Chokes and Consciousness

Interview w/Sensei Heidi!

In this episode, Deja and Michaela welcome their sensei, Heidi, a black belt and experienced martial arts teacher, to discuss her journey in Jiu-Jitsu, the challenges of training as a female, and the importance of community in martial arts. They share personal experiences, weekly updates, and reflections on the impact of weather and energy levels on training. The conversation highlights the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, the significance of resilience, and the milestones ahead for the community. In this conversation, Heidi dives into her experiences in Jiu-Jitsu, discussing the journey from white to purple belt, the challenges of overcoming injuries, and the importance of perseverance in training. Heidi explores the transition to competition, the mindset of competitors, and the excitement and nerves that come with competing. The conversation also highlights the love for learning and the sense of community within the Jiu-Jitsu world, as well as the impulsive decision to try MMA and the fun of competing. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore various themes surrounding the journey of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, from the humorous origins of nicknames to the serious milestones of belt progression. They discuss the significance of achieving a black belt as a new beginning, the importance of community in training, and the balance between teaching and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the motivation to continue training and teaching, and emphasizing the interconnectedness of the Jiu-Jitsu community. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the themes of responsibility, empowerment, and personal growth within the context of Jiu-Jitsu. They discuss the weight of being a role model, the importance of community, and the transformative power of martial arts. The conversation also highlights the significance of Heidi's hobbies and passions, as well as the journey of self-discovery through training. The speakers encourage listeners to embrace discomfort and seek connection within the Jiu-Jitsu community, ultimately emphasizing the art's role in fostering resilience and self-knowledge.
 

Reverse Pivot, Be Water

In this episode, Deja and Michaela celebrate their 25th episode milestone while discussing the importance of adjusting to life's challenges. They explore the concept of 'reverse pivots' in life, the struggle to find balance amidst busy schedules, and the quest for better sleep. The conversation also touches on the joys and challenges of pet ownership, reflections on nature and safety, and the fears associated with risks in life. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of risk-taking in discovery and personal growth. In this engaging conversation, Deja and Michaela dive into various themes, including the mysteries of discoveries, the fears associated with the ocean, reflections on animal behavior, and the impact of movies on life lessons. They explore the unknown, discuss their fears of deep water and creatures, and share nostalgic memories of childhood films while contemplating the role of technology in exploration. In this engaging conversation, Michaela and Deja discuss their weekend plans, including Michaela's exciting role as a commentator for a fight card. They reflect on how unexpected opportunities can lead to new experiences, sharing personal anecdotes about their journeys. The duo also dives into recent fighting events, updates on fighters, and the upcoming draft. As they navigate through life's unexpected changes, they emphasize the importance of flexibility and managing expectations, all while sharing relatable stories about food and daily life. In this conversation, Michaela and Deja explore the themes of frustration, adaptability, and maintaining one's identity amidst change. They discuss the importance of acknowledging emotions, the need for flexibility in personal and professional life, and the art of adaptability in Jiu-Jitsu. The conversation culminates in a Zen talk about embracing the flow of life and the wisdom of being like water, as taught by Bruce Lee.
 
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Adjustments03:01 Navigating Life's Reverse Pivots05:59 Finding Balance in Busy Lives09:00 The Quest for Better Sleep12:01 The Joys and Challenges of Pet Ownership15:04 Reflections on Nature and Safety17:56 Exploring Fears and Risks in Life20:58 The Value of Risk-Taking in Discovery24:20 Exploring the Unknown: Discoveries and Their Consequences27:30 The Mysteries of the Ocean and Space28:42 Fears of the Deep: Water and Its Creatures32:31 Nature's Brutality: Animal Behavior and Human Interaction37:00 Movies and Life Lessons: Reflections on Creed41:00 Nostalgia in Film: Revisiting Childhood Favorites42:17 Innovations in Exploration: The Role of Technology47:54 Weekend Plans and Commentating Adventures51:42 The Journey of Unexpected Opportunities53:17 Fighting Events and Recent Results58:50 Fighter Updates and Future Drafts01:06:05 Navigating Life's Unexpected Changes01:09:39 Expectations and the Little Things in Life01:12:03 Maintaining Identity Amidst Change01:19:58 The Art of Adaptability in Jiu-Jitsu01:22:02 Zen Talk: Embracing Flexibility and Flow
 

