Emerald Grappling

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Kieran Davern, a 2nd degree black belt, the head coach of Éire Grapple, and the President of ADCC Ireland. Kieran shares his journey from starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2008 to becoming a prominent figure in the Irish grappling community, and a top-level competitor on prestigious stages like Polaris and Grapplefest.We discuss the rapid evolution of the sport in Ireland over the past decade, and Kieran offers his perspective on the key factors that have driven its growth. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at his mental and physical preparation for elite-level competitions and offers advice for aspiring competitors. Kieran also explains his "hybrid" coaching style, which blends traditional methods with the Constraints-Led Approach to encourage creativity and problem-solving on the mats.Our conversation delves into the specifics of wrestling, with Kieran breaking down how he teaches students to chain takedown attempts together. As the President of ADCC Ireland, Kieran recaps the most recent event, highlighting standout matches and giving a shout-out to his student, Kathy Foy, for her successful performance. He also makes an exciting exclusive announcement for the upcoming 2026 ADCC Ireland season: an invitational show where top athletes will compete on a big stage, a testament to the high level of talent in Ireland.Finally, Kieran shares his long-term goals for both Éire Grapple and ADCC Ireland, and offers listeners a way to connect with him online to train or book a seminar.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 02:18 Intro & Kieran's Origin Story02:19 - 04:00 Early Days of Irish Jiu Jitsu 04:01 - 06:07 Improved Standards growing the sport06:08 - 08:20 Learning from DVD Instructionals & Tom Egan08:21 - 12:40 Opening Éire Grapple & Something Special Building Up12:41 - 15:24 Competing on Grapplefest & Polaris 715:25 - 18:06 Mental Preparation for Invitationals & Matches18:07 - 20:44 Researching your opponents 20:45 - 25:34 Competition Mindset25:35 - 26:45 Training Consistently26:46 - 28:35 Refining your Techniques as a Black Belt28:36 - 33:20 Developing out your game33:21 - 34:02 Having Fun During Training34:03 - 42:52 Wrestling & Chaining Takedowns42:53 - 46:45 Constraint Led Approach for BJJ46:46 - 49:22 Kieran's Hybrid Coaching Approach 49:23 - 53:53 ADCC Ireland & Recapping the last ADCC Ireland Events53:54 - 1:01:39 Getting more ADCC Experience for Irish Athletes1:01:40 - 1:04:21 Standout Performances from the last ADCC Ireland1:04:22 - 1:08:44 Upcoming ADCC Ireland 2026 Season1:08:45 - 1:11:30 EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENT: ADCC Ireland Invitational Event coming in 20261:11:31 - 1:13:31 Kathy Foy Shoutout Performance1:13:32 - 1:14:19 Mark Dowd Shoutout1:14:20 - 1:17:10 Kieran's Goals for the future1:17:11 - 1:18:01 Connect with Kieran Online1:18:02 - 1:18:27 Like, Share & Subscribe & OutroMake sure to follow Kieran on the following:https://www.instagram.com/kierandavern1/https://www.instagram.com/eiregrapple/https://www.instagram.com/adccireland/https://www.linktr.ee/kierandavern If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------SPEND LESS, SUPPORT MORE 🫶🏻Want to save money while supporting your favourite BJJ athletes? Use Kieran's discount code to support his BJJ journey!https://eu.tatamifightwear.com/ DAVERN20 ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅#EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #BJJPodcast #KieranDavern #ADCCIreland #EireGrapple #IrishGrappling #JiuJitsuIreland #Grappling #SubmissionGrappling #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJ #ADCC #NOGI #GrapplingNews

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Ellie Hassell-Cramer, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt under Symmetry Jiu-Jitsu and the head coach of BJJ Gort. Originally from the United States, Ellie began training at just four years old alongside her parents, both third-degree black belts and academy owners, giving her a rare upbringing on the mats that continues to shape her journey today.We discuss Ellie’s unique start in jiu-jitsu, the influence of the Gracie family lineage on her approach to the art, and what it was like deciding to open her own academy in Ireland, encouraged by her husband as a way to reconnect with the sport. With nearly a decade of experience coaching kids, Ellie shares her insights on the differences between teaching children and adults, how she adapts her methods for different age groups, and the key lessons she hopes young students carry into their everyday lives.Our conversation explores the importance of self-defence in the Gracie tradition, how Ellie incorporates it into her classes, and why it remains an essential foundation for complete beginners. We also touch on the balance between coaching and personal progression, the role of community in building a welcoming gym environment, and the broader changes Ellie has witnessed in the jiu-jitsu landscape over the years.Finally, Ellie offers advice for coaches, especially those starting kids’ programs, and highlights the core benefits for parents considering enrolling their children in jiu-jitsu. She also shares where you can connect with her online and how to get involved at BJJ Gort.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 03:12 Intro & Ellie 's BJJ Origin Story

