Emerald Grappling

What does it take to build one of the most recognisable teams in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and create a culture that attracts grapplers from all over the world?In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron welcomes Heath Pedigo, founder and head coach of Pedigo Submission Fighting (PSF), home of the world-renowned Daisy Fresh team. Heath is the first international guest to join Aaron on the podcast, making this a particularly special episode.We discuss how Heath's connection with Ireland first came about, his relationships with T45 Jiu Jitsu, North Coast Jiu Jitsu and PSF Limerick, and his thoughts on the growing Irish grappling scene.He takes us inside the world of Daisy Fresh, reflecting on the impact of the documentary and how a small gym in a laundromat in Mount Vernon, Illinois, became a global destination for grapplers looking to experience the PSF environment for themselves.Our conversation explores the competitive side of PSF, from travelling internationally to compete at events like GrappleFest and the ADCC World Championships, to the differences between IBJJF and ADCC rulesets and the growing importance of the ADCC Opens as a pathway for aspiring athletes.We also get into the philosophy behind PSF's team culture and coaching approach. Heath shares his thoughts on creating an environment where teammates genuinely want to see each other succeed, balancing elite-level competition with everyday hobbyists, and why great coaching is about helping people discover what they're capable of.Finally, we look at the future of jiu-jitsu, the importance of the everyday grappler and what it really means to build a team that produces more than just champions.A big thank you to Shane Sweeney for organising this interview and helping make it happen. Much appreciated!⏱️ **CHAPTERS**🟢 **FOLLOW HEATH PEDIGO**Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/pedigosubmissionfighting/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 **FOLLOW PSF LIMERICK – THE LIMERICK SLIDE BY**Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/psflimerickcity/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 **FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLING**Instagram → @emeraldgrapplingTikTok → @emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #HeathPedigo #DaisyFresh #PedigoSubmissionFighting #PSF #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #BJJ #BrazilianJiuJitsu #JiuJitsu #Grappling #NoGi #ADCC #IBJJF #GrappleFest #PSFLimerick #TheLimerickSlideBy #NorthCoastJiuJitsu #T45JiuJitsu #BJJCommunity #BJJCulture #BJJCoach #BJJCompetition #SubmissionGrappling #JiuJitsuLifestyle #IrishGrappling #MartialArtsPodcast

How did Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu go from almost unknown to a thriving sport in Ireland?In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Mick Aldridge, a black belt and head coach of Athy Jiu-Jitsu, and one of the men who helped establish Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Ireland.Mick takes us right back to the beginning of his Jiu-Jitsu journey, recalling how he first discovered BJJ and his experiences travelling to California to train with the legendary Rickson Gracie. Mick shares stories from his time training with Rickson and recalls how the Gracie family welcomed the Athy men into their gym and treated them like family during their visits.We then explore what the Irish martial arts scene looked like when BJJ was still in its infancy. Mick shares some brilliant stories from those early days, including the time a martial artist walked into the gym and challenged one of his students because he believed his own martial art was "better" than Jiu-Jitsu.Stories like these give a fascinating insight into just how different the Irish martial arts and BJJ landscape was before the explosion of social media, online instructionals and the modern grappling scene.We look at the growth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Ireland and how the scene has evolved over the decades. Mick reflects on the changes he's witnessed, from the early days of Irish BJJ to the huge growth of the sport, and shares his thoughts on how the standard of Irish grappling today compares with when he first started.Mick also explains one of the philosophies that has become synonymous with his approach to Jiu-Jitsu: "No Space. No Peace." He breaks down what he means by using pressure, angles and positional control to systematically take away space from an opponent, leaving them with nowhere to move and, ultimately, "no peace."We also discuss the importance of longevity in Jiu-Jitsu. Rory McCann once described Mick as the "king of staying on the mats", and Mick explains the mindset and mentality that have allowed him to keep training for decades while so many others have come and gone.Finally, we look towards the future of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Ireland. Where is the sport heading? How will the next generation shape Irish grappling? And what does Mick think the future holds for BJJ in Ireland?A conversation about the history of Irish Jiu-Jitsu, Mick's experiences with Rickson Gracie and the Gracie family, the characters and stories from the early Irish scene, the evolution of the sport, pressure and control, longevity, and what it takes to stay on the mats for the long haul.⏱️ CHAPTERS🟢 FOLLOW MICK ALDRIDGE / ATHY JIU-JITSUInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/athyjiujitsu/https://www.instagram.com/athyjiujitsu/🟢 **FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLING**Instagram → @emeraldgrapplingTikTok → @emeraldgrappling👍 **Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!**#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #MickAldridge #AthyJiuJitsu #RicksonGracie #GracieJiuJitsu #NoSpaceNoPeace #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #BJJ #JiuJitsu #Grappling #IrishGrappling #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJHistory #BJJCommunity #BJJCoach #BJJBlackBelt #JiuJitsuMindset #BJJTraining #PressurePassing #PositionalControl #MartialArts #CombatSports #SubmissionGrappling

