Advertise on podcast: The ROL Radio - Hosted by Thomas Rozdzynski

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, legendary figure Rickson Gracie shares his insights on the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu from a martial art focused on self-defense to a competitive sport. He emphasizes the importance of 'invisible jiu-jitsu,' which encompasses the mental and emotional aspects of martial arts, such as patience, strategy, and timing. He reflects on the need to reconnect with the roots of Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on self-defense and personal empowerment rather than competition. He also highlights the significance of mental resilience, gratitude, and the holistic development of individuals through martial arts as well as lessons he learned from his father. Here is The RŌL Radio with a true legend in jiu-jitsu and MMA, Grandmaster Rickson Gracie. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.ricksongracie.com/ https://www.ricksongracieunited.com/ Episode Highlights: 2:20 Memories and Family Bonds Through Jiu-Jitsu 4:30 Bringing Back Self-Defense with Invisible Jiu-Jitsu 9:40 Taking Jiu-Jitsu Lessons Off the Mats 16:00 The Shift from Self-defense to Sport 23:20 Invisible Jiu-Jitsu 30:51 Helping Others Through Jiu-Jitsu 41:22 Passing the Torch with Rickson Gracie United 45:47 Lesson’s from Helio 49:37 Rickson Gracie United 54:40 The Perfect Person 1:03:01 Gratitude Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his inspiring journey through Jiu-Jitsu, detailing how it transformed his life and shaped his identity. He discusses the profound impact of his mother's nurturing influence, how Jiu-Jitsu became a means of self-defense and personal growth and his dream of moving to Dubai to support his family. Throughout the discussion, he reflects on the significance of helping others and staying true to oneself amidst life's challenges. He also emphasizes the need for discipline and respect in training, and how these values extend beyond the mat to impact lives positively. Here is The RŌL Radio with with a 4 degree black belt, an educator, and the head coach at RGA in Dubai, Gerson Carvalho. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/gersoncarvalhobjj/?hl=en https://hotmart.com/pt-br/marketplace/produtos/curso-completo-guarda-lacada-no-jiu-jitsu/R105465821A? https://www.rogergraciedubai.com/ Episode Highlights: 3:03 Why Jiu-Jitsu 13:00 Becoming a Protector 17:14 How Jiu-Jitsu Changed Gerson’s Life 23:15 Becoming a Better Instructor 30:20 Why Dubai: Dreams and Challenges 42:17 Meeting Roger and Joining His Team 45:09 Giving Back and Growing 51:15 Staying Motivated 56:21 Setting an Example 1:03:08 Using Jiu-Jitsu to Build Character Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares insights on how he manages a busy life filled with teaching, training, and family. He emphasizes the importance of time management, routine, and discipline in achieving success, particularly in Jiu Jitsu. He also shares his inspiring journey from Brazil to the United States, detailing his passion for martial arts, particularly Jiu-Jitsu and Capoeira. He discusses the challenges he faced, including injuries and personal loss, and how these experiences shaped his mindset and approach to life. Here is The RŌL Radio with the head professor and owner of Brazil Academy USA in Lenexa Kansas, author, and founder of the nonprofit Ninja Stars, Ninja Pinto. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/ninjapinto1/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/brazilacademy/?hl=en https://www.brazilacademyusa.com/ https://ninjasstars.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Cause-Impact-Leadership-Discipline-Transforming/dp/B0HFKXSPRQ/ref=sr_1_1? https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Weight-Loss-Print-After/dp/1964913705/ref=sr_1_2? Episode Highlights: 2:38 Prioritizing a Busy Life 11:42 Discipline Leads to Success 23:20 It’s All About Hours 36:31 Motivating Students 42:01 Ninja’s Journey 53:24 Finding Purpose Through Loss 1:00:25 Excuses VS Action: Shifting Mindsets Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Thomas and his guest explore the nuances of teaching and learning in jiu-jitsu, discussing the significance of titles, the necessity of critical thinking for instructors, and the evolving nature of jiu-jitsu instruction. They also explore the journey of transitioning from a stable career to opening a jiu-jitsu academy and discuss the fears and challenges associated with leaving a secure job, emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and the impact of supportive relationships in making significant life changes. Here is The RŌL Radio with a man that has a degree in education, a third degree bjj black belt under Josh Russell, and the head coach at Authentic Jiu-Jitsu in Calgary, Alberta Canada, Ben Kool. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/benkooltech/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/authenticjiujitsu/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/@benkooltech https://authenticjiujitsu.com/ Episode Highlights: 2:29 Professor VS Coach Titles or Vibes 7:18 Critical Thinking in Jiu-Jitsu 16:41 Student Teacher Dynamics 20:21 Motivation Beyond Belts 24:36 Ben’s Journey 35:55 Transitioning from a Stable Career to One In Jiu-Jitsu 51:17  Effective Communication When Teaching  1:03:43 Respecting Others Time and Commitments 1:11:57 Ben’s Black Belt Philosophy Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his journey in jiu-jitsu, starting from his introduction to the sport in 1993 in São Paulo. He discusses the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of competition, and how it has shaped his life and teaching philosophy. He emphasizes the need for clear communication belt promotions and the varying learning paces of students. He also shares how losing a job he worked so hard to achieve changed his course in life to becoming a full-time jiu-jitsu athlete and coach. Here is The RŌL Radio with a multi-time world champion, a 5th degree balc belt under Fabio Gurgel, and the owner of Excellence Jiu-Jitsu in Torrance California, Eduardo Santoro. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.esjjsouthbay.com/ https://www.instagram.com/esjjsouthbay https://www.youtube.com/@esjjsouthbay Episode Highlights: 2:50 Eduardo’s Jiu-Jitsu Beginings 7:33 The Evolution of the Sport 14:07 The Importance of Competition 25:21 Chasing Belts  32:09 Student’s Growth and the Instructors’s Role 35:38 Jiu-Jitsu Becomes Eduardo’s Future 41:20 Starting Over in the US 49:17 Continuous Learning 54:24 The Significance of the Black Belt Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On this episode Thomas’ guest shares his inspiring journey through decades of practicing jiu-jitsu, overcoming setbacks, and the profound impact that lineage and mentorship has on students. He dicusses how perseverance, humility, and passion keep him returning to the mat, and the valuable lessons he has learned that will benefit any martial artist.  Here is The RŌL Radio with a man who has studied Tai Chi, Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo, an instructor at Roger Machado Jiu-Jitsu in Pasadena California, and a black belt under Master Roger Macahdo, Tony Ng. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/ulfhamr5bjj/ https://www.youtube.com/@ulfhamr5bjj https://www.rogermachado.com/? Episode Highlights: 4:00 Growing Up Influenced By Martial Arts 8:14 Royce Changes Everything 12:10 Tony’s First Jiu-Jitsu Experience 20:17 Dealing with Breaks in Training and Why Tony Kept Returning 29:58 Learning from Roger Machado 35:41 The Struggle of the Hobbyist 40:47 Levels in Jiu-Jitsu 46:18 The Long Road to Tony’s Black Belt 52:05 Family Support 55:39 Training With a BJJ Legend Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Thomas’ guest shares his inspiring journey from wrestling to becoming a martial arts instructor in Thailand, highlighting the importance of resilience, passion, and living life on your own terms. They also discuss their passion for instructing and the differences and challenges between teaching kids and adults. Today’s guest also his dream of teaching and living in Thailand and how it became a reality. Here is The RŌL Radio with a brown belt under the Mendes Brothers, a black belt under Team Oliveira, a 2025 ADCC Thailand Champ, and head coach at Southside MMA Thailand, Denny Sisti. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://southside-mma.com/coaches-team https://www.instagram.com/dennysisti_bjj/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/@dennysisti_bjj https://www.instagram.com/southsidemma_thailand/?hl=en Episode Highlights: 2:13 Living and Working in Paradise 6:16 Denny’s Martial Arts Journey 10:03 Transitioning from Wrestling to Jiu-Jitsu 14:58 The Dynamics of Teaching Kids and Adults 26:18 Choosing Jiu-Jitsu Over Everything Else 43:23 Building Resilience on the Mats 56:40 Striving to Live the Dream Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas and his guest explore the journey of martial arts, emphasizing the importance of simplification, embracing failure, and the role of coaches in student development. His guest also shares his profound journey through martial arts, emphasizing the passion that drives him and the identity he has formed through his practice. He also highlights the lessons of discipline, resilience, and consistency that martial arts instills, and reflects on how these principles apply to life beyond the mats. Here is The RŌL Radio with a black belt in judo and bjj, the oowner and head instructor at Kogaion Academy in Arlington Virginia, and the coach of elite athlete Beatrice Jin, Victor Ciocoiu. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.kogaionacademy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kogaion_academy https://www.instagram.com/victorsjudo/ Episode Highlights: 2:30 Finding the Simple Solution 5:14 Embracing Failure 12:42 The Instructor and Students Roles in the Journey 19:21 How Age Impacts Learning and Training 31:38 Victor’s Journey 42:07 Building an Identity Through Martial Arts 51:18 Exploration and Self-Discovery 57:59 Martial Arts Biggest Lesson 1:02:19 Mental Resilience in Martial Arts Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas’ guest delves into his extensive journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, starting from his early days in martial arts to his transformative experiences training with the Machado brothers. He shares his insights on the culture of Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of mentorship, and the legacy of the pioneers in the sport. He reflects on how learning has evolved with technology and emphasizes the motivations individuals have for practicing Jiu-Jitsu. He also shares his journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, reflecting on the unexpected nature of receiving his black belt and the feelings of imposter syndrome that accompanied it.  Here is The RŌL Radio with the creator of the B 12 Curriculum, a 5th degree black belt under Rigan Machado, David Meyer, and John Will, and the owner/head instructor of Northwest Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Seattle Washington, Brian Johnson. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/nwjja/?hl=en https://www.nwjja.net/? https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-b5XDATBybMZCwfXGXBm9g?view_as=subscriber Episode Highlights: 4:02 Brian’s Early Jiu-Jitsu Experiences 13:00 Eye Opening Experiences with the Machados 36:56 The Importance of Being In Charge of Your Own Learning 47:36 How Brian Learns 56:15 Understanding Other’s Motivations 59:19 Brian’s Black Belt Experience 1:08:38 Feeling an Obligation to Our Instructors Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Thomas and his guest explore the intricate relationship between coaching and individual needs in Jiu-Jitsu. They emphasize the importance of understanding each student's unique journey and how effective coaching goes beyond just technique. They discuss the challenges faced in martial arts and life, the necessity of overcoming adversity, and how doubt can fuel success. Here is The RŌL Radio with a former elementary school teacher, the headcoach and owner at Energia Martial Arts, YouTuber at Energia Martial Arts, capoeira instructor and first ever Dutch on bjj fanatics, Tum Energia. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/tumenergia/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/energiamartialarts/?hl=en https://energia-martialarts.com/? https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/instructional-videos/fighter_tum-energia-voorn?list=1 Episode Highlights: 3:30 Coaching the Individual 12:10 Finding Passion in Unexpected Places 19:07 The Allure of Challenges 26:31 Tough Experiences and Building Resilience 44:05 Guiding Others 55:21 Training the Gray Areas 1:00:56 Overcomplicating Jiu-Jitsu 1:04:52 Embracing Loss Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas’ guest discusses the realities of teaching Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing the challenges and demands that come with the role. He shares his journey from being a hobbyist to becoming an instructor at a prestigious academy, highlighting the importance of consistency and commitment in training. The discussion also touches on the unique accessibility of Jiu-Jitsu compared to other sports, the significance of belts as milestones, and the differences between gi and nogi training.  Here is The RŌL Radio with a black belt under Bernardo Faria and Marcus Tinoco, an instructor at Bernardo Faria Academy, and the man with the best dad jokes, Jared Welman. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/workharderandsmarterbjj/ https://www.youtube.com/@workharderandsmarterbjj https://bjjfanatics.com/search?q=jared%20welman Episode Highlights: 2:34 Becoming a Jiu-Jitsu Instructor 8:03 The Accessability of Jiu-Jitsu 12:23 The Importance of Consistency 17:17 Progression in Jiu-Jitsu 26:14 Rules of Engagement Dictate the Enviornment 34:47 The Importance of Control 45:08 Jared’s Journey 57:47 Jiu-Jiitsu for People Over 40 1:04:09 Onboarding the New Student 1:10:42 The Jiu-Jitsu Evolution Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares her inspiring journey in martial arts, detailing her experiences from starting jiu-jitsu later in life to achieving multiple black belts. She discusses the emotional significance of promotions, the challenges faced by women in martial arts, and the importance of continuous learning. She also emphasizes the value of perseverance, the need for women to engage in strength-building activities, and the personal growth that comes from overcoming obstacles. Here is The RŌL Radio with a woman who started BJJ at the age 51, a 5 x World Masters champion and a winner of double gold in European NoGi, Natasha Franks. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/natasha_moveswithjuijitsu/ Episode Highlights: 2:48 Natasha’s Journey to Black Belt 10:55 Overcoming Hesitation and Starting Martial Arts at an Older Age 25:22 The Importance of Continous Learning 38:32 Training as a Family 47:07 Feeling Deserving 57:17 Future Aspirations and Goals 1:01:37 Ovrcoming Challenges and Pain Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Thomas and his guest explore the multifaceted nature of Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing its scientific aspects, personal journeys, and the ongoing quest for mastery. They discuss how Jiu-Jitsu is not just a physical sport but a complex art that requires mental engagement and understanding of concepts. Today’s guest shares his own journey in Jiu-Jitsu, detailing the unique strength he discovered in his training, the genesis of his book, and the profound impact of writing on his understanding of the sport. Here is The RŌL Radio with a black belt under Tim Carpenter, co-founder of Jiujitsu.net Rankings, and author of Scientific Jiu-Jitsu: A Unified Theory of Grappling, Will Weisser. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.instagram.com/weisserwill/ https://www.instagram.com/scientificjiujitsu/ https://linkin.bio/scientificjiujitsu/ Episode Highlights: 2:45 The Science of Jiu-Jitsu 12:25 The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu Understanding 23:37 Will’s Journey and Competitive Spirit 32:40 Quest for Mastery 41:08 The Genisis for a Book 46:51 The Ability to Chip Away at Things 55:04 The Complexity of Jiu-Jitsu Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week we are re-releasing another one of our favorite episodes. So, please enjoy episode #213 Stephan Kesting and you will hear why we enjoy it so much. Today’s guest join us to discuss how online education has revolutionized learning, how cultural influences impact fighting styles, and his hourglass theory of jiu-jitsu. Here is The RŌL Radio with the operator of Grapplearts.com, host of The Strenuous Life BJJ Podcast, and the author of The Roadmap for BJJ, Stephan Kesting. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://www.grapplearts.com/ https://www.grapplearts.com/tag/podcasts/ https://www.grapplearts.com/the-free-roadmap-for-bjj-app/ https://www.grapplearts.com/grapplearts-bjj-master-app/ Episode Highlights: 3:10 Dissemination of Information 14:04 Revolutionizing How to Teach 17:01 Giving Mom an Ultimatum 21:00 Techniques, Training, and Tools, Make a Difference 29:15 Training for Rule Sets 36:06 Culture Changes Fighting 46:06 The Hourglass Concept 53:32 Evolution of Instruction 1:01:53 Celeste Cronin’s Question Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week we are re-releasing another one of our favorite episodes. So, please enjoy episode #226 Rob Biernacki and you will hear why we enjoy it so much. Today’s guest takes a deep dive into conceptual learning in BJJ, his standards for promoting students, how studying psychology has influenced his jiu-jitsu and the impact ones upbringing has on their resilience. Here is The RŌL Radio with the creator of BJJConcepts.net, and head instructor at Island Top Team in Nanaimo British Columbia, Rob Biernacki. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1300 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey. FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radio http://www.therolradio.com https://www.instagram.com/therolradio https://www.facebook.com/therolradio/ https://bjjconcepts.net/ https://islandtopteam.com/ https://www.instagram.com/islandtopteam/?hl=en Episode Highlights: 4:12 Hero Worship in Jiu-Jitsu 11:29 Slacktivism 17:13 Why Jiu-Jitsu 22:51 The Conceptual Approach 31:50 Compensating for Limitations 42:00 Teaching Jiu-jitsu and Teaching People How to Learn Jiu-Jitsu 59:59 Meritocracy 1:13:51 Stephen Whittier’s Question Support the show