03:13 - 06:20 Gracie Jiu Jitsu Lineage

06:21 - 08:02 Did Ellie always want to open a gym?

08:03 - 09:07 Difference Coaching Kids & Adults

09:08 - 11:06 Ellie's Approach to Coaching Different Age Groups

11:07 - 14:20 How Ellie Runs a Kid's Jiu Jitsu Class

14:21 - 15:43 Kids Enjoying Jiu Jitsu

15:44 - 16:50 Advice for Coaches Starting a Kid's Jiu Jitsu Class

16:51 - 18:40 How Ellie Balances her own Jiu Jitsu Training

18:41 - 21:30 Self Defence in Ellie's BJJ Classes

21:31 - 22:38 Using BJJ for Self Defence & Wristlocks!

22:39 - 26:52 BJJ for Self Defence Key Lessons

26:53 - 28:09 How Jiu Jitsu Influences your life off the mats

28:10 - 30:55 How BJJ Builds a Community

30:56 - 33:04 Biggest Change in BJJ over the Years for Ellie

33:05 - 34:37 How Kids are getting so good at jiu jitsu

34:38 - 35:28 BJJ Gort & Ellie Competing in Jiu Jitsu

35:29 - 37:45 Future of Jiu Jitsu

37:46 - 38:21 Connect with Ellie online

38:22 - 38:48 5 Star Review & Subscribe

38:49 - 39:28 Key Benefits for Kids training Jiu Jitsu

39:29 - 39:38 Outro, Remember to Like Share & Subscribe!Make sure to follow BJJ Gort on the following:https://www.bjjgort.com/https://www.instagram.com/bjjgort/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570234120304If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅#EllieHassellCramer #BJJGort #SymmetryJiuJitsu #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #WomenWhoRoll #BJJWomen #BJJPurpleBelt #BJJCoach #BJJForKids #KidsJiuJitsu #BJJParents #BJJCommunity #BJJFamily #JiuJitsuJourney #BJJLifestyle #GracieLineage #SelfDefenseBJJ #MartialArtsForKids #MartialArtsIreland #BJJInspiration #JiuJitsuForEveryone #BJJTraining #BJJTeaching #BJJGrowth #BJJAdvice #BJJMotivation #IrishMartialArts #WomenInMartialArts

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron welcomes back Patrick Sheridan, a first-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, co-owner of Satori BJJ, and organiser behind SubOnly Events. Over a year since his last appearance, Pat updates us on his training, coaching, and involvement in Ireland’s growing jiu-jitsu scene.

We discuss the Irish Defence Forces and Garda BJJ training sessions, his return to the mats after a back injury, his mission to get friends outside the sport involved, and the pressures that come with competition.

Our conversation covers the rapid rise of no-gi jiu-jitsu in Ireland, standout Irish athletes making waves internationally, and the build-up to the Irish Nationals on September 28th, including Pat’s vision for the event and its custom trophies.

We also examine the current state of Irish BJJ competition, the balance between growth and over-saturation, and Pat’s proposal for a unified competition calendar. He shares his approach to safety and injury prevention, especially for younger athletes aiming for longevity, and offers advice for anyone looking to grow their role in the jiu-jitsu community, whether as a coach, referee, competitor, or event organiser.