What would you sacrifice to become a great martial artist?In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Kacper Sawicki, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, black belt in Kickboxing, striking coach at Lakeland Jiu Jitsu and an active competitor on the Irish grappling scene.Kacper takes us through his journey from boxing, kickboxing and Muay Thai into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, discussing how his striking background continues to influence his grappling today. We explore his original MMA ambitions, the moment BJJ became more than just preparation, and how the sport became a lifelong pursuit.We discuss the ACL injury that tested his mindset, how setbacks have changed his approach to training, and the discipline required to balance multiple training sessions, coaching, work and life while continuing to chase improvement.Kacper also shares his evolution as a coach, his calm approach to teaching, and why constantly learning is essential for becoming better on and off the mats. From travelling to train in Thailand, Poland and Scramble camps, to learning from different coaches and environments, he explains how seeking new perspectives has shaped his development.We dive into the importance of training partners, competing through adversity, and the lessons that come from both winning and losing. Finally, we look towards the future - his goals as a competitor, coach and the legacy he hopes to build within Irish Jiu-Jitsu.A conversation about discipline, sacrifice, resilience and the mindset required to keep improving.⏱️ CHAPTERS🟢 FOLLOW KACPER SAWICKIInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/ghost_grappling/🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu---🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → @emeraldgrapplingTikTok → @emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #KacperSawicki #LakelandJiuJitsu #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #BJJ #JiuJitsu #Grappling #NoGi #Kickboxing #MuayThai #Striking #BJJCoach #BJJCompetition #PurpleBelt #MartialArts #CombatSports #BJJLifestyle #GrapplingPodcast #IrishGrappling #GhostGrappling #BJJTraining #JiuJitsuMindset #BJJCommunity #SubmissionGrappling #IBJJF #NoGiJiuJitsu #MartialArtsPodcast

In this special 2-year anniversary episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is delighted to be joined by two of his own coaches from Lakeland Jiu Jitsu: Ruairi Keena and Dave Hynes. Ruairi, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt, and Dave, a Brown Belt, share the story of their journeys through the sport.

We explore the origins of Lakeland Jiu Jitsu, tracing its roots from the early days of Mullingar Grappling to the thriving club it has become today. Ruairi and Dave reflect on the challenges of building a club from the ground up, the uncertainty of those formative years, and the moments that tested their commitment to the mats. They discuss what kept them moving forward when progress was slow and success was far from guaranteed.

Dave opens up about his return from a serious ACL injury and the lessons learned through recovery, resilience, and adapting his training approach. Together, they discuss the role of strength and conditioning in longevity, why so many grapplers neglect it, and how setbacks can often become the catalyst for growth.

The conversation also explores the realities of balancing family life, coaching responsibilities, and personal development. Ruairi and Dave share how parenthood has shaped their perspective both on and off the mats, the life lessons they hope to pass on to their children, and the challenges of managing multiple responsibilities while continuing to grow within the sport.We also dive into competition, the evolution of their jiu jitsu over the years, and why both have remained committed to a pressure-heavy, gi-focused style in an era increasingly dominated by no-gi grappling. Ruairi reflects on what earning his black belt meant to him, while both coaches discuss the techniques, concepts, and philosophies that have stood the test of time.

