BJJ Mental Models Mini Ep. 75: Curse of Knowledge
Oct 9, 2025
This mini-episode dives into the curse of knowledge, highlighting how experts often struggle to connect with beginners. It challenges the assumption that higher belt instructors are always the best teachers. Instead, near-peers can offer valuable insights. The discussion emphasizes that teaching is more about empathy and learned reflection than just experience on the mat. Listeners will gain strategies to minimize this cognitive bias and enhance their instructional skills.
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Free Jake O'Driscoll Ankle Lock Course
- Jake O'Driscoll shared a prototype ankle lock course with BJJ Mental Models listeners for free.
- Steve highlights the move's compatibility with modern ankle lock variations and its attacks on ankle, shin, and knee.
How The Curse Of Knowledge Works
- The curse of knowledge makes it difficult for experts to remember what being a beginner felt like.
- That gap reduces experts' ability to relate to and communicate with novices.
Learning From Near-Peers
- Steve describes learning a lot from blue and purple belts because they were just a few steps ahead.
- He found their explanations more relatable and better at anticipating beginner problems.