The Bat-Phone Podcast

In this episode we bring in the Superfight crew of Daniel Muenchow, Jackie Hughes, Dylan Voncina and myself, Nick Hughes, and dive in to all of the recent matchups and events from the past few months and how we got to this point. From all the way back at Battleground, though Pan Pacific Championships, Samurai Fight Series, Fusion Fighting Championships Volume 5 and the Inagural Fusion Fighting Championships South Australia, we dive in to detail about the preparation, mindset, execution, process upgrades and each individual perspective on what it takes to step in to the superfight arena. We also give some big shout outs to the rising stars of the scene, give some advice regarding sponsorships and local competition, share some views on how to make exciting and constructive events come to life in the future and what the plans are for the rest of the year for all of us.

Finally, The Spartan, Has Come Back, To Adelaide... as the New Solod As A Rock FC Lightweight Champion!

Sitting down for a catch up was an absolute blast and hearing all of the new insights about training and competitive mentality at Kill Cliff Fight Gym from a man who walks the walk in its highest form is a true privilege.

This Episode is packed with knowledge, laughs and honesty in true Trademark Positive Spartan style.

EPISODE 100 IS HERE!!!

The Outsiders Takeover the Podcast as Declan Moody and Lachlan Conway trash the set and break in a new era of podcasting excellence.

This is honestly one of the most fun sessions I've ever had as we go from serious moments to shock banter in a heartbeat.

Diving straight in to Fusion Fighting Chanpionships behind the scenes and the match itself before starting on a huge discussion chain of the current state of the Grappling scene.

Of course, Declan talks about his recent international experinces at B-Team and ADCC Trials along with some classic off the mat insights about his time in Austin.

We break down the Top 10 Highest Rated episodes in BatPhone History plus reveal the People's Choice Winner and reminisce about classic moments from the show.

This is a true not to be missed episode sure to drum up some conversations in the future and I'm just glad I got to be a part of it.

On this Episode, Conway Hijacks the show immediately and brings the BatPhone to the host!
We cover everything Battleground related as we both just competed on the show, breaking down strategy, performance, hospitality of the locals and the over all Awesome Experience. Along with this we discuss the upcoming superfight on Fusion that is Conway's next challenge as well as highlight some brilliant up and comers from South Australia set to make waves on the scene in the near future!

For a truly unique experience, follow me on this episode of the Podcast as we take a ride along approach to an entire week of training at the MatLab Grappling Academy!!!

You will here exactly what goes in to running a full time Grappling Academy from the first person perspective of a full time coach including formulating class content, structure of the schedule, the day to day skill development focus, the effort that goes in to maintaining a positive environment and even reflection on the week that was as well as our goals for the future of the Academy!

Each From Monday to Sunday, each day is a new opportunity and this episode really details what it's like to be in and amongst the team. If you are a coach or athlete, you will definitely be able to relate to all of themes we discuss and if you have never stepped foot on the mats, listening to this may encourage you to do so as you hear the happiness in everyone's voice as they relay their experinces in the art of Grappling.

You can tell by just how many names are on the featured list how lucky we are to have such a strong community, and this one goes out to everyone who puts in that effort each day to bring to bring the dream to life.

Hot off the press from the live event!
This Episode is packed with pre/post match interviews, live breakdowns and commentary, match reactions and candid moments from Competitiors and Spectators alike, capturing the electric atmosphere of the day. From the Blue Belt Tournament to the last 10 Seconds of the Main Event, this show was epic all the way through.

The Fire Returns!!!! On this episode we get to have a 1 on 1 session woth Mr Alec Burns and answer ALL of your listener questions including which is more important to cycle: Acai or Jesus? What's your Strength and Conditioning Programme? Hardest Rolling Partner? Favourite Session of the Week? Who is Eric Cartmans Father? Along with all of the insightful answers to those well thought out questions, we break down the fight between Islam and Folks, with some thoughts on MMA Scoring, as well as preview the highly anticipated 4th bout between Gordon Ryan and Felipe Pena!!! Super Fun Episode with a truly bright future prospect.

