On this episode of *The GI Spot Podcast*, Rach and Kaz dive into a lively discussion about the different styles and formats of Jiu Jitsu and grappling available to today’s practitioners, exploring how these approaches have evolved and shifted over time. From traditional Gi training to the fast-paced world of No-Gi, and from self-defense-focused systems to competition-ready techniques, they break down how each style offers unique benefits and experiences.

As dedicated practitioners themselves, Rach and Kaz share their personal philosophy on training in both Gi and No-Gi, emphasizing how each format brings its own set of skills and challenges. They touch on how, as life gets busy—with injuries, family commitments, and countless other responsibilities—the flexibility of Jiu Jitsu’s varied approaches is a huge advantage. For them, the decision is simple: train in both! This variety not only keeps them engaged but also helps keep them adaptive, learning to appreciate the nuances of each style without feeling like they're sacrificing their growth as grapplers.

Rach and Kaz also delve into the broader landscape of Jiu Jitsu, looking at how trends have shifted in recent years. They discuss how sport-oriented grappling has influenced the art, what’s happening in the ever-evolving world of submission-only competitions, and how the increased emphasis on No-Gi is impacting training methods worldwide. They share insights on how Jiu Jitsu communities now embrace a wider range of techniques, encouraging practitioners to develop well-rounded skills that are effective across different settings, whether for personal development, self-defense, or high-level competition.

Tune in for an episode filled with humor, valuable insights, and a fresh perspective on balancing different Jiu Jitsu styles. Whether you’re a new practitioner figuring out where to start or an experienced grappler navigating your training options, Rach and Kaz offer advice, encouragement, and a reminder that there's no "one right way" to enjoy and grow in Jiu Jitsu.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook

On this episode of *The GI Spot* Podcast, Rach and Kaz take a step back from the technical side of Jiu Jitsu and dive into what truly makes them passionate about the sport. Inspired by a Reddit Grappling thread where contributors were asked to share what they love about Jiu Jitsu, the episode explores the joy, fulfillment, and personal growth that comes from being a part of this unique martial art.

While scrolling through the thread, Rach realized that many of the sentiments shared by fellow grapplers resonated deeply with her own journey. From the camaraderie on the mats to the mental and physical challenges, the responses inspired Rach and Kaz to dedicate an episode to celebrating the sport that has become a central part of their lives.

The episode kicks off with Rach and Kaz reflecting on their own love for Jiu Jitsu—how it’s impacted their lives beyond the mat and shaped them as individuals. They talk about the sense of community that Jiu Jitsu fosters, where training partners become lifelong friends and even feel like family. The atmosphere in a Jiu Jitsu academy is unlike any other, where people from all walks of life come together with a shared goal of learning, improving, and supporting each other.

The duo discusses the unique mental benefits that Jiu Jitsu offers, from stress relief to building resilience. The sport has a way of stripping away the superficial and putting you in the present moment. Whether it's overcoming self-doubt, pushing through exhaustion, or figuring out a new technique, Jiu Jitsu teaches you to be adaptable and tenacious—both on and off the mats. For Rach, the mental game is just as important as the physical, and it’s something she’s grown to appreciate even more as her journey has progressed.

Kaz shares her perspective on the joy of continual learning that Jiu Jitsu provides. No matter how long you’ve been training, there’s always something new to discover. Whether it’s fine-tuning a familiar technique or learning a completely new submission, the process of growth is never-ending. Jiu Jitsu’s complexity and depth are what keep people coming back day after day, year after year. It’s a sport that challenges you not just to be strong, but to be thoughtful, strategic, and always open to learning from others.

Another aspect that they highlight is the empowerment that Jiu Jitsu provides, especially for women. In a traditionally male-dominated space, Rach and Kaz speak to the growing presence of women on the mats and the confidence that Jiu Jitsu instills. For them, it’s not just about self-defense; it’s about knowing your own strength and capabilities. The sport has given them both a sense of self-assuredness that they carry into all aspects of their lives.

They also delve into the importance of failure and struggle in the Jiu Jitsu journey. The mat is a place where egos are checked, and losses are inevitable. But it’s in those moments of defeat and frustration where the most growth happens. The beauty of Jiu Jitsu is that it’s not about winning every roll but about showing up, learning, and improving over time. Kaz and Rach share how they’ve learned to embrace the process, even when it’s tough, and how those lessons translate into resilience in everyday life.

