance of Community in Martial Arts 18:42 Navigating the Politics of Martial Arts 21:10 Philosophies of Training and Learning 22:26 The Value of Diverse Martial Arts Training 24:18 Curriculum and Teaching Philosophy in Martial Arts 27:23 The Role of Respect and Discipline in Martial Arts 28:38 Managing a Successful Martial Arts Academy 31:27 Transitioning from Corporate Life to Martial Arts 35:30 Building a Community Through Martial Arts 37:33 The Financial Realities of Running a Martial Arts School 40:07 Encouraging New Students to Start Martial Arts 42:18 Embracing Aging in Martial Arts 46:40 The Importance of Community and Support in Martial Arts 51:03 Gi vs. No Gi: A Personal Journey 57:31 Preparing for Competition: The Road to the Triple Crown 01:01:50 1756849464234 (2).wav Resources: Beta Academy - https://betaacademy.com Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_Jiu-Jitsu Muay Thai - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai Pedro Sauer Jiu Jitsu - https://pedrosauer.com UFC History - https://www.ufc.com Bruce Lee Philosophy - https://www.amazon.com/Striking-Thoughts-Bruce-Lee/dp/0897501744 Beta Academy - https://betaacademy.com Black Belt Syndicate - https://blackbeltsyndicate.org Nakapan Phungephorn's Courses - https://knockuponmma.com 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!

    1h 2m

  4. MAR 17

    From Alcoholic to Self-Defense Coach: Christopher Ryan

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" Join us as Christopher Ryan shares his inspiring story of overcoming homelessness, addiction, and life challenges to becoming a skilled martial artist, gym owner, and sobriety advocate. Discover the power of resilience, discipline, and giving back through fitness and self-defense. 00:00 - Introduction and shout-out to North Bay Cigar Company 02:00 - Christopher's martial arts background and mixed skillsets 04:00 - Why Krav Maga attracted him for real-life self-defense 06:00 - Filling holes in martial arts skills through Krav Maga 09:00 - Grew up in tough neighborhoods of New York, survival mindset 12:00 - Development of resilience and street smarts 15:00 - Homelessness, addiction, and hitting rock bottom in his 20s 17:00 - Turning point: wake-up in jail and decision to get sober 20:00 - The path of sobriety and its impact on his life and career 22:00 - Starting gyms, The Monkey Bar Gym concept, and the pandemic's impact 25:00 - Authentic lineage and quality training in martial arts 27:00 - The influence of wrestling and grappling on self-defense 29:00 - Practical street fighting lessons and ego management 32:00 - The importance of de-escalation and walking away from fights 35:00 - Real-life bar fight stories and handling rowdy situations 38:00 - Integrating Krav Maga techniques into fitness classes 40:00 - Nutrition strategies, supplement use, and body transformation 43:00 - The role of kettlebells and functional training in lifelong fitness 47:00 - Building credibility as a trainer and martial artist with lineage 50:00 - Launching "The Sober Edge" podcast to help others in recovery 53:00 - Future plans: expanding gyms, podcast goals, and mentoring 55:00 - Final thoughts on respect, discipline, and community in martial arts North Bay Cigar CompanyChristopher Ryan - InstagramThe Sober Edge PodcastConnecticut Krav MagaSoulcraft Brazilian Jiu JitsuApex Krav Maga in Hamden, CTJohn Hines & Monkey Bar GymSupport 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!