Double Guest Episode!!!! The M16 Breakout Performance Award Winner Luke Marko alongside another standout performer in Alec Burns jumped on the Podcast to share their story! In this episode we get to hear their Grappling Origin stories ranging from Full Contact Karate to Back Oval Challenge Matches... These guys really have come a long way. It is always enlightening to hear the perspective of the new generation and of course they surprise me every time with their outlook on training, competing and goals for the future. Very well spoken and full of potential, we barely scratched the surface woth this episode so we are officially going follow up with ROUND 2 next week!!! Give this episode a listen for a chance to be introduced to two humble and respectful athletes, then fire me some questions to ask them on the next episode.

EPIC EVENT!!!! Another incredible showcase took place At the M16 Invitational and as always the Bat-Phone was live at the evebt to get all the behind the scenes action. In this episode we hear from competitors before and after their matches, we get spectator reactions as well as on the spot match breakdowns and commentary. Of course, it wouldn't be the same without the banter so plenty of that too! Being that this was truly a standout event with some breakout performances, upsets and sharp technique on display, it really was a privilege to cover this one and I hope this listen reflects just how much enjoyment we all got on the day!

Only the most serious faces for the most serious podcast on the most serious topics regarding the most serious sport.... With no Razz, No Bullying, No Banter and Absolutely No One Getting Cancelled. I can honestly say, this episode is likely the most fun I'm going to have all year and it's barely mid way through January. Any time Declan Moody and Adam Jones are in the house you know it's going to be a fun show and adding fellow podcast and combat analyst Gingerbeard in to the mix only made it slightly worse. Of course we got all the B team inside knowledge and stories straight from the source. We also broke down every single match on the upcoming M16 Invitational which is set to be an absolutely massive event. And in an interesting turn we even got live commentary for Nora's match on CSC from Declan and the table as this episode was recorded as the event was in progress. Jam packed with so many insights, tangents and stories, this one can not be missed.

In this episode we break down all of the aspects that go in to gradings in the art of Grappling and Jiu Jitsu from the perspective of the coaches as well as the students. In the lead up to the end of year 2022 Grading at The MatLab Grappling Academy, I decided to chronicle the entire experience, gain insights through interviews on the day as well as share my own personal views on what goes in to the Decision making process. Ever wondered what your coach is thinking? How they choose who to grade? Curriculum vs Syllabus? Hobbyist vs Competitor? Gi vs No Gi? Sandbagging? Knowledge vs Application? Intent vs Outcomes? Grading on a Scale vs Standardized approach? We tackle all of these issues on this episode with a candid and honest approach as well as get immediate reactions and feedback from students who were present, and who graded on the day. This is a really unique take and I'm very happy to share this with everyone. Enjoy!

This Episode is all about insight in to the mind of a Competitor. I recorded this on the days before, during and after the IBJJF Pan Pacific Championships in which I competed in the Adult Black Belt Heavyweight and Open Weight Class Divisions. My goal was to provide a timeline of thoughts and processes to relate to as I know so many of us go through competition anxiety and have trouble overcoming those mental barriers. From watching the Division fill up, the Bracket Release, Pre Competition Strategy, Travel and Road Stories, Comp Day Mentality, Post Match Breakdowns and Honest Reflections, it is all in here and it's as real as it gets. I really hope that when you listen to this you can relate to the experience, find some value in the lessons and of course, have a good laugh at my expense!

In this episode we introduce to you the First Ever Blue Belts graded at the MatLab Grappling Academy!!! I believe one of the largest gaps in grappling is from white to blue and this was such a fascinating look at how two great yet very different practitioners were able to walk in the doors, open up to a whole new world of knowledge, experience the trials and tribulations of rolling and then finally find the clarity of technique that allowed them to be awarded the new rank of Blue Belt. This journey is one we all undertake and is a path that some of you are still on! It's always great to hear how people with such different lifestyles whther it's family, work, athletic endeavour of hobby pursuit can come together and share in the process of bettering their life through grappling. We discussed so many great topics including the impact of the grappling community for positive Mental Health, finding the right weight class for competition, the different schools of thought regarding Strength and Conditioning for combat sports, the process of technical programme development at MatLab and of course fan out over the many outstanding performances at ADCC.

