Not letting it turn into a scramble. I want to escape and get into the most dominant position that I can. 

Absolutely.

From a self defense standpoint--I'm good on the ground and if we have to go there I want to be in the dominant position. 

From a BJJ sport standpoint--if my training partner doesn't want to start standin,g I'd rather work on a specific starting point than just kneeling. 

Closed guard!!

Breath by Rickson Gracie. 

Born a Champion with Sean Patrick Flannery is a pretty good BJJ movie. If I remember correctly he did most of the legwork for that movie and he's a black belt.  

I kept hearing about it on podcasts and knew I wanted to try something different. After researching and asking around I came into Rol. Since I started I know it helps me think outside of the box when I come into issues at work. Also, I am more flexible/agile than most people my age so I get funny looks when I am able to fit into smaller spaces.