Alberto Crane Show: Recent Episodes
Alberto Crane
Phil "Jiu-Jitsu Matrix" Migliarese is an American 6th degree Relson Gracie Brazilian jiu-jitsu Black Belt and is the youngest person to receive that honor from Relson and was one of the first Americans to be promoted to Black Belt. Phil is a Gracie Worlds and National Champion, Migliarese is a trainer, training partner and coach to UFC and MMA fighters as well as World and Pan-Am Champions. Migliarese is also a yoga instructor and author/creator of Yoga For Fighters. He lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he teaches co owns with his brother, Ricardo Migliarese Balance Studios and their affiliations. Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Vitor originally from Salvador, Bahia in Brazil. Vitor went to law school and was close to finishing when he started to get in trouble. He shares his story of going down the wrong path as a young man and finding his way. From moving to the US and then dedicating himself to Jiu-Jitsu, the lifestyle and serving others to reach their potential. Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Kenny Florian is an American retired mixed martial artist and commentator who formerly competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He formerly served as an analyst for UFC on Fox, provided color commentary for UFC Fight Night, and provides color commentary on the robot combat television series BattleBots. We’ve been friends since the late 90’s when we were both competing at the IBJJF Worlds. Always a good time spending time with him.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Rich Chou besides being a BJJ Black Belt is a highly respected matchmaker in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). He was the matchmaker for “Rumble on the Rock”, “Elite XC”, “ StrikeForce” and Bellator MMA, where he served as the Vice President of Talent Relations. We started working together for his new project Alta MMA Training, formerly known as Wimp2Warrior, Alta's "Warrior Training Program" takes everyday people on a 20-week journey through the world of mixed martial arts starting from the basics and culminating in a fully sanctioned three-round amateur MMA fight against someone from the program. Legacy is now a proud partner of Alta. Rich serves as VP of North America for Alta Global Group Limited which operates as a sports technology company. John Kavanagh is the coach of UFC champion Conor McGregor and co-founder and global head coach at Alta. The Company provides a platform that delivers solutions for the estimated over 600 million MMA fans around the World and growing to begin their own martial arts journey supporting them and school owners alike. Alta Global Group Limited just listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “MMA”. For more information on Alta Training visit TrainAlta.comSponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Jay Lee has been in a staple of the Jiu-Jitsu community in Los Angeles for decades. It was a pleasure to promote him to Black Belt and sit with him to hear about his journey, lessons learned along the way and more. Enjoy!Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Ninh Le has been training at Legacy Burbank since we originally opened in 2011. It was an honor to promote him to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and finally have the opportunity to sit down with him. Enjoy!Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Mat Trujillo originally from Las Vegas, New Mexico grew up wrestling. He now lives in Los Angeles with his beautiful family where he runs his construction and architect business . It’s such a pleasure to have Mat as one of our Black Belts and to call him a friend.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Besides Dennis Zanatta being a BJJ Black Belt, Dennis is a World Class Cinematographer with two decades of experience in the film, television and commercial industry. Dennis Zanatta is a proud latino, native Portuguese speaker, fluent in Spanish and English. Having grown up in the largest city of South America, São Paulo, he brings a unique vision to every story he portrays and can deliver a unique style for each project. Its been an honor to share the mats with him and have him be a part of our Legacy Family.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Thomas Chamorro is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt who is originally from Costa Rica. Always a privilege to sit down with one of our Black Belts. It’s been a pleasure to be part of his journey and so proud of the amazing work he does with our kids and adults programs at Legacy every single day.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Professor Ariel is a BJJ Black Belt with a passion for helping others reach their potential on and off the mats. It’s been a pleasure to watch his journey training all these years with Prof Mark Bradford in Hollywood and Legacy West Adams and with me at Legacy Burbank. He now teaches at Legacy Headquarters in Burbank and I am excited for his continued journey in the art and lifestyle.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Matthew is an up and coming amateur mixed martial arts fighter as well a full-time Jiu-Jitsu and Muay thai coach for kids and adults. It’s been a pleasure to see this young man grow up and I am very excited for his bright future ahead.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Nico Carrillo is a Scottish Muay Thai fighter. He is the current WMO Welterweight World Champion, WMO Super Welterweight World Champion and ISKA Muay Thai World 65 kg Champion. As of January 16, 2024, he is ranked #1 in the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai rankings.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Gary Bairos is a wrestler and filmmaker. He was a Division I All-American Wrestler, PAC 12 Champion and former Team Captain of the Arizona State University Sun Devils. Coach Bairos has trained at the Olympic training center in Colorado Springs and has strong roots to the world-renowned Sunkist wrestling program. He is a coach at Zeke Jones' Sun Devil wrestling camp at ASU. As a Filmaker Coach Gary has directed and produced No Girls Allowed, Junkyard Dogs (2015) and The Labyrinth (2017). When he started Coaching High School Wrestling he found something he didn’t know he was looking for.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Tim is one of my long-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu students and black belts. He is the eldest of 7 brothers and sisters. Tim has been teaching martial arts to kids for over 15 years and runs his after-school program in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It has been an honor to witness his growth over the years.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Waldomiro Perez Junior is a historical figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the state of São Paulo. A black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, graduated by Marcelo Behring, and a black belt in Judo trained by Olympic bronze medalist Shiak Ishi, Waldomiro has promoted renowned international fighters to black belt status, such as Roberto Godoi, Jorge Patino, and Max Trombini. He also participated in the famous MMA program "The Ultimate Fighter" (on TUF7 and TUF10) as a ground coach. Additionally, Waldomiro was the founder of Cia Paulista, one of the most important Jiu-Jitsu academies in São Paulo.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com#WaldomiroPerezJunior #JiuJitsuLegend #BrazilianJiuJitsu #SaoPauloJiuJitsu #MarceloBehring #JudoBlackBelt #OlympicMedalist #MMAHistory #TheUltimateFighter #GroundGame #JiuJitsuAcademy #MartialArtsLegacy #BJJInstructor #RobertoGodoi #JorgePatino #MaxTrombini #CombatSports #BrazilianMartialArts #FighterCoach #CiaPaulista
Leo began his training in 1985 under the tutelage of Romero “Jacare” Cavalcanti. Leozinho or simply Leo Vieira, being famous for combining one of the most crowd-pleasing games in BJJ with an amazing track record.Leo is an IBJJF Black Belt World Champion and 2 x ADCC Champion with many other accolades and awards on his resume. He is a co-founder of the Checkmat Team, one of the biggest Jiu-Jitsu Teams in the World. It was truly and honor to sit down with Leo and listen to his great stories and his philosophy on training, coaching and life. This is an episode you don’t want to miss.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
It took Nolan 13 years to receive his BJJ Black Belt. Congratulations on your perseverance and example my friend. I’m very proud of you!
Sponsored by TACFIT.com
“The World’s Smartest Workout”
Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Gerardo Cruz is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Jiu-Jitsu Instructor and Artist. It’s an honor to call him a student and friend.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Isaac Doederlein is an American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under the legendary Rubens Charles, also known as “Cobrinha”.Isaac began his martial arts journey over 18 years ago, when his mother signed him on her church’s group judo program at the age of 11. At the age of 18, one month after finishing High School, Isaac Doederlein decided to invest everything into his passion, and move to Los Angeles. His goal was to train full time, in hopes to fulfill a life’s dream of becoming a World Champion.In 2022 he won the IBJJF World Championship at Black Belt.His work ethic and journey is an inspiration.
Blake Kasemeier is a content creator, writer, story teller and now a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. He shares his journey from being the lead singer in his punk band, going to Berkeley, working for TRX straight out of college, his passion for fitness and a whole lot more.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Ferrid Kheder is a retired French judo Olympian and a former professional mixed martial artist with 34 total fights. We became friends when we trained MMA at Team Quest with Dan Henderson. Ferrid later also received his BJJ Black Belt from Andre Galvao at Atos. I value our relationship and love to hear his stories from his travels all around the World.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Monika Toth Cingel is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black, TACFIT Head Coach at TACFIT LA here at Legacy in Burbank. Monika is originally from Slovakia with a degree in Philosophy.
She shares her journey from the beginning of her TACFIT Journey to now TACFIT Senior Instructor, how it’s helped her Jiu-Jitsu and a lot more!
Alexandre Maia Mascarenhas is a 5th Degree BJJ Black Belt, we’ve been friends and training together for close to 30 years. Alexandre is a very creative and talented musician who had a very popular group in Brazil named Manitu as well as a Music project named Xanel where he toured in Brazil for many years. He now produces and creates his own music under his name Xande which you can find on most platforms. A little over 2 years ago he had a life changing health issue. Where he tore his Aorta in his heart. He shares his story of how he used TACFIT to not only recover but also to live his best life and how it’s made him a better person.
Sarah Moya is an American Female BJJ and MMA Pioneer beginning her Jiu-Jitsu Journey in 1999. She was an IBJJF Pan American Champion, and was the first female MMA fight in her native state of New Mexico. It was such an honor to sit down with her and talk about life, her fighting in Japan and some of our adventures together!I couldn’t be more proud of the person she has become thru Jiu-Jitsu and so grateful to have been part of her Journey early on.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com
Nick is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Matt Serra, Real Estate Investor and Host of the A Game Podcast, where he discusses what makes people excel in life, music, business, real estate investing for entrepreneurs to live the life they want and chase their dreams.
Peter Letsos, or “Pete The Greek” as he is commonly known, is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Carlon Gracie Junior, having competed in the sport all over the world, including in the historical Copa Atlantica, Brazilian Teams Nationals, the Pan American and the Gracie Invitational (Arnold Classic). It’s always fun spending time with him. Love hearing his perspective on things on teaching, training and living the Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle.
On Tuesday, August 8, devastation hit Lahaina, Maui. The entire town of Lahaina was burned to the ground including many family's second home, Aloha Roll Academy.For over twenty years, BJJ has brought exercise, stress relief, discipline and community to West Maui. Five years ago, they had a vision to create a space not just for adults and kids but families and the community. They had over 200 students of adults and kids, 12 coaches and 100 monthly visitors, Aloha Roll Academy provides Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu along with the Aloha culture to West Maui and visitors from around the world. Please consider donating to their fund and visit their Aloha Roll Stand at this weeks IBJJF Master Worlds in Las Vegas.
ICHARD BRESLER is widely recognized as the first student of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the USA. For almost twenty years he worked closely alongside Rorion Gracie, helping to grow Jiu-Jitsu through the Gracie Garages, the Gracie Academy, and the early days of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He was one of the first Americans to earn a teaching certificate through the original Instructor Certification Program at the Gracie Academy, and one of the first Americans to earn a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He still teaches Jiu-Jitsu and practices alternative healing in Los Angeles, California.
Kurt Osiander is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Ralph Gracie‘s tutelage. Osiander is one of the cult heroes in BJJ’s community, having been an active competitor since the mid 1990’s. Kurt Osiander’s straight forward personality and witty comments expressed in his video blog (Kurt Osiander’s Move of the Week) have given us well recognized phrases such as “shut up and train” and “you f****d up a long time ago”, which turned the Ralph Gracie Academy head instructor into one of the most beloved personalities in the sport especially within the YouTube generation.
Andre Lima is a world famous Taekwondo fighter and Grandmaster 8th Degree. Lima began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Brazil in the 80s. In 1988 he moved to France and in 1990 relocated to the United States where he became a member of the original Machado Jiu Jitsu Academy in Redondo Beach, CA in the early 90s. In the mid 90s Lima and his wife Christianny Lima founded Lima Taekwondo and Martial Arts Academy specialized in teaching TKD and BJJ. Lima competed in local BJJ tournaments; his last competition was at the 2000 Pan American in Florida taking 2nd place. In 2005 Rigan Machado promoted Andre Lima to BJJ Black Belt. It was an honor to sit down with him and hear old BJJ Stories, his martial arts journey , his dedication on helping others thru martial arts and what makes a good instructor and more!
Had a great time with Maurizio Tangari hearing about how he got in to the fitness industry, his history with TACFIT, his HydroCore Bag invention and more!
Great to catch up with TACFIT Coach and Steel Mace Yoga founder Erin Furry. We talked about her journey, her new product Free to Move for Life and more! Sponsored by TACFIT.com
Robert Miller is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and TACFIT Team Leader. Coach/Professor Robert will be relocating to Lake Saint Louis, Missouri after being the head coach of our TACFIT Program at TACFIT Los Angeles and Legacy HQ for the last 7 years. He will opening up his own TACFIT and Legacy Gym there.