Finally, Ruairi and Dave share their coaching philosophies, what they look for in students who have the potential to go all the way to black belt, and the legacy they hope Lakeland Jiu Jitsu leaves behind for future generations.Some clubs produce competitors. Others build communities. Lakeland Jiu Jitsu has spent years building both.

⏱️ CHAPTERS

00:00 - 03:01 Intro & how Ruairi and Dave got started in Jiu Jitsu

03:02 - 08:53 Origins of Lakeland Jiu Jitsu, Mullingar Grappling & Fight Club!

08:54 - 14:02 SBG Mullingar and Longford BJJ Partnership

14:03 - 17:07 Tom King and His Influence on Lakeland Jiu Jitsu

17:08 - 23:30 Recovering from Herniated Discs & ACL Injury

23:31 - 27:52 Strength & Conditioning and the Mental side of Recovery

27:53 - 32:43 Returning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu After ACL Surgery

32:44 - 35:26 Modifying BJJ game after injuries

35:27 - 39:47 Heavy Pressure and Top Game in BJJ

39:48 - 47:55 BJJ for Self Defense in BJJ Beginners Course

47:56 - 52:19 Gi Focused Grappling

52:20 - 57:15 Returning to BJJ Competition

57:16 - 57:58 Ruairi's Competition Experience

57:59 - 1:07:12 Balancing BJJ, Family Life & Coaching Kids

1:07:13 - 1:13:52 The Coaching Team Behind Lakeland Jiu-Jitsu

1:13:53 - 1:19:02 Using BJJ for Self Defense in real life at ATM!

1:19:03 - 1:20:14 Every gym gets a "street fighter" bro

1:20:15 - 1:22:07 Seeing Future Black Belts

1:22:08 - 1:29:02 Student retention over the years

1:29:03 - 1:33:19 What getting a BJJ Black Belt meant to Ruairi & Developing as a Coach

1:33:20 - 1:42:20 Advice for Future Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coaches

1:42:21 - 1:44:09 The Legacy We Want to Leave in BJJ

1:44:10 - 1:47:12 Future of the Emerald Grappling Podcast

1:47:12 - 1:47:42 Outro

🟢 FOLLOW RUAIRI & DAVE ON INSTAGRAM

Ruairi's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/ruairi_keena/⁠

Dave's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/david_hynes_/https://www.instagram.com/ruairi_keena/⁠

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🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSU

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsu

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/

Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by John Barry, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and the founder of the brand, Crank. John shares from his early days in the sport to his evolution into a black belt. The centrepiece of our discussion is the entrepreneurial hustle behind building Crank. John pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like to manage gear design, branding, and web development single-handedly, and identifies the pivotal "wins" that proved his vision was working. We explore his philosophy on athlete sponsorship, including his recent signing of Erik Souza, a highly decorated BJJ Black Belt competitor here on the Irish BJJ scene, and what he looks for in a representative beyond just a winning record.We also dive into the competition side of the brand with the Crank Cashout. John breaks down the origins of the event, the lessons learned from the inaugural Crank Invitational show, and why he chose a submission-only, straight-elimination format to test the grit of the competitors. He shares his vision for the future of these platforms and what's next on the horizon for Crank.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 - 01:18 Introduction & John Barry's Origin story01:19 - 03:05 Jiu Jitsu is the challenge that keeps giving03:06 - 05:25 Feeling Jiu Jitsu Concepts with Dima Murovanni & Scramble Camps05:26 - 07:30 Closed Guard & K- Guard Evolution07:31 - 08:43 NoGi Jiu Jitsu training & Irish Talent08:44 - 10:02 When Jiu Jitsu became more than a hobby10:03 - 14:53 Crank BJJ origins & Crank Invitational14:54 - 17:05 Running Crank BJJ17:06 - 18:44 Erik Souza Signs with Crank BJJ18:45 - 20:01 What brands look for when sponsoring athletes20:02 - 22:50 Working with Sponsored Athletes22:51 - 23:02 Reach out Crank23:03 - 23:51 Opening the Crank Academy23:52 - 26:55 Crank Invitational 26:56 - 28:30 Running Future Events28:31 - 34:44 Crank Cash Out Event34:45 - 35:56 Changes to Future Events35:57 - 37:19 Come out to the Crank Cash Out37:20 - 39:19 Getting Comfortable Running Competitions39:20 - 41:37 What's next for Crank?41:38 - 43:20 John's Vision for Crank43:21 - 44:21 Where to find Crank BJJ Online44:22 - 44:44 Shout Out Longford Jiu Jitsu44:45 - 45:09 Like Share & Subscribe, Outro🟢 FOLLOW CRANK ONLINEInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/crank_bjj/⁠Website → https://crank.ie/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → @emeraldgrapplingTikTok → @emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#EmeraldGrappling #CrankBJJ #JohnBarry #CrankCashout #NoGi #BJJBlackBelt #SubOnly #BJJIreland #IrishBJJ #BJJEntrepreneur #JiuJitsuBrand #FightGear #Grappling #SubmissionOnly #BJJLifestyle #JiuJitsu #BJJ #MartialArts #CombatSports #NoGiGrappling

