The Gi Spot Podcast

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz dive into an important and often overlooked topic—kids in Jiu Jitsu. Whether it's addressing the challenges of bullying, helping kids build self-esteem, or providing an active outlet for those high-energy kids who just can't sit still, this episode takes a comprehensive look at the benefits and impact of getting children involved in martial arts training.

Rach and Kaz explore how Jiu Jitsu can be a powerful tool in teaching kids essential life skills such as discipline, respect, and resilience. They discuss how the structured environment of training not only helps with physical fitness but also builds mental toughness, confidence, and emotional regulation. From the shy, introverted child who struggles with confidence to the kid with boundless energy, Jiu Jitsu offers something for everyone.

The hosts also address common concerns that parents may have when considering martial arts for their children, such as the balance between competition and fun, safety during training, and ensuring that the experience is positive and empowering for young students.

With personal anecdotes and insights from their own experiences as parents and instructors, Rach and Kaz share practical advice on how to introduce kids to Jiu Jitsu, what to look for in a kids’ program, and how training can positively impact a child’s development—both on and off the mats.

Whether you're a parent considering Jiu Jitsu for your child, an instructor looking to engage young students, or simply curious about the benefits of martial arts for kids, this episode provides valuable insights into why Jiu Jitsu is more than just a sport—it's a life-changing journey for young practitioners.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with Matt Page, co-host of the Love Conquers Podcast and affectionately known to listeners as "Producer Matt," to dive deep into his recent journey to earning his Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu. After years of hard work, sweat, and dedication, Matt successfully completed his black belt grading, but the road wasn’t without its challenges.

In this in-depth interview, Matt takes us behind the scenes of the intense months leading up to the grading. He shares the rigorous preparation process, detailing the physical and mental hurdles he faced along the way—everything from training setbacks to managing injuries that threatened to derail his progress.

Rach and Kaz explore the high-pressure environment of grading night, from the atmosphere in the gym to the palpable anticipation from the crowd. Matt opens up about what it felt like stepping onto the mats knowing all eyes were on him, and how he mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. He recounts the pivotal moments, including when things didn’t go according to plan and how he had to adapt and push through adversity.

The conversation also delves into the emotional side of grading for a black belt, as Matt reflects on what this achievement means to him personally and how it feels to finally reach this milestone after years of dedication. Rach and Kaz don’t let him off easy, though—they dig into some of the funnier, more chaotic moments from the grading and the unexpected twists that kept everyone on their toes.

Tune in for a compelling, entertaining, and honest discussion about what it really takes to achieve a black belt in Jiu Jitsu, from the highs of success to the obstacles along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just curious about the journey, Matt’s story is both inspiring and full of lessons learned from the toughest tests on and off the mats.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with Australian Jiu Jitsu powerhouse Adele Fornarino, who recently made waves by winning double gold at the prestigious ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) tournament in Las Vegas. Adele shares her journey to becoming a world-class athlete, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs women face in Jiu Jitsu, as well as the exciting evolution of the sport.

The conversation kicks off with Adele reflecting on her early days in Jiu Jitsu, having trained from a young age, and how that foundation has shaped her into the athlete she is today. She talks about the discipline, dedication, and countless hours on the mats that have led her to international success. As a coach, Adele also shares her passion for running kids’ classes, revealing how teaching the next generation of grapplers has not only helped them grow but has deepened her own understanding of the art.

Kaz and Rach dive into the topic of women in Jiu Jitsu, exploring the unique hurdles female athletes face and how Adele has navigated the often male-dominated sport. Adele discusses the progress being made toward inclusivity, the growing number of female competitors, and her hopes for the future of the sport, especially as it gains more global recognition through events like ADCC.

Off the mats, Adele opens up about her personal life, giving listeners a glimpse into how she balances the demands of being a world champion with everyday life. She talks about how she stays grounded amidst her success, sharing her hobbies, interests, and what she does to unwind when she's not training. The conversation offers a look at the human side of a champion—how Adele finds time to relax, recharge, and enjoy her accomplishments while continuing to push her limits.

This episode offers a rich, in-depth discussion about the realities of being a top-level athlete, the importance of inspiring the next generation, and how Jiu Jitsu is evolving to create more opportunities for women. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or simply a fan of the sport, Adele’s story is both inspiring and empowering.

Tune in for an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a double gold medalist and a leading figure in women’s Jiu Jitsu!