Professor Gilberto Castro, a black belt under "Luis" 'Limão " Heredia, shared this vision and set a goal to bring all the benefits he learned throughout his journey to black belt, to the local community of West Maui.
Founder of RŌL Academy in the Chicago Area and host of RŌL Radio. Always a great conversation.
John Combs is an ADCC West Coast Trials Winner, Multiple time IBJJF Open Black Belt Champ and is a phenomenal teacher as well. Always a great time connecting with him.
Nare is the head chef at Açai Jungle Cafe in Burbank, California. Her crazy journey again in New York at the age of 19 and eventually brought her back to LA and to Açai Jungle Cafe where she runs the busiest small kitchen with delicious food that brings in people from all over LA.
Arman is a SpaceX Engineer and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. We discussed his BJJ journey, the meaning of life and a lot more!
An honor to sit down with this power couple. A life fully dedicated to Jiu-Jitsu and the Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle. Lucas is currently one of the Top Lightweight Jiu-Jitsu Fighters in the World and Andressa is #1 ranked in the World for IBJJF already winning 3 IBJJF Gi and 1 No-Gi Black Belt Titles.
Founder of Ouano International long time maker of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Kimonos, Fight gear and creator of the UFC glove! A lot of fun going down memory lane with my long time supporter and friend.
Casey Morrissey is a Skater and Martial Artist. Had a great time hearing about his journey in the two and the similarities. Casey now runs Refine Recovery a drug and alcohol treatment center. Always love to talking with someone who chases his passions.
Good times sitting down with Prof Zach, we talk about his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey to black belt, outerspace and more!
Professor Anjanette takes care of so many of us at Legacy. It was honor to sit down with her and talk about her journey to black belt and more!
Pleasure to sit down with Professor Erika and talk about her journey to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and a lot more!
Always a good time sitting down with my friend, student and now Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt.
Very proud of this young man. It’s been a pleasure watching him grow in to the professional martial arts instructor he’s become. We took the moment to reminisce his journey to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt.
Matt Afifi is a BJJ Black Belt and Firefighter. It’s been a big pleasure and honor to watch Matt grow up over the years. He’s been on the mats with us since he was 15 years old.
Fun time sitting down with this super dad and amazing human. Steven is the dad to Jonny and Ollie, also known as “The Twinjas”. Steven is a martial artist, stunt coordinator and stuntman. He was also well regarded for his work as Donatello in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and his role as "Chan" in Mortal Kombat.
Eliot is a four-time Pan-American Jiu Jitsu champion and UFC Veteran. He has since retired from professional fighting, and is now the co-owner of Easton Training Center. Eliot is a Podcaster, Motivational Speaker, Author and good friend. Always a great time and I always learn spending time with him.
Dr. Terry Wahls was dependent on a tilt-recline wheelchair for four years until she reclaimed her health using a diet and lifestyle program she designed specifically to restore her cellular health. She wrote The Wahls Protocol®—A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles to help guide readers to reclaiming their own health. The Wahls Protocol® comes out of Dr. Wahls’ own quest to treat the debilitating symptoms she experiences as a sufferer of progressive MS. Informed by science, she began using Paleo principles as guidelines for her unique, nutrient-rich plan.It was a big honor to speak with her as her work has made a big difference in my life since I watched her TEDx talk back in 2012 after my MS diagnosis. She made me believe that I can heal myself naturally.
Crystal “Vanessa” Demopoulos is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and a mixed martial artist who competes in the Strawweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. She is a color commentator and fight analyst as well. I had the privilege to meet her during one of our Thanksgiving Open Mats and was very intrigued by her story. Grateful to Vanessa for making the time and for sharing. Hope you all enjoy.
Great conversation with TACFIT Country Director of Peru Jesus. Jesus held his Certification and this October in Lima Peru, where I was able to have the great pleasure to spend time with him and see the great work he is doing.
Great conversation with Ralek Gracie talking about his new project, GENZAI Magazine bringing the past and present of martial arts together and much more. If you appreciate the quality of Japanese Martial Art Magazines and old Gracie or Tatami Magazines from Brazil like I have you will love GENZAI.
Legendary Kru Walter is a former Muay Thai Champion and veteran Muay Thai Coach. Loved hearing some of his origins and how he brought the world famous Sityodtong name to LA. Kru Walter was my former Muay Thai Coach so it was an honor to finally sit down with him after all these years.
“Pavão” Jessica De Lima Moran & “Chegado” Sean Moran are Capoeiristas, movement coaches and owners of Counter Balance in Eagle Rock, California! Pleasure to finally sit down with this power couple and discuss Capoeira, TACFIT, Human Connection and more!
George “Keto George” Harris has been working hard in our Alta MMA @trainalta program at Legacy for the last few months. George has lost about 260 lbs in the last 2 years and at his heaviest tipped the scale at 451 lbs! George shares his story of how he did it and more.
Always a fun time spent with the talented Coach Kevin “CaveMan” Tomacino. Kevin produces the Alberto Crane Show when he’s not on the mat training, teaching BJJ or MMA, he works as one of Legacy first impression specialists as well.
Mestre Mascara has been teaching in San Francisco for the last 5 years. Love connecting with the Capoeira community. Great to get to know Mestre Mascara and hear his story.
Pleasure to finally sit down and connect with Dylan Lipari of SUPERARE and hear their story of how they started in New York in 2011. Superare has grown to be a favorite among our students and around the world with cool life style fight inspired apparel and the top quality training gear, from Grappling to Muay Thai and a whole lot more! With stores in LA and NYC.
Bear is the founder and genius behind Shoyoroll. Jiu-Jitsu’s favorite Kimono and Lifestyle brand. It has been a big pleasure to watch Shoyoroll’s growth since the beginning. I appreciate their support and friendship over the years.
Great to sit down with friend Prof Thomas. He is the Owner and Operator of RŌL Academy of Jiu-Jitsu in Orland Park in the Chicago Area, as well the the host of RŌL Radio.
Samuel Braga is a multiple time IBJJF Black Belt World Champion and was the first to develop the Berimbolo game. Great to sit down with long time friend and teammate to talk Jiu-Jitsu, training and more.
Always great spending time with my talented brother Coach Esik. Founder of Viking. Ninja, TACFIT USA director and Steel Mace Master.
Coach Brandon “Hapa” is a Fitness Coach, Bodyworker, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Athlete, Capoeirista and TACFIT Senior Instructor. Always a good time catching up with my talented friend.
Always great to catch up with TACFIT Senior Instructor Chris Kirk and talk all things TACFIT and Health First Fitness.
Gokor Chivichyan is an Armenian-born American judo, submission grappling, and mixed martial arts instructor. Chivichyan currently trains professional and amateur fighters at the Hayastan MMA Academy in North Hollywood, California, United States. With his extensive knowledge in judo, sambo, catch wrestling, freestyle wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Chivichyan is considered to be one of the most complete grapplers of all time.
Hayastan MMA Academy is one of the top ranked academies in Judo and Grappling, and is known for producing top fighters. Hayastan MMA Academy has expanded its expertise across North America, Europe and Asia. Gokor Chivichyan and Gene Lebell, widely considered as one of the top instructors of the world, have created a legacy of fighters, millions of memories and an empire known as Hayastan MMA Academy.
It was an honor to sit down with legendary Sensei Gokor and hear old Gracie garage stories, his own personal story of how he immigrated to the US, began his teaching journey, Judo Gene LeBell and a lot more!
Coach Bernardo Steinberg was the first TACFIT Team Leader from Brasil. The person along with Celina Toledo and Allan Moura to help organize the events in Brazil. Bernardo has helped Brazil’s Legion to get prepared for all the regions Certifications over the years so it very special for me to watch Bernardo teach the TACFIT Certification in Portuguese in his hometown of Belo Horizonte, Brazil after all these years and all of his hard work. Thank you Bernardo for your example and friendship!
Coach Celina has been instrumental in bringing TACFIT and this type of Flow State training to Brazil so it was great to catch up with this amazing Coach and person at the TACFIT Certification in Belo Horizonte Brazil. Hear what she has been up to, talk about Flow and more!
Former D1 Wrestler, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Husband, Father. Great to finally sit down with our friend, coach, team mate and all around great guy to share some of his journey.
Great to finally be able to connect with Dennys after many years. He grew up skateboarding and spent many years designing Skateboarding Shoes. He received his Black Belt from the legendary Nino Schembri. Gentlemen’s Fight Club was a way to merge his passions of punk rock, skateboarding and the fight scene. You can find him at his clothing store East West Shop in Chinatown or his gym Eastside Jiu-Jitsu in Boyle Heights.
Professor Wander Braga is a 6th degree black belt under Jorge Pereira, being one of the most well known competitors in the BJJ and no-holds-barred (NHB) circuit during the mid 1990’s and early 2000’s decades. Wander Braga is also revered for his coaching success, having co-founded the famous Big Brother team and formed high calibre grappling competitors such as Gabriel “Napão” Gonzaga. He also lived, taught and had gyms for many years in the Los Angeles area until he ran in to some immigration issues and had to leave everything behind in the US and stay in Brazil for over 10 years with his family. It was great to catch up with this Legend in person.
Sophia McDermott is a 4 time Pan American Jiu Jitsu Champion, as well as the first female Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt of Australian Nationality. Regarded as one of the top grappling competitors of her generation, Sophia is also known for her work in the fitness industry, having developed several programs for women.
. Great to catch up with my friend Aaron and talk about Jiu-Jitsu, TACFIT, Marketing and a lot more!
. Met Professor Jimmy years ago at a local BJJ tournament and then would see him at all other tournaments, either as a competitor or referee and most of the time as both. It was great to hear from a few of our senior students at Legacy that they began their training with him at Dan Inosanto Academy and Jiu-Jitsu Club at UCLA and the influence he had on them. Thank you Jimmy for making the time to meet up and share some of your story.
First American to win a world judo championship. She has founded four companies, raised four children, been one of Forbes 40 Women to Watch over 40, a Next Gen Leader of the International Game Developers Association Foundation. Sensei Ann Maria De Mars and her daughter, Ronda Rousey, are the only mother-daughter combination in the International Sports Hall of Fame. An honor to sit down with her to listen and learn.
Ron is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and Bang Muay Thai Orange Belt when he’s not training he works in Medical Device Sales. He shares how he changed his lifestyle after beginning training in the martial arts. It’s been an honor watching his growth and transformation over the years.
John is an Animator, Life Long Martial Artist, Wrestler, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, TACFIT Certified Instructor and more. Loved hearing some of our talented “Medium” John’s Journey.
Had a blast listening to Sensei Ron share some of his history in the Martial Art/Sport of Judo and more. From his dad enrolling him in Judo at a Young Age to representing his Country of El Salvador on the World Stage and his travels around the World. It is an honor to call him a friend.
The very talented Rikki is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, was a Sprinter for the Slovakian National Team, speaks multiple languages and a lot more! Great to sit down with my brother Rikki and hear his journey from Slovakia to Los Angeles.
Great getting to know Capoeiristas Professor Saracuru originally from France who runs Capoeira Brasil DTLA and Felipe Urso Werdum also a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt who runs Werdum Training Center in Venice. I enjoyed hearing stories of his brother Fabrício Werdum UFC/ADCC/IBJJF World Champ as well.
Renee a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt great to hear about his BJJ beginnings training in Tijuana, Mexico with Raúl Arvizu, Punk Rock, his Podcast and more. It’s been an honor to watch his growth in the Art over the years as student and friend.
Hector is the Head Instructor and Co-Owner of the Academy in Downey, California. Had a great time sitting down with him and getting to know him better.
Mark-Paul Gosselaar is an American actor. He is known for his television roles, most notably as Zack Morris in Saved by the Bell. It’s been a pleasure to get to know Mark on the Mats and his growth in his Jiu-Jitsu Journey.
Fun conversation with Professors Adem Redzovic of Downtown Jiu-Jitsu Club Chicago, Arman Fathi of Gracie Laguna Hills and Ray Young of Redzovic and Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Always fun to discuss all things Crypto and Metaverse with Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach and Campetitor Ben Stream.
Entrepreneur, Businessman and Jean Jacques BJJ Black Belt. Had a blast sitting down with Janie and listening to old Jiu-Jitsu stories with him from the late 90’s , early 2000”s. Helping Eddie Bravo prepare for ADCC , personal training Joe Rogan, his Brazil adventures and more.
Always an honor to spend time with American BJJ Royalty. Loved hearing some of his old stories coming up, his mindset and more. Rafael was the first ever Black Belt Grand Slam Champion winning the IBJJF Europeans, Pans, Worlds and Brasileiro the same year.