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by the minds behind Ireland's newest invitational, The Money Pit: Rory McCann and Keith Jordan. Rory, a 10th Planet Black Belt, and Keith, a Brown Belt and founder of Jordan Fitness Tullow, catch us up on their respective journeys through the mats - from Rory’s pursuit of the 10th Planet system to Keith’s journey from bodybuilding to Wimp 2 Warrior.

The centre piece of our discussion is their new invitational, The Money Pit. We delve into the origins of the idea and discuss why they believe Ireland is ready for a specialised "Pit" format. Rory and Keith offer a fascinating breakdown of the Sub-only philosophy, explaining why they chose to stick with a continuous match format over the three-round scoring systems popularised by CJI.

They offer insight into why they chose to highlight the Blue Belt -99kg division for their inaugural event, their search for Ireland's best Blue Belt and what "X-factors" they look for when hand-picking athletes for an invitation-only bracket.

Finally, Rory and Keith offer critical advice for aspiring competitors on how to get noticed for future cards and discuss the Bet Matches you can make to get featured on the show. Talk is cheap, prove yourself on The Money Pit!

⏱️ CHAPTERS

00:00 - 05:57 Intro & how Rory and Keith got started in Jiu Jitsu

05:58 - 07:06 Never Back Down movies

07:07 - 11:11 Building the Jiu Jitsu community at Jordan Fitness Tullow

11:12 - 16:49 The Benefits of Jiu Jitsu for all ages

16:50 - 22:35 Engaging Kids in Jiu Jitsu & Fostering a Team Spirit

22:36 - 27:12 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu in Ireland, Rory is anti-gi

27:13 - 30:00 Adapting your Game as you get older

30:01 - 34:31 Competition & Team Work in Jiu Jitsu

34:32 - 36:52 Is there too many jiu jitsu competitions at the moment?

36:53 - 45:57 What is The Money Pit?

45:58 - 47:25 Why Blue Belts for the first event?

47:26 - 48:58 10 Minute Matches & EBI Overtime

48:59 - 50:15 Why is it -99kg? What about the small guys?

50:16 - 52:35 Sub Only Format makes it more exciting

52:36 - 59:08 How to get on The Money Pit & Bet Matches

59:09 - 1:00:55 Tag the lads to get The Money Pit's attention

1:00:56 - 1:01:34 Aaron's Trial Idea for the next Money Pit event

1:01:35 - 1:03:42 Make a name for yourself at The Money Pit

1:03:43 - 1:06:57 Where to contact The Money Pit & Their Sponsors

1:06:58 - 1:07:41 Outro, Like Share & Subscribe

🟢 FOLLOW RORY & KEITH ON INSTAGRAM

Rory's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rorymccann10p/⁠Keith's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/k.jordan13/

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🟢 FOLLOW THE MONEY PIT FOR UPDATES

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/themoneypit.ire/

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🟢 FOLLOW JORDAN TULLOW FITNESS

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jordanfitnesstullow/

Website → https://www.jordanfitnessireland.ie/

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🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSU

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsu

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/

Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu

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🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLING

Instagram → @emeraldgrappling

TikTok → @emeraldgrappling

👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!

