Tapped In: A JiuJitsu Podcast

David Figueroa-Martinez

Tapped In: A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Podcast | Training, Mastery & Mindset I’m David Figueroa-Martinez, a BJJ Black Belt and coach, and I created Tapped In for the grapplers who train for mastery, not just medals. This is a short-form series designed to give you tactical clarity in the 12–24 minutes it takes to drive to the gym. I cut through the fluff to bring you grounded reflections on the mindset, structure, and strategy behind real Jiu-Jitsu growth. Whether I’m breaking down mat culture, ego management, or game-planning for your next promotion, my goal is to help you train with purpose and lead with intent. What you can expect every week: Tactical Coaching: Insights into BJJ game-planning and technical structure. Mat Culture & Leadership: Navigating gym dynamics and the student-coach relationship. The Mental Game: Managing ego, building resilience, and staying steady in the chaos of the roll. Train smarter. Think deeper. Stay tapped in. New episodes released 3x a week.

  1. E131 | Bonus | Building Your Bjj Network Before You Need It

    1D AGO

    E131 | Bonus | Building Your Bjj Network Before You Need It

    About This EpisodeIn this episode, I reflect on the power of building a Jiu-Jitsu network long before a crisis hits. I share my personal journey from feeling isolated during a gym departure as a blue belt to having a strong, supportive community when I faced a similar situation as a black belt. I talk about the value of cross-training, attending open mats, and building an authentic reputation that opens doors in ways you might not even realize. Chapters0:00 – Intro: The "Ick" Factor of Networking1:22 – Authenticity Over Sales: My Approach to Building Connections2:48 – Escaping the "Home Gym" Bubble4:15 – The Benefits of Cross-Training and Open Mats6:08 – Why Your Home Gym Might Not Always Be the Best Fit7:45 – Preparing for the "Crisis": When Gyms Close or Leadership Changes9:32 – A Tale of Two Departures: Blue Belt vs. Black Belt12:15 – The Surprise Lifeline from 5 Peaks Jiu-Jitsu14:40 – Your Reputation Travels Faster Than You Do16:20 – Networking as a Professional Asset17:55 – Final Thoughts & Community Resources TakeawaysCross-Pollinate: Don't limit yourself to one gym's perspective; visiting other academies exposes you to different teaching styles, cultures, and techniques that will sharpen your adaptability.Reputation is Currency: Your interpersonal skills and how you treat your training partners matter more than any medal; a solid reputation creates a safety net for whenever your training situation inevitably changes.Build the Lifeline Early: Networking isn't about self-promotion—it's about having authentic relationships and a community to turn to before you find yourself in a "training crisis." Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    19 min
  2. E130 | How to "Let People Work" in Jiu-Jitsu

    3D AGO

    E130 | How to "Let People Work" in Jiu-Jitsu

    About This EpisodeIn this episode, I dive into the nuance of "letting people work" on the mats and why it’s a fundamental tool for both student development and my own technical growth. I share my philosophy on rolling with lower belts, explaining how I move in accordance with their speed and strength to create a productive environment for us both. I also reflect on a pivotal moment from my time as a blue belt when a black belt "fed" me a submission—a lesson in ego, confidence, and the eventual reality check that comes with the journey. Chapters0:00 – Intro: What "Letting People Work" Actually Means1:18 – The Goal: Making the Round Enjoyable for Both Parties2:30 – Rolling with Day One White Belts: Focusing on the Basics3:50 – Feeding Mistakes: Teaching Through Controlled Scenarios6:10 – The Lion Cub Analogy: Encouraging Good Habits8:14 – Using Just Enough Strength: The 130lb Rule11:00 – The 4/2 Rule: Managing the Round Clock12:45 – When "Kicking and Telling" Leads to a Reality Check15:30 – Final Thoughts & Community Resources TakeawaysThe 4/2 Rule: Spend the first 4 minutes of a 6-minute round letting your partner play and find their game; use the final 2 minutes to impose your own "A-game" and technique.Technical Over Tactical: Use only the amount of strength necessary to complete a move. If you have to "blast through" a partner with 60lbs on them, your technique isn't as clean as you think it is.Protect the Confidence: Higher belts should act as "coaches through movement," allowing lower belts to find small successes to keep them coming back to the mats. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    20 min
  3. E129 | Positional Playbook: The Turtle

