I am currently on a work trip which has inspired this question, when you are out of town for work or for fun, do you find a place to train? 

I personally do not but that’s only due to the lack of free time. I would love to be able to get a class in while away. I’m curious how many savages we have that make the time and the effort to bring their Gi and attend a class. 

Question that comes to mind for all those with a ROLtv account. What is you favorite seminar?

One of the ones that had one of the biggest impacts: Jeff Serafin https://rolacademy.tv/programs/2022-11-19-jeff-serafin?category_id=89230&utm_source=product&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=content_share&utm_term=1965357&utm_content=copy

I might be biased but this one seems pretty cool https://rolacademy.tv/programs/2023-09-30-russ-usauskas-workshop?category_id=89230&utm_source=product&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=content_share&utm_term=2617366&utm_content=copy

What is one win you had in the past week? Big or small, on or off the mats.

I think motivation and confidence can really dip when we stop seeing or recognizing the little improvements we are making in our lives or on the mats. 

Hi everybody. I was wondering where does your jiu jitsu come from? Live training, classes, seminars, You Tube, or high level matches, UFC etc.? Or a combo?

For me, it’s teaching, mat time, ROL-TV, and You Tube.

The mats push me to improve, but teaching it is what really makes it stick. It forces me to explain it, feel it, internalize it. You Tube is a point of reference for me. Sometimes I find something new, other times I don’t. But either way, it shows me where I’m at in my jiu-jitsu.

Here’s to a healthy new year on the matts. 

New Years Resolutions 

With 2026 here, what is a jiu jitsu based New Year’s resolution for you? Attend a certain number of classes? Compete in a competition? Try to get to a certain stripe or perhaps a new belt? Or simply focus on and master a certain technique?

For me, I have really tried to grow into the competition aspect, competing in several competitions now over the past couple years. It wasn’t until my most recent competition that I was able to secure a gold medal. My resolution is to compete in at least 3 competitions this year alone, with gold as the goal. 

Fundamental moves and guards still are dominant and most important for growth.  However, it is fun to change it up and also a way to get a bump with some quick success...sometimes.  What is an unconventional submission/guard that you have success with?

The first one that pops in my head is the Tarikoplata or Octopus Guard.  Either one isn't something every person uses or has even heard about.  I have played around with both and still use both in my game today.  

If you could only pick one to train.  Jiu jitsu for self defense or the sport side of Jiu jitsu which would you chioose?

I don’t know if you noticed, but Santa wears a black belt and rocks a gi 24/7. If you made his “Nice” list, what gifts are you hoping Jiujitsu Santa leaves for you under the tree this year?

If you could attend any seminar for free, who would you pick? Would you have a specific topic request?

My top pick would have to be Gordon for obvious reasons. But If we eliminated that option, I’d pick JFlo followed closely by Lovato Jr. All three of these names would be a world class experience! I personally wouldn’t even request a topic, just learn whatever they are best and most passionate about.