#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #TheMoneyPit #10thPlanet #RoryMcCann #KeithJordan #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #SubOnly #JiuJitsu #Grappling #10thPlanetIreland #JordanFitness #NinjaCubs #BJJInvitational #NoGi #BJJLifestyle #JiuJitsuLifestyle #BJJTraining #BJJCommunity #IrishGrappling #LegLocks #Wrestling #SubmissionOnly #BJJCoach #MartialArts #BJJPodcast #BlueBelt #HeavyweightBJJ #10P4L #ThePit

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Shane Sweeney, the Head Coach of PSF Limerick and a purple belt under the legendary Heath Pedigo. As an IBJJF No-Gi World Champion and AJP Gi World Champion, Shane has medalled at nearly every major international tournament. He catches us up on his transition from a high-level rugby background into Jiu Jitsu.We discuss Shane’s time training at the world-renowned Pedigo Submission Fighting headquarters in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. He takes us behind the scenes of the "Daisy Fresh" laundromat, describing the unique team spirit that the cameras didn't always catch. Our conversation delves into the "PSF Surge" currently taking over Ireland and Shane’s mission to dismantle the "lone wolf" mentality often found in the BJJ community. He explains how he is implementing field-sport camaraderie at PSF Limerick, prioritising the team trophy over individual glory, and why building a "team-first" culture is the key to long-term success. He also highlights the massive impact of having a world-class black belt like Josh Murdock in the room to sharpen the daily intensity of the Irish scene.Finally, Shane shares his five-year vision for PSF Limerick and the Irish competitive landscape, offering essential advice for listeners on why embracing a team-centric mindset is the ultimate "cheat code" for reaching the top of the podium.🟢 FOLLOW SHANE ON INSTAGRAM⁠Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/runningbacktopsf/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW THE LIMERICK SLIDE BYInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/psflimerickcity/Linktree → https://linktr.ee/psflimerickcity?utm_source=linktree_profile_share----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → instagram.com/emeraldgrapplingTikTok → tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #ShaneSweeney #DaisyFresh #PSFLimerick #PedigoSubmissionFighting #HeathPedigo #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #BJJ #JiuJitsu #Grappling #NoGi #BJJWorldChampion #LimerickBJJ #JiuJitsuLifestyle #BJJTraining #GrappleFest #PSF #TheLimerickSlideBy #RugbyToBJJ #BJJRecovery #IBJJF #AJP #NoGiWorlds #IrishGrappling #BJJCommunity #MartialArtsPodcast #BJJCompetition #SubmissionGrappling #BJJCoach

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron takes the mic for his first ever solo episode, offering a behind the scenes and honest look at how he is approaching training and competition in 2026.

He reflects on a tough return to competition last year, stepping onto the mats on just a few days’ notice after a two and a half year layoff and losing in under 20 seconds. Rather than avoiding the experience, Aaron explains how it reshaped his mindset and fuelled a decision to compete far more consistently in the year ahead. Drawing on advice from previous guest Oisin McCabe, he discusses the value of high match volume events like Grappling Industries and Grapple City, where round robin formats can give athletes dozens, even hundreds, of matches over time.

Aaron outlines why these competitions are now a priority. They provide more mat time, more live data, and the ability to record matches and bring them back to his coaches to identify gaps and make targeted improvements.

The conversation then shifts to training. Aaron speaks candidly about feeling directionless in previous years, showing up to sessions without a clear goal and seeing that lack of intent affect his development. This year, he is taking full ownership of his progress by entering each session with purpose, studying instructionals through platforms like The Art of Jiu Jitsu, and building a more structured learning approach outside the gym.

