My guest today is a true martial arts veteran and a leading voice in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—Stephan Kesting.

With a martial arts career spanning several decades, Stephan holds black belts in multiple disciplines and has devoted much of his life to the study, practice, and teaching of BJJ. His highly respected platform, Grapplearts.com, is a go-to resource for students around the world looking for clear, practical instruction on grappling and self-defense.

Known for his analytical approach and real-world focus, Stephan emphasizes techniques that work not only in sport but in real-life self-defense situations. His insights are drawn from years of hands-on experience across various martial arts systems.

Stephan has been featured in publications such as Black Belt Magazine, Ultimate Grappling, Tapout Magazine, and Ultimate Athlete, and he’s contributed as a writer to many of them as well. In addition to his writing and instructional content, he’s a popular guest on martial arts podcasts and the host of his own: The Strenuous Life BJJ Podcast.

Outside the gym, Stephan is also an author. His latest book, “Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic,” explores survival, mindset, and the human spirit—showing there’s much more to him than just martial arts.

Please welcome to the show: Stephan Kesting.

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