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rachael and Kaz are joined by a special guest, Steve, the founder of Savvy Touch. This episode takes a deep dive into the world of Savvy Touch, a line of innovative products that has become a staple in both Kaz’s and Rachael’s daily routines.

Kaz, a longtime user of Savvy Touch products, first introduced them to Rachael, and it wasn’t long before Rachael became equally enthusiastic—especially after trying Savvy’s patented “Rocket Fuel,” a product that left both of them hooked. Impressed by its effectiveness, they decided to bring Steve on the podcast to share the story behind Savvy Touch and explore the science and passion that drive his work.

Steve talks about the journey of creating Savvy Touch, from its humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name in both the wellness and athletic communities. He shares the inspiration behind the brand, which was born out of a desire to help people dealing with long-term medical issues by providing natural, effective solutions. Steve explains how his products, have not only provided relief to those with chronic conditions but have also found a place in the world of sports, helping athletes enhance their performance and recovery.

Throughout the conversation, Steve delves into the development of "Rocket Fuel" and other key products in the Savvy Touch line, explaining how they work and why they are so effective. He also shares stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by using Savvy Touch, highlighting the impact that his products have had on both everyday people and high-level athletes alike.

Rachael and Kaz ask Steve about the challenges and successes he’s encountered along the way, and how his commitment to quality and innovation has driven the brand’s growth. They also discuss the importance of natural wellness in today’s fast-paced world, and how products like Savvy Touch can play a crucial role in maintaining health and optimizing performance.

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation that covers the intersection of health, wellness, and athletic performance. Whether you’re curious about natural remedies, looking for ways to improve your recovery as an athlete, or just interested in hearing the story behind a pioneering brand, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice from someone who is making a real difference in people's lives.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rachael and Kaz tackle the crucial topic of women in Jiu Jitsu, discussing how academy owners can create a more inclusive environment for female practitioners. They address the unique challenges women face in the sport and offer practical tips for making the mats more welcoming, from fostering a supportive culture to thoughtful training practices.

They emphasize the impact of small changes, such as increasing female representation, hiring female instructors, and promoting respectful interactions among training partners. The conversation also covers strategies for academy owners to actively recruit more women and encourage their participation in classes and events.

Rachael and Kaz also review the recent Craige Jones Invitational (CJI) and ADCC events in Las Vegas, analyzing key matches and standout performances. They discuss how these events are shaping the future of Jiu Jitsu, increasing the sport’s visibility and pushing its boundaries.

The duo highlights the growing opportunities for female competitors and the increasing recognition of their contributions to the sport. They offer insights on where Jiu Jitsu is headed, particularly in terms of inclusivity and growth for women.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that combines practical advice for academy owners with an analysis of Jiu Jitsu's current landscape. Whether you’re a gym owner, practitioner, or fan, Rachael and Kaz provide valuable perspectives to help guide the sport's positive evolution.

On this episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz dive into a topic that every grappler dreads but often tries to ignore: training injuries. Whether it's a nagging ache, a pulled muscle, or something more serious, injuries are an inevitable part of the Jiu Jitsu journey, and knowing how to manage them is crucial for long-term success on the mats.

Rach and Kaz kick off the discussion by sharing their own personal experiences with training injuries, from minor annoyances to more serious setbacks. They talk about the physical and mental challenges that come with being sidelined, and how they’ve learned to listen to their bodies and adapt their training to prevent small issues from turning into larger problems.

The conversation then shifts to strategies for managing everyday aches and pains that are all too familiar to grapplers. Rach and Kaz offer practical tips on recovery, including stretching routines, the importance of proper warm-ups, and the role of rest and active recovery in maintaining long-term health. They also discuss the value of seeking professional help, such as physical therapy or chiropractic care, to address chronic issues before they become debilitating.

For those grapplers who find themselves facing more serious injuries, Rach and Kaz delve into how to cope with the emotional and psychological toll of being forced to step away from the mats. They share advice on how to stay mentally engaged with Jiu Jitsu during recovery, whether it's through studying techniques, attending classes as a spectator, or focusing on other areas of personal development. They also discuss the importance of having a strong support system, both within the gym and at home, to help navigate the challenges of recovery.

Rach and Kaz don’t shy away from addressing the reality of catastrophic injuries, offering insights into how to approach these situations with resilience and a positive mindset. They emphasize the importance of patience and self-compassion during the healing process, and how setbacks can sometimes lead to new perspectives and opportunities for growth in other areas of life.