He also breaks down new Sunday training sessions with teammates focused on games, positional sparring, and system building. The aim is to create controlled, uncomfortable situations that develop confidence, problem solving, and sharper performances in competition.

Aaron closes the episode by thanking everyone who has supported the podcast over the past two years and showing appreciation to the guests who have welcomed him into their gyms and shared their time, knowledge, and experience.

⏱️ CHAPTERS

00:00 - 01:00 Intro

01:01 - 02:34 My Last Competition Experience

02:35 - 05:50 Round Robin Competitions for More Experience!

05:51 - 08:58 Taking Ownership of My Training

08:59 - 10:52 Ecological Approach to Jiu Jitsu Training Sessions

10:53 - 12:58 Benefits of Cross Training in Jiu Jitsu

12:59 - 13:55 Thanks for all the Support & Like Share and Subscribe

13:56 - 14:30 Outro

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🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSU

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsu

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/

Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu

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🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLING

Instagram → @emeraldgrappling

TikTok → @emeraldgrappling

👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!

#BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJ #JiuJitsu #Grappling #NoGi #GiJiuJitsu #BJJTraining #JiuJitsuTraining #BJJCompetition #CompetitionPrep #GrapplingTournament #BJJLifestyle #BJJMindset #MartialArts #CombatSports #JiuJitsuLife #BJJMotivation #TrainWithPurpose #PositionalSparring #GrapplingIndustries #GrappleCity #MatchExperience #BJJPodcast #GrapplingPodcast #EmeraldGrappling #BJJCommunity #JiuJitsuJourney #BJJImprovement #BJJGoals #JiuJitsuAthlete #Podcast #BJJPodcast

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Oisin McCabe, the owner and Head Coach of Compound Martial Arts and a rare "triple threat" in the combat sports world. As a triple Black Belt in Karate, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (under Andy Ryan), Oisin brings a unique, multidisciplinary perspective to the mats. He catches us up on his martial arts origins, explaining how his background in Karate eventually led him to the grappling arts and how the Judo-heavy influence of Team Ryano shaped his overall style.We discuss the crossover between Judo and Jiu Jitsu, with Oisin identifying specific concepts, such as kuzushi timing and footwork patterns - that he believes BJJ athletes often overlook. He argues that the understanding of pinning in Judo is miles ahead of standard Jiu Jitsu control.Our conversation delves into the science of skill acquisition, with Oisin breaking down the critical power of repetition and technical drilling. He shares his ambitious goal of becoming the best coach in the world and details the specific methods he uses to ensure he is constantly evolving, from deep study to cross-training. He offers insight into his role at Compound Martial Arts, explaining the common principles he applies to build champions, whether the student is training for BJJ, MMA, or striking.Finally, Oisin offers critical advice for listeners on the values and habits necessary for long-term success and highlights the specific mindset required to evolve from a student into a high-level martial artist.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 - 05:42 Intro & Oisin's Origin Story05:43 - 07:55 Becoming a Beginner Again07:56 - 11:53 Seeing Judo as a Superpower11:54 - 14:13 Pinning in Judo is Elite14:14 - 15:48 Judokas hitting Triangles from EVERYWHERE15:49 - 18:34 Leg Grabs in Judo18:35 - 20:58 The Power of Kuzushi / Off Balancing20:59 - 23:37 Getting the Takedown or Setting up the Guard Pull23:38 - 27:02 Competing in Judo to get your next belt27:03 - 35:40 Quality Control in Martial Arts35:41 - 39:51 Weight is what Matters, Not Belts39:52 - 42:02 Not taking BJJ so Serious42:03 - 43:51 Belts as Seasons43:52 - 53:52 Developing as a Coach53:53 - 56:47 Chase Skills Not Belts56:48 - 01:07:00 What is the Hardest Part of a Coach's Job?01:07:01 - 01:09:44 Fionn's Performances at ADCC Ireland And IBJJF NoGi Euros 202501:09:45 - 01:12:36 Having Confidence in Yourself at Competitions01:12:37 - 01:16:42 Performance is when Preparation and Comfort Meets01:16:42 - 01:20:48 Helping Students to Reach Their full Potential01:20:49 - 01:26:36 Building Champions at Compound Martial Arts01:26:37 - 01:28:29 Connect with Oisin Online01:28:30 - 01:28:57 Like, Share & Subscribe & Outro🟢 FOLLOW OISIN ON INSTAGRAM⁠Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/coach_oisin_mccabe/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW COMPOUND MARTIAL ARTSFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/CompoundMartialArts/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/compoundmartialarts/Website → https://compoundmartialarts.com/----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → @emeraldgrapplingTikTok → @emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#IrishBJJ #BJJ #Judo #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #OisinMcCabe #CompoundMartialArts #JiuJitsu #JudoForBJJ #MartialArtsCoaching #Grappling #TeamRyano #BJJTraining #BJJDrills #SkillAcquisition #BJJLifestyle #Kuzushi #Newaza #BJJBlackBelt #JudoBlackBelt #MMA #CombatSports #JiuJitsuIreland #BJJTechnique #WrestlingForBJJ #MartialArtsPhilosophy