    55 min

  5. MAR 10

    Kung Fu Kendra: A Journey of Resilience

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this engaging conversation, Tony Jones interviews Kung Fu Kendra, a martial artist and author, who shares her journey into the world of Kung Fu, the philosophy behind Wing Chun, and her experiences as a female instructor in a male-dominated field. Kendra discusses her personal motivations for starting martial arts, the importance of self-defense, and the legacy of her lineage from Ip Man. She also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on online learning, her nutrition philosophy, and her recent book, 'Push Your Way Through,' which applies ancient Kung Fu principles to modern life challenges. Kendra emphasizes the importance of resilience, personal growth, and the accessibility of martial arts for all ages and backgrounds. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kung Fu Kendra 03:18 Transforming Trauma into Strength 06:22 The Journey into Wing Chun 10:11 Understanding Kung Fu Philosophy 12:21 The Legacy of Ip Man 17:07 Women in Martial Arts 19:25 Future Plans and Courses 23:16 The Evolution of Online Martial Arts Courses 25:52 Breaking Age Barriers in Wing Chun 27:17 The Challenges of Competitive Martial Arts 29:35 Adapting Training During COVID-19 30:42 Nutrition and Fitness Philosophy 32:41 Personalizing Training for All Ages 34:15 Overcoming Personal Injuries in Training 35:52 Motivation in Solo Training 37:08 Inspiration Behind 'Push Your Way Through' 39:28 Reception and Future of the Book 41:54 Looking Ahead: Keep Pushing 43:53 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!

    45 min

  6. MAR 3

    From Fan to Kingpin: Angel Medina's Wrestling Journey

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of 'Old Man On The Mat', host Tony Jones dedicates the show to his late mother, who had a deep love for wrestling. He interviews Angel Medina, a professional wrestler, who shares his journey from being a fan to becoming a wrestler. They discuss the culture of wrestling, the injuries wrestlers face, and how training and recovery have evolved over the years. Angel emphasizes the importance of financial wisdom, personal growth through divorce, and the need for humility in martial arts. The conversation also touches on Angel's experiences as a police officer and his upbringing in Queens, New York, as well as the joys of traveling the world as a wrestler. In this engaging conversation, Angel (Kingpin) Medina shares his experiences in wrestling, the connections he has made with fans, and the wild stories from his time on the road. He discusses the honor of being named a Kentucky Colonel and emphasizes the importance of staying active and healthy as he transitions from wrestling. The conversation also touches on the significance of humor and laughter in life, showcasing Medina's vibrant personality and storytelling ability. 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!

    1h 14m
  7. Train for Life: Ryan Hurst on Martial Arts Longevity, Movement & Mental Toughness

    FEB 24

    Train for Life: Ryan Hurst on Martial Arts Longevity, Movement & Mental Toughness

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode, Tony Jones interviews Ryan Hurst, co-owner and head coach at GMB Fitness, who shares his extensive journey in martial arts, including his experiences living in Japan for nearly 30 years. Ryan discusses his early beginnings in martial arts, the cultural differences in training, and the importance of mental toughness in practice. He emphasizes the philosophy behind his project, 'On The Mat Forever,' which aims to help individuals maintain their martial arts practice throughout their lives, focusing on personal choice and overcoming limitations. In this conversation, Ryan discusses his experiences of moving to the United States, the challenges faced, and the importance of understanding one's 'why' in life. He emphasizes the significance of posture, breath, and mindset in martial arts and fitness, and shares insights on the GMB approach to movement. The discussion also touches on cultural differences, healthcare experiences in Japan versus the USA, and the evolving social norms regarding respect. Ryan highlights the importance of training in self-defense and expresses his goals for the future of GMB. 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!

    1h 6m

  8. FEB 17

    Blending Styles with Isaac Wilson

    "Send us a text and let us know how we're doing" In this episode of Old Man on the Mat, host Tony Jones engages with Isaac Wilson, a young martial artist from Florida, discussing his journey through various martial arts disciplines including Muay Thai, karate, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and more. They explore the influence of martial arts movies, the evolution of training styles, the importance of blending different martial arts, and the challenges of competition. Isaac shares insights on how traditional arts have changed over time and emphasizes the significance of wrestling in martial arts training. The conversation highlights the value of being open to learning from various styles and the personal growth that comes from martial arts practice. In this engaging conversation, Isaac Wilson and Old Man On The Mat discuss various aspects of martial arts, including the importance of ego in personal growth, the journey of a martial artist, the challenges of injuries and recovery, and the significance of community support. They also touch on nutrition, the role of contracts in martial arts schools, and the upcoming black belt test for Isaac, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in the martial arts community. 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!

    1h 29m
See All (77)

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
    77
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Old Man On The Mat
  • Show Website
    Old Man On The Mat