Professor Andre Harutyunyan is the Head Instructor of Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Yerevan, Armenia. Its been an honor to watch his improvement as a Jiu-Jitsu Practitioner, Athlete and Teacher over the Years. It was honor to promote him to Black Belt, I had to seize the moment and sit down with him to talk a bit about his journey.
Pro BMX rider since 1995, Stuntman, TV Host, Speaker. Mike has visited 63 Countries around the World. Always great time sitting down with him and hearing some of his stories.
Had an amazing time in beautiful Playa Venao training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Surfing with John Boyle and their Team at Beach Break Surf Camp in Playa Venao Panama. John is an Easton Black Belt and shares some his Jiu-Jitsu Journey and how he ended up in living in Panama.
“Savage” has been an inspiration to me for many years. So it was an honor to promote him to Black Belt this last month at 75 years young.
Born and raised in Culver City, Arash is an expert in elite human performance, movement science, and martial arts. He graduated from A.T. Still University with a Master’s Degree in Kinesiology, emphasis in Orthopedic Corrective Exercise and Movement Assessment. He is a 3rd degree Black Belt in Judo and pursuing a black belt in Jiu Jitsu. In over 15 years of martial arts experience, he’s competed at the highest levels of judo and sambo, representing the United States of America in elite international competition.
Felina originally from the Bronx, New York, moved to Burbank, California to live together with her girlfriend Lissettte. Soon after they found Tough Girl Bootcamp inside of Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Eventually Felina tried a BJJ class and never looked back! Felina and Lissettte have been huge supporters of Women’s BJJ. Organizing many events and supporting the movement over the years. I was so proud of Felina for achieving her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and all she has accomplished. She is an example for all of discipline, toughness and loyalty.
Mark Kerr “The Smashing Machine” during his MMA Career was regarded by many as the best fighter in the World. He was a World Vale Tudo Tournament Champion, a two time UFC heavyweight tournament winner and a PRIDE FC Competitor. Valentino Morales a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Actor, Producer, Writer and a former New York State Golden Gloves competitor in boxing. Mark was in town to support Valentino when he received his Black Belt, it was a treat to sit down with them both and listen to the stories as they have known each other for so many years. #ValeTudo #MarkKerr #UFC #ValentinoMorales #AlbertoCraneShow
Had a great time with Juan David during our TACFIT Certification week and learned a lot! Really enjoyed hearing his thoughts on Nutrition especially considering his education and experience in his profession.
Ruben owns and operates his gym Calle Movement in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is a VKNJA Team Leader and TACFIT Field Instructor. Great to hear some his story and talk about Santa Fe.
Matthew is a health and physical education teacher, strength and conditioning coach for his Varsity Wrestling Team. He is a VKNJA Team Leader and TACFIT Field Instructor. Great to sit down with Matt and pick his brain.
Always great to sit down with TACFIT Leaders Alaina and Juan David to talk TACFIT, Flowfit, Health and more.
Ruben Miribyan founded the Armenian Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Legacy Yerevan in the City Center of Yerevan and has been instrumental in the growth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Armenia. It’s always a pleasure to have him here locally training and grateful to him for always taking good care of me when i visit Armenia and for our friendship over the years.
Always great to talk with Professor Leonidas about Jiu-Jitsu and Education. He has worked in Education for the last 24 years and is the middle of shifting and merging his two passions into opening a Jiu-Jitsu Academy with a Learning Center in the San Fernando Area. Proud to see his see his growth in his career and the difference he’s made in so many communities over the years.
Always great to hang out with TACFIT USA Director and VKNJA Founder and CEO Esik Melland and talk about training, movement and why it matters.
Always great to see my brother Rolles. We talked about his history and his Family who revolutionized the martial arts all around the world. Later that day he was going to receive his late Dads Rolls Gracie’s Pan Am Sambo Gold Medal from Bob Anderson delayed for 40 years. Look out for the follow up documentary coming soon.
Great to sit down with my friend Jason Selva, BJJ Black Belt, owner of Selva BJJ in East LA and Beatdown BBQ. Hands down one the best BBQs I’ve ever had!
Glad to finally sit down with our good friend, BJJ Black Belt Gus and have him share his wisdom, his ups and downs in his Martial Arts Journey and Life.
Javier Vazquez, also known as “Showtime”, is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and was one of the first lightweight MMA stars. Former KOTC Champ and competed at some of the top promotions in the world such as Shooto, EliteXC, WEC and UFC. Javi is also a Cancer Survivor. We go deep on health and how it’s changed everything in his life.
Randy is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2006. Joann is currently a Brown Belt and an IBJJF World and Pan American Champion. They both share the story and struggles of living with Multiple Sclerosis and how BJJ and our Community has helped him. The doctors told him he would probably be in a wheelchair and Randy won this years IBJJF American Nationals and received his Black Belt on the podium. They both train under Ricardo “Pantcho” Feliciano at Checkmat Murrieta. It was an honor to sit down with this power couple and champions of life.
Joe Rotta began training in 1994 after watching UFC 2 with Royce Gracie. He had some major injuries along the way, where he thought he would never train again. Finally after a 13 year hiatus he was given the ok by his doctor and has never looked back. I love talking old stories with Joe on the early days of Jiu-Jitsu in America. It was an honor to promote him to Black Belt last year and glad we got to finally sit down and talk about some of his journey in the art.
Pedro Hidalgo is the TACFIT Spain Director and runs his Survival Training Experience for private clients, small groups and corporations for team building. Nestor Serra is the TACFIT Europe Director and TACFIT International Educational Director.
Pedro and Nestor have been together since the beginning of TACFIT in Spain. Always great to chat with them about their beginnings and more. I had the pleasure of being present at the TACFIT Spanish Hybrid Certification in Barcelona with them over the weekend as well spending a few quality days Canyoning and Via Ferrara in the mountains a few hours away from Barcelona. Thank you Pedro and Nestor for your time, always treating me and taking care of me like family. We are Legion!
Alphonse and Sophia originally from Lebanon now live in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We had the chance to train and get to know each other during the TACFIT Certification in Barcelona. I wanted to seize the moment and chat about everything TACFIT. It was interesting to hear his and her perspective and appreciation of TACFIT. It was great to hear how he was finally able to learn the system because of our first online TACFIT Certification.
Great to talk with my brother Coach Ben Stream , BJJ Instructor, Masters World Champion and Crypto enthusiast. I loved talking about Crypto Currency with him as the space will only be growing as time goes on. Crypto.com just became an official sponsor of the UFC and Formula 1. On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most Platforms.
Justin is an American BJJ Black Belt, a former Gymnast, Wrestler. He now lives in Tahiti with his Family where he teaches Jiu-Jitsu. It was great to catch up with him after many years and talk about his background, settling in to living in Tahiti his stint of working as Paparazzi and more!
Always great spending time with my brother Joey Alvarado. Former Professional Cage Fighter, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, KettleJitsu Creator and Founder and much more!
Wanted to take the opportunity to speak with Prof Felix who received his Black Belt last year. He was introduced to BJJ in 2003 when he was in the Marines Corps as he was stationed in Oahu, Hawaii. He began training again in 2012 when he moved to Oakland. Where he fought Amateur Muay Thai and MMA. It’s been inspiring to watch his dedication to his Martial Arts training over the years and his dedication to his teammates on the mat for their improvement, all while he manages his time between working full time for Amtrak as an engine mechanic and his continued education.
Kit believes that sport is 90% mental 10% physical, but most spend the majority of the time drilling techniques (physical), Kit spends the majority of the time problem solving in live training (training the mind).While other people developed their body as muscle memory, Kit developed his mind which he refers to as "mental memory." Kit Dale is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is Australia’s most decorated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete of all time. He received his black belt by multiple time world champion Yuri Simoes in 2013, after training for only 4 years. This puts Kit Dale among the fastest people to ever receive a black belt in BJJ. Kit has competed and won competitions at the highest level in Australia, Japan, Abu Dhabi, USA, Brazil, London and many more. He has won competitions at all belts including the Abu Dhabi World Pro held in Abu Dhabi, the Brazilian nationals held in Brazil and the Australian cup held in Australia. Not only is Kit one of the best Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes in the world, he is also one of the best coaches and consultants. He has travelled over 20 countries teaching seminars and Jiu-jitsu camps. On top of this he has an online program for Jiu-jitsu where he has sold over 10,000 of his instructional videos called “The Art of Learning Jiu Jitsu".
Matt Baker has been training since the mid 1990”s , received his Black Belt from Jean Jacques Machado and owns and operates his TRUJITSU Academies in Bakersfield, California. As a competitor Matt has won many major IBJJF titles including PANs, Master Worlds, NoGi Worlds, and has reached the number 1# IBJJF ranking position on three separate occasions. He is one of the nicest and hardest workers in Jiu-Jitsu, so it was a big pleasure and honor to finally sit down with him.
Jill Baker is a school teacher and achieved her BJJ Black Belt under her husband Matt Baker. She has been organizing the SoCal Women’s Open Mat since 2012. Felina Padilla-Barros is currently a BJJ Brown Belt and has been supporting SoCal Women’s Open Mat almost as long as she has been training Jiu-Jitsu. It was great to talk about Women in Jiu-Jitsu, SoCal Women’s Open Mat and how far Women in Jiu-Jitsu have come over the years.
Great to catch up with friend and student Robert Gleckman a former Investment Banker and Businessman. Our relationship turned from private lessons to promoting MMA events and then him turning pro and making his cage debut at 49 years young!
Often regarded as one of the best black belts produced by the legendary Rickson Gracie, Akins’ views on the “fundamentals” of jiu jitsu and his style of coaching are revered by many in the grappling community. Always a big pleasure to sit down with Henry Akins and talk Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, History and much more. On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most Platforms. #HenryAkins #HiddenJiuJitsu
Had a wonderful conversation with Charleen Hess who has been a long time CST and TACFIT Certified Coach. Charleen has been a Hairdresser for decades and I loved hearing how she uses the CST/TACFIT principles for her to continue to do what she loves to do and live a better life. Charleen lives and works in Bellingham, Washington where she also teaches TACFIT at Flow Shala. Thank you Charleen for your time and sharing your experience.
Jared Papazian is a former King of the Cage Champion and UFC Veteran. Darin Harvey has been in the martial arts and fight game for many years. He’s helped and supported myself, many fighters, including Ronda Rousey in their careers. Always fun hanging out with them to talk memories and stories.
Wander Braga is one of the most well known competitors in the BJJ and no-holds-barred (NHB) circuit during the mid 1990’s and early 2000’s decades. Wander Braga is also revered for his coaching success, having co-founded the famous Big Brother team and formed high calibre grappling competitors such as Gabriel “Napão” Gonzaga. Wander lived and taught in Los Angeles for many years and now lives back in Rio De Janeiro. It was great to catch up with him.
Quebrado and Taylor are both Capoeiristas and Certified TACFIT and FlowFit Instructors. It was great to hear their thoughts on TACFIT training and concepts from two amazing movers.
Rudy is a Father of two, Husband, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and a former Gym Owner. In late 2018 he was diagnosed with Brain Cancer, followed by two Brain Surgeries. We have been friends for a long time, it was great to connect with him and hear about how Jiu-Jitsu has been helping him and how this situation has made him a better person. Rudy is a true warrior and inspiration.
We were all together for the weekend, working shooting new TACFIT content, training, learning with TACFIT Founder Scott Sonnon. Always great to sit down with the Team. Grateful for all of their friendships and all of the work they do to help others around the World.
Coach Andy has been training Muay Thai for over 18 years. Traditional Muay Thai and now Bang Muay Thai. We discuss his mindset shift from thinking of himself as a fighter to being a martial artist. Of course we talk about TACFIT, our home at LEGACy, his passion for hot rods and much more. Enjoy!
Sebastian has been training in the TACFIT System for about 10 years and was certified around 2015. I have always been inspired by his TACFIT success stories he has shared. When he was a baby he had cancer and ended up losing one of his eyes. Thank you for your friendship and for sharing your story with others.
Carlos Terrinha is a Draculino Black Belt, he’s an amazing competitor and instructor. He was a Police Officer in Brazil for 12 years and a 16 Time IBJJF Pan American Champion, he’s the second of 11 brothers and sisters. His father passed when he was 7 years and mother at 12 years old. Terrinha is one of the hardest workers I have met, it was an honor to train together when we were younger and to hear some of his story.
Abundance is a state of mind and prosperity is the result. Chris Lee has been my coach at Choice Center in Las Vegas who in a short time has really made a difference in my life. Choice Center specializes in Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Training. I spent the weekend in the Abundance and Prosperity Course, Chris was kind enough to spend a few minutes with me.
