Off the Mats Podcast

The Off the Mats Podcast is hosted by Jake Dante, a jiu jitsu practitioner in Maryland and all around regular guy. On the show, various topics are discussed ranging from training to dealing with injury and mental health as it relates to martial arts. We also talk about other topics outside of that realm that can go anywhere from comic books to films to pro wrestling and even just general family life.
Episodes
Episodes



Monday Apr 14, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #256- Wrestlemania Preview feat. Kris Pinkerton
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
What's up, party people? This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Kris Pinkerton of Nerd Rage Radio and The Realm of Collectors for a fun conversation all about pro wrestling. We warm up by discussing how pro wrestling and BJJ intersect. We give examples of current wrestlers who train. After that we get into the current main event scene over in AEW.
We then get into a conversation about WrestleMania 41. From Rey Mysterio taking on El Grande Americano to the massive triple-threat clash between Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Seth Rollins, we share our thoughts on every matchup. We also talk Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship and Cena's heel turn back at Elimination Chamber. We give our thoughts on IYO SKY’s title defense against Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley, and Gunther putting the World Heavyweight Championship on the line against Jey Uso and what comes next for them.
Plus, we break down standout bouts like AJ Styles vs. Logan Paul, Bron Breakker’s Intercontinental Championship defense, and Jade Cargill facing off with Naomi. We wrap up with predictions on what could happen after Mania and the future feuds these matchups could ignite.
To keep up with Kris, you can find him on Nerd Rage Radio every week or go check out @crashboxcustoms on Instagram.
We want to shout out @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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Apr 07, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #255- Fight Fit Training feat. James Deirmendjian
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Hiya, folks! This week on the podcast, I sit down with grappler and strength coach James Deirmendjian for a deep dive into his journey, both on and off the mats.
James opens up about his roots in wrestling and how being a middle child helped shape his competitive edge. He shares the moment that drew him into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and how the sport quickly became more than just a hobby—it became a calling. We dig into the emotional highs and lows of competing, his mental approach before stepping onto the mats, and the often-overlooked financial challenges of being a BJJ athlete.
James also talks about what inspired him to become a strength coach and how he now helps other athletes build their physical and mental toughness. Plus, we wrap things up with a fun round of "Rapid Fire" to get to know him even better.
This episode is packed with grit, growth, and great insight for anyone chasing excellence in the grappling world.
For more on James, head over to @fight_fit_training on Instagram and Threads or you can find him on Facebook at James Deirmendjian.
We want to shout out @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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Mar 31, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #254- Jiu Jitsu is For Every Body feat. Mike Ciochon
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Greetings, friends! This week on the podcast, I sit down with Mike Ciochon, the recently promoted 10th Planet Portland black belt and owner of Asgard 503. We dive into a wide-ranging conversation that blends the technical and cultural evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the broader influence of modern media. We discuss social media's ever-changing algorithm and how it shapes what we see, especially within the jiu-jitsu community.
We get into the topic of belt promotions, maintaining a positive attitude on the journey, and the increasingly debated issue of posting sparring videos online—specifically around consent and respect. We also look ahead to the future of BJJ, discuss how it has evolved, and talk about the importance of knowing how to defend yourself both with and without a weapon.
Lastly, we wrap up with some fun talk about music, movies, and how both jiu-jitsu and pop culture seem to be in a cycle of constant rehashing.
Head over to @asgard503 on Instagram to keep up with Mike and merch drops.
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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTwitter @offthematspod1TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Mar 24, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #253- Mindset and Determination feat. Jameson Gerrity
Monday Mar 24, 2025
Monday Mar 24, 2025
What's up, friends? This week on the podcast, I sit down with South River High School wrestler and Crazy 88 MMA grappler, Jameson Gerrity, a young athlete whose story is nothing short of inspiring. Jameson opens up about his transition from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to wrestling and the mental and physical challenges that came with it.
He talks about his recovery from a torn meniscus and how he’s learned to battle through adversity while living with limited sight. Jameson shares insights into his wrestling mindset and how he balances school life with intense training. He also reflects on the crucial role that family and team support has played in his success and his plans for the future. Through it all, Jameson’s love for sports remains at the heart of his journey. Tune in to hear how he’s turning obstacles into opportunities and chasing his goals with relentless determination.
Head over to @jamesongerrity on Instagram to follow Jameson's story.
