Forever White Belt

In this episode, we are joined by an OG in the martial arts community - Jay Jack, co-owner of "The Academy" in Portland, Maine. Remember to like, share, and subscribe, and go check out our FWB merchandise, we've got coffee mugs, hats, sweatshirts, and more. Jay's martial arts journey began at the age of 5 with Karate, leading him through a rich tapestry of disciplines, including Muay Thai, Jeet Kune Do, and Judo. He spent five years studying Shaolin Chin-Na under the renowned Yang Jwing Ming, and his dedication to Jiu-Jitsu and Vale Tudo has been unwavering since finding the legendary, Amal Easton in 1998. As a decorated fighter with victories in organizations like Ring of Fire and Gladiator Challenge, Jay is not just an accomplished athlete but also an exceptional instructor. Having produced numerous decorated athletes, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversation. We'll delve into the unique On-Ramp Program at The Academy, designed to make that first step into Jiu-Jitsu less intimidating. Jay will share insights into his teaching philosophy, the fusion of diverse martial arts disciplines, and the challenges and rewards of online learning through his platform, FunctionalBJJ. Links: The GoFundMe for Jay's Recovery ⁠https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-help-jay-jack-and-mandy-buckner⁠ Functional BJJ ⁠https://functionalbjj.vhx.tv/⁠ The Academy Maine ⁠https://www.theacademymaine.com/⁠ A news report on the head-on collision Jay was a victim of. ⁠https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/new-hampshire-man-dies-in-falmouth-spur-crash-maine/97-d53cff0a-6a1c-41c0-b311-23dc509ad6ad⁠ Please give us a 5-star review on Apple Music and Spotify Share this podcast with a friend it helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, and get ad-free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe. Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. Buy your Forever White Belt merchandise at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt

In this episode, we have Isak Ivanovic. Isak, a Purple Belt under the guidance of Lachlan Giles, has honed his skills through extensive training with luminaries such as John Danaher and Heath Pedigo. Beyond his technical prowess on the mat, Isak exudes a rare intelligence and wisdom that surpasses his years. It's evident that he is destined to become one of the great coaches in the future. The buzz about Isak's impact on the Australian jiu jitsu scene is undeniable, and he is poised to make a significant mark on the international stage. Isak's competitive journey has taken him around the globe, earning medals at prestigious events like the World Championships and the Pan Ams. Notably, he has clinched victories at the Pan Pacific and Australian National Championships multiple times, including a triumph at the ADCC Australia Open in the Pro division. What sets Isak apart is his success in competition and his unique training philosophy, drawing inspiration from the methods of John Danaher, Mikey Musumeci, and Jon Thomas. Emphasizing efficiency, Isak prioritizes the study and drilling of only the most effective techniques, ensuring that every moment spent on the mats contributes to his continuous growth. Links: ⁠https://many.bio/isakivanovicjj⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/isakivanovicjj/⁠ Give us a 5 star review on ⁠Apple Music⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠ Share this podcast with a friend it really helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad free, uncensored, early episodes ⁠podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe⁠. Instagram ⁠@foreverwhitebeltshow⁠. Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at ⁠teespring.com/forever-white-belt⁠. Linktree ⁠https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt

We welcome Las Vegas Black Belt, Casey Milliken in this episode. Casey's martial arts odyssey began in 2007 when he delved into the world of jiu-jitsu and muay thai. His unwavering dedication and passion catapulted him into the professional MMA scene, taking him on a journey crisscrossing the country. In 2017, Casey achieved a pinnacle moment, earning his black belt under the guidance of Alexandre Almeida. Casey Milliken is not just a black belt; he's a connoisseur of fundamental jiu-jitsu. His approach blends the timeless wisdom of traditional techniques with the innovation of contemporary strategies, offering a unique and insightful perspective on the martial arts landscape. Beyond his achievements, Casey is also the co-owner of Tribe Fitness & Martial Arts, nestled in the heart of Las Vegas, NV. This establishment is a testament to the harmonious fusion of old-school principles and cutting-edge training methods, creating an environment where martial arts thrive. But wait, there's more! Dive into a treasure trove of wisdom by checking out Casey's fantastic Instagram and YouTube channels. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting your martial arts journey, there's something for everyone, and trust me, you can learn a lot from them. https://www.instagram.com/coachcaseymilliken/ https://linktr.ee/coachcaseymilliken Give us a 5-star review on Apple Music and Spotify Please share this podcast with a friend it really helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad-free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe. Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt

Today, we are thrilled to have a special guest on the show, Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt extraordinaire, Emil Fischer, hailing from Cleveland, OH, and representing Strong Style MMA. Emil is a practitioner who often finds himself at the crossroads of professionalism and an active Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle. In my opinion, he is also one of the most misunderstood figures in the community. Some of my favorite aspects of Emil are that he is intelligent, effective, and irreverent, I think it is this mixture that makes those with overdeveloped egos uncomfortable. Emil's walkouts in Jiu-Jitsu competitions are, without a doubt, the stuff of legend—don't take my word for it, go and search for yourself. In this episode, we delve into Emil's early days, exploring why he initially faced challenges at white belt like being asked to leave a couple of academies. We'll unravel the confusion surrounding Emil's academy affiliation, touch on his contributions to Jiu-Jitsu Times, explore his unique Burt Reynolds guard instructional, and connect the dots between him and notable figures like Meerkatsu, Stipe Miocic, Dante Leon, and much more. It's a fascinating discussion, and I empathized with and genuinely liked Emil. Remember to show your support by liking, sharing, and subscribing. Links:IG: https://www.instagram.com/emilfischerbjj/ https://www.instagram.com/effective_jiujitsu/ https://www.instagram.com/strongstyle_mma/ Give us a 5-star review on Apple Music and Spotify Share this podcast with a friend it helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, and get ad-free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe. Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt

In this episode of Forever White Belt, join host Adolfo Foronda as he sits down with the accomplished 50-year-old purple belt, John Choe. If you've ever marveled at striking Jiu-Jitsu photos circulating the web, chances are they were skillfully captured by John's lens. Hailing from Six Blades Nova in Virginia and training under black belts Emil Takeuchi and Peter Gianetti, John brings a unique perspective to the world of Jiu-Jitsu. Discover the stories behind the lens as John shares his experiences photographing both renowned professionals on the circuit and passionate competitors in amateur tournaments. Beyond his photography prowess, John is an avid cross-trainer, exploring the most prestigious academies across the nation. His journey extends globally, attending seminars and Jiu-Jitsu camps, providing him with a front-row seat to the heart of the action. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind John Choe's incredible photos, exploring the intersection of his love for Jiu-Jitsu and his talent behind the camera. Get ready for a captivating conversation that takes you beyond the Gi and into the world of visual storytelling in the realm of Jiu-Jitsu. Links: IG @jitzpix https://jitzpix.pixieset.com/ ----------------------------- Give us a 5 star review on Apple Music and Spotify Share this podcast with a friend it really helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt

In this episode I'm honored to be joined by none other than Junny Ocasio. Junny is a Jiu Jitsu black belt, under the legendary Murilo Santana. He's been a dominant force on stages like Who's Number One, Kasai, Fight2Win, IBJJF, and many more. Junny now calls Unity Jiu Jitsu School in the heart of New York City his home. After intensive training with the legendary mastermind behind the modern leg game, Eddie Cummings, Junny's insights into refining his leg system are nothing short of extraordinary. Today, we're going to explore this, and so much more. We'll uncover Junny's perspective on the modern leg system, the power of effort, the importance of visualization, and the invaluable role of mental coaches in his journey. Plus, we'll touch on his ups and downs as a pro, the lessons learned along the way, and more. Junny's life story is as compelling as his Jiu Jitsu journey. Growing up in a challenging environment in the Bronx, New York, he's triumphed over adversity, and in this episode, I was determined to focus on the genius of his Jiu Jitsu, which sometimes gets overshadowed by his past. Junny's a prolific content creator with a staggering 15 instructionals on BJJ Fanatics. And for those of you craving even more, his Instagram and YouTube channels are treasure troves of free content. Links: https://linktr.ee/junnybjj https://www.instagram.com/junny_bjj ---------------------------------------------------------------- Charles Harriott Leglock Seminar 🔗 Register Now • Give us a 5 star review on Apple Music and Spotify • Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe. • Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt Finally, if you ever get to beautiful Northern California please come roll with us at North Bay Jiu Jitsu in Marin County just north of San Francisco, there are amazing instructors, and everyone there is great people. Mention the podcast and get two weeks Free.