Allan is our TACFIT Director in Brazil, we had a great time together this last week where where he has been doing big work for TACFIT’s growth in Brazil and supporting our growth world wide. I wanted to take a few minutes while I was in Brazil to talk with him about his background and why he is so passionate about this system and the work we do.
James is a BJJ Black Belt, served in the Marine Corps for 20 twenty years with 6 tours in Iraq. He is a father and husband. He has created Kinonos for Kai a non profit dedicated to his sons Legacy, Kai Wright was a dedicated Jiu-Jitsu athlete and champion who the world lost too early to suicide. Every 1.5 hours, a youth commits suicide. I appreciate James friendship, sharing some of his story and for bringing awareness to this sensitive subject.
Henry Akins began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1995 at the Rickson Gracie Academy. Rickson Gracie presented Henry with his Black Belt, being the third American to receive the honor. Henry became the main instructor at the Rickson Gracie Academy until 2008 when he was forced to stop due to a back injury. He feels blessed to be able to share this art with others and to pass on the knowledge that was taught to him by the greatest Jiu-Jitsu practitioner ever.
Aldo Januário, commonly known as “Caveirinha” is a Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt under Carlos Gracie Junior, who is widely recognized as one of the top grappling coaches in the world. A pioneering figure for the sport in the city of Belo Horizonte – Brazil, Caveirinha developed some of the top competitors in the grappling world. People such as Rafael dos Anjos, Philipe Della Monica, Rodrigo de Freitas, Gustavo Saraiva, Igor Araújo, Paulo “Borrachinha” Costa and many others. We have known each other since the 1990’s when we used to train together on the mats in Brazil. It was an honor to get to know him better, proud to call him my friend and amazing to see the positive impact he’s had on so many around the world. He lives and teaches at his Academy , Caverinha Jiu-Jitsu Family in Honolulu, Hawaii.
I had a great time discussing with Aaron and Esik HPR (Hard Responsible Push) a team building event for TACFIT Certified (Current TACFIT, FlowFit, Clubbell) instructors which is going through all of the Tacfit protocols for 26 days straight.
Néstor has been in the fitness and sports industry for over three decades. He is TACFIT’s International Educational Director who has been working hard to develop and update the delivery of our Systems in TACFIT and getting our next generation of Coaches and Instructors ready to teach Scott Sonnon’s body of work and the Worlds Smartest Workout. I am grateful for his friendship and appreciate his integrity and passion in everything he does.
Born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Sensei “Robbie” has been on the Mats since he was 5 years old. He founded Muga Mushin Judo School with the aim of firstly preserving the essence of judo while still affording judoka the option to aspire to their Olympic dreams. One of his Coaches brought him to a TACFIT Certification over 10 years and his passion for programming led him into creating our TACFIT Timer App which is used by so many of us all around the world every single day. He likes to live his life by two principles.
"Maximum Efficiency with Minimum Effort" and "Mutual Welfare and Benefit."
Prof Irakli was born and raised in Georgia a country in the Caucasus Mountain region at the intersection of Europe and Asia. He shares his story of moving to the US and finding Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Prof Irakli is the fastest student I’ve promoted to Black Belt and have always been impressed by his techniques he’s developed and he has taught me a lot. Those that know him, know he’s a man of few words so it was a big pleasure to sit down with him and share some his story.
Sean Patrick Flanery is an American actor, producer, author and martial artist. He is known for his main role in the Boondock Saints and just released his film Born a Champion which is a 2021 American martial arts drama. It stars Flanery, Dennis Quaid and Katrina Bowden. The film also features mixed martial arts fighter Edson Barboza, with appearances by Renzo Gracie and Mickey Gall. I watched Born a Champion with my family and was really moved by the accuracy of the movie and capturing this era of time of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Vale Tudo/Mixed Martial Arts.
Jason is the owner and operator of Meraki BJJ in Santa Monica, California. He is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo Black Belt. Originally from Texas, he shares his story how ended up living the Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle and lessons he’s learned training with the best from around the World. I first met him when we opened our first Legacy Gym in Encino back in 2009, so it was great catching up with him after all these years.
Tim is one of my long time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu students and Black Belts. He is the oldest of 7 brothers and sisters. He’s been teaching martial arts to kids for over 15 years and runs his after school program in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s been an honor to see him grow up over the years.
Letsos is a 3X Pan Am medalist, as well as a 3X Gracie World Champion. Letsos began training in Jiu Jitsu in high school at the Carlson Gracie Academy in downtown Chicago, and won several matches in the Jiu Jitsu World Championships as a purple belt. In 2002 after several years training with the Carlson Gracie academy in Chicago. The 3 week journey that Letsos intended to have ended up being prolonged and before he knew it, 4 years had passed in which Letsos trained amongst some of the best competitors of the 1990’s and 2000’s, including the famous Gracie Barra team with whom he trained and competed for. Pete The Greek’s guard passing game was well respected, this allowed him a spot at the Gracie Barra Team, at the Brazilian National Teams tournament when he was a purple belt (2002). He then lived and train Jiu Jitsu in Brazil for four years, spending many hours on the mat with Osvaldo Alves and Carlson Gracie.
Letsos has trained alongside many of the world's best Jiu Jitsu fighters and mixed martial artists, such as Fredson Paixao, André Galvão, Tony DeSouza, and Miguel Torres. He is friends with Eddie Bravo, Kenny Florian, Jeff Glover, and BJ Penn. Letsos lived and trained with Penn at his mixed martial arts academy in Hilo, Hawaii, where he eventually suffered a devastating injury to his neck while surfing.
Since then, Letsos' emphasis has been on training students in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at his gym, Rio Jiu Jitsu Academy, in Chicago's Irving Park neighborhood and traveling and giving Seninars around the World.
Always great spending time with my brother Prof Adem visiting from Chicago. He and his family were one of the original Gracie/Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academies in the City of Chicago.
Valentino is an actor, producer, writer and a former New York State Golden Gloves competitor in boxing. He grew up in NYC, where he later would bounce at the worlds most renowned night clubs in Manhattan. It’s been amazing to be together on the mats with him and his kids over the years. I’m always humbled by his humility, generosity and appreciate his friendship.
Aaron Cruz was one of the first TACFIT Team Leaders in the System and plays an important part in our Educational Team and Leadership. He broke down the road map he thought someone should take in learning the system from his close to 15 years in the System training and teaching others. I learned a lot from this talk and if you live the TACFIT lifestyle this is definitely for you. Aaron lives in Monterrey, California where he owns and operates his gym Alta Performance.
What an honor to sit down with the Legendary Royce Gracie and his son Khonry. We talked a lot of history of the beginning of the UFC, how it was fighting no gloves, no time limit and no rules. Khonry is a Bellator MMA fighter, we talked about how it was growing up Gracie and representing the family name. If you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu you don’t want to miss this one.
Prof Marcelo is a 4 x World Champion, 3 x Pan American, 4 x Brazilian National Champion and is also the only person to ever win 3 MMA fights in one night in Brazil.
“Uirapuru” known by his nickname is a Black Belt under Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhães. Marcelo filled in Draculino’s boots as head Coach of Gracie Barra Belo Horizonte Headquarters after the departure of the famous instructor to the United States.
Besides being a decorated Competitor himself he has been a part of the development of many World Champions like Felipe “Preguiça”, Gabriel Arges, Pedro Araujo and many others.
It’s been a big pleasure to know “Uirapuru” over 20 years and to see his success over the years in all that he does. He owns and operates GB Pearland in the Houston Texas Area.
On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most Platforms.
Ben Exton has a worked in the fitness and sports world for over 14 years. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor of Business. He is a TACFIT Team Leader and part of our TACFIT World Educational Team. It great to chat with him about his background, time living in Tonga and the various Athletes, Sports and Demographics he has worked with over the years.
Dave is a 5th Degree Black Belt, he’s been training since 1991 and received his Black Belt from Rigan Machado in 2000. It was great to talk about Jiu-Jitsu characters from the past and present. The adventures of training BJJ in America in the early days and more.
Dave is a 5th Degree Black Belt, he’s been training since 1991 and received his Black Belt from Rigan Machado in 2000. It was great to talk about Jiu-Jitsu characters from the past and present. The adventures of training BJJ in America in the early days and more.
Coco is the owner and operator of FitKinetics with two locations in San Jose where he teaches TACFIT as well as other programs. He studied International Business in the US and currently is working on his Bachelors Degree in Physical Therapy. Coco just became a TACFIT Senior Instructor as well, it was great to sit down with him and hear about his TACFIT Journey.
Brandon “Hapa” Is a Capoeirista. Strongfirst SFG 2 and just became a TACFIT Senior Instructor!! We talk about his TACFIT Journey, what it took to achieve TACFIT Senior Instructor, how he found his groove and his motivation to persevere.
Prof Leo Cantu is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and Owner and Operator of Gracie Barra Corpus Christi in Texas. We have been friends for close to 20 Years. Prof Leo also suffers from Epilepsy. We talk old stories and talk about some of his personal battles along the way.
Thomas Pless New Mexico’s first home grown Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and my first Black Belt. He just received his 4th Degree promotion. Prof Thomas Pless has been teaching in Santa Fe New Mexico for over 25 Years. We discuss his martial arts journey of moving from Traditional Martial Arts to Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His dedication to his students and our community. It was an honor to sit down with him.
New Professors Andrew and Jordan just received their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belts after many years. We talk about the journey and lessons learned along the way.
Mike Fowler is a 4th Degree Black Belt and achieved his Black Belt in under 3.5 years being one the fastest ever to achieve the rank. Mike was one top American BJJ Competitors for many years, beating some of the top names in the Sport. In 2006, controversy struck Fowler and stopped him on his tracks at the IBJJF World Jiu Jitsu Championships (his first year as a black belt). Mikes match with Daniel Moraes was one of the most talked about that year. This caused such turmoil that IBJJF (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation) was forced to release a statement acknowledging the wrong doing; the fight was also one of the main reasons behind the 3 referee rule applied in current times. It was great to catch up with Mike after all these years. Mike is the head instructor at North Shore Jiu Jitsu Club in Haleiwa, Hawaii.
Robert Torres holds Black Belts in multiple martial arts and now Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He has been teaching for over 20 years. After High School he joined the Army National Guard and now owns and operates Crescent Moon Karate. He was one of our first students here in Burbank and it’s been a big pleasure watching him grow and interesting to hear his perspective on BJJ compared to other Martial Arts.
Kris just received his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt after almost 10 years of Training. Enlisting into Navy as a teenager, traveling around the World on a Nuclear Submarine. Transitioning back into civilian life. He tells his story about how he got into Jiu-Jitsu. Meeting his wife on the Mat, being a father and more. Great to hear more of Kris’s life story as it’s been a big pleasure to watch him and his family’s growth over the years.
Marcus Kowal is a professional kickboxer, MMA fighter and boxer. He is also a 2nd degree black belt in Krav Maga, teaching self defense to civilians, military and law enforcements. Marcus has over 20 years in the fitness and martial arts industry. He was also in the Swedish special forces (Rangers) before moving to the US.
He owns and operates Systems Training Center in the South Bay.
His 15 month year son Liam was tragically killed by a drunk driver and seriously injured Liam’s 15-year-old aunt, as she took Liam for a walk that afternoon on September 3, 2016. He talks about his fight to end alcohol-related driving fatalities thru Liam’s Life Foundation.
Coach Greg Jackson has won Best MMA Coach, Best MMA Gym, MMA Coach of the Year Awards and has been nicknamed the “Yoda” of MMA in many articles and publications. He has trained some of the greatest fighters, including former UFC Welterweight Champion Georges St-Pierre, former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones, former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovksi, former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion Holly Holm, Diego Sanchez and countless other professional MMA athletes and champions. It’s been incredible to have witnessed the rise of MMA as a Mainstream Sport over the years and to see Greg Jackson be a part of that. Greg was my Coach and Mentor getting me into Mixed Martial Arts so when he speaks, I listen. Great to catch up after so many years.
Felicia is a Jean Jacques Machado Black Belt , ADCC Silver Medalist and BJJ World Champion. Always great spending time with her and conversation. On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most Platforms.
One of the Original Gringos who moved to Brazil in the Nineties to live the Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle. Scotty had a huge influence on myself and American Jiu-Jitsu with his BJJ Content as well as having cool gear from Brazil in the early 2000’s. He later opened up OTM Fight Shops with locations around the Country. He was responsible for bringing the “Jiu-Jitsu Cut from Brazil” to Pakistan that most of us around the World use now. His Lucky Gi Brand just became the official Gi for the UFC Store. He now runs CHIPSA Hospital in Tijuana Mexico where they are doing big work working with the best Doctors and Cell Scientists in helping Cancer patients, Auto immune diseases and much more. I had the pleasure to go down a few weeks ago to get a Stem Cell Treatment there. Scotty is a Legend, so it was a blast going down memory lane and listening to his Stories from growing up in Iran, to Brazil, Pakistan and much more. Enjoy!
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, World Champion, Jeff has won at the highest levels in Gi and No -Gi against the best competition over the years. Jeff has fully dedicated his life to Jiu-Jitsu and has always been one to watch with his style and showmanship. I’ve been a fan of his for as long as I can remember so it was a big pleasure to talk a little about his career, about the adventures and lessons learned along the way.
Fresh off of their TACFIT Online Certification Level 1 they discuss the process, the learning and the journey. Had a great time with lots of laughs!
Chris is a Veteran who now helps our Military use their benefits to get a College Degree, as well as a Personal Trainer.
Chris had just finished the ZULU (formerly FOXTROT) TACFIT Physical Test. He discusses his TACFIT Journey on how he got started in the System, him flying in from Arizona to Burbank to learn as well as bringing TACFIT Team Leader Robert Miller to teach Workshops and how thorough and how much he’s learned in his TACFIT Certification processes, from in person workshops, Certifications and now Online.
How the TACFIT Training and Lifestyle has gotten him in the best shape of his life at 48 years of age.
Jan Stolz owns and operates the Budokan Training Center Halle in Halle (Saale) Germany he has been teaching since 1990 and has had his own martial arts school since 1993.
He is also a TACFIT Team Leader, we discuss the similarities of Martial Arts and TACFIT and how they compliment and improve each other.
Jan grew up in East Germany in a time when it was illegal to practice martial arts publicly, it was interesting to hear how martial arts became really popular after the Berlin Wall came down and much more.
Robert Miller Stuntman, Actor, Fitness Model, Coach and TACFIT Team Leader talks about training with the Barbell, Clubbell and Mobility. We touch on our Online TACFIT Certification, the new TACFIT Barbell 101 Instructional he just filmed and more.
Eliot Marshall is a martial artist, business owner, podcaster, author and TED speaker. He was the first American to win the BJJ Pan American championship at blue, purple, and brown belt. After transitioning to MMA, Eliot fought on The Ultimate Fighter, earned a UFC contract, and fought for 4 more years. Upon retirement he became the co-owner of Easton Training Center, one of Colorado's leading martial arts schools, with 7 locations across the Denver area. Through his podcast, The Gospel of Fire, Eliot will help you realize that you have the power to do and be whatever you want.
Jihad is a TACFIT Team Leader as well as the TACFIT MENA Director (Middle East and North Africa). He is a Judo Black Belt and speaks English, French, Arabic. We discussed how he chose his Passion of being a Trainer and Coach as a career over his Finance background many years ago and has never looked back.
Rafael Lovato Jr is an American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. He’s an IBJJF Black Belt World Champion and the first American to win the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grand Slam (Worlds, Pans, Europeans, Brasileiro). He later entered MMA where he became the Legacy and the Bellator World Champion. It was an honor to hear about his roots of growing up in his fathers dojo, going to Brazil at 16 years old by himself and how he developed his Winning Mindset.
We both just flew in from Brazil and caught up on the amazing 25 Year Anniversary celebration of starting his first academy exactly 25 years to this month. The beginning of so many future champions from BJJ Gi, No-Gi, MMA and of thousands of Black Belts now spread all around the World. I am forever grateful to be a part of this Team, this Family and this Legacy. Enjoy!
Alaina Sawaya is a Firefighter, TACFIT Team Leader, Wife and Mother of Two. She shares her career transition from being a long time movement specialist and fitness model to becoming a Firefighter at 40 years of age. How TACFIT has helped her in her career and how she uses Flow to recover and live her best life.
Saulo Ribeiro received his black belt in 1995, he is a 5 x IBJJF World Champion, 2 x ADCC Champion him and his brother Xande Ribeiro are the most accomplished brothers in the history of the Sport. Sensei Saulo has been someone I had studied, learned from and have been inspired by since I started competing in the 1990’s. I learned Strategy, Tactics, Game Planning by his example in competition. To me Saulo Ribeiro is my favorite BJJ Competitor of all time so it was a huge honor to finally train and be on the Mat with him as well as this Interview.
Jessica is an Ultra Marathoner, Endurance Athlete and one of the top women in the world. She’s ran the Badwater Ultramarathon twice (135 miles thru Death Valley with temperatures getting up to 137 degrees), has done four Ironmans and just finished running the Appalachian Trail (2,193 miles) by herself this year. She shares here experiences on how she got involved in these extreme challenges as well as her process and mindset to complete them. #UltraMarathon #Ironman #BadWater #JessicaHardy #AlbertoCraneShow
Professor Amal Easton began his martial arts journey over 30 years ago with the study of Muay Thai. He has studied Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu extensively since 1992. After earning his degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Professor Easton moved to Rio De Janeiro in 1995. One of few Americans living in Rio de Janeiro, he trained and competed out of the Gracie Barra Academy for three and a half years. Professor Easton was only the seventh person to receive a black belt from the legendary Renzo Gracie. Renzo and Carlos Gracie, Jr., have endorsed his ability and authorized him to teach the art. Professor Easton was the first American Black Belt National Champion in 2002, is a multiple Pan American and Worlds Masters champion, and one of the original American pioneers of the art. Professor Easton has had the honor of studying extensively with such legendary talent as Professors Helio “Soneca” Moreira, Roberto “Gordo” Correira, Rillion Gracie, Eduardo “Veio” De Lima, Ze “Leao” Teixeira, and more. Some of Professor Easton’s students include notable competitors Eliot Marshall (first American to win Pan Ams at blue, purple, and brown belts), Shane Carwin, Brendan Schaub, Nate Marquardt, Duane Ludwig, Nick Klein, and many more. Professor Easton started his first school, Easton Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Boulder, in 1998. He currently owns and operates five schools in the Denver region and is partnered in three more. When Professor Easton is not on the mat, he is generally outdoors and has spent his life skiing, kayaking, hang gliding, mountain biking, and dirt biking.
Mauricio "Tinguinha" Mariano was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 11, following in his brother and friend's footsteps, with instructor Pitoco until the orange belt, as he developed into the sport and competitions he moved to the Barra Gracie school, a bigger Academy conducted by Jean Jaques Machado and Carlos Gracie Jr. at the time, until Jean Jaques moved to the US, and he started training full time under Master Carlos Gracie Jr., son of the patriarch of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Carlos Gracie, under who Professor "Tinguinha” trained from the Blue to the Black belt. Throughout his many years training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu "Tinguinha" achieved competitive success, winning many titles in all major Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments in Brazil and the US.
He had the privilege of training with some very skilled BJJ Athletes such as Renzo Gracie,Ralph Gracie, Ryan Gracie, Roberto "Gordo", Helio “Soneca”, Alexandre "Soca", Nino Schembri, Ricardo "Cachorrao", among many others which helped shape and refine his own Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills and technical approach to this art, culminating with the award of his Black Belt in 1996 at the age of 21, a privilege few had back at that time. His dedication into learning, perfecting and teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu evolved into his career path. He started teaching at an early age, in the purple belt and fully committed to following this path after being promoted the black belt, Mauricio is one of the pioneers in the expansion of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu martial art worldwide, having taught in his native Brazil, Japan and the US, contributing to the growth of this art around the world. He arrived in the United States in 2000 to continue his lifelong dream of spreading the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu art and sharing the benefits he was able to experience himself. Tinguinha has been one of my heroes since the late 90s when I moved to Brazil as a young man. I was able to visit his gym in the early 2000s in Orange County, California to train with him and it’s been a big pleasure to see his success over the years.
Erik ‘Esik’ Melland is the CEO and founder of Viking Ninja LLC. He embodies the Viking Ninja - rooted within his Norwegian and Korean descent.
His background as a massage therapist, fitness coach and creative artist has allowed him to design a program that is built around Balance, Discipline and the Warrior Spirit. His unconventional training system focusing on safe and mindful Bodyweight and Steel Mace movements for performance, strength, mobility and recovery.
Erik’s journey has led him to train with athletes within major professional sports (NFL, UFC, MLB, NHL) as well as individuals who are starting or furthering their fitness.
Erik lives by the motto of “Kill your Ego” and expects students to enter the program with an open mind and willingness to learn and struggle.
Esik was in town to go over VKNJA planning and redesign of his VKNJA Belt Ranking System and more. Always fun spending time with him.
Machado is one of five brothers of the Machado family. He began training at the age of five with his cousins, "The Gracie Family".
Rigan was awarded the first black belt under Gracie Barra founder Carlos Gracie Jr. and is one of the original teachers who taught in the garage of Rorion Gracie in the early days of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in America. He also trained with his other cousins such Rickson Gracie, Rorion Gracie, Rillion Gracie, his uncle Carlos Gracie Sr, and his brothers.
He is widely regarded as one of the top competitors in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history. He also competed and won many tournaments in judo, sambo, and wrestling.
Always a great time and an honor to listen to old stories with Rigan.
Lloyd Irvin Jr is One of the Top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coaches in the World, coaching IBJJF World Champions from Blue Belt to Black Belt Belt.
Lloyd’s Team being the first American Academy in BJJ history to truly and consistently make a mark in the sport.
We talk about Think and Grow Rich, the 3% Percent Mindset, his Grappling Game Plan System and much more.
Lindsay Orbeta is a Registered Dietitian and is Board Certified in Sports Dietetics. She works as a Exercise Physiologist at the University of California in San Francisco— where she performs human exercise testing for clinical research . A life-long athlete, Lindsay was a collegiate swimmer, raced full-length Ironman triathlon, and is now an avid surfer. She’s also followed a strict ketogenic diet for the last 2 years and launched her own podcast , called “The Keto Dietitian”. We covered fasted exercise, supplements and much more. You don’t want to miss this one!
Steve Cotter is one of the leading authority in kettlebell training. He is a global pioneer in kettlebell training education, having personally instructed thousands of fitness professionals around the world.
He is the founder and director of the International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation (IKFF) and is on the Men's Health Magazine 'The 100 Fittest Men of All Time' list.
He has lectured and presented in fitness-industry conferences on nearly every continent and has educated kettlebell trainers in over 60 countries world-wide. He is also an early adopter of mind-body exercise protocols, with over 30 years of experience teaching and practicing martial arts, strength and conditioning and yoga.
It was great to meet and get to know Steve more after seeing him as a fitness, kettlebell expert for many years. I learned a lot from him and appreciate his humility.
Andreya was born and raised in Sweden, now living in Los Angeles. Andreya was a Collegiate Boxing Champion for UCLA and later earned her Masters Degree in Exercise Science. She shares her story of how she got involved with Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu and found TACFIT. I always see Andreya training and studying so it was great to hear her story, thank you Andrea for sharing!
Edit is an Entrepreneur, former Fashion Designer and my partner in Crime. She owns and operates Açaí Jungle Cafe in Burbank, California. She shares her story of immigrating with her family from Armenia and living the American Dream.
Prof Steve is a Kenpo Karate Black Belt , Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Black Belt and has studied and trained many other martial arts over the years. He has trained in BJJ since 2000, training at the Gracie Academy in Torrence and then with Rigan and Roger Machado. It was great to hear about his music career, how he got started in the martial arts and his story. Enjoy!
Diane is an entrepreneur, business woman, mindset coach and for more than 25 years has been writing with and for Bob Proctor. It was great to talk and learn more about Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich, the Secret and Bob Proctor. Thank you for sharing Diane! Enjoy!
Steven Sashen is the CEO of Xero Shoes. Xero Shoes is a type and brand of lightweight minimalist footwear for walking, running, and athletics, the footwear has thin and flexible soles that are contoured to the shape of the human foot. Xero Shoes was featured on ABC's Shark Tank and gained success after the show's appearance.
A high-school sprinter, Steven Sashen got back into the sport after a 30-year break. However, after two years of injury-prone competition, he joined a local barefoot running club in Boulder, CO at the suggestion of a friend who gave him a copy of Born To Run by Christopher McDougall. As a result of running barefoot, his gait changed and injuries abated.
Sashen wanted to continue the barefoot experience in areas which required foot covering, so he developed his own modern huarache-style sandal similar to those worn by the Tarahumara Indians in Mexico’s Copper Canyon, consisting of a thin rubber sole sourced from Vibram in Italy and nylon-polypropylene laces (this original style is now sold as the Xero Shoes "Cherry" in the classic kit).
The Xero Shoes have been my favorite minimalist shoes and shoes in general. I learned a lot speaking with Steven the first time so I was glad to be able share some of the information he shared with me.
Jan Sultan is a World Renowned Manual Therapeutics/Rolfing Guru. He was a direct student of Ida Rolf with over 50 years experience of private practice. I take my son and have seen him myself for help for over 25 years. He has been a huge influence in my life and has really shown me what mastery is. I even started training BJJ in his Garage in the 1990’s with his stepson Amal Easton. Grateful to him for giving me the opportunity to share our conversation with you.
Nestor is the TACFIT World Director of Education as well as the World Director of Hypopressive RSF® . We discuss the upcoming Virtual TACFIT Certification. We discuss the Hypopressive RSF® Method as well. Always a good time and educational speaking with Nestor. Enjoy! 🎶Freedom song 🎶 @scott_sonnon Tribute https://open.spotify.com/track/44RfyUkSA9jGR9hQOhlA8m?si=1htlHsVQQtW3UhUQkxYcYA @xandeiy
World Champion Jimmy Pedro is one of the most decorated judo players in American history. Jimmy is world renowned for his judo expertise, coaching ability, and training methods. As a world renowned coach, his success at the 2012 & 2016 Olympic Games led to the victories of Kayla Harrison earning back-to-back gold medals and Travis Stevens earning a silver medal in 2016. Jimmy currently owns and operates Pedro’s Judo Center in Wakefield, MA as well as President of FUJI Mats & Vice President of Hatashita / FUJI Sports. He also teaches clinics and seminars throughout the country.
🎶Freedom song 🎶 @scott_sonnon Tribute https://open.spotify.com/track/44RfyUkSA9jGR9hQOhlA8m?si=1htlHsVQQtW3UhUQkxYcYA @xandeiy
The talented Anthony Cruz is a Magician, Singer, Song Writer, Model, Actor, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Competitor, Instructor and Black Belt. I’ve had the honor of watching Anthony grow up on the Mat from White Belt to Black Belt so it was great to sit down with him and hear about his journey.
🎶Freedom song 🎶 @scott_sonnon Tribute https://open.spotify.com/track/44RfyUkSA9jGR9hQOhlA8m?si=1htlHsVQQtW3UhUQkxYcYA @xandeiy
Diego Core owns and operates the Field Life Style Training Centre in London. He was always interested with a passion for all kinds of sport and physical culture, it was a natural progression for Diego Core to focus on the world of sports and science and then to integrate his passion and knowledge to develop an holistic approach to optimal health. Over the past two decades Diego has participated in a number of courses like the Chek Institute, Poliquin Group, CST/TACFIT and coaches in the field of health and movement. His knowledge , enthusiasm and the serious study of health as the basis for a celebratory attitude to the embodied life – have come to fruition at his corrective exercise, movement teaching, flow, strength & conditioning and health lifestyle in his Movement Clinic in Marylebone/ London called The Field – Training Lifestyle Centre. Diego’s life experience has led him to understand that movement is critical to maintain the body’s innate efficiency and functional balance. Core’s mission is to teach clients how to re-align their bodies and to teach them understanding how their bodies move. I met Diego some years ago at the TACFIT Certification in Brazil. He was responsible for introducing the CST/TACFIT System to Brazil many years ago and shared with me how he used the Clubbell to rehab and strengthen his shoulder separation issue. It was great to catch up with him and hear his story.
🎶Freedom song 🎶 @scott_sonnon Tribute https://open.spotify.com/track/44RfyUkSA9jGR9hQOhlA8m?si=1htlHsVQQtW3UhUQkxYcYA @xandeiy
Ann and Chris Frederick, they are founders and directors of the Stretch to Win® Institute. They are Pioneers of assisted Stretching and in my opinion Stretch to Win is the Harvard of this type of Education. Ann founded her clinic in 1995, the Stretch to Win® Center, she had one key goal in mind: to improve the performance of professional athletes by changing the way they stretched. When the Frederick’s founded the Stretch to Win® Institute in 1999, they did so with the intention of passing on the complete system that had brought them so much success and that continues to rapidly and radically transform personal and professional lives. For more information you can find them at StretchToWin.com
🎶Freedom song 🎶 @scott_sonnon Tribute https://open.spotify.com/track/44RfyUkSA9jGR9hQOhlA8m?si=1htlHsVQQtW3UhUQkxYcYA @xandeiy
International Motivational Speaker, Attorney, Author, Comedian, Father of Two, Husband and was born without arms or legs due to an extremely rare disease, Hanhart Syndrome. Marco Rossi is remarkable person and a true example that with the right thoughts, followed by action, nothing is impossible.
Ricardo Libório is widely regarded in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as one of the top Black Belts produced by Grand Master Carlson Gracie , and an icon of the sport. He is the co-founder of American Top Team (ATT) and Brazilian Top Team (BTT). He spoke about his beginnings, Carlson Gracie, Vale Tudo, teaching BJJ as a College Course and much more.
155 Professional Mixed Martial Arts Fights 43 Kickboxing Fights 29 Bare Knuckle Boxing Fights BKFC) Shannon Rich is a Mixed Martial Artist, Boxer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Professional Wrestler and Kickboxer. In Mixed Martial Arts competition he is the former King of the Cage Middleweight Champion and the current BKFC International Heavyweight Champion in Bare-Knuckle Boxing. A Professional Competitor since 1998, Shannon has competed for M-1 Global, Combate Americas, MFC, Shark Fights, Pancrase, K-1, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, PRIDE, Rebel Fighting Championship, King of the Cage, Gladiator Challenge and the WEC. He served in the US Army and later spent time in Iraq during the war as a body guard for the US ambassador to Iraq - plus state department dignitaries - Powell, Rice , Rumsfeld etc Shannon is even an avid golf player, even winning many state championships.
His background as a massage therapist, fitness coach and creative artist has allowed him to design a program that is built around Balance, Discipline and the Warrior Spirit. His unconventional training system focusing on safe and mindful Bodyweight and Steel Mace movements for performance, strength, mobility and recovery.
Erik’s journey has led him to train with athletes within major professional sports (NFL, UFC, MLB, NHL) as well as individuals who are starting or furthering their fitness.
Erik lives by the motto of “Kill your Ego” and expects students to enter the program with an open mind and willingness to learn and struggle.
Ryan Provencher is a Veteran Firefighter of 27 years and was introduced to the TACFIT System 15 years ago by Scott Sonnon. Alaina Sawaya is beginning her Journey as a Firefighter, she is also a TACFIT Team Leader. Ryan and Alaina just wrapped up filming TACFIT Firefighter 101 in Bellingham, Washington, we got to talk about Firefighting, the TACFIT Firefighter projects and history of their journeys in the system. Enjoy!
Carlos Machado was one of the pioneers of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the United States of America. Carlos came to the USA in the early 1990’s where him (and his brothers) formed the Machado Jiu Jitsu academy, one of the main BJJ organizations in the Northern Hemisphere today, a Jiu Jitsu hive from where Carlos Machado has graduated high profile black belts such as Hollywood celebrity: Chuck Norris, former World BJJ champion: Rafael Lovato Junior and former UFC Middlweight title contender Travis Lutter. Carlos Machado was the first BJJ Black Belt I met and trained with on my Jiu-Jitsu Journey so it was so great to finally catch up with him again after many years as he’s always been a role model for me. Enjoy!
Tee is an Artist and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt from Philadelphia, in the 1990s he actually moved and lived in Brazil. We talk some old Jiu-Jitsu stories and his Journey as an Artist. Tee just finished updating our Podcast Studio with his Art. Enjoy!
Professor Mark was a former LA Gang member, US Army Veteran (EOD), former Special Agent (US Nuclear Materials Courier), he is a BJJ Black Belt and Owner of Clube Jiu Jitsu in the West Adams Neighborhood of Los Angeles. I’ve known Prof Mark for 20 years, he started training with me in New Mexico, I appreciate the great work he’s done teaching martial arts over the years, his loyalty and friendship.
Ako Harper is life long Martial Artist, training, competing in Karate, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and even fighting in the Cage as a professional Mixed Martial Artist. It was great to talk with him how it was growing up in Chuuk, Micronesia without electricity and how important community is. Anyone who knows Ako knows what a good guy he is, so it was an honor to talk a little about his history. Enjoy!
Vinny OBrien Motocross Racer, Golden Glove Champion, Pro boxer, Alaskan Commercial Fisherman and now works as Professional Stuntman and Actor.
Recent projects include, Captain Marvel, Fast 9 doubling Jason Statham and many more.
Vinny feels competing and fighting in wrestling and boxing taught him critical thinking and a base for everything.
Brian loves the grind which led him to becoming an Alaskan Commercial Fisherman which was interesting for me to hear about.
He got started in the movie industry by getting a part in Creed.
He really feels Jiu-Jitsu is the best thing you can do for your kid to set them up for success.
Loved hearing his mindset about how he approaches everything. Enjoy!
#VinnyObrien #Stunts #Fighting #AlbertoCraneShow
Mike is the Chief Marketing Officer for VKNJA and Marketing Director for TACFIT, he does a lot of work behind the scene, contributing to the systems growth so I was glad I was able to bring him into the studio to talk about his relationship with Esik and more. Enjoy!
Matt is an Athetic Trainer, TACFIT Team Leader and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt. He just finished filming Kettlebell Spetsnaz 101 for TACFIT.com. Scott Sonnon original Spetsnaz program was his introduction to the system, 10 years prior to the day. I always enjoy and learn talking to Matt about training, nutrition and more.
Had a great time talking and catching up with TACFIT Team Leaders Matt, Esik and Robert. We discussed many training topics and benefits of TACFIT training after shooting videos for TACFIT YouTube all afternoon. TACFIT Clubbell 101 with Robert Miller July 8 2020, TACFIT Mace 101 with Esik at the end of July 2020, followed up by the TACFIT Kettlebell Spetznaz 101 with Matt Wiswesser coming soon to TACFIT.com
Professor Bryan Gregerson has a bachelor and masters degree in Urban Education from the University of Southern California. They both had taught over a decade in lower income public school systems teaching from Elementary thru High School Grades. They made the jump to open their gym about 3 years ago in Boyle Heights where Bryan had taught for years already in the Public School Systems. We discussed the attitudes and qualities that make kids successful and how it relates to BJJ and everything else.
Childhood friends Karen and Sevak are Armenian-American mixed martial artists, they are Judo Black Belts and hold black belts in many other martial arts as well as being Elite Grapplers. Karen is best known for fighting in WEC's lightweight division, he also had a 12-0 amateur boxing record before he began MMA and is also the founder of KD MMA Training Center in Glendale, CA. Sevak was a contender on the Ultimate Fighter 12 Show. They both have been close friends of mine for a long time so it’s always great to catch up.
Josiah is full time BJJ instructor and competitor as well as a Certified TACFIT Field Instructor. He was headed down the wrong path during High School until his Father enrolled him at Legacy. He shares some of his story and what he does to better himself everyday.
Marco grew up in Burbank and the San Fernando Valley, he played Baseball and Football during High School. He graduated from Film School, lost a lot of weight and now gives back and teaches Kids and Adults at Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Always a good time talking to my brother. Enjoy!
Manvel Gamburyan is an Armenian mixed martial artist who has competed in the UFC's lightweight, featherweight, and bantamweight divisions. A professional competitor since 1999, he was a cast member of Spike TV's The Ultimate Fighter 5, and also competed in the WEC and for King of the Cage. Big pleasure to talk to him about old stories, growing up training with Gokor Chivichyan in Hollywood. His Judo Journey. Getting jumped at a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Tournament and why he stopped competing in Jiu-Jitsu. Enjoy!
Coach Dan Spence shares his story of his motorcycle accident, breaking his back, being hospitalized for 6 months and wondering if he would ever walk again. Moving from Australia to to the US. Him finding BJJ and making it his life and more. Enjoy!
Always good hanging with my brother Professor X, he hasn’t been able to return back to Brazil because of the Pandemic, we discussed current events happening now and more. Xande is a Musician and 4th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. You can find his Music on Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud and YouTube.
Great chat with Rolles Gracie Jr, he is a third generation martial arts member of the Gracie Family, he is the son of legendary Rolls Gracie. We talked growing up Gracie, Covid-19, competing in Wrestling, fighting MMA and much more. Enjoy!
Aaron Cruz and Mikey Donios are partners at Alta Performance Institute in Monterrey, California where they are fully dedicated to helping their community live a healthier and better life. Aaron Cruz has been a TACFIT Team Leader for 10 years plus, he is a huge resource of knowledge in our System. Always great to see Aaron and big pleasure to finally get to know Mikey.
Esik is founder of VKNJA and the US Director for TACFIT , Erin Furry is founder of Steel Mace Yoga. Always great to hang out with Esik and it was pleasure to get to know Erin. Enjoy!
Brandon Mullins made a name for himself as one of the top jiu-jitsu competitors in the rooster weight and was the first American to win the No-Gi IBJJF Black Adult division two times. It’s been a pleasure to watch him come up thru the ranks over the years and become a World Class Black Belt Competitor. He received his Black Belt from Klay Pittman and later became an assistant Instructor for Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhães. He has two instructional courses with Stephan Kesting: How to Defeat the Bigger, Stronger Opponent and Non-Stop Jiu-Jitsu: Dynamic BJJ Gameplans. Brandon is very inspiring to me, hope you enjoy our talk. On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most Platforms.
Kenny Florian is the only UFC fighter to compete in four divisions (Featherweight, Lightweight, Welterweight and Middleweight). He fought for three UFC titles in two weight classes.
Today, Kenny can be found outside of the Octagon as a color commentator for BattleBots on the Discovery and Science Channels.
Kenny is co-owner of Meraki BJJ in Santa Monica, CA and Florian Martial Arts Center in Brookline, MA.
Every week, Kenny can be heard on the Anik and Florian podcast.
It was great catching up with him and talking old stories. Enjoy!
Lance is a 2nd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under 4th Degree Black Belt Vicente Junior and owns Conquest BJJ in Maryland. He also helps martial arts schools owners with growth in his MMA Studio Secrets group. We discussed navigating martial arts gyms in these interesting times and his passion for helping school owners to be successful. Enjoy!
Summer is a movement & performance coach. She has been fortunate to have studied under Scott Sonnon since 2006, after being hired as their Nanny was asked to Model for his books and DVDS. She served as a Head Coach for RMAX International (TACFIT former parent company) and is the founder and director for Clubbell Yoga globally and now owns and operates Flow Shala in Bellingham, Washington. She holds a Masters in Kinesiology from Western Washington University. It was good to catch up with her and see what she’s been up to and more. Enjoy! #SummerHuntington #TACFIT #ClubbellYoga #ScottSonnon
Last time I spoke with Dr. Darragh O’Carroll was right before our quarantine was mandated. Some time has passed and there are still so many questions. I appreciate Dr. Darragh’s time and our talk over this heated topic. Darragh O’Carroll MD is an Emergency Physician and medical writer. He obtained his B.S. in Human Physiology from Boston University, his M.D. from the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii, and his training in Emergency Medicine from one of the nation’s busiest trauma centers, Los Angeles County Hospital. He recently consulted on the Netflix docuseries “Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak”, released in January, 2020. On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most Platforms. #Covid19 #Vaccine #CoronaVirus #AlbertoCraneShow
Big honor to do a podcast with my Professor, Professor Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhães. Prof. Draculino‘s personality, enthusiasm, integrity, charisma and leadership make the essence of his Academies GB Texas and GBBH and touch all those around him. A great competition background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Submission Wrestling and MMA qualifies him as one of the best featherweight competitors in BJJ history. Besides these titles held as a competitor and fighter, Professor Vinicius is considered one of the best instructors in the BJJ world. Among his students, you will find world champions, Pan Ams, national BJJ champions, more than 100 Black Belts, MMA and Grappling champions spread all over the World. Professor Vinicius is also a Lawyer in Brazil and graduated from the UFRJ (Federal University of Rio De Janeiro) which is one of the top three Law schools in the country. On all Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube and most Podcast Platforms. Enjoy!
Great to talk with Andy Wang BJJ Black Belt, MMA Veteran and Former Ultimate Fighter Contender who now lives in China where he teaches and runs his own BJJ Academy. We talk about UFC Champ Zhang Weili and how it was an even more difficult road for her to become Champion. We talk about the Covid-19 situation in China and he even challenged me to a BJJ Match! Challenge excepted! Enjoy! #AndyWang #China #MMA #BJJ #AlbertoCraneShow
Ulpiano moved from Brazil to Los Angeles with 100$ in his pocket, moved to United States to fight MMA. Later he ended up opening up one of the First Gracie Barra Gyms in 2007 in Santa Ana, California. In 2010 he moved to Houston Texas and started his very successful Gracie Barra Westchase Gym. It was great to catch up with him and talk about his journey, living the American Dream and much more. Enjoy!
Arin is a Robert Drysdale Black Belt and BJJ Masters World Champion, has a Double Major in Philosophy & Religion from UCLA, worked as an EMT for many years. Today he runs his Medical Spa, Ivy Laser Salon in Las Vegas. We had great conversation talking about everything from Religion, History, COVID-19, Jiu-Jitsu and more.
Great to catch up with my long time friend Felipe Palhares who is the founder of his Law Firm Mandatum who specialize in business mergers and acquisitions across Brazil and Internationally. We have conversation about the COVID-19 Situation currently in Brazil, of course Jiu-Jitsu, TACFIT and much more. Enjoy!
Dr. Eric Cobb is the founder of Z-Health Performance Solutions and is one of the world's leading experts in harnessing the power of the neurology of movement to create extraordinary change in the human body.
Dr. Cobb's innate passion for human physiology and psychology began when he was first introduced to the martial arts as a 6-year old boy. His passion for martial arts, and all things athletic, led him to dig deeply into the science of movement over the last 20 years and developed a global and holistic approach to health and performance, based on the brain.
Is a Movement Coach, Strength & Conditioning Specialist, TACFIT Team Leader and Probationary FireFighter, Wife and Mother of two. We spoke about COVID-19 in the Seattle Area, her coaching background, Scott Sonnon, her CST/TACFIT Journey transitioning into a Firefighter Career and more. Enjoy!
Draculino Black Belt Lucas Valente earliest BJJ memory is practicing Armbars with his uncle Daniel Valente at 3 years old. He has dedicated his life to becoming the best Jiu-Jitsu fighter he can be. He got the silver medal at the Black Belt Adult 2019 IBJJF World Championship, it was big pleasure to talk with him and discuss his process and journey. Enjoy!
Chance was one the original 22 founding members of the Call of Duty Franchise which ended up being the largest entertainment franchise of the 2000’s. His newest venture, Doghead Simulations, is a company with a mission “to bring Virtual Reality collaboration to business teams.” Through their product rumii, teammates are able work together remotely through a virtual reality environment that works across a variety of platforms and operating systems. It was great to catch up with Chance, he started to train BJJ with me in 2009, we’ve had some good adventures, and he even cornered me in my MMA fight in Costa Rica years ago. He always opens my mind up to technology possibilities and I always learn a lot when I speak with him. Enjoy!
Great to catch up with Prof Brian Johnson, one of the first BJJ teachers in the Seattle Washington Area. He has owned and operated Northwest Jiu-Jitsu Academy since 1999. He is a Masters World Champion and World Class Competitor. He has been doing amazing work in his academy and community over the last decades. He is the example of discipline and consistency. Its been an honor to know him and to be his friend after all these years. Enjoy!
Got to catch up with my friend Prof Adem Redzovic of Redzovic Jiu-Jitsu in Chicago. We talked about the Corona Virus/Covid-19 situation and how it’s effected our lives and more. Stay moving and stay healthy.
Yoshi Wada & Felicia Oh are both Jean Jacques Machado Black Belts. Yoshi had trained with Rickson Gracie until he moved from the Los Angeles Area. Yoshi explained how it was training with Rickson since the early days, garage training, challenge matches, traveling to Japan when Rickson fought in the Japan Vale Tudo in 1995 and much more. Yoshi is also a Chiropractor and Acupuncture but believes you should be able to heal yourself. The reason why he transitioned more and more from his former profession into BJJ. Yoshi is in his seventies so I learned a lot from his attitude, way of living and training for life. Thank you to my friend Felicia Oh for bringing him on the show. Enjoy!
Erika grew up in small town Colorado outside of Colorado Springs. She grew up Dancing, which she pursued professionally after high school that brought her to Los Angeles. Along the way she began personal training and training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She teaches Kids, Adults and Female BJJ Classes at LEGACY Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Burbank, California. She talks about how it is being a Female in Jiu-Jitsu and why it is important to train Jiu-Jitsu as a Female. She is a great role model for all and I personally am grateful because she gives my daughter a strong female to look up to. Had a great talk with her, enjoy!
Chad George is a retired mixed martial art fighter who has competed for over 15 years in the Bantamweight division. He is the subject of the world renowned Netflix documentary “Occupation: Fighter”. A professional competitor since 2005, Chad has fought in the WEC, Bellator, Tachi Palace, BAMMA and many other MMA Organizations. He is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, is 3 x IBJJF World Champion, the EBI Combat Jiu-Jitsu World Champion among many other Jiu-Jitsu Accolades. He runs his gym California Mixed Martial Arts in Gardena, California and hosts his Podcast the Savage Hour. He has been an inspiration for me for many years not only for his fighting abilities but his example of what he gives back to his fighters as a Coach and also to the MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a whole. Enjoy!
Darragh O’Carroll MD is an Emergency Physician and medical writer. He recently consulted on the Netflix docuseries “Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak”, released in January, 2020. He obtained his B.S. in Human Physiology from Boston University, his M.D. from the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii, and his training in Emergency Medicine from one of the nation’s busiest trauma centers, Los Angeles County Hospital. He is the medical director for All Hands and Heart Smart Response disaster NGO, and volunteered with disaster relief organization Team Rubicon delivering disaster relief to Abaco Island in the bahamas shortly after Hurricane Dorian struck in September of 2019. We spoke about how what do to prevent, get better and get thru this Pandemic.
Dr Avetis Azizyan is a Neuroscience Major and practicing Board Certified Radiologist and Professor at UCLA Medical Center. We discussed his 16 year Journey of being a Doctor. The emotional intelligence of practicing medicine, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the Brain, helping people and much more. Enjoy!
Taybren Lee is a Police Activities League Officer that teaches to at risk youth in Los Angeles. He instills life values through the guise of BJJ, Judo, and Karate. We had a great discussion on how losses make you better and much much more. Enjoy!
Mestre Xuxo has known Capoeira as long as he’s been alive, starting Capoeira at 2 Years growing up under his Capoerista Master his father. Growing up in poverty in Brazil, he now teaches his method - Enjoy Yourself Movement around the World, teaching workshops and certifications. He has traveled to 147 Countries around the World. He has trained people like Ido Portal, Ruben “Cobrinha” Charles and many others to move better. About 3 1/2 years ago Mestre Xuxo was diagnosed with Multiple Schlerosis which changed many things in his life and we discussed how his fathers mindset instilled in him is helping him overcome and also live his best life. It was a big honor to sit down with him and hear his story. He is a living example that anything is possible. One of my favorite podcasts to date. Enjoy!
Kristian Woodmansee is an International BJJ Champion Competitor winning at the highest levels for many years. Kristian is an Atos Black Belt under Andre Galvão and was one of the Main Instructors for many years at Atos HQ. He now runs Logic BJJ in Philadelphia. It was a big pleasure to hear his personal story and his advice for BJJ Practitioners for them to reach their potential. Enjoy!
Adam McInnis is a Singer/Songwriter most known for his work on tv/film (Leap, The Voice, Hart of Dixie, EndGame etc) as well as collaborating with top dj's in EDM. Adam was a winner of Russel Simmon's "Race To Be: The Next Music Entrepreneur". Adam's online platform, where he gives out mentoring information and advice regarding the music industry has gained a vast following. He truly loves to help upcoming artists understand the blueprint for success. Part of this has been his Neverland Music Retreat in Costa Rica where he has Musicians and Producers participating from around the world. He has been a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Practioner for many years and I always appreciate his Cerebral approach to everything he pursues. Enjoy!
Just Move! - Coach April Do Nascimento has always loved to move. Passionate Cheer athlete and later Cheer Coach. Which led her later to pursue Kinesiology and a bachelors degree from Cal State Northridge. Coach April runs and is the Head Coach for Tough Girl Bootcamp at Legacy in Burbank, California. It was great to hear her story, as she has been an inspiration to me for many years. Enjoy! #ToughGirlBootCamp #LegacyBJJ #BangMuayThai #TACFIT
Xande is a 4th Degree BJJ Black Belt, an Attorney in Brazil and Musician, Michael Lemont is a Hip Hop Artist and Music Producer. They just returned from Summer in Brazil, always fun hanging out with them and catching up. Enjoy!
Scott Sonnon is a Human Optimization Scientist and the Creator of the Clubbell, CST (Circular Strength Training) and TACFIT® coined by Men’s Health “Worlds Smartest Workout”. TACFIT® is an internationally established brand with facilities and instructors in 33 countries and it has been in the trenches developing a following reaching a record of 59 million. As a dyslexic, institutionalized as a child, Scott Sonnon became a TED Fellow speaking on the nature of multiple learning styles being misdiagnosed as learning disabilities. Despite his misdiagnosed learning disabilities he became a World Champion in 5 different Martial Art Styles. Scott Sonnon was voted one of "The 6 Most Influential Martial Artists of the 21st Century" by Black Belt Magazine. Scott Sonnon and his work has really changed and improved my life in many ways as well as those around me. So it was a huge honor to sit down with him. Matt Wiswesser is an Athletic Trainer and a TACFIT Team Leader and has been mentored by Scott for many years. Enjoy!
Juan David Mendez is a Registered Dietitian and Exercise Physiologist, specializing in neuromuscular physiology and cardiovascular performance studying many years at Yale and Florida State University. Juan David is a TACFIT Team Leader and has been practicing TACFIT for 10 years. He is also the Head Coach and Co-Owner of TACFIT Point and has his private practice in clinical and performance nutrition in Panama City. Juan David also traveled for 5 years as a Catholic Missionary in Bolivia and Uruguay. It was a big honor and pleasure to sit down with him and hear some of his story. Enjoy! #TACFIT #Dietician #TACFITPoint #Panama #ScottSonnon
Matt Wiswesser is an Athletic Trainer and TACFIT Team Leader, he has worked across many Sports with Major League Baseball, National Football Teams, Div 1 Wrestlers, Federal Agencies and Military. He is a BJJ Coach at Silver Fox BJJ and Personal Trainer. He has been a great friend over the years and always been a resource for me in my own TACFIT Journey. So it was great to sit down with him and connect on the Show. Enjoy!
Néstor Serra Verdaguer, TACFIT® International Educational Director.
Néstor has been in the fitness and sports industry for over three decades. His career path has led him to work with an array of clients including athletes and instructors. A movement specialist, he also trains movement professionals. By helping increase their knowledge, the coaches in turn can better help others.
In 2016, his dedication ranked him Best Coach in Spain for his educational work and influence in fitness and healthy habits.
For the past eight years he has been collaborating with TACFIT®, leading the legions of Spain and Portugal under the umbrella of the Iberian Legion. With his in-depth understanding of the different TACFIT® training modules, he has led and trained fifteen highly skilled Team Leaders and more than one hundred instructors. The education system implemented has been the example of many legions around the world.
Nestor is the country’s leader of StrongFirst® and Head Master Trainer of Ybell Fitness. He is also the director and co-creator of Hypopressive RSF (functional systemic reprograming), a postural method born in postpartum therapy. The method was developed in different programs and effective for the prevention, treatment and improvement of both postural and pelvic dysfunctions and high sports performance. There are over ten thousand physiotherapists and five thousand trainers who practice the method in Canada, Brazil, USA, UK, Russia, United Arab Emirates, Italy, France, Belgium, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Colombia and over more than thirty countries around the world.
Néstor says, “My understanding of training is based on detecting the needs of the body to make it more functional. It is imperative to gauge how the body can move effectively and efficiently in any situation, in the face of any challenge, voluntary or not, circumstantial or frequent. This concept is what I aim to convey to my students, clients and athletes, and thus help to improve people's lives.”
MMA Coach of the Year and World Champion Duane “Bang” Ludwig and Prof Sam Coutts head BJJ Coach at Ludwig Martial Arts. We talk about their history, some of our old stories and adversities we had to over come. Enjoy!
UFC Veteran and BJJ Black Belt who now owns KAIJU MMA in Tarzana, California. We used to train together at Dan Henderson’s Team Quest years ago, so it was great catching up and chatting about his Ultimate Fighter 5 Experience, his martial arts journey and much more, enjoy!
Konstantin teaches Meditation, Yoga, is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and was a former Monk! He began his travels at the age of 12 years old all across his Native Russia, later spending years in India and later Bali and China. He now lives in Los Angeles, California and we discuss how Jiu-Jitsu has improved his Life and much more. Enjoy!
Joey Alvarado is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and former Mixed Martial Arts Fighter and the founder and creator of KettleJitsu. We discussed where he grew up, his family and how he ended up in Los Angeles California. Enjoy!
Professor Renato is Ryan Gracie 4th Degree BJJ Black Belt, Judo Black Belt, MMA Veteran and has traveled the World in his Martial Arts Journey. He now owns and operates Sampa BJJ in Glendora, California. It was great catching up with him and learning about his journey moving to the US from Brazil and much more. Enjoy!
John Combs is an Easton BJJ Black Belt, he won the North American Trials Championships last year, winning 7 matches that day and has won many Championships along the way. He is an active competitor we talk about his journey and his mindset on his quest. Enjoy!
Had a great time sitting down with my Family SDotB and talk old stories of him having the opportunity to shoot artists like Drake, Dr. Dre, 2 Chainz and many more. We talk about his clothing brand he ran for many years as well as his mindset and belief to invest in people over the years. Enjoy!
Ben Roy is a Stand Up Comic, Musician, Co-creator and star of the TruTV Television Show ‘Those Who Can’t’ and of course a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Practitioner.
Aaron owns and operates Alta Performance Institute in Monterrey, California. Erik “Esik” is the founder of VKNJ. They grew up in the same town and have a long training and friendship together. Aaron had a terrible vertebrae injury to his T 1, 2 and C7 and was determined to not be handicapped at 25yrs old and found the work which was needed to begin his journey to recovery from his debilitating neck injury. I had a great time talking with them and learned a lot from them .#TACFIT #CST #VKNJ #ScottSonnon #IntuFlo
Erik ‘Esik’ Melland is the CEO and founder of Viking Ninja LLC. He embodies the Viking Ninja - rooted within his Norwegian and Korean descent.
His background as a massage therapist, fitness coach and creative artist has allowed him to design a program that is built around Balance, Discipline and the Warrior Spirit. His unconventional training system focusing on safe and mindful Bodyweight and Steel Mace movements for performance, strength, mobility and recovery.
Erik’s journey has led him to train with athletes within major professional sports (NFL, UFC, MLB, NHL) as well as individuals who are starting or furthering their fitness.
Erik lives by the motto of “Kill your Ego” and expects students to enter the program with an open mind and willingness to learn and struggle. #VKNJ #TACFIT #CST #ScottSonnon
Eliot Marshall is a former UFC Fighter and Ultimate Fighter Veteran, BJJ Black Belt Champion, the first American to earn IBJJF Pan American titles as a blue, purple and brown belt. In addition to being the co-owner and head instructor at Easton Training Center, Eliot became the head coach of Elevation Fight Team, one of the country's most highly regarded MMA teams. Eliot has his own podcast called the Gospel of Fire and has a best selling Amazon Book with the same title. Enjoy!
You can find Eliot at: EastonBJJ.com eliotmarshall.com
Quebrado is of Lebanese Armenian descent and talks about his break dancing roots and how he found Capoeira in his transition moving to America. We talk about the many benefits of Capoeira, the Movement of the Martial Art, the Music and the Way of Life. Enjoy!
Grant Collins is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. He owns and operates Optimus Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Laguna Niguel in Orange County, California. We discuss the many benefits of the Martial Arts as well as Chinese Medicine. It was a big pleasure to sit down with him as he began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Journey with me 20 years ago in Santa Fe, New Mexico as well as starting our first Kids Program. Enjoy!
Ryan Provencher is the Bellingham Fire Training Chief and TACFIT Fire and EMS Division Chief. We discuss his background in Physical Fitness and Nutrition and how TACFIT has helped him and others. Enjoy!
Bruce Schonfeld is an advanced Rolfer and has been a bodyworker for over 25 years. He also is a Film Maker and recently released his Movie: The Secret Life of Fascia. I’ve been fascinated by Fascia and how it works for many years now so it was a great pleasure to have an expert on the Show. Enjoy! You can find Bruce Schonfeld at advancedrolfing.com and can watch his movie “The Secret Life of Fascia” on Vimeo OnDemand
Jamal Shofani is BJJ Black Belt, Former Marine and Wells Fargo District Manager. We talk about his family immigrating from Jordan. Leadership. Work Life Balance and how his Family has been his superpower. Enjoy!
Adil Mustafabekov is a Disney Artist, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Competitor. We discuss his history and the crossover of Art and Martial Arts. Enjoy!
Pier Pagano work is called Repatterning and comes from her experiences in both the fitness and design world. She worked for 40 years from the outside in; now works from the inside out. She teaches clients to use their inner toolbox to repattern their blueprint to reflect who they are now. She does private sessions and seminars in the US and Europe.
Jim Lawson is the owner of Jiu-Jitsu Magazine, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. and former Marine. We talk about his Jiu-Jitsu beginnings, Royce Gracie, his Journey and everything in between. Enjoy!
Entrepreneur. Contractor, Real Estate Agent, BJJ Black Belt and a guy you want on your team. Garret Glava has helped open up over 25 Gracie Barra BJJ Academies all over Southern California. He now runs Gracie Barra Paso Robles in Paso Robles, California. I always appreciate his advice and guidance. Enjoy!
I got to sit down with the dynamic James Byous he is a musician and all around entertainer, he was recently featured on the Netflix show “Westside” , he is also Certified TACFIT Coach, and a Bad Motherf*cker who’s tired of pretending like he’s not! Enjoy!
Chesuaff "Chezorito" Arreola teaches Jiu-Jitsu to Kids at Los Angeles Park and Rec Community Centers of Echo Park and Lincoln Heights. Really exited to have Chesauff “Chezorito" Arreola on the Show. He has been an inspiration to me for many years. He talks about overcoming a lot of personal struggles in his life thru Jiu-Jitsu and helping kids be their best thru Jiu-Jitsu in his community, Enjoy!
Retired Serial Entrepreneur, Former Night Club and Restaurant Owner. At 73 Years Old is now a full time BJJ Practitioner and Competiror, Inspiring all those around him .He talks old stories and about never giving up! Enjoy.
BJJ Black Belt Jorge Bonilla is the owner and head coach of Legacy Glendale. We talk about his humble beginnings, overcoming limits, fighting, college and much more, Enjoy!
Xande & Michael LeMont talk about the Create Process, Movement and Music and much more! Enjoy!
Leonidas Tarca is an Educator, Author and the Principal of Martin Luther King Jr Elementary in South Central Los Angeles as well as a BJJ Black Belt. We talk about learning, martial arts, education, giving back and much more. Enjoy!
Felicia began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in November 2000 after being introduced to the art by her friend’s husband at the age of 33. Shortly thereafter she enrolled at Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu master Jean Jacques Machado’s school in Tarzana, California. She quickly excelled in the art and after only 4.5 years of training under Machado was promoted to black belt in June 2005. In addition to training under Jean Jacques Machado. Felicia has won many championships including winning the ADCC North American Trials securing her spot to represent the USA at the ADCC World Submission Wrestling Championship (ADCC) where she had convincing victories over a multi-time BJJ World Champion and a Japanese superstar putting her in the finals of the most prestigious grappling event in the world. She was also one of the first to win the IBJJF Pan American Jiu-Jitsu Championship in both the black belt Gi and No-Gi divisions in 2007. Felicia is #6 of the Female Dirty Dozen of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In addition to training and teaching seminars, her most recent endeavor is designing and producing BJJ inspired art and accessories. FLAU - for love, art utility™ Enjoy!
Comedy, Jiu-Jitsu, Canada, the Journey, working as a Paramedic and getting hit by moose, Enjoy!
Mike Murdah talks some BBoy History, the connection with BJJ, DJing, Performing on shows, competing and the Olympics
Robert Miller TACFIT Team Leader talks doing Stunts, Acting in Bollywood Productions, Fitness Modeling, Coaching and much more! Enjoy!
Brazil Adventures, Friendships spanning since the Nineties, Crazy Brazil Adventures, Music and More
Growing up with BJJ, BJJ in Schools and After School Pick Programs, Santa Fe New Mexico and Crazy Brazil Adventures and more
Muay Thai Way of Life, South Central LA, Coaching, the Bang Muay Thai System, Pursuing his Passion and much more!
We talked about the Brain, Movement, Z-Health, Playing, Learning, Pain, Injuries, Human Performance and the Experience of Winning the World Cup as a German Team in Brazil and much more. Enjoy!
We talk about Duane "Bang" Ludwig fight beginnings in Colorado, UFC to MMA Coach of the Year and much more!