As the episode wraps up, Rach and Kaz circle back to the Reddit thread and reflect on the shared experiences of grapplers around the world. The common themes of community, personal growth, and love for the art resonate deeply with them, reminding them why they fell in love with Jiu Jitsu in the first place.

This episode of *The GI Spot* is a heartfelt celebration of the sport that has shaped Rach and Kaz in profound ways. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your Jiu Jitsu journey, this conversation will inspire you to reflect on what Jiu Jitsu means to you and why it’s a sport that so many people hold dear. Tune in for an uplifting and introspective episode that will leave you feeling connected to the broader Jiu Jitsu community and inspired to keep showing up on the mats.

On this episode of The GI Spot Podcast, the team mixes things up in a new way. Kaz turns the tables and puts co-host Rachael Bradshaw in the hot seat, along with fan-favorite guest Grant Bradshaw and the ever-present but rarely heard Producer Matt. Together, they dive deep into a topic that often sparks heated debates in the Jiu Jitsu community—the concept of a "Jiu Jitsu grading."

Jiu Jitsu schools across the globe have varying traditions and customs when it comes to belt promotions, with approaches ranging from the simple and straightforward to the complex and comprehensive. Some schools opt for an understated belt presentation, while others may have multi-day testing processes that push candidates to their physical and mental limits. Regardless of the approach, the significance of the grading process can vary wildly depending on the academy and its philosophy.

In this episode, Kaz, Rachael, Grant, and Matt break down what grading means to them, from both the instructor's and the student's perspectives. As seasoned practitioners and academy owners, Grant and Rachael take the opportunity to showcase the grading process at their own school, Iconic Jiu Jitsu. They dive into the core values and principles that shape their approach to promotions, highlighting why the spirit of what they do is so vital to the integrity of their academy and their students’ development.

Grant, as a second-degree black belt and long-time coach, offers insight into what instructors look for when deciding if a student is ready for the next level. He shares his thoughts on the delicate balance between maintaining high standards and recognizing individual progress, emphasizing that Jiu Jitsu is not just about physical techniques, but also about character, mindset, and personal growth. Rachael adds her perspective on how they strive to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, ensuring that promotions are not just a formality but a meaningful milestone in each practitioner’s journey.

On the flip side, Matt brings a candid view from the candidate’s perspective, recounting his own experiences preparing for and undergoing the grading process. As someone who's recently leveled up in his Jiu Jitsu journey, Matt offers a raw and honest reflection on the physical and emotional challenges of working toward a belt promotion. From the grueling training sessions to overcoming self-doubt, he shares what it takes to push through the barriers and earn the respect of both his peers and instructors.

Throughout the episode, the group also tackles some of the most common debates surrounding Jiu Jitsu grading. Is a formal testing process necessary, or is time on the mat and instructor observation enough? How do you measure progress in a sport where individual journeys can be so varied? And perhaps most importantly, how do schools strike a balance between maintaining high standards and fostering an inclusive, growth-oriented culture?

This episode provides listeners with a well-rounded view of the grading process, offering insights from both the instructors’ and students’ perspectives. Whether you’re a white belt just starting out or a seasoned practitioner working toward your next rank, this conversation sheds light on the complexities and emotions involved in Jiu Jitsu grading. It’s an opportunity to see the thought and care that goes into these decisions from the people responsible for upholding the standards of their academy, while also getting an inside look at the candidate’s experience as they prepare for and ultimately achieve a new level in their training.

Tune in for a lively, insightful, and sometimes humorous discussion that digs deep into what it means to earn your stripes (or your belt) in the world of Jiu Jitsu. Whether you're a coach, a student, or simply someone curious about martial arts culture, this episode has something for everyone.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with Jerry Wetzel, a leading authority on real-time threat assessment and knife defense. Jerry has spent decades developing practical, reality-based methods for dealing with violence, and today, he shares his vast knowledge and experience with the listeners. As the founder of Centerline Gym in 1999, Jerry's mission has always been to research and understand the true nature of violence—not the Hollywood version, not the stylized combat techniques, but the raw, unpredictable, and often chaotic reality of self-defense situations.

