In this episode of Inside the Wave podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing my BJJ coach and mentor, Jon Friedland. Jon shared his journey into the world of Jiu-Jitsu, starting in the late 90s after being inspired by the performances of Royce Gracie in the early UFCs. He discussed how the perception of martial arts shifted after witnessing the effectiveness of BJJ in real combat situations.

Jon also shared a humorous anecdote about receiving his black belt in Taekwondo while in basic training in the military, highlighting the challenges and unique experiences he faced during that time. He emphasized the empowering nature of jiu-jitsu and how it transformed his life from being a victim to feeling confident and capable.

The conversation delved into Jon's transition from being an athlete to a coach and eventually a gym owner. He shared valuable insights on the importance of creating a supportive and empowering environment for students, especially children, in jiu-jitsu. Jon emphasized the significance of keeping jiu-jitsu fun and safe for kids to foster their growth and development both on and off the mat.

As the discussion progressed, Jon reflected on his MMA career, sharing lessons learned from his fights and the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges. He highlighted the role of teamwork and support in overcoming setbacks and finding success in BJJ and life.

Jon also touches on the concept of balance in his life, emphasizing the power of saying no and prioritizing what truly matters to him. He shared his excitement for the future of his Jiu-Jitsu journey, looking forward to seeing how others use jiu-jitsu to grow and evolve, both personally and artistically.

Overall, the episode provided valuable insights into the mindset and experiences of a dedicated BJJ practitioner, coach, father, and gym owner, showcasing the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu in shaping lives and fostering a sense of community and growth.