Off the Mats Podcast #278- The Brown Belt Grind feat. Brandon Epps

In Off the Mats Podcast #280, host Jake Dante sits down with Chris “CH” Houck, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt from Crazy 88 MMA – Severna Park. Chris opens up about his evolution in BJJ, from early training days to becoming a seasoned purple belt under coaches Julius Park, Keith Cebula, and Tye Ryan Murphy. He discusses how balancing family, work, and training has shaped his mindset, discipline, and patience—both on and off the mats. Listeners will hear about the technical growth in Chris’s game since blue belt, including his passing style, favorite guard setups, and go-to submissions, along with the challenges he’s tackling now. The conversation highlights the culture of Crazy 88 Severna Park, known for its high-level coaching, team camaraderie, and championship-driven mindset. Off the mats, Chris shares how he stays motivated, plus the lessons Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to teach him in everyday life. The episode wraps with a rapid-fire Q&A covering his favorite submissions, toughest training partners, post-training snacks, and the song that gets him hyped before a roll. Whether you’re a BJJ beginner, a competitive grappler, or someone chasing balance between life and the mats, this episode offers real insights into growth, perseverance, and mindset. We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you'll get 10% off.   Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code "BJJWIKI". Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

In Off the Mats Podcast #279, host Jake Dante sits down with Joe Huggins, a dedicated MMA fighter, coach, and new dad, to talk about life’s biggest transitions. Joe shares how becoming a father has reshaped his mindset, training schedule, and approach to competition. The two discuss finding balance between family, fight camp, and coaching, and how discipline on the mats translates into parenthood. Plus, Jake and Joe dive into some nerd talk, breaking down the latest Marvel and DC projects, and giving honest takes on where superhero films are heading. Whether you’re a fighter, parent, or pop-culture fan, this episode offers motivation, laughs, and real talk about staying grounded when life evolves. You can follow Joe's continued journey and success on Instagram at @avrgjo3   We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you'll get 10% off.   Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code "BJJWIKI". Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt Brandon Epps joins the Off the Mats Podcast to talk about his journey from starting BJJ later in life to becoming a multi-time IBJJF Masters champion. We dive into his early years on the mats, his mindset in competition, his training with Crazy 88, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re a new grappler, a Master's athlete, or just a fan of BJJ competition, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a rapid-fire Q&A to close things out. To keep up with Brandon's journey, go follow him on Instagram at @brandon.epps5   We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you'll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code "BJJWIKI." Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

Welcome back, folks. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu white belt Robyn Henderson-Diederiks and talk about her early journey in BJJ and the lessons she’s learning along the way. Robyn opens up about stepping onto the mats for the first time, overcoming the challenges of white belt life, and finding motivation to keep showing up despite the struggles. Known off the mats as a private chef and founder of Robyn’s Kitchen, Robyn shares how she balances her career with training and how discipline, patience, and handling pressure carry over into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The conversation highlights the importance of community, humility, and embracing the beginner’s mindset, making it a relatable listen for grapplers of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out in BJJ or looking for inspiration to keep going, this episode is packed with insights into training, growth, and the balance between life and jiu jitsu. Robyn's journey can be followed over on Instagram at @spoonfulofrobyn and also check out @robyns_kitchen also on Instagram. And if you're in the Hamptons, visit @hamptonsjiujitsu   We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you'll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code "BJJWIKI." Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

What's up, folks? This week on the podcast, I sit down with young MMA prospect out of Crazy 88 MMA, Beltus Tabot. Known for his relentless drive and well-rounded skills, Beltus opens up about his journey into martial arts, the grind of training camp, and what it takes to keep a fighter’s mindset sharp under pressure. We discuss his early influences, the highs and lows of his fight career so far, and where he sees himself in the world of MMA in the years to come. Outside the cage, Beltus shares the passions that keep him grounded, the lessons fighting has taught him about life, and advice for the next generation of athletes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the fight world, this episode gives you a raw and inspiring look at the life of a fighter chasing greatness. To keep up with Beltus and his journey, go follow him on Instagram at @monsieur_logombina   We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you'll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code "BJJWIKI." Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

