Chokes and Consciousness
A sports podcast dedicated to the engagement and elevation of Women’s mma and grappling. Michaela, former collegiate athlete, current mma fighter, and jiu jitsu practitioner. Deja, former collegiate athlete, and current jiu jitsu practitioner. Both Michaela and Deja have a love for women’s sports and a passion to continue ascending the voices of women within the mma and grappling world. Come listen and have fun with us!
Episodes

5 hours ago
5 hours ago
1hr 48 min
In this episode, Michaela and Deja explore a wide range of topics, including the transition from Leo season to Virgo season, food safety, the state of education, survival skills, and current environmental events. They share personal stories, insights on cosmic transitions, and practical advice for navigating modern challenges. Deja and Michaela explore the significance of staying present and appreciating the moment, especially in the context of sports, personal growth, and life's transitions. They discuss recent UFC fights, women's sports, and the importance of intentionality and organization as we move into Virgo season.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:35 Personal Updates and Weekend Activities53:06 Discussion on UFC fight highlights and retirements54:50 Analysis of McKenzie Dern's dominant win58:04 Gillian Robertson’s fight struggles and coaching critique01:00:27 Dean Thomas retires as a cornerman01:02:36 Women's divisions and upcoming fights01:09:55 Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Gary fight insights01:13:36 UFC monopolization and upcoming events01:17:29 The challenge of endurance and training in MMA01:22:16 Women's sports highlights and upcoming World Cup01:25:32 The cosmic exit and transitioning into Virgo season01:38:50 Closing thoughts and mindful reflection01:45:38 Inspirational quote by Martha Graham

Jul 27, 2026
Jul 27, 2026
1hr 41 min
In this episode, Michaela and Deja explore the impact of technology on society and the energetic vibes of Leo season. This episode is packed with insights on nature, AI, and embracing the moment. Deja and Michaela explore the themes of beginning anew, embracing authenticity, and the importance of kindness and empathy in personal growth. They draw lessons from Disney's The Lion King, astrology, and real-life experiences to inspire listeners to reset and reinvent themselves.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:59 The Art of Napping and Weekend Recovery04:04 Environmental Concerns: Data Centers and Water Usage06:01 The Hidden Costs of Free AI Tools07:58 The Rise of Data Centers and Environmental Poisoning10:03 The Rapid Advancement of AI and Robotics12:00 Human Impact on Nature and Animal Safety14:01 The Problematic Nature of MMA Fan Culture16:00 Retirement and Future of UFC Fighters18:00 Authenticity and Realness in Content Creation19:55 The New iPhone Chip and Privacy Concerns21:57 Leo Season: Embracing Creativity and Authenticity24:04 Nature, Primal Instincts, and Human Safety26:05 The Power of Staying in Your Lane28:03 Respecting Nature and Animal Boundaries29:55 Overall Well-being and Creative Flow31:49 Upcoming UFC Events and Local Fights38:04 Recent UFC Fight Analysis and Fighter Updates43:00 The State of UFC Fight Card and Future Events47:57 Lessons from Nature and Animal Encounters49:58 The Impact of Culture, Society, and Technology

Jul 13, 2026
Jul 13, 2026
2hr 2 min
In this episode, Deja and Michaela catch up after a few weeks, discussing the impact of the current El Niño, their recent activities, and Deja's exciting milestone of recently earning her Black belt. They also dive into topics such as dealing with injuries, the culture of jiu-jitsu, and the global sports scene, including the World Cup and Wimbledon. Deja and Michaela analyze Conor McGregor's recent fight, the impact of fame and decision-making in sports, and the importance of humility and process in personal growth. They also explore upcoming UFC BJJ events, always improving and putting in the work, and the value of gratitude and perseverance.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome back and recent updates02:24 Understanding the Super El Nino and climate effects06:28 Water issues, parasites, and environmental concerns12:00 Memorable moments in public and personal hygiene stories15:17 Deja's experience mowing and intrusive thoughts21:53 Deja's big milestone: earning her black belt24:04 Imposter syndrome and the journey of mastery30:03 The levels of skill and community in jujitsu40:02 Chasing belts, growth, and the culture of progression50:00 Sports updates: World Cup, soccer, and international games55:00 Soccer rules, red cards, and game analysis01:00:04 Wimbledon and tennis injuries, Serena Williams01:01:22 Closing thoughts and upcoming events

