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Open Mat Podcast

Open Mat Podcast

By: Tim Nelson & Adam
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About this listen

A deep dive into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu where coaches Adam and Tim cut through cliches to uncover practical insights on training, coaching, competing and jiu jitsu culture.

© 2025 Open Mat Podcast
Combat Sports & Self-Defense Wrestling
Episodes
  • Episode 12: What does it take to be a Black Belt? | Are there fake Black Belts? | What should Black Belts be able to do?
    Sep 2 2025

    Tim and Adam discuss one of the Jiu Jitsu community's most sensitive topics - the Black Belt. In this conversation they discuss when Tim felt he was "ready" for his black belt, what Adam feels he still needs to learn before he will be ready, and how each of them define the belt itself. They also discuss whether the black belt is as subjective as the other belts are, and what to work towards as you try to become a black belt yourself.

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Episode 11: How to begin to learn Jiu Jitsu | How to coach completely new students | How to think about skill in Jiu Jitsu
    Aug 26 2025

    In this episode Adam and Tim discuss the one challenge that faces both brand new students and instructors coaching brand new members: How do you start to learn Jiu Jitsu without having any idea where to start? They discuss how to define Jiu Jitsu and Jiu Jitsu skills, the first focus that will help new practitioners build skill immediately, and how to focus both your own learning and your students' learning through areas of familiarity as well as unfamiliarity.

    If you like, dislike, agree or disagree with anything said in this podcast, make sure to let us know on Instagram @open.matpodcast - see you there!

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Episode 10: What we wish we knew before our first class | Choosing the right gym | What to expect starting jiu jitsu
    Aug 19 2025

    Tim and Adam discuss the experience of being new to Jiu Jitsu, sharing tips and advice they wish they'd had for their first class. They discuss a variety of topics, including Jiu Jitsu culture, the differences between different types of gyms, and etiquette. This episode is indispensable for newer grapplers or those interested in starting in the sport, but also offers commentary on the state of Jiu Jitsu for more seasoned grapplers.

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    1 hr and 14 mins
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