In this episode of “My Empty Hands,” host Reggie Darden interviews Carly, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and competitor. The conversation covers her journey into martial arts, her experiences with training and competing, the challenges she has faced within the martial arts community, and her future aspirations.

Discussion Points:

[01:00:02] She clarifies that she has no interest in opening her own academy but would love to teach specific classes or private lessons.

[00:38] Introduction to the guest, Carly.

[03:09] Carly shares her martial arts journey, which began with a group fitness boxing class.

[05:16] She discusses how she discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu after a shoulder surgery.

[10:56] Her experience competing for the first time just three months into her training.

[15:25] Carly talks about the challenges of being an older female competitor.

[18:18] She discusses negative experiences at previous martial arts schools.

[28:29] The challenges women face in martial arts, including male training partners’ egos and physical differences.

[41:11] Carly expresses her desire to continue competing.