Jun 23, 2026
Jun 23, 2026
1hr 32 min
Michaela and Deja analyze the recent UFC White House event, societal influences, and the importance of awareness in a rapidly changing world. They explore themes of media manipulation, celebrity culture, personal growth, and midlife crisis. Michaela and Deja explore the nature of pressure, how to handle uncomfortable situations, and the importance of space for growth. They share personal insights, discuss current events, and offer practical advice on navigating life's challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Light Banter03:36 Navigating Aging and Midlife Crises06:29 Reflections on Physical Fitness and Health09:33 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth12:33 The Impact of Energy and Universal Connections15:27 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement18:34 Cancer Season and Emotional Awareness21:32 Pressure and Its Role in Personal Development28:04 Reflections on a Unique Event31:28 Positives and Negatives of the Event40:16 Controversial Comments and Their Impact48:36 The Future of Women's MMA56:39 AI's Role in Sports Rankings01:03:10 The Cost of Freedom01:07:19 Pop Culture and Scary Movies01:12:23 Pressure and Personal Growth01:20:49 Creating Space for Options01:32:03 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

Jun 8, 2026
Jun 8, 2026
1hr 41 min
This episode Deja and Michaela cover the upcoming UFC 250 event, the controversy surrounding its organization, and predictions for the fights. They also share personal updates, training insights, and reflections on life's challenges and growth. They explore a wide range of topics, including movie sequels, conspiracy theories about underground cities, and the importance of hydration and self-care.
Chapters
00:00 Caffeine and Energy Boosts03:30 Moving Challenges and Experiences06:33 Sleep Patterns and Health09:33 Cultural Greetings and Connections12:30 Introduction and Merchandise Launch15:26 Transitioning Seasons and Personal Updates18:27 Physical Health and Mobility21:26 Progress in Jiu-Jitsu24:35 Collective Growth and Challenges27:31 Midlife Reflections and Emotional Growth30:35 Upcoming Competitions and Events33:24 UFC 250 Controversies and Predictions42:36 UFC Predictions and Controversies48:23 Legal Challenges and Political Implications of UFC Events53:25 Cultural Reflections and Entertainment in Sports58:30 The Evolution of Iconic Movie Franchises01:10:18 Personal Anecdotes and Observations on Head Sizes01:13:11 The Future of Jiu Jitsu and UFC01:16:00 Health and Safety in Competition01:17:41 Conspiracies and UFOs01:24:15 Hydration and Self-Care01:24:26 Intentional Movement and Rest01:31:10 Finding Balance in Life01:38:53 Empowering Women in Jiu Jitsu01:41:30 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

May 18, 2026
May 18, 2026
1hr 59 min
In this episode, Deja and Michaela explore a wide range of topics, including A.I., UFOs, aliens, and the nature of reality. They share personal insights, theories, and encourage listeners to question what they know and stay curious about the unknown. This episode dives into the recent MVP event, Ronda Rousey's comeback, the state of MMA and BJJ culture, the influence of UFC's monopolization, and the importance of authenticity in sports and entertainment. Deja and Michaela analyze fight outcomes, industry trends, and the impact of ego and marketing on fighters and fans. They discuss the impact of social media and the importance of staying grounded in reality amidst a world of fakeness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back03:05 Exploring AI and Bots06:24 The Future of AI and Its Implications09:31 Aliens and Their Connection to Technology12:42 Theories of Time Travel and Reality15:12 The Matrix: Reality vs. Simulation20:46 Personal Reflections and Life Updates28:09 Injury Management and Recovery31:01 Competition Plans and Future Events33:22 Upcoming Competitions and Training Adjustments36:23 Financial Struggles and Event Costs41:00 Economic Concerns and Daily Life46:15 Gemini Season and Its Implications51:19 Event Review: MMA and Authenticity58:30 The Rise of Bare Knuckle Fighting01:01:48 Nate Diaz's Recent Performance and Future Prospects01:04:25 Ronda Rousey's Return: A Mixed Bag of Emotions01:07:06 The Impact of UFC on MMA and Jiu-Jitsu01:15:59 The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu and Its Belt System01:22:45 The Future of Jiu-Jitsu in a Monopolized Landscape01:31:27 The Impact of UFC on Individual Fighters01:32:52 Staying Real in a World of Fakeness01:35:04 The Influence of AI on Music and Authenticity01:38:04 Finding Realness in Nature01:43:12 Navigating Fakeness in Personal and Professional Life01:51:54 Inner Peace vs. External Approval01:55:40 Grounding Yourself in a Noisy World01:58:51 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

