In this powerful episode of Higher Expectations with The Hier Advantage, hosts Michael Hier and Josh Vigil sit down with Alex Perez the owner and head instructor of Forge Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Van Nuys. From a chess-obsessed kid in the SFV to founding one of the most respected jiu-jitsu academies in the Valley, Alex shares his incredible journey through wrestling, judo, corporate life, and ultimately into building a school rooted in discipline, empathy, and community.

We talk about the mental and physical grind of jiu-jitsu, overcoming trauma, how to break through plateaus, and the unexpected way coaching changed Alex’s life. He dives into his coaching philosophy, warm-up debates, recovery culture (cold plunges and all), and his approach to training students of all backgrounds.

Whether you're a martial artist, coach, or just someone chasing growth, this episode will leave you fired up.

🔗 Connect with Forge BJJ: @forge_brazilianjiujitsu
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