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Old But Not Dead... Just More Dangerous | Shane Close

What if getting older actually made you a better martial artist?

In this inspiring conversation, Shane Close of Graybeard Grapplers shares why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn't just a sport—it's a lifestyle that keeps you moving, learning, and growing for life.

From mobility and nutrition to injuries, mindset, and building a welcoming community for older grapplers, Shane proves that age isn't the end of your journey—it's just another chapter.

💥 "Old but not dead... dangerous old men."

🎥 Watch the full episode NOW on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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#oldmanonthemat #bjj #jiujitsu #graybeardgrapplers #fitnessover40 #fitnessover50 #martialarts #mobility #longevity #healthyaging #grappling #mindset #nutrition #mentalhealth #podcast #youtubepodcast #staystrong #keeprolling 🥋🔥

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shane Close and His Journey
03:38 The Evolution of Martial Arts Training
06:39 Transitioning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
09:37 Injuries and Their Impact on Training
12:39 The Importance of Staying Active
15:36 Mindset and Ego in Jiu-Jitsu
18:36 Balancing Jiu-Jitsu with Other Activities
21:57 Training Regimens and Recovery Strategies
24:54 Nutrition and Dietary Adjustments
28:42 The Role of Supplements in Fitness
30:35 Welcoming Newcomers in Martial Arts
33:12 The Evolution of Martial Arts Culture
39:39 The Therapeutic Benefits of Jiu Jitsu
41:36 The Healing Power of Physical Activity
43:42 The Birth of Graybeard Grapplers
51:57 Building a Community for Older Grapplers
59:11 Connecting with the Graybeard Grapplers Brand
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"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing"

For Brandon Ryan, martial arts isn't about belts, trophies, or proving people wrong.

It's about helping others discover what they're truly capable of.

Despite living with cerebral palsy, Brandon found his purpose in teaching, inspiring, and creating opportunities for people who thought martial arts wasn't for them.

His passion for helping students build confidence, overcome obstacles, and believe in themselves is what makes this conversation so powerful.

This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, purpose, leadership, and helping people become the best version of themselves.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brandon Ryan's Journey
02:45 Overcoming Challenges: The Role of Family
05:18 The Early Days of Martial Arts Training
08:38 Defining Moments in Martial Arts
11:05 Teaching Adaptive Martial Arts
14:00 The Evolution of Adaptive Martial Arts
16:25 Building a Community and Following
19:11 The Importance of De-escalation
20:26 Understanding Violence and Legalities
25:03 Responsibility in Self-Defense
26:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
26:46 The Equalizer: Firearms and Self-Defense
28:31 Training for Real-Life Situations
31:11 Challenges in Martial Arts Training
35:05 Becoming an Author: A Personal Journey
37:52 Adapting Martial Arts for Everyone
40:38 Overcoming Physical Limitations
46:15 The Importance of Realistic Training
46:21 What's Next: Life After Adversity
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"Send us a text and let us know how we're doing"

In this episode of Old Man On The Mat, Tony Jones reconnects with Daniel Nunez of Grapple Cove to discuss the journey of building a community-focused Jiu-Jitsu academy in Melbourne, Florida.

We dive into faith, perseverance, business growth, overcoming struggles, and how staying true to your core values can help build something meaningful both on and off the mats.

This conversation is packed with lessons on leadership, mindset, community building, and personal growth for martial artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing a bigger purpose.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background of Daniel Nunez
03:16 Growth and Community at Grapple Cove
06:34 The Importance of Personal Connection in Jiu-Jitsu
09:18 Investing in the Business and Community
12:18 Adding Value to Students' Lives
15:12 Taking the Leap: Business Growth and Challenges
18:07 Overcoming Personal Struggles and Finding Purpose
22:45 Overcoming Darkness: A Personal Journey
25:43 The Power of Faith and Support
28:45 Mindset Shift: Embracing Struggles
32:57 The Importance of Connection and Community
38:17 Future Aspirations: Growth and Expansion
40:36 Core Values: Staying True to Yourself
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#bjj #jiujitsu #martialarts #grappling #community #smallbusiness #entrepreneur #faith #motivation #mindset #oldmanonthemat #personalgrowth

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