Apr 20, 2026
Apr 20, 2026
1hr 36 min
In this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss the significance of staying grounded during the new Taurus season, the controversy surrounding UFC fighter pay, and the exchanges between Ronda Rousey and Kayla Harrison. Michaela and Deja explore the importance of roots, patience, and discipline in personal growth, especially through the lens of martial arts, sports, and life challenges. They discuss how slowing down, being intentional, and embracing discomfort can lead to meaningful development and success.
Chapters
00:00 Audio Mishap and Introduction06:08 Health Updates and Personal Check-ins09:12 Event Recaps and Competition Highlights12:16 Taurus Season and Its Significance15:12 Rooted While Rising: A Seasonal Reflection18:09 Ronda Rousey's Comeback and UFC Discussion30:39 The Decline of UFC and Fighter Pay34:08 Ronda Rousey's Controversial Statements40:32 Ronda Rousey vs. Kayla Harrison: A Heated Exchange48:06 UFC's Political Entanglements55:24 The Future of MMA and Technology01:02:32 Celebrating Small Wins01:04:24 The Importance of Discipline and Preparation01:07:24 Slowing Down for Growth01:08:44 Rooted While Rising: Embracing Taurus Season01:13:36 The Journey of Self-Awareness01:18:31 Intentional Habits for Growth01:23:42 Embracing Discomfort for Growth01:28:31 The Power of Mindset and Intentionality01:35:49 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

Mar 31, 2026
Mar 31, 2026
1hr 39 min
In this episode, Michaela and Deja explore the importance of decluttering not just in our physical environment, but also within our minds and spirits. Deja and Michaela share personal insights on how seasonal transitions inspire reflection, growth, and a more intentional way of living. Key Topics included the symbolism of spring for renewal and decluttering; emotional and mental clutter; recognizing and letting go; how physical clutter impacts mental clarity; the significance of awareness before initiating change; and UFC/MMA and current BJJ news.
Chapters:
(00:00) - Welcome and technical setup; embracing the skillful chaos of spring
(02:44) - Observing nature: signs of spring around the backyard
(06:07) - How time accelerates as we age and the significance of seasonal awareness
(08:50) - The importance of environmental comfort in education; variations across regions
(09:30) - Predictions and speculations about the upcoming week and cosmic shifts
(10:40) - Shadow realm and spiritual dimensions: insight into UFC's wild finish
(12:44) - Training updates: resilience, progress, and managing age-related challenges
(15:12) - The mental grind of blue belt in martial arts and progressing through stages
(16:37) - The joy of learning in purple belt and the nuances of belt progression
(17:42) - Transitioning from competitive to mentoring roles in brown belt
(19:17) - The jump in skill and strategy from purple to brown belts of competition
(21:15) - The impact of competition on strength and confidence development
(22:36) - Measuring physical growth: challenges and reality check
(24:26) - The value of promoting fighters and promotions: UFC and fight event insights
(26:33) - Exciting upcoming events: chess boxing and women’s grappling competitions
(28:22) - Reflecting on the evolution of self-defense training and community engagement
(29:24) - Nostalgia and humor around April Fools' pranks, themes of deception
(32:02) - Curiosity about the origins: cultural stories behind April Fools’ Day
(36:11) - The legend of Gotham and early April Fools’ traditions
(37:16) - Practicing street-level deception: humor and distraction strategies
(38:22) - Creative pranks: from harmless jokes to optional chaos at work
(40:07) - The energy and tension of current social interactions and personal responses
(44:46) - Highlights and shocking moments from UFC fights
(47:42) - Retirement announcements and career milestones of fighters
(48:42) - Notable knockouts and injuries in women’s MMA
(50:08) - Spotting signs of unconsciousness; fighter safety in the cage
(52:24) - The importance of quick referee intervention during dangerous moments
(54:15) - The trauma of brutal knockouts and the boundaries of fighter resilience
(55:49) - The evolution of fighter recovery and the importance of mental health
(66:16) - The decline of UFC's entertainment value and industry critique
(69:17) - Industry drama: John Jones, Dana White, and fighter negotiations
(70:25) - The debate around fighter strength, age, and weight classes
(77:10) - The future of combat sports: innovative event ideas and prize pools
(81:49) - Decluttering ego and training focus for better development
(83:49) - Managing emotional and mental clutter: stress and reactive patterns
(85:52) - The importance of awareness in mental and emotional pruning
(87:14) - The grounding power of grounding sounds and music in mindfulness
(88:57) - Practicality of decluttering space and mental clarity through awareness
(90:12) - Discovering new techniques and the joy of learning in martial arts
(91:57) - Recognizing patterns of frustration and the importance of self-awareness
(94:47) - Analogies of hoarding: material and emotional accumulation
(96:16) - The spiritual spring cleaning: clearing mental, emotional, and social clutter
(97:19) - Reflective practices: morning routines and quiet moments of insight
(98:19) - Encouragement to keep decluttering and embracing fresh energy

