Mini Ep. 5: The Alignment Scorecard

This week Steve and Matt discuss the elbow-knee connection: a shockingly simple concept that, when applied intelligently, can improve your game in a variety of ways. Mental models discussed in this episode: Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment/ Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics/ Anatomic Hierarchy https://bjjmentalmodels.com/anatomic-hierarchy/ Elbow-Knee Connection https://bjjmentalmodels.com/elbow-knee-connection/ First Principles https://bj...

22 Jul 20191h 9min

This week Steve and Matt discuss kuzushi, the Japanese art of balance breaking. Mental models discussed in this episode: Kuzushi https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kuzushi/ Path of Least Resistance https://bjjmentalmodels.com/path-of-least-resistance/ Technique Chaining https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining/ Types of Guard https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/ Microtransitions https://bjjmentalmodels.com/microtransitions/ Staying Loose https://bjjmentalmodels.com/staying-loose/ ...

15 Jul 20191h 2min

In the final episode of our instructor series, Steve & Matt shed light on the ugly side of Jiu-Jitsu and the instructors' responsibilities to create a healthy training environment. Topics include issues with your students, gym drama, cult mentality, and harassment. A huge thank you to Matt Kirtley, AKA Aesopian, for his detailed research into cults that contributed to this episode. Mental models discussed in this episode: Extreme Ownership https://bjjmentalmodels.com/extreme-owner...

8 Jul 20191h 14min

Steve and Matt discuss the business relationships and networking activities critical to running a successful gym. Topics include skill swapping, building logistics, the competitive landscape, neighbouring businesses, privates, seminars, workshops, open mats, tournaments, managing your own promotions, sponsorships, and social media conduct. Mental models discussed in this episode: Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/ Idea Communism https://bjjmentalmodels.co...

1 Jul 20191h 16min

Once you've opened your gym, how do maintain and grow your membership base? Steve and Matt discuss lead generation, advertising, merchandising, social media, websites, designing your schedule, and retaining students. Mental models discussed in this episode: Investing in Loss https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/ Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/We maintain an online database of the mental models governing Jiu-Jitsu at: https://bjjmentalmodels.co...

24 Jun 20191h 17min

In the second episode of the instructor series, Steve and Matt discuss Matt's experience opening a gym. They cover what's involved in making the decision, the qualifications required, targeting your customers, hidden costs, the path to profitability, and affiliation. A must-listen for anyone interested in moving into Jiu-Jitsu as their full-time career. Mental models discussed in this episode: Habits over Results https://bjjmentalmodels.com/habits-over-results/ Loss Aversion htt...

17 Jun 20191h 11min

Today marks the first of a new five-part series on BJJ Mental Models: the instructor series! We're going to cover topics relevant to instructors and gym owners. Today's topic is coaching, and we're going to discuss: going from practitioner to coach, teaching class, one-on-one instruction, coaching children, coaching tournaments, and teaching seminars. Mental models discussed in this episode: Beginner's Mind https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beginners-mind/ Psychological Safety https://bjjm...

10 Jun 20191h 11min

As the old saying goes, "the bigger they are, the harder they cross-face you from side control." This week Steve and Matt discuss the perils of fighting larger opponents. Mental models discussed in this episode: Do What Works https://bjjmentalmodels.com/do-what-works/ Growth from Discomfort https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort/ Investing in Loss https://bjjmentalmodels.com/investing-in-loss/ Dictate the Pace https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dictate-the-pace/ Dominant Angle...

3 Jun 20191h 11min