Chapters ➡

00:00 - 2:40 Introduction & Open Mat Recap

2:41 - 13:14 Pat's Return to training

13:15 - 16:05 Irish Defence Forces Jiu Jitsu Club & Training Sessions

16:06 - 21:25 UK Defence Forces, Jiu Jitsu Training & the Benefits

21:26 - 22:09 Everyone should try Jiu Jitsu at least once

22:10 - 26:10 Pressure of Competing & Finding your place in Jiu Jitsu

26:11 - 28:30 Growing the Sport & Ref Course

28:31 - 38:25 The Irish Jiu Jitsu Nationals Competition

38:26 - 41:56 Refs & Cross Training

41:57 - 43:17 Plugging the Nationals Competition

43:18 - 44:16 4 Competitions on 1 weekend....Chaos

44:17 - 50:45 Competitions, Politics & Competitions all over Ireland

50:46 - 53:46 Why Pat never ran an Invitational event

53:47 - 59:21 The Growth of NoGi Jiu Jitsu in Ireland

59:22 - 1:03:04 Balancing Competing, Training & Running a gym

1:03:05 - 1:14:08 Injury Prevention Tips & Recovery

1:14:09 - 1:24:31 Full Circle Moment during last Promotion Night in Satori

1:24:32 - 1:26:00 Future Open Mats & Cross Training with Satori

1:26:01 - 1:27:14 Outro, Remember to Like Share & Subscribe!

Make sure to follow Satori on the following:https://www.satoribjj.comhttps://www.instagram.com/satoribjj/ https://www.instagram.com/subonlyevents/https://www.facebook.com/Satori.BJJ.Dublin

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#PatrickSheridanBJJ #SatoriBJJ #SubOnlyEvents #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #NoGiBJJ #BJJCompetition #BJJNationals #IrishNationalsBJJ #BJJEventsIreland #BJJCoach #BJJBlackBelt #FirstDegreeBlackBelt #BJJCommunity #BJJTraining #BJJInjuryRecovery #BJJPressure #BJJGrowth #BJJDevelopment #BJJOrganiser #BJJEventLife #BJJForEveryone #BJJInspiration #BJJLongevity #BJJAdvice #BJJReferee #BJJCompetitor #BJJFuture #IrishMartialArts #JiuJitsuLeadership

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron sits down with Barry Oglesby, a third-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, founder of Kyuzo Jiu Jitsu, and one of Ireland’s original BJJ black belts. Barry shares the story of his early beginnings in jiu-jitsu, transitioning from taekwondo and how training has changed since he began.Beyond the mats, Barry is also a driving force in the Irish BJJ scene as a co-founder of Ireland BJJ, the organisation behind major national tournaments such as the Emerald Cup, Shamrock Cup, and the prestigious Irish Open. He takes us behind the scenes of these landmark events, revealing the vision that inspired them, the challenges of running large-scale tournaments, and the continuous improvements made to elevate the competitor experience.Barry offers valuable insight into the importance of high-quality refereeing, sharing how Ireland BJJ works to maintain consistent standards and the training processes in place for officials. We also explore the exciting launch of Ireland BJJ’s new Gi Invitational, set to debut this September.Listeners will gain an inside look at what it takes to build and sustain a thriving jiu-jitsu community, as Barry shares lessons from his time as a coach, organiser, and competitor. He also offers thoughtful advice for anyone looking to step into the world of BJJ, whether as an athlete, referee, coach, or event organiser. Finally, Barry lets us know where you can find him and Ireland BJJ online, and how to get involved in upcoming events.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 6:42 Intro & Barry's BJJ Origin Story6:43 - 14:36 How training has evolved14:37 - 17:00 Building a foundation and framework17:01 - 21:30 Marcelo in Action & SubMeta21:31 - 24:21 Football highlights analogy & side control24:22 - 26:54 Biggest Changes in Training26:55 - 32:01 Ireland BJJ Events Origin Story32:02 - 36:39 Emerald Cup36:40 - 41:20 Behind the Scenes of Running a BJJ Event41:21 - 45:44 Dealing with Event Feedback45:45 - 49:51 Referees & VRA49:52 - 52:59 Ranking System & Grand Slam for Ireland BJJ Events53:00 - 59:33 Ireland BJJ Gi invitational Event59:34 - 1:08:08 Barry's Goals & Ireland BJJ's Mission Statement1:08:09 - 1:10:46 Gi invitational Criteria1:10:47 - 1:14:37 Future of BJJ1:14:38 - 1:15:42 Where to find Barry Online1:15:43 - 1:15:56 Remember to Subscribe1:15:57 - 1:20:52 Advice for anyone looking to get involved in BJJ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Make sure to follow Barry on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/grapplerman/Make sure to check out Kyuzo Jiu Jitsu for some training!https://www.instagram.com/kyuzojiujitsu/Make sure to check out Ireland BJJ Events:https://www.irelandbjj.comhttps://www.instagram.com/ireland_bjj/Looking to get involved with any of Ireland BJJ's events, reach out to the below [email protected] sure to check out Barry's Podcast, The Kyuzo Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@TheKyuzoPodcastIf you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------#BarryOglesbyBJJ #KyuzoJiuJitsu #IrelandBJJ #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #IrishOpenBJJ #ShamrockCupBJJ #EmeraldCupBJJ #BJJEventOrganiser #BJJCommunity #BJJCoach #BJJBlackBelt #ThirdDegreeBlackBelt #JiuJitsuMindset #BJJCompetition #BJJRefereeing #BJJRanks #BJJGrandSlam #BJJSuperFights #GiInvitational #SmoothcompRanking #BJJGrowth #BJJInEurope #BJJTournamentLife #BehindTheScenesBJJ #BJJForEveryone #BJJInspiration #IrishMartialArts #JiuJitsuLeadership