Jerry’s approach goes beyond just physical techniques. He emphasizes the importance of integrating biological, psychological, emotional, and behavioral factors into training. During the episode, Rach and Kaz dig into these concepts with Jerry, exploring how real-world scenarios differ drastically from the controlled environments we often train in. They discuss the psychological impact of facing a real threat and how our natural instincts and emotional responses need to be addressed in training if we are to effectively defend ourselves.

Jerry speaks passionately about the need for realistic, pressure-tested training against resisting opponents—where the objective is not to perform a perfect technique, but to survive and escape dangerous situations. He shares insights into the development of his knife defense system, outlining how understanding human behavior and the physiology of violence has shaped his approach. Rather than relying on theoretical or traditional techniques, Jerry's methods are grounded in truth—what actually works in the chaos of a real confrontation.

The conversation also touches on Jerry’s extensive background in martial arts and combat sports, how he evolved his philosophy of self-defense, and his commitment to helping everyday people equip themselves with life-saving skills. He explains the common misconceptions surrounding knife defense, and why most traditional approaches fall short when faced with the unpredictability of an armed assailant.

Rach and Kaz dive into the practical side of Jerry’s training—what it looks like to prepare mentally and physically for real threats, how to recognize pre-attack indicators, and how to react under stress. They also discuss the broader implications of personal safety in today's world, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and how everyday people can empower themselves through self-defense education.

Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or someone interested in learning about self-protection, this episode is packed with valuable insights from one of the most respected voices in the field of real-world violence and defense. Jerry’s no-nonsense approach offers listeners a deeper understanding of what it takes to confront violence effectively and, more importantly, survive it. Tune in for an enlightening and practical discussion that could make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook

https://rzthreatmanagement.com/

On this episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Kaz and Rach sit down for a candid and insightful conversation, starting with Kaz’s recent spinal surgery and expanding into a larger discussion about personal responsibility in fitness, health, and self-protection. As Kaz shares her experience recovering from surgery, the pair explore the physical and mental challenges that come with such a major procedure, while also reflecting on the critical importance of maintaining health and strength, especially when it comes to protecting oneself and loved ones.

Kaz opens up about her recovery journey—what led to her surgery, the ups and downs of the healing process, and how her martial arts background has played a role in her resilience. The conversation then shifts to a broader, and often overlooked, issue: why so many people struggle to take responsibility for their own fitness and health, despite knowing its long-term benefits.

Rach and Kaz dig deep into societal trends that have led to a growing sense of complacency in terms of personal health. They discuss how modern conveniences, sedentary lifestyles, and a culture of quick fixes have contributed to people neglecting their physical well-being. The hosts highlight the importance of prioritizing fitness not just for aesthetic reasons, but for overall health, mental clarity, and the ability to protect oneself and one's family in times of need.

In addition, they explore the psychological barriers that prevent people from taking action, such as fear, lack of motivation, and overwhelming misinformation about where to start. Kaz and Rach offer practical advice on how to overcome these obstacles, stressing the power of small, consistent steps and the value of building long-term habits over quick-fix solutions. They also discuss how martial arts, and specifically Jiu Jitsu, can be a game-changer in fostering a sense of personal empowerment and responsibility.

This episode is a powerful call to action for listeners, encouraging them to take control of their own health, fitness, and safety. Whether it’s through martial arts, exercise, or simply making healthier lifestyle choices, Kaz and Rach show that taking responsibility is the first step to not only improving your own life but also ensuring you’re capable of protecting and supporting those around you.

Tune in for an eye-opening and motivating discussion that tackles both personal health challenges and the larger issues at play when it comes to fitness, self-care, and personal accountability.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz dive into an important and often overlooked topic—kids in Jiu Jitsu. Whether it's addressing the challenges of bullying, helping kids build self-esteem, or providing an active outlet for those high-energy kids who just can't sit still, this episode takes a comprehensive look at the benefits and impact of getting children involved in martial arts training.

Rach and Kaz explore how Jiu Jitsu can be a powerful tool in teaching kids essential life skills such as discipline, respect, and resilience. They discuss how the structured environment of training not only helps with physical fitness but also builds mental toughness, confidence, and emotional regulation. From the shy, introverted child who struggles with confidence to the kid with boundless energy, Jiu Jitsu offers something for everyone.

The hosts also address common concerns that parents may have when considering martial arts for their children, such as the balance between competition and fun, safety during training, and ensuring that the experience is positive and empowering for young students.

With personal anecdotes and insights from their own experiences as parents and instructors, Rach and Kaz share practical advice on how to introduce kids to Jiu Jitsu, what to look for in a kids’ program, and how training can positively impact a child’s development—both on and off the mats.

Whether you're a parent considering Jiu Jitsu for your child, an instructor looking to engage young students, or simply curious about the benefits of martial arts for kids, this episode provides valuable insights into why Jiu Jitsu is more than just a sport—it's a life-changing journey for young practitioners.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with Matt Page, co-host of the Love Conquers Podcast and affectionately known to listeners as "Producer Matt," to dive deep into his recent journey to earning his Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu. After years of hard work, sweat, and dedication, Matt successfully completed his black belt grading, but the road wasn’t without its challenges.

In this in-depth interview, Matt takes us behind the scenes of the intense months leading up to the grading. He shares the rigorous preparation process, detailing the physical and mental hurdles he faced along the way—everything from training setbacks to managing injuries that threatened to derail his progress.

Rach and Kaz explore the high-pressure environment of grading night, from the atmosphere in the gym to the palpable anticipation from the crowd. Matt opens up about what it felt like stepping onto the mats knowing all eyes were on him, and how he mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. He recounts the pivotal moments, including when things didn’t go according to plan and how he had to adapt and push through adversity.

The conversation also delves into the emotional side of grading for a black belt, as Matt reflects on what this achievement means to him personally and how it feels to finally reach this milestone after years of dedication. Rach and Kaz don’t let him off easy, though—they dig into some of the funnier, more chaotic moments from the grading and the unexpected twists that kept everyone on their toes.

Tune in for a compelling, entertaining, and honest discussion about what it really takes to achieve a black belt in Jiu Jitsu, from the highs of success to the obstacles along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just curious about the journey, Matt’s story is both inspiring and full of lessons learned from the toughest tests on and off the mats.

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook

On today’s episode of The GI Spot Podcast, Rach and Kaz sit down with Australian Jiu Jitsu powerhouse Adele Fornarino, who recently made waves by winning double gold at the prestigious ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) tournament in Las Vegas. Adele shares her journey to becoming a world-class athlete, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs women face in Jiu Jitsu, as well as the exciting evolution of the sport.

The conversation kicks off with Adele reflecting on her early days in Jiu Jitsu, having trained from a young age, and how that foundation has shaped her into the athlete she is today. She talks about the discipline, dedication, and countless hours on the mats that have led her to international success. As a coach, Adele also shares her passion for running kids’ classes, revealing how teaching the next generation of grapplers has not only helped them grow but has deepened her own understanding of the art.

Kaz and Rach dive into the topic of women in Jiu Jitsu, exploring the unique hurdles female athletes face and how Adele has navigated the often male-dominated sport. Adele discusses the progress being made toward inclusivity, the growing number of female competitors, and her hopes for the future of the sport, especially as it gains more global recognition through events like ADCC.

Off the mats, Adele opens up about her personal life, giving listeners a glimpse into how she balances the demands of being a world champion with everyday life. She talks about how she stays grounded amidst her success, sharing her hobbies, interests, and what she does to unwind when she's not training. The conversation offers a look at the human side of a champion—how Adele finds time to relax, recharge, and enjoy her accomplishments while continuing to push her limits.

This episode offers a rich, in-depth discussion about the realities of being a top-level athlete, the importance of inspiring the next generation, and how Jiu Jitsu is evolving to create more opportunities for women. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or simply a fan of the sport, Adele’s story is both inspiring and empowering.

Tune in for an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a double gold medalist and a leading figure in women’s Jiu Jitsu!

Welcome to The Gi Spot Podcast a Jiu Jitsu Podcast by Women for Everyone. Meet your host Rachael Bradshaw and Kaz Page, as they sit down weekly to discuss all things that Jiu Jitsu effects in Life, Family, Relationships, Business, and so much more. Each episode looks at life and where their individual Jiu Jitsu Journey has taken them and all the other amazing guests they will meet along the way. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Facebook