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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTwitter @offthematspod1TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Mar 17, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #252- Siren Jiu Jitsu feat. Julia Bee
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
What's up, folks? This week on the podcast, I catch up with Julia Bee, and wow—so much has changed since we last spoke! Julia and I last spoke in April of 2023 and since then, she has earned her Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a huge milestone in any grappler's journey. But that’s not all—she also got engaged, moved to Virginia, and opened her very own BJJ gym, Siren Jiu Jitsu. Julia shares the challenges and lessons she faced while setting up her gym, from visiting countless academies for research to navigating the tricky world of commercial real estate. She also opens up about the creative process behind designing her gym’s team rash guards—something she’s incredibly proud of. Julia’s story is a testament to resilience, growth, and following your passion. Tune in to hear how she balanced major life changes while building a space for others to thrive on the mats.
Head over to @badgerjiujitsu on Instagram to follow Julai's story and also check out @sirenjiujitsu and stay tuned for more details as they continue to grow.
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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTwitter @offthematspod1TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Mar 10, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #251- Confidence and Combat feat. Shawn Gray
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
What's up, folks? This week on the podcast, I sit down with young entrepreneur, teammate and BJJ Blue Belt at Crazy 88 MMA, Shawn Gray. We take a deep dive into his jiu-jitsu journey. Shawn opens up about how he first got into jiu-jitsu and what drew him to train at Crazy 88 MMA.
We break down the differences between gi and no-gi, exploring how each style shapes a fighter’s strategy and mindset. Shawn also shares an insightful analogy, comparing jiu-jitsu to a dance — emphasizing the importance of finding a good training partner who can match your rhythm.
We then shift gears to talk about the UFC and why being a good trash talker can be just as valuable as being a good fighter. Shawn reflects on how BJJ has boosted his confidence both on and off the mats, and we wrap up the episode with a fun round of five rapid-fire questions.
Head over to @shawnuth_thegreat on Instagram to keep up with Shawn. Also show some love to @k.ands.enterprise and @wear1able1art.
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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTwitter @offthematspod1TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
What's up, everybody?
For the milestone 250th episode of Off the Mats Podcast, we’re bringing together three longtime training partners—Kyle Prescott, Ronnie Masgay, and Mark Rollamas—for a deep dive into their unique journeys to the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple Belt. Having started together at Ivey League MMA before transitioning to Crazy 88 MMA, their paths to this rank couldn’t be more different.
Kyle, a dedicated hobbyist, shares how consistency and hard work guided his jiu-jitsu journey, while Ronnie breaks down the key skills and mindsets he instills in his students as their coach. Mark, a fierce competitor, reflects on how stepping onto the competition mats has sharpened his game and mental approach. The group also explores how music shapes the energy of the training room, the changes they’ve experienced since leveling up, and their evolving definitions of success at Purple Belt.
Whether you're a casual practitioner, a coach, or a competitor, this episode offers something for everyone on their jiu-jitsu journey. Tune in as we celebrate 250 episodes with a conversation packed with insight, reflection, and plenty of laughs.
Head over to @mdavid.bjj88 on Instagram to follow Mark's journey and also use offer code CMCMarkR15 at kalinawsd.com for a discount on gis, rashguards, spats, and more. Shout out to @kalinawbjj
Ronnie can be found at @ronniemasgay on Instagram continuing his journey as a grappler and coach at @crazy88severnapark
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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTwitter @offthematspod1TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com



Monday Feb 24, 2025
Off the Mats Podcast #249- Rolling to Success
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
What's up, adventurers? This week on the podcast, I sit down with one of my teammates, Mr. Rich Christie of Crazy 88 MMA, to discuss his martial arts journey from Muay Thai to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and his recent promotion to Blue Belt. Rich shares what led him to start training in the first place and then making the transition to grappling, the challenges he faced, and how BJJ has impacted his approach to training. We also dive into an important conversation about finding safe and reliable training partners—why it matters and how it can shape your growth in the sport. Plus, we wrap things up with some fun Rapid Fire questions. Whether you're a seasoned grappler or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in and enjoy the roll.
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/3JqrrxjThe show is available on MANY PLATFORMS.FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook.com/offthematspodcastInstagram @offthematspodcastTwitter @offthematspod1TikTok https://bit.ly/3FTEZAdWRITE INTO THE SHOWEmail: offthemats2020@gmail.com

About the Host
Jake Dante is a content curator with BJJ.Wiki. You might know him from several social media and podcast projects such as Nerd Rage Radio and Colompton Social Club. He is also generally very lowkey but active on social media.
Jake lives, trains, and podcasts from Anne Arundel County, Maryland and is always spending time with his family and working on show ideas and content.