In this episode of the Off the Mats Podcast, I sit down with Ana Stevens of Underground 702 to talk through her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey and the weight-loss transformation that unfolded alongside it. Ana shares what led her to step onto the mats for the first time, the fears and hesitations she carried early on, and how training gradually reshaped her relationship with her body, consistency, and self-belief.

Our conversation explores the intersection between BJJ and sustainable weight loss, how jiu-jitsu provided structure, accountability, and community, and how physical changes influenced her confidence, movement, and performance on the mats. Ana speaks candidly about setbacks, plateaus, mental battles, and the moments that tested her commitment when progress slowed or motivation dipped.

We also discuss the role of teammates, coaches, and support systems in long-term change, as well as what her training looks like today compared to when she started. The episode closes with practical advice for listeners who feel overwhelmed by starting BJJ, intimidated by weight loss, or unsure whether meaningful change is possible for them.

This is a grounded conversation about patience, resilience, and growth—on the mats and beyond them.