JJO #66 - How Mark Olvera Is Changing Lives With Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Training in martial arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Judo, wrestling, & Muay Thai is my outlet for improving my mental health and becoming a better person.

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On the 66th episode of this podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Mark Olvera, a guy who swapped late-night partying for early-morning training sessions. Mark, the heart and soul of the Olvera Jiu-Jitsu Academy, has quite a tale to tell - it's a story of transformation, redemption, and the power of saying: "Do not quit."

Mark is no stranger to the dark side. He dove headfirst into the chaotic world of drugs and partying, but it was Jiu-Jitsu that threw him a lifeline. He got hooked, not to the substances that were dragging him down, but to the martial art that was pulling him up. His life took a U-turn. Sobriety replaced addiction, purpose replaced aimlessness, and before he knew it, Jiu-Jitsu had permeated every corner of his existence. In his own words, he'd go "crazy without it."

Jiu-Jitsu has clearly done more for Mark than only assisting him in achieving sobriety; it has completely transformed his career, his relationships, and indeed his entire outlook on life. However, Mark's zeal doesn't end with self-transformation. Jiu-Jitsu, in his opinion, has the ability to make the world a better place. This martial art, according to him, isn't just about the throws and holds - it's a mindset. Mark thinks that the "No Quit" attitude that Jiu-Jitsu instills in its practitioners can be used anyplace in life.

The conversation gets particularly interesting when we delve into the Olvera Jiu-Jitsu Academy. This place isn't just Mark's entrepreneurial project; it's his life's passion and purpose personified. His objective? To build an arena where people pick up more than just martial art moves. Mark envisions the academy as a transformative space, not just a dojo for landing punches or perfecting grapples. It's a space where discipline, self-respect, and personal growth are on the daily menu. The academy, in essence, embodies the very principles that marked a new beginning in Mark's life.

This episode is more than a simple chat about Jiu-Jitsu; it's a revelation of its immense capacity to flip life's script. We're not just touching on the sport; we're unpacking its essence and the profound shift it can trigger. Mark's story is incredibly unique and inspiring - a journey from self-destruction to self-mastery. So, plug in and let yourself be swept away by Mark Olvera's gripping transformation, which might just spur you to seek your own 'No Quit' mindset.

Favorite Quote:

"Every grip, every move in Jiu-Jitsu taught me to hang onto life and never quit."

- Mark Olvera

How to Connect:

As we wrap up this fascinating episode, don't forget that you can connect with Mark and stay updated with his inspiring Jiu-Jitsu journey on social media. Find him on Instagram and on Facebook.

So go ahead, reach out, follow, and maybe even find your own 'No Quit' spirit. Until next time, remember - don't quit, keep going.

Links are below:

https://www.facebook.com/markusolverajj

https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/olverajiujitsu/

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Want to support the show and the research we are doing into the societal impacts of martial arts? Go to https://JiuJitsuOutlet.com/ to shop our exclusive line of apparel made for the Jiu-Jitsu athlete.

The information in this episode should NOT be considered medical advice but instead educational information. If you are struggling with your mental health and want to speak with a professional therapist, I recommend https://Talkspace.com/ ... This is the therapy service that worked for me when I was at my darkest moments in life and dealing with panic attacks every day.