Discipline Equates to Freedom

In this episode of Chokes and Consciousness, hosts Deja and Michaela discuss their experiences during a week of snow days, the importance of community engagement with their listeners, and share personal anecdotes about cooking chili and the challenges of food safety. They reflect on childhood memories of snow and sledding while diving into the risks associated with skateboarding, highlighting how perspectives change from childhood to adulthood. In this conversation, Michaela and Deja reflect on their childhood experiences with winter activities, discussing the lessons learned from accidents and the nostalgia of playing in the snow. They share their thoughts on how their perspectives on winter activities have changed as adults, including the challenges of extreme cold experienced in Minnesota. The conversation transitions into a discussion about discipline versus motivation, exploring how these concepts relate to personal growth and freedom. In this segment, Michaela and Deja discuss upcoming UFC fights, analyze coaching ethics in the sport, and highlight local events in the community. They also delve into the newly established Global Fight League, exploring its potential impact on the combat sports landscape and fighter compensation. In this conversation, Deja and Michaela explore the themes of discipline versus motivation, the evolving landscape of sports, and the importance of personal growth. They discuss the financial aspects of sports, the emergence of new leagues, and the significance of setting goals. The dialogue emphasizes the need for discipline in achieving long-term success and the role of mindfulness in maintaining motivation. The episode concludes with a Zen talk on how discipline can lead to a sense of freedom and fulfillment.
Chapters: 
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview05:55 Snow Days: Reflections and Experiences11:55 Chili Chronicles: Cooking and Food Safety17:04 Childhood Memories of Snow and Sledding22:59 Skateboarding: Risks and Reflections32:55 Experiences of Extreme Cold and Snow in Minnesota45:20 Discipline vs. Motivation: A Path to Freedom55:50 UFC Controversies and Coaching Ethics01:04:50 The Global Fight League: A New Era in Combat Sports01:18:12 The Value of Sports and Entertainment01:30:47 Finding Your Own Discipline01:38:26 The Role of Goals in Discipline01:44:00 Zen Talk: Discipline as a Path to Freedom
 

The Starting Line to 2025!

In this episode, Deja and Michaela kick off Season Two of their podcast, reflecting on the past 2024 year and discussing the challenges of balancing life, sports, and health. They share personal experiences from their college days, the struggles of maintaining wellness during the winter season, and their entertainment preferences, including a light-hearted take on true crime shows. The conversation focuses on the importance of reflection and resetting as they move into the new year of 2025. In this discussion, Deja and Michaela explore various themes such as cultural perspectives on media consumption, personal growth, and reflections on New Year's intentions. They discuss their experiences with competition, the importance of setting goals, and the transformative power of personal development. The conversation is filled with insights on how to navigate challenges and celebrate achievements, making it a rich dialogue on growth and resilience. Additionally, Michaela and Deja discuss various upcoming competitions and events in the jiu-jitsu and MMA world, including their personal training schedules and goals for the year. They delve into the significance of the black belt system in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, reflecting on its importance and the controversies surrounding it. The conversation also touches on the upcoming UFC 311 event and the implications of Gordon Ryan's recent comments on steroid use in the sport, highlighting the challenges and responsibilities of being a prominent figure in the jiu-jitsu community. They discuss the implications of using steroids versus natural training methods, the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, and the importance of resetting goals for the new year. The conversation emphasizes self-care, accountability, and the necessity of releasing what no longer serves one's well-being.
 

The Evils of Comparison

In this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss a range of topics from predictions about aliens and their presence in society. They delve into Michaela's recent coaching experience in wrestling, the growth of high school girls' wrestling, and the importance of awareness in both sports and personal development. The conversation also touches on the influence of media in shaping perceptions of aliens and the challenges of winter weather. In this conversation, Michaela and Deja discuss their experiences with cold training sessions, the energy shifts during the holiday season, and astrological insights that influence their moods and motivations. They explore the concept of manifestation and personal growth, leading into a light-hearted yet thought-provoking discussion about the possibility of aliens and how they might integrate into human society. The conversation wraps up with a focus on self-reflection and the dangers of comparison in personal development. Additionally, Deja and Michaela discuss the Global Fight League, recap of UFC 310, touching on notable fights and the mental health challenges fighters face, particularly in relation to grief and personal struggles. The discussion also includes the future of Conor McGregor, upcoming MMA events, and the results from IBJJF Nogi Worlds. Finally, they lean into the theme of comparison and its impact on self-perception, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and authenticity in personal journeys. They discuss the challenges of negative self-talk, the effects of aging on self-image, and the importance of self-acceptance. The dialogue emphasizes the need for curiosity over judgment when facing insecurities and highlights the significance of gratitude and personal growth in overcoming comparison and fostering confidence

Simplistic Longevity

In this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss the new Kendrick Lamar album GNX, nostalgia with connection to music from their childhood, and exploring how their music consumption has changed over the years. Michaela and Deja discuss their experiences with the changing weather, feelings of restlessness, and the challenges Michaela faces as she begins coaching a high school wrestling team. They reflect on the chaotic energy of the week, the importance of self-care, and the need for better nutrition among young athletes. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of wrestling rules and scoring, highlighting the learning curve for both coaches and athletes. They also touch on upcoming competitions, recent Jiu-Jitsu events, and the integrity of athletes in the face of performance-enhancing drugs. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the MMA awards from mmafighting.com and notable recognitions in the sport. They also provide updates on upcoming fights and emphasize the importance of longevity in training and self-care. The conversation shifts to finding balance amidst chaos and the significance of mindfulness. They conclude with reflections on their personal growth and the importance of being present while planning for the future.
 