Mar 16, 2026
Mar 16, 2026
2hr 21 min
For this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss their last few weeks, recent competitions for fellow teammates, recent UFC events and news, fight strategies, and the evolving landscape of MMA, the UFC business model, and BJJ. We analyze the controversial UFC White House card, upcoming competitions, and the impact of monopolization in the sport. Plus, a humorous dive into a bizarre dolphin kidnapping story and reflections on dinosaurs and Earth's history. Deja and Michaela explore Alan Watts's philosophical insights on freedom and interconnectedness.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back and Updates03:36 Wrestling Season Reflections06:31 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation09:37 Health and Wellness in Sports12:32 Gym Hygiene and Cleanliness Concerns18:29 Upcoming Events and Topics of Discussion28:50 Celebrating Competition Success30:43 Competitor Insights and Experiences33:15 Upcoming Competitions and Events37:05 Astrological Influences on Energy44:49 UFC and Fight Updates56:06 Controversies in MMA Titles57:50 Fighter Reactions to UFC White House Card01:00:57 Negotiation and Star Power in UFC01:03:23 The Impact of UFC's Financial Decisions01:06:32 Ronda Rousey's Comeback and UFC's Star Power01:10:27 UFC BJJ and the Future of Grappling01:13:10 UFC's Monopolization of BJJ Competitions01:19:05 Upcoming Fights and Women's Division01:19:41 Dinosaurs and the Netflix Documentary01:28:10 The Evolution of Dinosaurs and Plants01:30:46 The Concept of Time and Human Existence01:32:44 The Dolphin Man: A Wild Story01:48:31 The Paradox of Freedom and Interdependence01:58:23 The Flow of Connection in Training02:01:37 Finding Freedom Through Connection02:05:04 The Interconnectedness of Life02:07:27 Legacy and Impact in Jiu-Jitsu02:10:32 The Illusion of Control02:12:36 Ego and Experience in Training02:16:33 The Collective Consciousness of Jiu-Jitsu02:21:33 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3

Feb 16, 2026
Feb 16, 2026
2hr 1 min
In this episode, Deja and Michaela explore various themes, including the fleeting nature of February, the impact of global warming on weather patterns, and the art of manifestation. They dive into the significance of the upcoming Chinese New Year, specifically the Year of the Fire Horse, and discuss the collective energy affecting personal experiences. The duo also shares insights on physical recovery in sports, celebrates achievements in wrestling, and provides updates on the UFC scene, culminating in a thought-provoking discussion about inclusivity in sports and the unique experience of Zion Clark's match. They discuss the implications of recent controversies in the UFC, upcoming BJJ events, and the significance of personal growth and community engagement. The conversation transitions into a deeper exploration of reclaiming one's inner fire and the necessity of controlled burns in personal and collective growth. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of managing energy and responsibility in shaping the future of combat sports and personal journeys.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back and February Reflections03:20 Weather Changes and Global Warming06:17 Manifesting and Visualization Techniques09:19 Chinese New Year and Energy Shifts12:22 Collective Energy and Personal Experiences15:14 Wrestling Journey and Personal Growth21:26 Celebrating Achievements in Wrestling24:20 Healing and Recovery Journey26:30 Embracing the Fire Horse Energy29:00 Understanding the Year of the Fire Horse35:01 Navigating the Energies of Fire and Water46:23 UFC Updates and Discussions58:44 Post-Fight Reflections and Competitor Dynamics01:01:19 Disabilities in Competition: Ethics and Respect01:03:46 Tom Aspinall's Eye Injury and UFC's Response01:09:47 Kane Velasquez: Legal Troubles and Consequences01:12:03 UFC's Star Power Crisis and Future Prospects01:21:42 Upcoming BJJ Events and Community Dynamics01:27:39 Reclaiming Your Inner Fire: Healthy Rebellion vs. Impulsivity01:29:52 Embracing Healthy Rebellion in Fitness01:32:18 Navigating Change and Growth01:37:25 The Power of Shedding Old Patterns01:44:49 Finding Inner Fire and Purpose01:51:47 Controlling the Collective Energy02:00:58 Choke and consciousness second intro edit.mp3