    5D AGO

    E129 | Positional Playbook: The Turtle

    AboutIn this episode, we dive deep into the Turtle Position—a spot that’s often controversial in the BJJ community. While not technically a guard, David explains how top-tier competitors like Eduard Telles have turned it into an offensive powerhouse. We break down the strategic advantages of turtling up to prevent guard-pass points, the common pitfalls that lead to back-takes and chokes, and specific "Tapped In" tactics for recovering guard or launching your own attacks from the bottom. Chapters00:00 Is Turtle a Guard? Defining the Position00:44 Influencers of the Game: Eduard Telles & BJJ Fanatics02:00 Strategic Turtle: Denying Points in Competition03:40 Offensive vs. Defensive Turtle: Managing Transitions06:14 Protecting the Ribcage: Elbow-to-Knee Connections07:30 Common Mistakes: Wide Knees and Losing Base08:42 Case Study: "Marco’s" Offensive Turtle & The Kimura Trap10:55 Attacking the Turtle: Hip-to-Hip Pressure & The Clock Choke12:20 David’s Go-To: The Kimura Counter-Attack13:48 Final Tips: Patience and Disengaging TakeawaysDeny the Points: Turtling up before a pass is solidified is a vital tactical shield to stop your opponent from scoring 3 points in competition.Seal the Leaks: Success depends on closing the space between your elbows and your ribcage; if you leave a gap, you're inviting hooks and seatbelts.Patience is a Weapon: Don't rush to escape. Keeping a wide base and staying tight prevents you from being pulled onto your hip and exposed. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    12 min
  4. E128 | Bonus | Doors That Open With Reputation

    MAR 5

    E128 | Bonus | Doors That Open With Reputation

    AboutI’ve spent 14 years in the BJJ world, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that your reputation is far more important than your rank. In this episode, I explain why the "big small city" of the Jiu-Jitsu community means that your actions on the mat follow you everywhere. I share personal stories about how my own reputation has opened doors for me—even from people I didn't realize were watching me years ago—and how a bad reputation can silently close doors you didn't even know existed. Whether you're a white belt or a black belt, I want to help you understand that your character is your ultimate brand. Chapters[00:00] Reputation vs. Skill: Why Your Character Always Wins.[02:30] The "Big Small City": Understanding the Interconnectedness of BJJ.[05:15] Impact of Behavior: How You Make People Feel Matters More Than Your Tap.[09:00] Lessons from a Reckless Black Belt: A Story of Lost Trust.[13:45] Opening Doors: How Positive Reputation Leads to New Opportunities.[19:30] The Blue Belt Connection: A Door That Opened a Decade Later.[23:00] Stewardship of Your Name: Acting Like Your Own Best Brand. TakeawaysThe Mat is a Mirror: Your BJJ community is smaller than you think. How you treat your training partners today determines who will welcome you into their gym tomorrow.Character Over Rank: Your skill may be noticed, but your character will be remembered. A reputation for being a safe, kind, and technical partner will earn you more opportunities than any medal ever could.Long-Term Legacy: Think of yourself as a business. Every roll and every interaction is an investment in your personal brand that can pay dividends (or cost you dearly) years down the line. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    18 min
  5. E127 | You Don’t Need a Super Gym. You Need a Solid Bjj Guide

    MAR 3

    E127 | You Don’t Need a Super Gym. You Need a Solid Bjj Guide

    About This EpisodeIn this episode, I challenge the common belief that you need to train at a world-renowned "super gym" to get high-quality Jiu-Jitsu instruction. Drawing from my own experiences in San Diego, I explain why a solid, consistent guide—even a purple or brown belt—is often more valuable than a big-name facility for the average practitioner. I dive into why "soft skills" like emotional intelligence and personal investment are the real hallmarks of a great coach and how an environment that encourages safe exploration can transform your game. Key TakeawaysPrioritize Connection Over Pedigree: For most practitioners, a coach who knows your name and your specific game is more effective than a world champion who rarely sees you on the mats.The "Lab Rat" Strategy: Growth happens when you feel safe enough to fail; seek an environment where you can try new techniques without fear of belittlement from your instructor.Soft Skills Matter: A great coach isn't just a technician; they are a mentor with the emotional intelligence to manage different personalities and keep students motivated. Chapters00:00 – Introduction: The Myth of the Perfect Training Room01:05 – The Legend of San Diego Jiu-Jitsu & Small Gym Success02:30 – Hobbyists vs. Pros: Why Your Goals Dictate Your Gym Choice04:15 – The Power of the Purple Belt Coach: Passion Over Pedigree06:50 – Beyond Technique: The Critical Importance of Soft Skills and Mentorship09:10 – Creating a "Lab Rat" Environment: The Freedom to Fail12:20 – Final Thoughts: Consistency and Trust are the Real Superpowers14:35 – Outro & How to Join the DFM Coaching Community Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    16 min
  6. E126 | Positional Playbook: North South

