BJJ Mental Models Ep. 337: Gatekeepers Ruin Everything, feat. Charles Harriott
9 snips
May 12, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Charles Harriott, a BJJ black belt and instructor renowned for his seminars, delves into the detrimental role of gatekeepers in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He emphasizes how these figures can stifle creativity and personal growth. The conversation highlights the importance of community, inclusivity, and open dialogue in BJJ training, advocating for a balance between tradition and innovation. Charles also shares humorous insights on making competitions more enjoyable and the value of personalized instruction in fostering a supportive environment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Freddie Voskrain Gatekeeping Story
- Charles shared the story of Freddie Voskrain, who became a tough benchmark at BJJ Globetrotters.
- Freddie’s skill stopped others earning tank tops, illustrating high-level gatekeeping by skill challenge.
Gatekeeping Harms Jiu-Jitsu Growth
- Gatekeeping narrows jiu-jitsu definitions to exclude differing styles and opinions.
- This division damages creativity, personal growth, and community connection in the sport.
Embrace Your Own Jiu-Jitsu Path
- Practice jiu-jitsu your own way, embracing learning from different styles and gyms.
- No one owns the right approach; adapt techniques to your goals and context for best results.