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Killian Lawlor, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt and the head coach of Barrog Jiu Jitsu. Fresh off his gold medal victory at the 2024 IBJJF NoGi European Championships and a recent bronze at the IBJJF Masters Europeans in the Gi, Killian offers an in-depth look into his preparation for these high-stakes competitions, breaking down his training strategies and the specific techniques that led to his success.Killian shares his personal journey into BJJ, detailing how his approach to training has evolved from a white belt to brown belt, highlighting key differences in his methodology over the years. He provides a unique perspective on the rising tide of Irish Jiu-Jitsu, reflecting on the significant achievement of having three Irish athletes share the podium at the IBJJF Masters Europeans.As both a competitor and a dedicated coach, Killian discusses the delicate balance of managing his own training schedule with the responsibilities of running Barrog Jiu Jitsu and teaching his students. He delves into how his competitive experiences directly shape his coaching philosophy, offering valuable insights for both practitioners and aspiring coaches.Looking ahead, Killian shares his future aspirations for himself as a competitor and his vision for Barrog Jiu Jitsu. He also provides his perspective on the future direction of jiu-jitsu as a whole. Finally, Killian offers essential advice for aspiring practitioners and competitors and lets listeners know the best ways to connect with him and Barrog Jiu Jitsu online.Just a heads up for viewers & listeners: this episode contains a significant amount of strong language and cursing. Viewer discretion is advised.

Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 2:00 Intro & Killian's BJJ Origin Story

2:01 - 6:20 Evolution Through the Belts

6:21 - 8:35 Building Mat Experience

8:36 - 13:05 IBJJF NoGi Euros 2024 Recap

13:06 - 15:10 Chasing the Best to Improve

15:11 - 16:56 IBJJF Master Europeans 2025

16:57 - 21:32 Skill Difference between Belts

21:33 - 29:06 Irish Jiu Jitsu Success

29:07 - 32:22 Learning from the Top Athletes/Events

32:23 - 37:02 Balancing Training while running a Gym

37:03 - 44:37 Cross Training

44:38 - 49:25 Game Planning for Gi & NoGi

49:26 - 55:13 Future Plans for Barrog & Killian

55:14 - 1:01:07 Future of Jiu Jitsu

1:01:08 - 1:01:30 Connect with Killian

1:01:31 - 1:03:14 Advice for all Competitors

1:03:15 - 1:03:38 Outro

Make sure to follow Killian on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/klawlorbjj/

Make sure to check out Barrog Jiu Jitsu when you're in Athy for some training

!https://www.instagram.com/barrogjiujitsu/

If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling

Remember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron is joined by Ryan Smyth, a 2nd-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, two-time European Champion, and the head coach of Atlantic Jiu Jitsu in Sligo. Ryan shares his journey from first discovering BJJ to becoming a respected competitor and coach, and the evolution of his training philosophy over the years. As a dedicated instructor, Ryan discusses how he approaches belt testing, what he values most in student progression, and how he integrates modern coaching methodologies such as the ecological approach into his curriculum.We dive into the origins of Atlantic Jiu Jitsu’s renowned training camps, which have featured some of the biggest names in the sport, including Lucas Lepri, Cobrinha, and Jon Thomas, and Ryan offers an exclusive announcement about a major guest for this year’s upcoming August camp. He also shares insights into his newest project: a training initiative that uses jiu-jitsu to promote the Irish language.Ryan shares valuable tips on competition mindset, reflections on his standout moments on the mats, and the life lessons jiu-jitsu has instilled in him beyond the gym. We wrap up with a look at the future of jiu-jitsu and how to connect with Ryan and Atlantic Jiu Jitsu online.Whether you're a student, a coach, or just passionate about the sport, Ryan’s perspective offers inspiration and practical wisdom.