In addition to injuries, the episode touches on how to handle sickness and the difficult decision of when to take time off versus pushing through. Rach and Kaz discuss the balance between maintaining consistency in training and knowing when it’s time to rest and recover fully to avoid further complications.

This episode is a must-listen for grapplers at all levels, providing valuable strategies for injury prevention, recovery, and maintaining a healthy and sustainable training routine. Whether you're currently dealing with an injury or just looking to be better prepared for when one inevitably occurs, Rach and Kaz offer the insights and encouragement you need to keep moving forward on your Jiu Jitsu journey.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with friends and training partners Brit and Lisa, who share a unique training consideration—they are both expecting mothers.

This episode delves into the evolving narrative of pregnancy in the world of Jiu Jitsu, challenging the outdated notion that being pregnant limits a woman’s ability to train. Rach and Kaz, both mothers themselves, explore how, with proper planning, communication, and care, women can continue to train meaningfully throughout their pregnancy, right up until their bodies signal it’s time to step back.

Brit and Lisa share their personal experiences, discussing the adaptations they've made to their training routines to accommodate their changing bodies. They talk about the importance of listening to their bodies, adjusting their intensity, and working closely with their coaches to ensure they are training safely while still gaining the benefits of Jiu Jitsu. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of training while pregnant, including the empowerment and confidence that comes from staying active and involved in the sport they love.

Rach and Kaz emphasize the importance of creating an inclusive environment for expecting mothers in the gym. They discuss the practical steps they take to ensure that pregnant women feel supported, from modifying drills and techniques to fostering a culture of understanding and encouragement among all members of the gym.

This episode also highlights the broader message that pregnancy doesn’t have to sideline women from the activities they enjoy. With the right approach, expecting mothers can continue to be active participants in their training, maintaining not just their physical health, but also their mental and emotional well-being. Rach and Kaz share tips for other women who might be navigating this journey, offering advice on how to stay motivated, how to manage concerns or fears, and how to find a balance that works for both the mother and the baby.

Tune in to this empowering episode as Rach, Kaz, Brit, and Lisa redefine what it means to be an expecting mother in the world of Jiu Jitsu, proving that with the right mindset and support, women can continue to excel on the mats throughout pregnancy. Whether you're an expecting mother, a coach, or simply curious about training during pregnancy, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

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On this episode of the GI Spot Podcast, Rachael and Kaz dive into a question posed by a listener, Dale, who asked about how to take the plunge and step onto the mats for the first time.

Building on themes from their popular "Matxiety" episode, today's discussion offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to start their Jiu Jitsu journey. Rachael and Kaz explore the common fears and limitations that can hold people back from beginning this transformative practice. They provide actionable tips for overcoming anxiety, boosting confidence, and embracing the initial challenges of stepping onto the mats.

Rachael and Kaz share their personal experiences and stories from their own beginnings in Jiu Jitsu, highlighting the importance of patience, persistence, and a supportive community. They discuss the mental and physical benefits of Jiu Jitsu, emphasizing how the practice can lead to personal growth, improved fitness, and a deeper sense of self-discipline.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of what to expect in their first few classes, how to prepare mentally and physically, and the importance of finding the right gym and instructor. Whether you're a complete novice or someone who's been a fan and considered starting Jiu Jitsu for a while, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical tips to help you take that first step onto the mats.

Tune in for an inspiring and informative episode that aims to demystify the process of starting Jiu Jitsu and empower listeners to begin their own martial arts journey.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.

On this episode of the GI Spot Podcast, hosts Rachael and Kaz are joined by their partners in crime, Grant Bradshaw and Matt Page, for an engaging and insightful conversation.

Grant, a second-degree black belt, has dedicated 18 years to mastering Jiu Jitsu. Together with Rachael, he has been running Iconic Jiu Jitsu for the past 8 years, fostering a strong community of dedicated practitioners.

Matt, a brown belt with 11 years of experience in Jiu Jitsu, brings his own wealth of knowledge and passion to the discussion.

In this episode, Rachael and Kaz delve into the dynamics of training with a significant other. They explore how sharing a martial art like Jiu Jitsu impacts their relationships, enhances mutual respect, and strengthens their bonds. The conversation also touches on the unique experience of having the entire family involved in training, discussing the challenges and rewards that come with it.

Join them for a heartfelt and candid look at the intersection of love, family, and the martial arts lifestyle.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone.