#316 Omar Ocasio

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his unique journey into the world of Jiu Jitsu, influenced by his love for animals and the impact of the UFC on martial arts. He discusses the cultural perceptions of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, the responsibility that comes with martial arts training, and the importance of competition in personal growth. Through anecdotes about teaching kids and his own experiences, he emphasizes the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu and the confidence it instills in practitioners. Here is The RŌL Radio with an instructor at Spartan Fitness in Homewood Alabama, and a 6th degree bjj black belt, Roger Coelho.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/rogercoelhobjj/?hl=enhttps://spartanfitnessmma.com/Episode Highlights:2:23 Roger’s Zoo7:08 Roger’s Jiu-Jitsu Beginnings and the Impact of the UFC15:31 The Perception of BJJ in Brazil18:47 The Responsibility of a Martial Artist36:31 The Importance of Competition47:57 Roger’s Black Belt Promotion57:34 Competing Against Friends and Coaches1:05:09 Finding Motivation and New ChallengesSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his journey from starting judo at a young age to discovering his passion for Jiu-Jitsu after watching the UFC. He discusses the influence of his early martial arts training on his Jiu-Jitsu skills, and the lifestyle changes he experienced through martial arts. He also shares details of a life-altering accident that led him to yoga, a move to India, and profound lessons he learned there, about happiness and spirituality.Here is The RŌL Radio with a yoga instructor, and 5th degree bjj black belt, Fernando Pacheco.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/fernando_ashtanga_jiu_jitsu/Episode Highlights:2:25 Early Experiences in Martial Arts10:49 Fernando’s Jiu-Jitsu Beginnings22:45 Rickson’s Energy26:43 Life-Changing Accident: The Aftermath and Recovery40:11 A New Beginning in India44:50 Connecting Yoga with Jiu-Jitsu, Personal Growth, and Spirituality58:07 Return to Competition and Reflections on Life’s ChoicesSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his journey from being a firefighter to becoming a Jiu Jitsu instructor, emphasizing the importance of community, relationships, and the joy of training. They discuss the challenges of balancing personal life with their passion for Jiu Jitsu, and the risks taken to pursue their dreams. His guest also shares insights on his experiences, including landing a role with the UFC and his vision for the future of Jiu Jitsu.Here is The RŌL Radio with a 3rd degree Eddie Bravo black belt, the owner and head of operations at Midwest Finishers, and the owner and head instructor at 10th Planet Lombard, Omar Ocasio.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/omarocasio10p/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/10thplanetjj_lombard/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/midwest_finishers_subonly/?hl=enEpisode Highlights:2:39 Make It Fun6:41 The Jiu-Jitsu Circle8:08 Life of Service12:20 Taking Risks for Your Passion22:48 Putting All Your Eggs in One Basket22:56 Omar’s Early Jiu-Jitsu Challenges37:17 Transitioning to 10th Planet and Training Methods45:16 Community, Relationships, Business54:06 Chasing Dreams59:09 Find the Jiu-Jitsu That Fits You1:01:11 Working for the UFC1:05:38 A Different Path with the Same ResultsSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his journey in Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing the significance of black belt promotions, the philosophy behind teaching and learning, and the importance of maintaining a positive perspective in the face of challenges. He discusses the competitive nature of the sport, the balance between talent and hard work, and how Jiu-Jitsu serves as a metaphor for life. He also discusses the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu in the U.S., the impact of the digital age on the sport, and the importance of community and connection in a disconnected world.Here is The RŌL Radio with a certified personal trainer, a 5th degree jiu-jitsu black belt, and the head instructor and owner of Buckhead Jiu-Jitsu in Atlanta Georgia, Samuel Joseph.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/buckheadjj/?hl=enhttps://buckheadjj.com/?https://www.threads.com/@buckheadjj?xmt=AQG0am0gUaCaTNC58YTLCvnt-eC56uwC_PTE8RPRWHgnNtwEpisode Highlights:2:33 The Gift of Giving Black Belts7:40 When the Teacher is the Student18:30 Finding Positivity in Challenges27:35 Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy32:08 Talent VS Hard Work36:15 Is Jiu-Jitsu Simple40:54 Sam’s Journey50:44 The Impact of the Digital Age56:52 Sam Receives His Black Belt1:04:00 The Impact of an InstructorSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn this episode Thomas’ guest shares his journey from being an overweight, shy boy in Brazil to a successful Jiu Jitsu black belt in the US, and how he overcame physical and mental challenges along the way. His story highlights the importance of resilience, risk-taking, and the transformative power of martial arts.Here is The RŌL Radio with personal trainer, first degree bjj black belt, and coach at Brazilian Top Team Irving and Brazilian Top Team North Dallas, Elion Junior Reis.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/elionjreis/https://www.instagram.com/bttirving/https://www.instagram.com/bttnorthdallas/https://www.bttnorthdallas.com/?https://www.bttirving.com/?Episode Highlights:2:40 Losing Is Exciting6:45 The Importance of Taking Risks13:44 Elion’s Journey22:28 Overcoming Body Issues29:46 Don’t Focus on the Results38:24 Rebounding from a Near Fatal Accident44:26 Starting Over and Making Bold Decisions53:35 Chasing Happiness59:52 Don’t Avoid the StruggleSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas and his guest discuss the intricacies of refereeing in jiu-jitsu competitions, the importance of understanding the rules, and how the structure of competitions affects both competitors and referees. They explore the balance between entertainment and competition, the evolution of jiu-jitsu rules, and the impact of high-level competition on training methods. The discussion also touches on the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu training, the challenges of competing against legends, and the motivation behind continuous improvement in the sport.Here is The RŌL Radio with a digital creator, jiu-jitsu referee, and 2nd degree bjj black belt, Carl Fagnant.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/localbjj/https://www.instagram.com/gymlelocal/Episode Highlights:2:49 Refereeing the Worlds6:30 Know the Rules11:05 Rule Sets24:00 The Future of Gi vs NoGi28:20 Accessibility to Knowledge33:50 Finding Balance in Your Training41:45 Pro and Cons: Competing Against Legends46:23 Levels52:12 Carl’s Journey1:00:45 The Future of Jiu-Jitsu TechniquesSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, legendary figure Rickson Gracie shares his insights on the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu from a martial art focused on self-defense to a competitive sport. He emphasizes the importance of 'invisible jiu-jitsu,' which encompasses the mental and emotional aspects of martial arts, such as patience, strategy, and timing. He reflects on the need to reconnect with the roots of Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on self-defense and personal empowerment rather than competition. He also highlights the significance of mental resilience, gratitude, and the holistic development of individuals through martial arts as well as lessons he learned from his father.Here is The RŌL Radio with a true legend in jiu-jitsu and MMA, Grandmaster Rickson Gracie.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.ricksongracie.com/https://www.ricksongracieunited.com/Episode Highlights:2:20 Memories and Family Bonds Through Jiu-Jitsu4:30 Bringing Back Self-Defense with Invisible Jiu-Jitsu9:40 Taking Jiu-Jitsu Lessons Off the Mats16:00 The Shift from Self-defense to Sport23:20 Invisible Jiu-Jitsu30:51 Helping Others Through Jiu-Jitsu41:22 Passing the Torch with Rickson Gracie United45:47 Lesson’s from Helio49:37 Rickson Gracie United54:40 The Perfect Person1:03:01 GratitudeSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his inspiring journey through Jiu-Jitsu, detailing how it transformed his life and shaped his identity. He discusses the profound impact of his mother's nurturing influence, how Jiu-Jitsu became a means of self-defense and personal growth and his dream of moving to Dubai to support his family. Throughout the discussion, he reflects on the significance of helping others and staying true to oneself amidst life's challenges. He also emphasizes the need for discipline and respect in training, and how these values extend beyond the mat to impact lives positively.Here is The RŌL Radio with with a 4 degree black belt, an educator, and the head coach at RGA in Dubai, Gerson Carvalho.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/gersoncarvalhobjj/?hl=enhttps://hotmart.com/pt-br/marketplace/produtos/curso-completo-guarda-lacada-no-jiu-jitsu/R105465821A?https://www.rogergraciedubai.com/Episode Highlights:3:03 Why Jiu-Jitsu13:00 Becoming a Protector17:14 How Jiu-Jitsu Changed Gerson’s Life23:15 Becoming a Better Instructor30:20 Why Dubai: Dreams and Challenges42:17 Meeting Roger and Joining His Team45:09 Giving Back and Growing51:15 Staying Motivated56:21 Setting an Example1:03:08 Using Jiu-Jitsu to Build CharacterSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares insights on how he manages a busy life filled with teaching, training, and family. He emphasizes the importance of time management, routine, and discipline in achieving success, particularly in Jiu Jitsu. He also shares his inspiring journey from Brazil to the United States, detailing his passion for martial arts, particularly Jiu-Jitsu and Capoeira. He discusses the challenges he faced, including injuries and personal loss, and how these experiences shaped his mindset and approach to life.Here is The RŌL Radio with the head professor and owner of Brazil Academy USA in Lenexa Kansas, author, and founder of the nonprofit Ninja Stars, Ninja Pinto.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/ninjapinto1/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/brazilacademy/?hl=enhttps://www.brazilacademyusa.com/https://ninjasstars.com/https://www.amazon.com/Cause-Impact-Leadership-Discipline-Transforming/dp/B0HFKXSPRQ/ref=sr_1_1?https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Weight-Loss-Print-After/dp/1964913705/ref=sr_1_2?Episode Highlights:2:38 Prioritizing a Busy Life11:42 Discipline Leads to Success23:20 It’s All About Hours36:31 Motivating Students42:01 Ninja’s Journey53:24 Finding Purpose Through Loss1:00:25 Excuses VS Action: Shifting MindsetsSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this engaging conversation, Thomas and his guest explore the nuances of teaching and learning in jiu-jitsu, discussing the significance of titles, the necessity of critical thinking for instructors, and the evolving nature of jiu-jitsu instruction. They also explore the journey of transitioning from a stable career to opening a jiu-jitsu academy and discuss the fears and challenges associated with leaving a secure job, emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and the impact of supportive relationships in making significant life changes.Here is The RŌL Radio with a man that has a degree in education, a third degree bjj black belt under Josh Russell, and the head coach at Authentic Jiu-Jitsu in Calgary, Alberta Canada, Ben Kool.www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checkout. Over 1600 videos for your Jiu-Jitsu journey.FREE Access to ROL TV - https://rolacademy.tv/yt/269-the-rol-radiohttp://www.therolradio.comhttps://www.instagram.com/therolradiohttps://www.facebook.com/therolradio/https://www.instagram.com/benkooltech/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/authenticjiujitsu/?hl=enhttps://www.youtube.com/@benkooltechhttps://authenticjiujitsu.com/Episode Highlights:2:29 Professor VS Coach Titles or Vibes7:18 Critical Thinking in Jiu-Jitsu16:41 Student Teacher Dynamics20:21 Motivation Beyond Belts24:36 Ben’s Journey35:55 Transitioning from a Stable Career to One In Jiu-Jitsu51:17  Effective Communication When Teaching 1:03:43 Respecting Others Time and Commitments1:11:57 Ben’s Black Belt PhilosophySupport the show