Incredible. As I was recording this podcast I found myself consistently realising, moment after moment, just how lucky I was to have the privilege to sit down and speak with this man. We hear everything from Richies early home life in Ireland, joining the French foreign legion, travelling to Australia and entering the world of coaching. From there, well the journey truly begins. From the perspective of a man with a degree in Sports Psychology, we learn all about the mentality structure that generates successful high level athletes and we both speak candidly about our own learned experinces on the job regarding the truth and honesty behind combat sports, necessary for some much needed life progression. Honestly, I learned so much from listening to Richie speak and I kept my promise by shutting my mouth and allowing the wisdom to flow forth. So much can be gained from this that I can't do it any justice with a written description, all I can say is, please listen.

Highly requested guest did not disappoint!!!! We get to hear the full story on how Nora began her Jiu Jitsu Journey as well as gain great insights in to competition mentality, training focus and methodology, technical goals and what the future holds. Of course when you get two grapplers having a chat it always turns to current day, so we discuss the state of grappling in South Australia as well as what Nora's experience has been like whilst travelling nationally / internationally to train and compete, including her trip to Poland for ADCC European Trials. I can certainly see why Nora has risen so quickly in skill as she has a great outlook and perspective on the game as well as keeping everything in balance, ensuring the fire always burns bright.

In a Super Sized episode we finally get to hear from the big man himself and what an incredible story he has to tell. There are so many important lessons here for young Athletes as well as those who are looking to make big changes in their life, improving their existence and the quality of life for their loved ones. We get insights in to Brand's life story, day to day training, mid fight thought processes and his plans for the future, along with some classic Brando stories for some solid entertainment value. Over all we really hear what has shaped his career from an Amateur athlete to a true Professional with some important life lessons racked up along the way. I am lucky to count Brando as one of my close personal friends and I really encourage you to take the time out and listen as he has come such a long way and now stands at the doorstep of the entire world. The big man has a big heart and an even bigger future!!

Epic Sit down with the winner of the Bat-Phone Breakout Performance Award Winner Mr Muenchow!!!! Two Grappling Nerds doing a deep dive in to Technique, belly down footlocks and our shared passion for the art. It's always very illuminating to hear the perspective of new practitioners and I really take so much joy in hearing how much the sport means to to them. Daniel is exactly the same and it was an honour to have the chance to get his story and tales of his journey so far, out there for you all to relate to and enjoy. We also reveled in the opportunity to talk M16 Open and I proposed some interesting matchups for the 77kg division, including one for Daniel himself! Great Vibes and a Great Chat so round.

Another fantastic event in the books at the M16 Open with some incredible matches and stunning progression shown by all. In this episode we got to hear from some OG's of the game, get behindnthe scenes insights in to the mind of a competitor and even a post match recap from both competitors themselves! Always fun and Always insightful, stay tuned to the very end to find out who won the Bat-Phone Breakout Performace Award!

FINALLY. Epic sit down with the better Jones brother is in the books and we go through everything including his B-team Trip, The upcoming M16 Open, The Batman Movie and Knee Fluid Drainage comparisons. Absolute legend. This was fun from start to finish. Enjoy!

Ever wondered what's it's like to open new Grappling Academy? In this episode you will find out exactly what it is like from behind the scenes for those who set up and build the academies that we all love to attend. We get a very interesting snap shot in to the day before openning, on the mats in day one, and then the following day reflections on how it all went from myself and co-owner of The Mat Lab Grappling Academy - Jackie Evans.

In this special episode we break down each match from the most recent WNO Grappling Event, headlined by Gordon Ryan vs Jacob Couch. You get my immediate reaction from watching the matches for the first time and some on the spot analysis of lessons we can learn from the best in the business!!! This was a fun episode and I know I certainly learned some things in the process. Give this a listen for some insights and technical perspective on the best grapplers on the planet.