I'm so happy to have Charles Harriott on the show for his second appearance. Charles is not your average black belt in Jiu-Jitsu; he's a true martial arts enthusiast with a rich background. He holds black belts in Kenpo and Judo, showcasing his dedication to the martial arts world. He's been a professional breakdancer, and he is one of the featured BJJ Globetrotters coaches. One thing that sets Charles apart is his passion for leglocks. He spent years honing his knowledge and skills in this area, Charles is the creator of "Leglocks 101," an introductory leglock curriculum designed to make these techniques accessible and safe for practitioners of all levels. But that's not all; Charles has another masterclass in store for the Jiu-Jitsu community. He's here to share his expertise on the power of the elbow frame, a concept that can supercharge your sweeps and submissions. Charles has tons of experience teaching students how to improve their game with hidden and overlooked positions like the elbow frame. Today, he'll explain how this post can create defense against pressure and opportunities for reattacks. And that's not all. Charles also introduces us to his system for "Butt Judo," showcasing how the elbow and armpit frame can be used for surprising techniques like seoi nages, kata garuma, and more. So, if you're curious about leglocks, the power of the elbow frame, and want to learn from a coach who's dedicated his life to martial arts, you're in for a treat today. I'm also super happy to announce Charles Harriott will be the first featured instructor of our first ever Forever White Belt sponsored seminar! The one day intensive will be this Veterans Day Saturday, November 11 2023 at North Bay Jiu Jitsu in Novato, CA. Price and time are TBD but this event will sell fast so be on the lookout for how to register, and info on our socials. Links: Charlesharriott.com Linktr.ee/charlesharriott @charlesharriott Northbayjiujitsu.com • Give us a 5 star review on Apple Music and Spotify • Share this podcast with a friend it really helps us out. • Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe. • Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. • Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. • Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt Finally, if you ever get to beautiful Northern California please come roll with us at North Bay Jiu Jitsu in Marin County just north of San Francisco, there are amazing instructors, and everyone there is great people. Mention the podcast and get two weeks Free.

In this episode, we've got a legendary figure in the BJJ world, none other than 4th degree black belt Karel "The Silver Fox" Pravec! In addition to my home instructors, Karel "The Silver Fox" Pravec has been one of the most important figures in my personal development of my Jiu-Jitsu game. He's not just a coach; he's a mentor and friend who's helped guide me and a global tribe of others through the lockdowns with his wisdom and strategies that make up this amazing art. But that's not all. Karel played a pivotal role in getting this very podcast off the ground. He took a chance on an unknown host, agreeing to be my first guest in 2020 Karel's journey through martial arts is nothing short of awe-inspiring. In 1993 when BJJ finally made its way to the NJ/NY area, Karel Pravec embraced it with open arms. He became one of Renzo Gracie's first American students and dedicated his spare moments to mastering the gentle art. In 2006, after years of relentless practice, he proudly received his Black Belt from Renzo Gracie. In addition to his academies, Karel's expertise extends far beyond his own mats. He's become a sought-after instructor worldwide, constantly refining his skills and knowledge to benefit his students. He's shared his wisdom through his "Fluid BJJ" book and Digitsu video series, he has been featured on the Tristar Gym YouTube channel alongside the esteemed MMA coach, Firas Zahabi, and has several amazing offerings on BJJ Fanatics. Now, you might be wondering, how did Karel earn the nickname 'Silver Fox'? One of his training partners at the Renzo Gracie Academy couldn't help but notice Karel's remarkable ability to outfox him on the mat, despite being more athletic, bigger, and younger. With his distinguished gray hair and his cunning prowess, his partner began to affectionately call him the 'Silver Fox,' and the name simply stuck. In the episode we delve into leadership development in BJJ, explore Karel's upcoming JJ app, uncover the secrets of using the pool for BJJ training, and discover how to be the ultimate training partner. Links: https://www.instagram.com/silverfoxbjj/ https://linktr.ee/silverfoxbjj Give us a 5 star review on Apple Music and Spotify Share this podcast with a friend it really helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt

In this exciting episode of Forever White Belt, host Adolfo Foronda brings you a deep dive into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and strength training. We are joined by Matthew Guffey, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Functional Range Mobility Specialist, and Functional Strength Coach. Matt is the founder of Victory High Performance, a renowned strength training gym in San Jose, California. With over 17 years of experience in personal strength training, Matt has not only honed his skills on the mat but also in the gym, making him a go-to expert for athletes seeking to optimize their performance. In this episode, you'll discover how Matt's comprehensive 12-week program is changing the game for Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and fitness enthusiasts alike. Matt shares his insights into the synergy between strength training and Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the unique benefits it offers, such as injury prevention and enhanced performance. Learn about the dynamic warm-ups and mobility exercises that prepare your body for the rigors of Jiu-Jitsu and everyday life. As the author of the eBook "Move, Feel, and Perform Better," featured on Strong and Fit by BJJ Fanatics, Matt's holistic approach to fitness and well-being is truly inspiring. He doesn't just help you build physical strength; he also focuses on mental resilience and clarity. Discover how Matt's program can help you break through plateaus, no matter your skill level, and maintain consistency in your fitness journey. And, don't miss the chance to hear about Matt's fascinating journey from being a Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast to owning his own thriving gym, which earned him the title of Business Owner of the Year by Results Fitness University in 2022. Whether you're dedicated Jiu-Jitsu practitioner or simply looking to fortify your body for the challenges of daily life, this episode will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Welcome to "Forever White Belt," where we unravel the captivating stories of those who live and breathe Jiu-Jitsu. Today, we shine the spotlight on none other than Breylor Grout. Breylor's name resonates with excellence in the world of BJJ, known for his extraordinary skills and the devastating darce choke. He holds the prestigious rank of black belt, awarded by none other than Keenan Cornelius, the founder of Legion Jiu-Jitsu. To give you perspective, Keenan has only bestowed this honor on one other person prior to Breylor. But Breylor's journey doesn't stop at being a black belt. He's a top competitor representing Legion Jiu-Jitsu, making waves on the ADCC open circuit. Surprisingly, beyond the mats, Breylor's weekdays are spent as a data analyst in San Diego. However, his heart is set on making a transition to a full-time jiu-jitsu lifestyle and even venturing into MMA. And that's not all! Breylor's expertise in the art of the darce choke led to an exciting collaboration between Legion and Jiu-Jitsu X. They've crafted a course named 'Get To Darcin,' unveiling all the secrets behind this powerful submission. We'll explore all of this and more in the episode. Links:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/breylor/ ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/breylor⁠ Give us a 5 star review on Apple Music and Spotify Share this podcast with a friend it really helps us out. Become a VIP member for only .99 a month, get ad free, uncensored, early episodes podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foreverwhitebelt/subscribe. Instagram @foreverwhitebeltshow. Go buy your Forever White Belt swag at teespring.com/forever-white-belt. Linktree https://linktr.ee/foreverwhitebelt Finally, if you ever get to beautiful Northern California please come roll with us at North Bay Jiu Jitsu in Marin County just north of San Francisco, there are amazing instructors, and everyone there is great people. Mention the podcast and get two weeks Free.