What's happening, folks? This week on the podcast, I catch up with Mannuel, host of the Off the Saddle Podcast, for a fun and wide-ranging conversation. We delve into the world of pro wrestling and banned footage, the ongoing debates surrounding cancel culture, and how entertainment in the 1980s—especially PG and PG-13 movies—impacted audiences in a significantly different way than it does today. We shift gears into fantasy football talk, breaking down what it’s like to run a league, strategies for prepping for the upcoming NFL season, and why this year might be one of the most exciting yet. On the fitness side, we get into motivation hacks, gamifying workouts, and the importance of staying active when life gets busy. Mannuel also shares his journey of reviving the Off the Saddle Podcast, while we brainstorm new podcasting ideas and talk about the creative side of building content. Along the way, we explore hobbies, the benefits of oversharing, and the lost art of real conversation. Whether you’re into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, NFL football, or podcast culture, this episode is packed with stories and insights you’ll relate to. Be sure to check out Mannuel as he returns to podcasting with the @offthesaddlepodcast   We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10 and you'll get 10% off.   Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Listeners get 20% off their purchase at simpleleaf.com and bjjwholesale.com with the code "BJJWIKI". Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

Greetings, again. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Maryland Phil to break down Marvel Studios’ Fantastic Four: First Steps. Together, we dive into the film’s plot, character development, and the strengths and weaknesses of Marvel’s First Family. From the striking retro-futuristic aesthetic to how this version stacks up against both the broader MCU and earlier Fantastic Four adaptations, no stone is left unturned. The conversation also touches on the Silver Surfer and Galactus, fan-favorite elements that spark plenty of debate. We share our overall scores while running through the good, the bad, and the ugly of the film. And of course, it wouldn’t be a true Nerdcast without veering into general nerd territory—discussing upcoming movies, shows, action figures, and the never-ending cycle of comic books restarting at issue #1. Maryland Phil can be found on Twitter hosting @nerdragecast where he keeps us updated on the Nerd Rage happenings and comic and movie news. He's also on Instagram at @metalliphil   Thank you all for listening to and supporting the podcast. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episode on Spotify https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj   The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA   Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast Twitter @offthematspod1 TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE IN TO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

Hello, again. This week on the podcast, I sit down with John Harris, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt and founder of TapInRoll.com, a platform designed to connect traveling grapplers with open gyms around the world. John shares his BJJ journey, what inspired him to create the site, and how Tap In Roll is streamlining drop-in bookings, digital waivers, and gym visibility. Whether you're a competitor constantly on the road or a hobbyist just looking to train while traveling, this episode unpacks the future of BJJ accessibility and community building—one drop-in at a time. You all can follow  the continued growth of Tap In Roll at tapinroll.com and on Instgram at @tapinroll  Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you'll get 10% off. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

Happy Monday, folks! This week on the podcast, I sit down with white belt Devin Coley to dive into his experiences of being at the very start of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey. Devin shares what it felt like stepping onto the mats for the first time, the nerves of his first roll, and the challenges he’s faced early on as a beginner. From those “aha” moments where techniques finally start to click, to lessons in patience, humility, and resilience, Devin offers a glimpse into the mindset of a new grappler navigating the ups and downs of training. We also explore how BJJ has impacted his life outside the gym, the importance of supportive mentors and training partners, and the goals that keep him motivated. Whether you’re just tying your first belt or years into your practice, Devin’s story is a reminder of where we all started and the growth that comes from embracing the grind.   Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend.   We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mahoney10, and you'll get 10% off. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and frequent guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]

Welcome back, happy people. This week on the podcast, I sit down with Michael Pereira, the founder of The Autism Voyage, to explore his journey from corporate finance to becoming a dedicated advocate for families navigating autism. Michael opens up about the life-changing moment when his son’s autism diagnosis shifted his priorities from career to family. We discuss the real challenges parents face beyond the diagnosis, from daily routines and communication barriers to managing diet, hygiene, and emotional burnout. Michael shares practical strategies for self-advocacy, including how to approach IEP meetings, build a reliable care team, and avoid common financial pitfalls when planning for long-term care. We also talk about the unexpected role Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has played in his son’s growth, helping with focus, body awareness, and confidence, while strengthening their bond as a family. Wrapping up, Michael dives into why entrepreneurship can be a lifeline for parents of special needs children, and how turning personal experience into purpose can change not just your life, but the lives of others. To keep up with Michael and their voyage or for more information, you can follow on Instagram at @theautismvoyage https://theautismvoyage.com/ https://theautismvoyage.com/newsletter/   We want to shout out @johnsfitmeals Head over and use promo code Mad10, and you'll get 10% off. Thank you, again, to everyone for listening to and supporting the podcast up to this point. Below, you'll find info on where to find the shows and social media. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Go check out @socialmediastrategiesthatwork. The account is operated by friend to the podcast and guest @bjjmomma.  Go give a follow and listen to @so_you_like_horror on Instagram and listen to the new episodes on Spotify. https://spoti.fi/3Jqrrxj The show is available on MANY PLATFORMS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook.com/offthematspodcast Instagram @offthematspodcast TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAd WRITE INTO THE SHOW Email: [email protected]