WARNING! Epic content contained!!! In this second round with the Gingerbeard, EVERYTHING gets covered as we jump straight in to paying tributes to the late great Scott Hall/Razor Ramon. We theb break down the recent APEX Sports event and highlight the incredible standout performances we witnessed on the day. Tommy asks me some questions about moving away from MMA as a coach and focussing on the grappling community which gets us in to a deep technical discussion on all things evolution... And yes.... the moment you have all been waiting for... my opinion on The Batman and the entire nerd-out breakdown of my perspective on the film.

The King has Spoken!!!! This episode is an absolute masterclass on how to cultivate a positive community atmosphere within a Martial Arts Academy. The big wrap on the big man is that he is kind, generous, caring and an absolute Killer on the mats!!! This reputation is not unfounded and as you will learn in this episode, comes from a place of honest passion for Martial Arts as well as a natural dedication to the betterment of those around him. Hear about his history, pathway and perspective on his journey as well as his thoughts and opinions on the current MMA/Grappling scene here in South Australia. Honestly, you will be hard pressed to find a more genuine and respectable human being, the honour was all mine in this one and I am just thankful to have had this opportunity.

Jerick Panes + Sean D'Ambrossio = Two True Legends of our Community. This episode is exactly what happens when you sit three guys down who love Jiu Jitsu and record whatever they say. Such a great insight in to what makes the community work and the differing approaches to the game that make evolution possoble. We get deep in to technique, discuss old skool vs modern games and fan boy put about how exciting the current scene is for Grappling in Australia. Tune in to heat all about Dan Lawsons Striking, Sean's Juicing Advice and the lifestyle choices of Jesse Hughes.

In this special edition of the podcast we get 1 on 1 interviews with all 4 athletes from Trinity MMA competing at the upcoming APEX Sports Festival in both Muay Thai and MMA. Levi Collins, Jordy Annasi, Ali Alkathemi and Jackie Evans all break down their perspective on Fight Camps, Training, Nutrition and the challenges they face both mental and physical in order to make the walk and step in to that area. These names represent the new breed at Trinity MMA and the future is now!!! Give this a listen and learn more about the athletes journey from the ones that walk the walk themselves.

These guys got a great reaction when we announced them as guests on the Podcast and I have full confidence in saying that it was well founded excitement at the prospect of hearing from them about their about their journey. Humble and Respectful as ever, We really got to hear a great perspective on how perseverance, dedication, passion and above all; Community, helped create what is now a main stay of the Martial Arts scene in South Australia; Element Martial Arts. Matt and Richie pay their respects every step of the way as they chronicle how their academy became what it is in the climate of competition that was prevalent during their early days with so many large established gums already in operation. This is what happens when you get 3 like minded individuals in a room and get to talking all things MMA with so many topics covered I could barely keep track! One thing is for sure, we are all living in Elon Musks simulation. A great epsidoe here.

Such an amazing event as the M16 Open exceeds expectations once again with the highest level Grappling Showcase on offer nationwide. On this episode we feel all the pre event hype, expectations and excitement as well as tonnes of interviews, insights, match commentary and special guests that we can jam in, live from the event itself!!!! Give it a listen from all the behind the scenes action.

When you hear the extensive catalogue of international training and competitive experience that Laurino has had over the years you really begin to realise the scope of how vast and passionate his journey has been. As we speak in this episode about all practitioners and techniques; past present and future, those years of knowledge really come out as well as true insights in to what Jiu Jitsu can provide to you as a human being in terms of positive, growth and personal development. Stacked full of stories and knowledge drops, this is a great episode where some important lessons can be learned by all.

A brilliant sitting down with one of South Australia's true stand out stars in the realm of all things Combat Sports! We get to hear about the very measured and thoughtful approach to begginning an MMA Career along with Will's perspective on how he see's his career progressing. An obvious passion for Grappling shines through as we discuss his current style progression as well as competitive goals. We somehow manage to agree on pretty much every issue regarding weight cuts, training methodology, concussions and much more. We even get an insight in to what's in the water down at East Side Rolling!!!

We are back!!!! In this episode I re-cap every awesome guest we have had on the podcast so far and share some behind the scenes insights and stories that show exactly why they are in fact, so awesome. This will certainly get you excites about guests we have lined up along with some inspiration to go back and check out some episodes you may have misses!!! I reveal who had the highest rated episode ever along with which story was voted by the listeners as the most entertaining... and let me tell you, the new details in that story make it even... Fizzier.

