And we're back! And what a guest to have on our first episode back than Big Phil Grapsas! In this episode we discuss ... Why do we strap up the belt and jump on the mats daily? Why do we persist with jiu jitsu amongst the injuries and busy lifestyles and every other trial and tribulation we encounter with jiu jitsu? Sure this is a sport, but more importantly it's a martial art that we pursue for self improvement, for life. We talk about the process of getting started with jiu jitsu, the benefits of the art, the early days of Phil's jiu jitsu, and the Pedro Sauer Association in Australia, and s ..read more

Coach John updates you on the progress of the HJJ Podcast! After at least a couple years creating podcasts, let's say Season 1 is done! A big thanks to Bradley Hamo at Art of Surrender, and co-host Matty Voger Mason, and all the students for helping to create these episodes so far. It's been lots of fun :) And to you, dear listeners, thanks for checking in and being a part of it! Please note this is just a break for the time being. We'll be back for an action packed Season 2. Our school definitely isn't going anywhere but from strength to strength. People of Sydney, we're here to help everyday ..read more

In this episode Coach John chats with Morning class regular, HJJKids parent, and the man who keeps the Morning Moves class alive, Mr Gray Negrine.  Gray was introduced to the martial arts early, starting with different styles before finding jiu jitsu. It's been a couple years at Higher with no end in sight. We've seen Gray progress to multiple stripes on the white, and on the doorstep to the blue belt, all the while having fun and keeping the smile on his face the whole time.  It's not just Gray that enjoys himself on the Higher mats. His kiddos are also staples of the Kids program ..read more

Coach John is joined for another Stories show with none other than recently ordained Purple belt and all round nice guy Danny Willmott! In the four years that Danny has been training, he's experienced a transformation of sorts, in many areas of his life. He attributes lots of this to his jiu jitsu practice.  In this chat, we speak about how he is coping with this current NSW lockdown, the joys of the mats, what he's learned, his competition experience, travels with jiu jitsu and so much more.  Of note: Although Danny is an audio engineer, he thought recording a podcast in an open par ..read more

Coach John is joined with HJJ purple belt Luke Whiffen.  Luke is a dad, husband, lawyer, and devout student of jiu jitsu. He is in his second stint of jiu jitsu, and has been training at Higher Jiu Jitsu for over three years.  Throughout his journey in the art, he has been faced with numerous challenges, and has appreciated the ups and downs for making him stronger off the mats too.  It was an inspiring chat, and I'm happy to share it with you! Thanks for tuning in.  Catchya on the mats! Coach John PS. Don't forget about our library of HJJStories on this feed too ..read more

Coaches John and Matty come together to discuss life with no jiu jitsu.  We discuss love hate relationships with the couch versus staying in the game and continuing the journey along the path.  What is the path? The jiu jitsu path is the one to quality of life, or as Aristotle described it as 'Eudaimonia'. And it is this way to the Telos, our purpose in life. So when there is an obstacle along the path, we can shift directions and move around it, but we don't stop.  So what are some ways we can shift directions on the path to awesome? - Get some coaching - Watch those BJJFa ..read more

This is a discussion based on the legendary Higher crew's thoughts about what they wish they knew before starting jiu jitsu.  It touches on many angles of the jiu jitsu experience, and you'd benefit from the listen no matter what level you're at.  We love feedback too! So send over at least some of your thoughts.  And if you're keen on giving jits a crack, no matter where you're at, get in contact at higherjiujitsu.com.au and let's chat.  Oss and out.  Coaches John & Matty.  ..read more

Matty and I get together to discuss the complete beginner's process to getting started with JiuJjitsu.  We talk about how to find different schools in your area. We discuss what to do to schedule in a trial, as well as what to expect.  We then go into what happens on the day, when you show up, during class, and after class.  There are so many aspects to getting into it, and we hope this chat gives you a better idea, and some more confidence to go in and make the right decision for yourself.  If you'd like the Getting Started with Jiu Jitsu Guide all to yourself, visit www.h ..read more

Around 7 years ago Higher Jiu Jitsu began as the Jiu Jitsu Commune. We were there to train, and learn together, and enjoy the fruits of jiu jitsu. There was no plan, or syllabus, but definitely lots of enthusiasm, and a vision of how I wanted things to be.  Numerous years on, and it sure is a different place than how it started. Now we have curriculums, and more classes, and so many new faces. But the ethos that the Commune was built on still stands to this day.  In this poddy, Matty and I discuss our Higher Jiu Jitsu mission 'to help everyday people build quality of life with Gracie ..read more

Matty and John come together and discuss how best to help a friend in a competition.  "When one of us go to war, we all go to war" - Conor McGregor As a teammate, you help eachother day in and out in the training room. Now it's your buddy's turn to jump in the mix and test their skills. There are things you can do that can help, and or hinder. So be sure to be on the right side of this.  In a nutshell...  Be calm, and be there to Support.  Help your Friend with their Warm Up Offer general info and encouragement. Focus on Your Friend. Not on Your Opponent. Or the Ref. Have s ..read more