In Episode 126 of 40 & Fighting, we dive into something bigger than just training — building the future of judo in the Inland Empire. Anthony shares his vision for growing judo locally, including launching kids judo classes at the gym and creating opportunities for the next generation to learn discipline, confidence, and real grappling skills from a young age. We talk about: Why judo is so important for young athletes How judo helps build balance, coordination, and confidence What it takes to start a kids judo program Growing judo in the Inland Empire and building a stronger local community How judo translates into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and overall grappling success This episode isn't just about training — it's about legacy, community, and giving back through martial arts. Whether you're a parent, coach, or grappler looking to improve your stand-up game, this conversation is packed with insight into how judo can shape athletes on and off the mats. Join the Conversation Would you put your kids into judo or BJJ first? Why? Support the Channel If you enjoy real conversations about BJJ, Judo, training, and building community, make sure to: Like Comment Subscribe Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting SEO Keywords / Tags Judo for kids, kids judo classes, judo training, judo vs bjj, inland empire judo, martial arts for kids, bjj podcast, judo podcast, grappling podcast, youth martial arts, judo throws, jiu jitsu training, 40 and Fighting

Welcome back to 40 & Fighting, the podcast where we talk about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, life on the mats, competition, and the realities of training as adults balancing work, family, and the grind of getting better. In Episode 125, we keep it real and have some fun catching up after missing an episode. We talk about what's been going on in our jiu-jitsu lives, the chaos that sometimes comes with trying to stay consistent with training, and why sometimes life just gets in the way. This episode is full of real BJJ conversation, laughs, and the kind of mat talk you hear after class when teammates are hanging around telling stories. We cover topics like: What life is really like when jiu-jitsu becomes part of your lifestyle Why we missed an episode and what's been happening behind the scenes The ups and downs of staying consistent in BJJ training The camaraderie and humor that make jiu-jitsu gyms feel like family Random mat stories and laughs every grappler can relate to Whether you're a white belt just starting BJJ or a seasoned grappler who's been on the mats for years, this episode is a reminder that jiu-jitsu is more than competition — it's the friendships, the struggles, and the moments that keep us coming back. If you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, wrestling, or grappling, you'll definitely relate to this one. Subscribe for More Jiu-Jitsu Content If you enjoy real conversations about BJJ training, competition, mindset, and life on the mats, make sure to: Like the video Drop a comment about your favorite part of jiu-jitsu life Subscribe for new episodes of 40 & Fighting Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting

In Episode 123 of 40 & Fighting, we break down the real responsibilities of teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — from coaching brand new white belts to leading kids classes — and how those lessons translate directly into competition performance. We dive deep into: How to properly teach new white belts in BJJ The challenges of teaching kids jiu jitsu (and why it makes you better) Why great competitors aren't always great instructors The mindset shift required when stepping into a coaching role Lessons learned from competition and how to improve faster How training partners and gym culture impact growth Turning competition into a learning experience Whether you're a competitor, a coach, a parent with kids in jiu jitsu, or a white belt just starting out — this episode will challenge how you think about teaching, learning, and improving on the mats. If you train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and want to get better faster, this conversation is for you. If you're over 35 and still training hard, welcome home. Subscribe to 40 & Fighting for weekly conversations about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, competing, mindset, and life on and off the mats. Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting Topics Covered: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training Teaching white belts BJJ How to coach kids jiu jitsu BJJ competition mindset Learning from competition losses Gym culture and training partners How teaching improves your jiu jitsu #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJ #JiuJitsuLife #BJJCompetition #BJJCoach #WhiteBelt #KidsJiuJitsu #JiuJitsuPodcast #MastersBJJ #40AndFighting

Episode 123 of 40 & Fighting is all about competition, growth, and the power of a strong Jiu-Jitsu team. In this episode, we break down John's 2nd place finish at the JJWL tournament, recap the event atmosphere, and talk about what it really feels like to step on the podium after months of preparation. We also dive into my first brown belt competition experience — what surprised me, what I learned, and how competing at a new belt level changes your mindset. We talk about: What JJWL tournaments are like Competing as a brown belt for the first time The mistakes we made — and what we learned from them How to turn competition losses into long-term growth Why having a gym full of teammates who genuinely want you to get better matters The power of community in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu How to reframe nerves, pressure, and performance One of the biggest themes of this episode is this: competition is feedback. Whether you win gold, take 2nd, or fall short — every match teaches you something about your training, your mindset, and your preparation. We also talk about how having a strong group of friends and teammates behind you makes competing completely different. When you train in a gym where everyone pushes each other to level up, competing becomes less about ego and more about growth. If you compete in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — or are thinking about stepping onto the mat for your first tournament — this episode is for you. Topics Covered: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition JJWL tournament recap Brown belt debut BJJ tournament lessons Learning from competition mistakes How to improve after a loss Competition mindset Training for BJJ tournaments Jiu-Jitsu team culture Growth through competing 40 & Fighting is a podcast about Jiu-Jitsu, competing after 40, mindset, training smarter, and building a strong community on and off the mats. If you train BJJ, love competition stories, or want to improve your mindset for tournaments — subscribe and join the team. Tell us in the comments: What's the biggest lesson you've learned from competing? And if you've competed at brown belt — how different did it feel? NOOSS Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting

In Episode 122 of 40 & Fighting, we dive into a topic that can completely change your jiu-jitsu journey: learning how to teach. We break down why becoming an instructor — or even just learning how to properly explain technique — can help you break through plateaus, understand positions deeper, and improve faster on the mats. Teaching forces you to see jiu-jitsu differently, and it might be one of the most underrated ways to level up your game. In this episode we discuss: Why grapplers should learn to teach and explain technique How teaching helps you overcome training plateaus ⚠️ Why being great at jiu-jitsu doesn't automatically mean you can teach it Lessons we've learned from studying teaching philosophy influenced by Rorion Gracie and how jiu-jitsu can truly impact someone's life Key elements of effective instruction and communication on the mats John's training leading into next week's tournament and how preparation changes under pressure If you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, coach classes, help teammates learn, or want to deepen your understanding of technique and leadership, this episode is packed with real-world experience from the mats. Drop a comment: Do you think teaching makes you better at jiu-jitsu — or does it take time away from your own training? Like • Comment • Subscribe Help support the show and grow the 40 & Fighting community. Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting

In Episode 121 of 40 & Fighting, we dive into what it really takes to keep competing as you get older — physically, mentally, and strategically. Competing in your 30s, 40s, and beyond isn't about training less… it's about training smarter. In this episode, we break down how your approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition, recovery, and conditioning needs to evolve if you want to stay competitive and avoid burnout or injury. In this episode we cover: How competition changes as you move into the Masters divisions The mindset shifts needed to stay dangerous on the mats Specific training methods that help older grapplers compete longer ⏱️ Recovery, workload management, and smart intensity training How to peak for tournaments without destroying your body Real stories, lessons learned, and plenty of laughs along the way Whether you're planning your first Masters tournament or you've been competing for years, this episode is packed with real-world experience from grapplers still stepping on the competition mats. Drop a comment: What's been the hardest adjustment in training as you've gotten older — recovery, cardio, injuries, or time management? Like • Comment • Subscribe Help support the show and grow the 40 & Fighting community. Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting

In Episode 120 of 40 & Fighting, we dive into the reality of competing in grappling — from the mental side to the physical grind — and how both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo shape the way you approach competition. This week we talk about: The mindset you need when stepping into competition How Judo training changes your stand-up and confidence How Jiu-Jitsu competition strategy differs from regular training Lessons learned from competing (wins, losses, and everything in between) Real mat stories, hard lessons, and plenty of laughs Whether you're getting ready for your first tournament or you've been competing for years, this episode breaks down what actually matters when it's time to perform. If you train BJJ, Judo, wrestling, or MMA grappling, this one is for you. Drop a comment: Do you prefer competing in Gi, No-Gi, or Judo rules — and why? Like • Comment • Subscribe Help support the show and grow the 40 & Fighting community. Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting SEO Keywords / Tags BJJ competition, Judo competition, how to compete in BJJ, grappling competition mindset, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu podcast, Judo training for BJJ, tournament preparation BJJ, IBJJF competition tips, grappling podcast, masters BJJ competition, 40 and Fighting podcast

In Episode 119 of 40 & Fighting, we welcome back Professor Omar Salum after an absolutely huge performance at IBJJF European Championship (Euros)—taking DOUBLE GOLD by winning Masters 5, both his weight division and the open weight. We break down what it takes to win at that level, especially in the masters divisions, and what separates good competitors from great ones when the pressure is real. We also get into: Omar's mindset and preparation leading into IBJJF Euros ⚔️ How he approached open class and handled different body types/styles ️ Updates on the new gym in Palm Springs (what's coming + the vision) What it REALLY takes to be a great coach / professor The standards, habits, and leadership that build strong teams If you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, compete in IBJJF, or want to understand how elite competitors think—and how great instructors build champions—this episode is packed with insights you can actually apply. Drop a comment: What's the biggest quality you look for in a coach—technique, leadership, or culture? Like • Comment • Subscribe Help support the show and grow the 40 & Fighting community. Join the Discord and be part of the team https://discord.gg/MUgrpSc2nt Save your feet mat burn: https://amzn.to/3uLkJjh Blath Path Gear: https://theblkpath.com/ IG: John: https://www.instagram.com/ghostninjasd Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/beardrolls 40ANDFIGHITNG: https://www.instagram.com/40andfighting_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@40andfighting IBJJF Euros, IBJJF European Championship, Omar Salum, double gold IBJJF, Masters 5 BJJ, open class jiu jitsu, BJJ competition podcast, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu podcast, jiu jitsu coaching, how to be a good BJJ coach, Palm Springs jiu jitsu, grappling podcast, masters jiu jitsu, 40 and Fighting