    MAR 1

    E126 | Positional Playbook: North South

    About This EpisodeIn this installment of our Positional Playbook series, I dive deep into the strategic advantages of the North-South position. I share why this became a cornerstone of my game as a white belt and how it offers a unique solution to opponents with exceptionally "tricky" guards. You'll learn my specific techniques for creating suffocating pressure, the subtle "soft skill" adjustments that force an audible grunt from your opponent, and the diverse submission matrix available from this dominant spot—from the Kimura and North-South choke to the back take. Key TakeawaysNegate the Guard: Use the North-South position to completely bypass the legs and knees of flexible opponents, preventing them from reguarding or framing effectively.Weight Distribution is Key: To maximize pressure, get off your knees and drive your weight through your ribcage into your opponent's near-side shoulder.The "Armpit Wedge": Deeply wedging your forearm into the opponent's armpit and pulling it toward you can isolate the limb and create an opening for a variety of Kimura-based submissions. Chapters00:00 – Introduction: Why I Love the North-South Position01:10 – Origins: Discovering the North-South via the Kimura02:00 – Defining the Position: Hips-to-Head Alignment02:55 – Strategic Advantage: Bypassing "Tricky" Guards04:30 – Submission Matrix: Chokes, Strangles, and Arm Attacks06:05 – Mastering the Pressure: Getting Off Your Knees07:45 – The Art of the "Punishment" Weight: Forcing the Audible Grunt09:40 – Establishing the Kimura Grip: The Armpit Wedge12:00 – Secondary Attacks: Bread Cutter, Scissor Choke, and Lapel Control14:50 – Refining the North-South Choke: Hand Placement and Squeezing17:15 – Transitioning to the Back: Baiting the Turtle19:00 – Common Pitfalls: Rushing and Improper Weight Placement21:30 – Outro: Join the DFM Coaching Community Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    17 min
  7. E125 | Bonus | The Life of a Bjj Instructor

    FEB 27

    E125 | Bonus | The Life of a Bjj Instructor

    About This EpisodeIn this candid episode, I pull back the curtain on the realities of being a Jiu-Jitsu instructor. Beyond teaching techniques and coaching rounds, I explore the "invisible hours" and emotional labor that define the role. I share personal stories of technical slip-ups, the necessity of continuous self-evaluation, and the heavy responsibility of managing the diverse emotional landscapes of students. Whether you are a student looking to appreciate your coach or a rising colored belt with aspirations to lead, this episode provides a deep look at what it truly means to serve the mats. Key TakeawaysBeyond the Technique: Being an instructor is a role of service that involves significant emotional labor and constant self-evaluation to ensure students are learning effectively.Managing Human Dynamics: A successful gym relies on the instructor’s ability to read and adapt to different student personalities, past traumas, and individual learning paces.Preventing Instructor Burnout: To stay "on" for your students, you must build a structure that allows you to occasionally step back and be a student yourself to recharge and stay passionate. Chapters00:00 – Introduction: The Place of Service and Invisible Hours02:15 – The Instructor’s Burden: Emotional Labor and Self-Evaluation04:30 – Owning Mistakes: Correcting the "No-Brainer" Details You Missed06:50 – The Challenge of Competing While Running a Program09:15 – Reading the Room: Studying Student Habits and Safety11:40 – The "Bicycle" Metaphor: When to Lead and When to Let Go14:20 – Beyond the Mat: Dealing with Student Trauma and Insecurities17:05 – Navigating Gym Politics and External Criticism19:30 – Survival Tactics: Balancing Teaching with Your Own Training22:10 – Advice for Future Instructors: Start Developing Empathy Now24:45 – Outro: Join the DFM Free School Community Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 DFM Coaching | Bjj BlogLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 DFM Coaching Substack Blog BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    23 min
  8. E124 | Bonus Ep | The Hidden Upside of Being the Uke In Bjj Class

    FEB 26

    E124 | Bonus Ep | The Hidden Upside of Being the Uke In Bjj Class

    Lets talk about the benefits of being the Uke in class. There are some major benefits and uncomfortable moments. Are You You New To The Podcast? Start Here! Stay ConnectedDFM CoachingFor remote coaching, seminars, mindset tools, and more: Join the FREE Skool DFM Coaching Community. 🌐 www.DFMCoachingBjj.com 📸 Instagram @DFMCoaching.Bjj ▶️ YouTube @DFM2099 Choke Point MediaLong-form storytelling, deep strategy, and the philosophy behind the fight: 🌐 www.ChokePointChronicles.com BJJ Mental Models SupportI'm proud to be an official affiliate of BJJ Mental Models—a deep resource library of conceptual Jiu-Jitsu that has helped thousands of grapplers simplify their learning. Use my link to explore their premium offerings and support the show: 👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ) Support the MissionIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a teammate, repost it to your story, or leave a quick review where ever you listen. That’s how we grow and keep the signal strong. Stay tapped in. Thank you, David Figueroa-Martinez Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj Coach | Writer | Grappler DFM Coaching Bjj is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together! Mentioned in this episode: DFM Coaching Bjj Skool community

    15 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Tapped In: A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Podcast | Training, Mastery & Mindset I’m David Figueroa-Martinez, a BJJ Black Belt and coach, and I created Tapped In for the grapplers who train for mastery, not just medals. This is a short-form series designed to give you tactical clarity in the 12–24 minutes it takes to drive to the gym. I cut through the fluff to bring you grounded reflections on the mindset, structure, and strategy behind real Jiu-Jitsu growth. Whether I’m breaking down mat culture, ego management, or game-planning for your next promotion, my goal is to help you train with purpose and lead with intent. What you can expect every week: Tactical Coaching: Insights into BJJ game-planning and technical structure. Mat Culture & Leadership: Navigating gym dynamics and the student-coach relationship. The Mental Game: Managing ego, building resilience, and staying steady in the chaos of the roll. Train smarter. Think deeper. Stay tapped in. New episodes released 3x a week.

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