Every story has a beginning. For Keepers of the Mats, that beginning is deeply personal, rooted in a journey of transformation, struggle, and growth that eventually became the heartbeat of Tried & True Jiu Jitsu.
In our first episode, we share where it all started. This isn’t just the story of learning an art — it’s about hitting a breaking point, choosing change, and discovering that the mats could become a place of healing, purpose, and connection.
The story begins with an honest look in the mirror. Overweight, unhappy, and unsure of what direction life was heading, there was a moment when everything had to change. The motivation wasn’t just about fitness — it was about family, about wanting to be the kind of parent worth looking up to.
That spark led to the world of mixed martial arts. Walking into an MMA gym for the first time brought a rush of humility — being humbled by opponents, getting choked out, realizing just how much there was to learn. Instead of being discouraging, it was invigorating. That humility became the fuel for growth.
The deeper the journey went, the clearer it became that Jiu Jitsu wasn’t just about learning how to fight. It was about self-discovery. Every roll on the mat revealed strengths and weaknesses, not just physically but mentally and emotionally.
This first step into martial arts sparked transformation — 80 pounds lost in six months, confidence built through discipline, and eventually, the courage to compete in amateur MMA. Wins and losses alike became teachers, offering lessons in resilience, humility, and perseverance.
That beginning set the course for everything that would follow — after a long hiatus from Jiu Jitsu, getting back on the mats and eventually stepping into the role of coach, mentor, and community builder. What started as a personal fight for health and purpose grew into something much bigger: a passion for helping others discover the same life-changing impact of training.
The Origin Story episode isn’t just about one person’s journey. It’s the foundation of why Keepers of the Mats exists at all. It shows that Jiu Jitsu isn’t about being the strongest or the most skilled. It’s about having the courage to start, the humility to keep going, and the resilience to transform your life one step at a time.
When you listen, we hope you feel encouraged to reflect on your own starting point. Whether you’re just thinking about trying Jiu Jitsu or you’ve been training for years, this story is a reminder that beginnings matter — and that the mats are always there to meet you where you are.
This first episode sets the tone for the journey we’ll take together. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s full of the same spirit that drives every story we’ll share going forward.
Because at the heart of Tried & True Jiu Jitsu — and at the heart of Keepers of the Mats — is the belief that the mats can change lives. And this is where it all began.
Click here to listen to the episode on our Spotify channel.