In this episode the Team Captain Tim and I break down the current resurgence of the Fight Team at Trinity MMA and where this new found motivation has come from. After not fielding any combatants at the last DFC, are hard look was had at our current methodologies, club culture and capacity to progress in to the future. In this convo we break down all of the positive changes, the immediate results and the exciting prospects coming through the ranks that will be representing Trinity MMA in the near future. And of course, the regular Timmy Flash Awesome Banter!!!

This episode is a fascinating look at the power of placing importance on one's own learning systems and how that process can aid you in so many facets of life. Tobi is someone I greatly respect and a standout analytical thinker with so much knowledge and experince to offer. From business to BJJ, you are in command of your own progression and sucess. The content of this convo is a brilliant insight in to how that notion can be brought to life. We are definitely going to have a Tobi Pearce part two as I know we barely scratched the surface here but this is an absolute must listen for all. Do Not Miss It!!

Capturing the vibe at open mat was the name of the game for this episode with fun rolling, technical insights, new visitors and returning friends. One of the most positive aspects of the Martial Arts community is the sharing aspect and Open Mats are a great example of that free sharing mentality that breeds so much friend ship and positivity across the board. I hope you enjoy the banter!!!

The Technical Wizard himself gives us some insights in to the early days of formulating his thoughtful and efficient style and how he utilised the lessons learned in the cutting edge training rooms of Absolute St Kilda under Lachlan Giles to continue to develop a unique and technical outlook on over all Jiu Jitsu Progression. Along with this we get to finally hear the truth about Craig Jones from a man who has suffered his wrath decades. In all seriousness though there is some priceless advice here about developing your own learning systems and competing at a high level from a man who has excelled at both. Not to be missed!!

Some much needed positivity and some long awaited returns!!!! The Fizz and Dreamtime back on the podcast today and this, as expected, was about 20% substance and 80% laugh track as we got to catch up with the best buddy cop movie pairing in Trinity MMA. From re counting road trips to fight life insights and everything in between, this episode has it all... + Dave Chapelle references and esoteric banter that no one understand but us... I wouldn't have it any other way.

Every single time I sit down with the Happy One, we always have a great time. This was the "Alan Hartley Hijacks The Show" Episode and I couldn't be happier for it. Alan came with a notepad of questions and a keen mind for answers which allowed us to dive deep in to Technique, Progression and Fight Concepts from a Coaching ad Practitioner perspective at all levels. A true honour to have a man of this calibre on the show and to just catch up with a friend who is achieving great things in the industry whilst providing guidance and tutelage to the entire community at the same time.

What an incredible showcase this was!!! I feel such privilege to be able to witness and take part in such a positive and high level event, executed brilliantly by the M16 Team. This episode is filled with athlete interviews both pre and post match, dual commentary of elite matchups, insights and post match analysis from keen grappling minds, candid crowd reactions and even a little humour thrown in for good measure. Enjoy!

This was incredibly insightful and fascinating look in to the development process for an MMA Athlete and student of Martial Arts. I was incredibly excited about this discussion as I received many questions from coaches across the state to ask these development Athletes and we really got some great details from them in their unique perspective throughout the podcast. What brought you through the doors and what made you stay? When did the switch turn from everyday student to aspiring competitor both mentally and physically? What is your hardest training session and what is the most beneficial? What percentage of learning do you get from inside the academy vs outside information sources? What would stepping in to the cage for the very first time mean to you? The answers to these questions and more await on this podcast and I can tell you we get some brilliant answers with crucial information for any aspiring Athletes.

All things Grappling!!! Dan Dwyer and I break down the WNO Championships before we get a surprise drop in from Averi Clements and Trinity MMA Jiu Jitsu student Ben Ricketts! With some incredibly insightful minds in the room we really got a chance to share perspectives and break down some of the current hot topics from all angles. Looking at the trajectory of Regional and International competitions , technique progression lineage, favourite stand out competitors and of course the simple all round love we share for the art of grappling.