Chapters ➡

00:00 - 9:30 Intro & Ryan's BJJ Origin Story

09:31 - 12:31 Changed Approach to Training

12:32 - 18:29 Ecological Approach in practice at Atlantic

18:30 - 27:53 Belt Testing at Atlantic

27:54 - 29:53 World-Class Training Camps in Sligo

29:54 - 35:20 Selecting Training Camp Instructors

35:21 - 37:30 Favourite Training Camp for Ryan

37:31 - 38:36 EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENT about next camp

38:37 - 41:03 Does Ryan wish he trained differently?

41:04 - 44:59 Ryan's Competition career & coaching

45:00 - 49:05 Life Adjustments for Better BJJ

49:06 - 54:59 Competition Mindset

55:00 - 01:00:35 Future of Jiu Jitsu

1:00:36 - 1:02:59 Outro

Make sure to follow Ryan on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/smyth.ryan/

Make sure to check out Atlantic Jiu Jitsu when you're in Sligo for some training

https://www.sligobjj.comhttps://

www.instagram.com/atlanticsligo/

https://www.facebook.com/atlanticsligo/

https://www.tiktok.com/atlanticsligo/

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Follow Emerald Grappling on:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrappling

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#RyanSmythBJJ #AtlanticJiuJitsu #EmeraldGrapplingPodcast #IrishJiuJitsu #BJJInIreland #SligoJiuJitsu #BJJBlackBelt #2ndDegreeBlackBelt #EuropeanBJJChampion #MastersBJJ #BJJCoach #JiuJitsuMindset #CompetitionMindset #ModernBJJ #BJJEvolution #CoachingPhilosophy #BJJBeltTesting #FundamentalsFirst #StudentDevelopment #ConstraintLedTraining #BJJTrainingCamp #BJJEventsIreland #LucasLepriSeminar #CobrinhaBJJ #JonThomasJiuJitsu #JiuJitsuSeminars #SummerBJJCamp #BJJGuestInstructor #GaeilgeThroughBJJ #JiuJitsuAsGaeilge

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron chats with Lyndon Quinn, a BJJ Brown Belt and coach at Lakeland Jiu Jitsu in Mullingar. Lyndon shares the story of how he got started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and reflects on what it’s like training under the guidance of his brother and head coach, Tyrone. We explore the stylistic differences between the two brothers on the mats and what sets their approaches apart. Fresh off his impressive bronze medal performance at ADCC Ireland, he walks us through his preparation, match strategy, and key takeaways from competing on one of the biggest stages. He also discusses how he develops his dynamic sequences of takedowns and submissions, offering insight into how drilling and live training play a role in refining his game.As a coach, Lyndon shares his passion for teaching and the unexpected lessons he’s learned. He dives deep into leg lock fundamentals, offering safety tips, starting points for newcomers, and the principles behind attacking and defending effectively.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 3:17 Intro & Lyndon's BJJ Origin Story3:17 - 4:29 Battle Tested Techniques & Training4:30 - 7:21 Finding your own style & insights7:22 - 8:29 Learning from higher belts8:30 - 9:45 Trending Moves in Jiu Jitsu9:46 - 14:35 ADCC Ireland Preparation14:36 - 19:23 ADCC Ruleset19:24 - 21:58 Leglocks21:59 - 26:00 Leglock Camp with Jozef Chen & Mateusz Szczecinski26:01 - 27:16 Asking Questions during Training27:17 - 32:21 Coaching & Expanding Your Game32:22 - 34:02 Never Competed in the Gi34:03 - 35:43 Focused Training35:44 - 38:09 MMA Training & Striking38:10 - 41:19 Chaining Takedowns41:20 - 44:09 Wrestling for BJJ44:10 - 45:39 Chaining Guards45:40 - 47:39 Eoghan O'Flanagan at Lakeland Jiu Jitsu47:40 - 50:50 Cross Training in London & Benefits50:51 - 52:53 Future of Jiu Jitsu52:24 - 54:24 Leglocks from Top Position54: 25 - 57:41 OutroMake sure to follow Lyndon on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lyndon_phoenix/Make sure to check out Lakeland Jiu Jitsu for some training https://www.instagram.com/lakelandjiujitsu/If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅----------------------------------------------------------------------------Want to support the podcast? Check out the links below! For remote podcasts, I use Riverside.fm! Records 4K video and great audio!https://www.riverside.fm/?via=aaron-murphyCreate clips like a boss using Opus Pro! https://www.opus.pro/?via=fbd8e1