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by returning guest David Zamora, a BJJ brown belt, the striking coach at Lakeland Jiu Jitsu, and one of the most active competitors on the circuit. David catches us up on his incredible run since his last appearance, which includes securing Quad Gold at the Galway International Open, a Gold and two Bronze medals at the ADCC Ireland Pro Divisons, and a strong performance at the IBJJF NoGi Euros.We discuss the power of consistency and how it has been the driving force behind his recent competitive success and his promotion to brown belt. David shares the story of how he became a sponsored athlete for Scramble Brand and takes us inside the two Scramble Camps he attended in Malaga. He describes what it was like training alongside some of the best competitors in the world and recounts a memorable "final boss battle" roll that took place on the second to last day of the camp.Our conversation delves into the lifestyle of a full time athlete, with David breaking down his daily non negotiables regarding sleep, supplements, and recovery both in and out of camp. He explains how his approach to training has evolved over the last year and offers insight into his role as a coach, detailing the work that goes into growing a business and building a high level room for both striking and Jiu Jitsu.Finally, David reflects on whether losses serve as a more powerful motivator than wins and shares his mindset on waiting for big opportunities to present themselves. He offers critical advice for listeners on the importance of listening to your coach to become the best version of yourself and highlights the one aspect of Jiu Jitsu that he feels too many grapplers are currently neglecting.⏱️ CHAPTERS🟢 FOLLOW DAVID ON INSTAGRAM⁠Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/daviid__0909/⁠----------------------------------------------------------------------------SPEND LESS, SUPPORT MORE 🫶🏻Make sure to check out David's sponsor, Scramble, for some of the highest quality grappling gear on the market. They offer slick designs and a comfort-fitting feel, and they're a company that actively supports many local competitors!https://www.scrambleireland.com/ https://www.instagram.com/scrambleireland Make sure to mention David Zamora in your delivery notes!----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW LAKELAND JIU JITSUFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/LakelandJiuJitsuInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/Website → https://lakelandjiujitsu.eu----------------------------------------------------------------------------🟢 FOLLOW EMERALD GRAPPLINGInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrapplingTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more Irish Jiu-Jitsu conversations!#EmeraldGrappling #IrishBJJ #BJJIreland #ScrambleBrand #BJJRecovery #AthleteMindset #BJJCompetitor #BrownBelt #JiuJitsuLifestyle #NoGiGrappling #BJJTraining #Grappling #BJJ #LakelandJiuJitsu #ADCCIreland #BJJCoach #JiuJitsuCommunity #BJJLife #EliteMindset #MartialArtsIreland #LakelandJiuJitsu #TeamLakeland #DavidZamora #ElitePerformance #HighPerformanceTraining #AthleteRecovery #ProMindset #BJJConditioning #MullingarBJJ #FightPrep #TrainingCamp #FullTimeGrappler #ChampionMentality #SportsPerformance #NextLevelTraining