On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with Matt Page, co-host of the Love Conquers Podcast and affectionately known to listeners as "Producer Matt," to dive deep into his recent journey to earning his Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu. After years of hard work, sweat, and dedication, Matt successfully completed his black belt grading, but the road wasn’t without its challenges.

In this in-depth interview, Matt takes us behind the scenes of the intense months leading up to the grading. He shares the rigorous preparation process, detailing the physical and mental hurdles he faced along the way—everything from training setbacks to managing injuries that threatened to derail his progress.

Rach and Kaz explore the high-pressure environment of grading night, from the atmosphere in the gym to the palpable anticipation from the crowd. Matt opens up about what it felt like stepping onto the mats knowing all eyes were on him, and how he mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. He recounts the pivotal moments, including when things didn’t go according to plan and how he had to adapt and push through adversity.

The conversation also delves into the emotional side of grading for a black belt, as Matt reflects on what this achievement means to him personally and how it feels to finally reach this milestone after years of dedication. Rach and Kaz don’t let him off easy, though—they dig into some of the funnier, more chaotic moments from the grading and the unexpected twists that kept everyone on their toes.

Tune in for a compelling, entertaining, and honest discussion about what it really takes to achieve a black belt in Jiu Jitsu, from the highs of success to the obstacles along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just curious about the journey, Matt’s story is both inspiring and full of lessons learned from the toughest tests on and off the mats.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.