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron sits down with Rowan Lovett, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and the driving force behind Monarch BJJ in Loughrea, Galway. Rowan recounts his intriguing start in BJJ following a striking incident and takes us through the momentous experience of his recent Black Belt promotion. Listeners will gain insight into the life lessons jiu-jitsu has imparted on Rowan throughout his journey. We explore his extensive competition experience, examining how his mindset has shifted over time, especially in his role as a gym owner. As a dedicated coach, Rowan breaks down the innovative 'ecological approach' to BJJ, explaining how its constraint-based games differ from traditional coaching and the advantages it offers his students. He shares key lessons learned as a coach, his methods for continuous improvement, and his definition of coaching success. For those considering coaching, Rowan provides essential advice for beginners. Looking ahead, Rowan shares his vision for the future of BJJ and offers words of wisdom for anyone starting their own jiu-jitsu path today. Finally, he lets us know the best ways to reach him online and where you can find Monarch BJJ to train.

Chapters ➡

00:00 - 07:25 Intro & Rowan's BJJ Origin Story

07:26 - 08:29 Rowan's First Competition

08:30 - 12:37 Going up through the belts

12:38 - 14:24 Competitions in Ireland

14:25 - 19:42 Rowan's Journey to Black Belt

19:43 - 23:55 What has jiu jitsu thought you?

23:56 - 25:33 Kong Fu on the ground

25:34 - 27:17 Black Belt Debut

27:18 - 28:57 Does Competition come Naturally to you?

28:58 - 30:37 Ecological Approach

30:38 - 35:05 Evolved Competition Approach

35:06 - 36:09 Strange Warm Ups

36:10 - 40:46 Coaching

40:47 - 49:31 Constraint Based Games

49:32 - 53:12 Class Structure

53:13 - 55:52 Evolved Coaching

55:53 - 58:28 Coaching class for beginners and advanced students

58:29 - 1:03:13 Developing & Improving as a Coach

1:03:14 - 1:04:22 What does Success as a coach look like to Rowan?

1:04:23 - 1:08:20 Advice for New Coaches

1:08:21 - 1:14:10 Is influencer grappling the future of BJJ?

1:14:11 - 1:16:02 Growth of Jiu Jitsu

1:16:03 - 1:20:15 Advice for Beginners starting BJJ

1:20:16 - 1:22:08 Wrapping up the episode

Make sure to follow Rowan on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rowan.lovett/

Make sure to check out Monarch BJJ if you're around Loughrea https://www.instagram.com/monarch_bjj/https://www.monarchjiujitsu.com

If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅

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Follow Emerald Grappling on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron chats with Lisa Houston, a Purple Belt and coach from SBG Strabane in Ireland. Lisa is a seasoned competitor, having graced the mats at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, including the IBJJF Worlds and ADCC. Despite coming from a pole dancing background with no prior combat experience, Lisa quickly became obsessed with BJJ. We delve into her unique journey, which saw her debut at the IBJJF European Championships – a bold move for a newcomer! Lisa discusses the challenges of navigating the competitive scene, including the mental health struggles that can accompany both wins and losses. She shares her inspiring story of overcoming these challenges and her plans for a triumphant return to competition at the IBJJF Masters Gi Europeans in May. Lisa also offers valuable advice for all levels of BJJ practitioners, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey and embracing the competitive experience.Chapters ➡ 00:00 - 3:19 Intro & Lisa's BJJ Origin Story3:20 - 6:21 Lisa's First Experience with BJJ6:22 - 8:43 SBG Strabane's first female Blue & Purple Belt8:44 - 11:21 Lisa's First Gi BJJ Competition was the IBJJF Europeans11:22 - 17:22 Reflecting on loses and posting competition results online17:23 - 18:42 The sacrifices of being a competitor18:43 - 19:57 Time off the Mats but still learning19:58 - 25:02 Role as a Coach and Coaching Style25:03 - 31:00 Student & Coach Relationship Dynamic31:01 - 31:35 Approaching Higher Belts to Roll31:36 - 34:55 Advising Students on training & rolling34:56 - 44:54 Lisa's Mental Health as a Competitor44:55 - 48:48 Master Gi Europeans Return48:49 - 50:03 Gi or NoGi?50:04 - 52:43 Find your form of meditation52:44 - 54:05 Future of Jiu Jitsu54:05 - 56:05 Advice for Beginners56:06 - 58.32 OutroMake sure to follow Lisa on Instagram & TikTokhttps://www.instagram.com/lisa_houston11/https://www.tiktok.com/@lisahoot Make sure to check out SBG Strabane if you're around Donegal!

