In this episode, we're joined by Francesco Fonte, MMA and Jiu-Jitsu head coach from Sportschule Next Level in Germany! Francesco explores the idea of Jiu-Jitsu as a team sport. He explains how fostering a relaxed, playful training environment not only builds community but also accelerates learning by encouraging experimentation and removing the fear of mistakes. Drawing on his experiences organizing camps and running a diverse gym, Francesco highlights the value of humor, inside jokes, and a “third place” culture where people feel at home on the mats. Together, they discuss how hobbyists and competitors alike can thrive in inclusive gyms that prioritize connection over competition.

Follow Francesco on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/francescofonte76

Mental models discussed in this episode:

Gamification
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/
Keep it Playful
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/
Self-Competiton
https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition/

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