Chokes and Consciousness

Libra Season, Halloween Costumes, and the Face We Show the World
Deja and Michaela kick off Libra season with a playful check-in as Sho Nuff and Spider-Man, which turns into a real conversation about aggression, balance, and how this season pushes people to reveal more of their true selves. They also cover Halloween plans, local nightlife, upcoming jiu-jitsu, UFC, and MMA events, and reflect more broadly on masks, authenticity, and speaking up. 
Timestamps
00:00 - Back for Libra season and October energy02:58 - Feeling the season shift and the pressure to keep flowing05:11 - Halloween costumes and playing a character again06:59 - Theater kids, background roles, and embracing fun as adults08:52 - Spider-Man costume struggles after open mat10:03 - Millennial versus Gen Z nightlife habits12:19 - Lawrence nightlife, VIP sections, and who gets in15:23 - Topic setup: the mask versus the face17:41 - Michaela’s Cedar Rapids competition details19:08 - Returning to competition after a year of injuries23:22 - Nogi Worlds prices and upcoming tournament schedule26:50 - Venus retrograde, the Libra new moon, and Pluto moving direct28:36 - Mercury retrograde, emotional instincts, and the full moon in Taurus33:08 - UFC recap: Natalia Silva versus Wang Kong36:30 - Sleeper card finishes and Bobby Green getting dropped repeatedly40:12 - Why women’s MMA needs better depth and better promotion44:18 - Dana White interviews and UFC promotion problems47:18 - Kayla Harrison, Amanda Nunes, and concerns about the upcoming fight50:54 - LL Cool J training jiu jitsu and Jonah Hill’s ego problem55:04 - Lauren’s growth and the difference between humble and hot-shit energy56:53 - No-Gi Pans and local fight cards coming up59:05 - Mask versus face: what parts of yourself are getting airtime63:55 - Going back to childhood art and realizing who you already were66:32 - What version of yourself are you ready to stop being?68:39 - Work masks, fake environments, and authenticity70:58 - Protect your peace and stop taking other people’s energy72:00 - Closing quote: find out who you are and do it on purpose
 

Deja and Michaela return after a short break to catch up on life, celebrate Michaela’s engagement, and talk through a season of change. They move from astrology and fall transitions into a bigger conversation about slowing down, rest, and how internal growth matters more than constant motion. They also cover recent combat sports news, including UFC, boxing, ADCC, and the ongoing cultural issues in jiu-jitsu. They highlight that if the world feels chaotic, the answer may be less rushing and more intentional silence.
Timestamps
00:00 - Back after a month of life updates01:26 - Virgo season, Libra gang, and birthday shout-outs04:14 - Alaska trip, cabin life, and bear country05:35 - Engagement in Alaska and the ring needing resizing07:08 - “If we only have four years left”08:20 - AI whistleblower fears and the pace of tech11:39 - Where is all this tech taking us?13:14 - Supplies, shortages, and surviving together15:57 - Surveillance, smart TVs, and 198421:01 - Rage showing up in driving and daily life24:04 - Jiu-jitsu promotions and black belt shout-outs30:30 - Seminar structure, silence drills, and smooth instruction35:20 - Women’s open mat dates announced36:41 - Virgo and Libra season reading42:05 - UFC fight recap and Alexa Grasso’s win46:46 - Women’s bantamweight being depleted50:12 - UFC Noche card and matchup recap51:40 - Tom Aspinall’s injury and heavyweight uncertainty63:46 - Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn and Dana White in boxing68:13 - Dana White collecting talent across combat sports69:02 - ADCC highlights and Helena’s dominance72:02 - The brawl, Gordon Ryan, and biting in competition77:52 - UFC BJJ moving to Fight Pass78:28 - Claymation, fall, and the pressure to keep moving81:29 - Rest as part of training and life86:28 - Slowing down is not falling behind97:11 - Moving in intentional silence101:23 - Alan Watts on language, convention, and perception105:28 - Food, music, art, and the soul of culture

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

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
 

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

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
 

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

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

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

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