https://www.instagram.com/sbg_strabane/If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------If today’s episode resonated with you or brought up familiar feelings, know that you’re not alone. Mental health challenges affect many, and support is available. Free resources and helplines are listed below if you’d like to talk or seek help.Samaritans: Samaritans services are available 24 hours a day, for confidential, non-judgmental support.Freephone 116 123, any time[email protected]samaritans.ieText About ItText About It is a free, 24/7 service, providing everything from a calming chat to immediate support for your mental health and emotional wellbeing.Free-text HELLO to 50808 for an anonymous chat with a trained volunteer, any time.textaboutit.ieAwareInformation, support and peer groups for people experiencing anxiety, mild to moderate depression, bipolar disorder and mood-related conditions. Support also for friends and family members.Freephone 1800 80 48 48, 10am to 10pm every day[email protected]aware.ieMyMind: Online and in person counselling services, including options for free appointments and sessions.[email protected]mymind.org----------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Emerald Grappling on Instagram & TikTok:https://www.instagram.com/emeraldgrappling/https://www.tiktok.com/@emeraldgrapplingRemember to subscribe and follow the podcast to avoid missing any episodes! ✅

In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron chats with David Coelho, a 1st Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and head coach of Maze BJJ. David shares his journey into BJJ, from his early days on the mats to establishing a thriving gym in Ireland. David delves into his philosophy that BJJ transcends physicality, cultivating a stronger mind, body, and soul. David recounts his first steps in Ireland, prioritising his Gi above all else in his luggage, and how BJJ became his lifeline, fostering meaningful friendships in a new country. We explore his competitive spirit, emphasizing the importance of competition for personal growth and team camaraderie. David provides invaluable advice for accelerating your BJJ progress, cultivating a lifelong love for the sport, and offers his perspective on the exciting future of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Chapters ➡

00:00 - 5:55 Intro & David's BJJ Origin Story

5:56 - 9:20 BJJ in Ireland vs BJJ in Brazil

9:21 - 12:21 Moving to Ireland

12:22 - 14:14 Irish BJJ Community

14:15 - 15:50 Cold Irish Weather

15:51 - 19:00 David's Most Rewarding BJJ Moment

19:01 -20:41 Next Generation & Coaching Kids

20:42 - 23:41 Opening Maze BJJ

23:42 - 26:45 Competition Focus for Students

26:36 - 27:03 Aaron recalling his first competition

27:04 - 28:35 Learning from Competition

28:36 - 31:49 Team Support at Competitions

31:50 - 38:50 Structuring Your Own Training

38:51 - 39:29 Asking Questions to Progress

39:30 - 41:10 Vision for Maze BJJ

41:11 - 43:19 Advice for Enjoying your BJJ Journey

43:20 - 46:27 BJJ Friends and Enjoyment

46:28 - 49:06 Hardest Belt for David

49:07 - 52:10 Future of BJJ

52:11 - 54:51 Wrapping up the episode

Make sure to follow David on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/david.mazebjj/

Make sure to check out Maze BJJ if you're around Athlone https://www.instagram.com/maze.bjj/ https://www.mazebjj.com

Make sure to check out David's sponsor, Monkey Hands, use the discount code "MAZEBJJ" for 15% off!! https://monkeyhands.co https://www.instagram.com/monkeyhands.co/

If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, please Like, Share and Subscribe! ✅