In this episode of Off the Mats Podcast, I sit down one-on-one with Christian Thomas, a member at Crazy 88 MMA, for a focused conversation on growth, leadership, and the responsibility that comes with coaching. This marks Christian’s first solo return to the show since his appearance on Episode 201, and the discussion centers on what has changed since then, both on and off the mats.

We talk about Christian’s transition from competitor to coach, and how teaching, especially teaching kids, has reshaped his understanding of jiu-jitsu. The conversation explores the difference between competing for yourself and being responsible for the development, safety, and character of others. Christian shares what surprised him most about coaching, the standards he holds himself to, and what parents may not always see behind the scenes of a kids’ program.

The episode also examines how competition and coaching inform one another, how identity can shift as roles change, and why separating self-worth from performance is critical for long-term sustainability in jiu-jitsu. We close with reflections on leadership, gym culture at Crazy 88, advice for future coaches and parents, and what success looks like at this stage of Christian’s journey.

This episode is a conversation about responsibility, mentorship, and impact, what it really means to lead beyond the mats.

In this episode of the Off the Mats Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jarrell Garcia, a 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu black belt whose journey extends well beyond competition and rank. Jarrell shares his path into jiu-jitsu, what initially drew him to the 10th Planet system, and how his relationship with training evolved over the years. We talk honestly about moments of frustration, changing expectations, and what the belt actually represents once you earn it.

The conversation also explores Jarrell’s role as a coach and educator, and how his background in higher education influences the way he teaches on the mats. We discuss leadership, responsibility, and the realities of guiding students through different stages of their jiu-jitsu journey. Jarrell reflects on identity beyond the academy, balancing professional life with training, and what jiu-jitsu does and does not prepare you for outside the gym.

This episode is a thoughtful look at growth, process, and perspective, aimed at practitioners at every level. Whether you’re a white belt feeling overwhelmed or an upper belt reassessing your relationship with jiu-jitsu, this conversation focuses on longevity, learning, and showing up with intention, both on and off the mats.

In this episode of Off the Mats Podcast, I sit down with Emi Miller, known on Instagram as @nogi_chunli, to talk about training culture, mat etiquette, and the responsibility that comes with being a good training partner. Emi is an instructor at Gracie Barra Riverside and the creator of a widely shared “How to…” series that addresses real situations many grapplers experience but rarely talk about openly.

We discuss how her posts—covering topics like how to roll with women, white belts, visitors, injured partners, and training across size and gender differences—came from years of observing common mistakes on the mat. Emi explains why communication, awareness, and intent matter more than strength or rank, and how small changes in behavior can dramatically improve safety and learning for everyone in the room.

This conversation goes beyond social media and into Emi’s coaching philosophy, her role as an instructor, and how gyms can build healthier environments through accountability and respect. Whether you’re a new student trying to understand unspoken rules or an experienced grappler looking to be a better teammate, this episode focuses on how we show up for one another on the mats—and why that matters long after the round ends.