In another special edition this week I sat down with Jackie Evans, Amy Lambert and Prisca Lorenza for a Female Only Roundtable for the ages! In all seriousness this podcast was wildly entertaining and very fun to record. I thought maybe we would get a classy and refined perspective on the Martial Arts world from the female perspective... and in part, I believe we achieved that... though in a much greater part... we got over an hour of banter, hilarious stories and three friends having fun at every opportunity. There was a tonne of great insight here as we got to hear stories about travel, learning, role models and development and those gems of knowledge certainly don't get lost. An absolute blast of a listen.

Surprise!!!! This week I was Joined by Myles Simpson, Adam Jones and Declan Moody for an open discussion on all things MMA and Grappling... whether that happened or not you will have to to listen to find out!!! Easily the most Razz contained on one single episode of the podcast to date along with some actual analysis and breakdowns of the stacked upcoming M16 Open Invitational, headlined by Declan himself. Who has the most embarrassing singlet photos circulating the internet? Who does the most gruesome grappling injury actually belong too? Do Mullets have Magical powers? Who has Craig Jones been ducking for the last 5 years? The answers to this and so much more await you on this landmark episode of the podcast.

What a ride! In the longest podcast to date we got the full mouthful from the man himself with any and every topic under the sun covered. The prevailing theme throughout this entire conversation is how Jiu Jiutsu and Martial Arts aid in the individual, objective and critical thinking process for any student that wishes to partake. In this day and age with all of the challenges that confront our every day lives; much more of this is necessary. With respect to his community and his family alike; Diego paints a picture of why he believes what he believes and how we can all aid each other, with open communication and discussion, to better are own lives and the existence of those around us. Amazing content and an absolute honour.

An excellent day at the state championships with interviews and insights from some true legends along with a great look in to how this competition is run and the great people who have kept it alive throughout the years. From Juniors all the way through to Professional Athletes; everyone came out to support the event and take the opportunity to develop the their skills in a truly testing competitive format. In times such as now, we have much to be thankful for. Seeing the state championships go ahead with the support that it had gives as much to be hopeful for.

In a first of its kind for the Bat-Phone, I invited back former guests Anthony Bynoe, Jake Chynoweth and Tim Rogers for a sit down discussion about all things MMA in an open roundtable format and the result is pure gold. Being that these men and myself comprise the MMA Coaching/Corner Staff at Trinity MMA, we were able to really add perspectives and observations to the the topics of MMA Evolution, Techniques, Rule Sets and current Sport Science trends dictating the growth of the sport. Also, we are all long time friends and training partners so more than one (inappropriate) joke is had during the conversation. The first of it's kind but not the last! Looking forward to more roundtables in the future!

This is important. Very often we speak about how becoming part of the Jiu Jitsu community and immersing yourself in the art can aid your life in ways that aren't foreseen when first stepping on the mat. In this episode we discuss in detail exactly what those elements are, why they exist and what makes them so important. Humility, Respect, Contribution, Caring, Understanding and Progression. Paulo is a deep and insightful human being and learning more about his life and experince was a true honour.

The method behind the madness... is sound. This was such an interesting conversation from the perspective of a truly insightful Jiu Jitsu Practitioner with a unique yet obviously elite grasp of systematic learning and application. We went in on the evolution of the art and how many competing influences have moulded progression through the years along with those who have shattered that mould and re wrote the book completely. The knowledge bombs drop thick and fast from Jordan as we peak in to the mind of a dedicated practioner focussed on community and progression.

A huge part of our every day life as practioners of Martial Arts is being in the academy and On The Mats. In this special episode of the podcast I try to capture the vibe and atmosphere from within the walls of an academy and shed some light on what it's like from day to day with all of the technical talk, banter, class breakdowns, Coach Perspectives and Student Feedback that I could get. The idea behind this is that many of us know and understand why we keep coming back and how the community supports eachother, but maybe others who have never stepped inside an academy have a different view. It can be daunting or potentially intimidating for a completely new student to walk in those doors and take that leap of faith. With this podcast I really hope to share the truth of what it's like in the academy and hopefully open some eyes to just how positive it is. Also, some solid listening entertainment.