The Paradox of Free Will

In this episode, hosts Michaela and Deja celebrate their 20th episode while discussing themes of consciousness, manifestation, and personal growth. They explore the significance of the new moon and the transition into Sagittarius, reflecting on the past year and their journey of self-discovery. The conversation delves into the Matrix trilogy, emphasizing the importance of letting go to gain control and the power of affirmations in manifesting desires. They also discuss the Tesla 369 method for manifestation and the significance of recognizing patterns in personal growth. As they look ahead to 2025, they emphasize the importance of staying ready and the continuous journey of self-improvement. The conversation also touches on holiday shopping experiences and the significance of certain dishes like mac and cheese during family gatherings. In this episode, Michaela and Deja share personal updates, including a recent reunion and experiences with the cold weather. They discuss fundraising efforts for girls' wrestling and express excitement for an upcoming wrestling meet. They also preview UFC 310, highlighting the lack of women's representation on the card, and touch on recent PFL championship results. In this conversation, Deja and Michaela engage in a light-hearted discussion about various sports, including bocce ball and volleyball, before transitioning to upcoming Jiu-Jitsu events. They highlight the significance of notable competitors in the Jiu-Jitsu world. The conversation then shifts to the importance of knowledge and experience in Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing that understanding techniques is not enough without the practical application and emotional engagement that comes from competition and practice. In this conversation, Michaela and Deja explore the complexities of consciousness, perception, and free will. They discuss how our understanding of information and experiences shapes our reality, emphasizing the importance of self-inquiry and reflection. The dialogue highlights the paradox of free will, where the perception of limitations can hinder personal growth. They also touch on the significance of recognizing incremental progress in various aspects of life, including jujitsu, and the necessity of balancing rest and effort in pursuit of goals.
 

Pay It Forward!

In this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss various themes, from Thanksgiving preparations to work dynamics, manifestation practices, creative aspirations, and the challenges of coaching a high school girl's wrestling team. They share personal insights about their experiences, emphasizing the importance of relationships, intentional living, and the journey of self-improvement. Michaela and Deja discuss various topics on their evolving energies and the excitement surrounding their gym's new space while engaging in light-hearted banter about their favorite Thanksgiving dishes. The conversation also touches on MMA and the results of the IBJJF crown event. Finally, Michaela shares her anticipation for her upcoming competition, highlighting the growth and camaraderie within the martial arts community. Additionally, Deja and Michaela discuss their upcoming competitions, the importance of planning for the new year, and the concept of paying it forward in the context of Jiu-Jitsu. They emphasize the significance of community support, acting without expectations, and the wisdom of Maya Angelou regarding humility and responsibility. The dialogue highlights personal growth, mentorship, and the journey of learning in martial arts.
 

Don't lie to your eyes!

In this episode, Deja and Michaela discuss personal growth regarding self-perception. In this episode, Deja and Michaela celebrate recent promotions in their Jiu-Jitsu community, reflecting on the achievements of their peers and the growing number of upper belts in their gym. They discuss the Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, analyze the implications of such matches on the sport of boxing, and express their frustrations with the nature of exhibition fights. They also touch on upcoming events in the grappling world, including the IBJJF Crown and Marcelo Garcia's return. Additionally, Deja and Michaela discuss the importance of planning for upcoming jiu-jitsu tournaments and matches, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and understanding one's limits. They delve into the theme of perception versus reality, exploring how biases can distort our understanding of situations, particularly in the context of sports and personal experiences. The conversation highlights the significance of being open-minded and accepting different perspectives while acknowledging the potential impact of our perceptions on ourselves and others. The episode concludes with a Zen talk on navigating biases and the importance of being mindful of how our perspectives shape our reality.

Uncertainty and Redefining Self w/Nikki M.

In this episode of Chokes and Consciousness, hosts Deja and Michaela welcome their first guest, Nikki May, to discuss her journey in martial arts, particularly Jiu-Jitsu. The interview explores the importance of community, navigating uncertainty in training, and the role of competition in personal growth. They explore the fun aspects of food and friendship and the ongoing debate between Gi and No-Gi training. Nikki shares her experiences and insights, emphasizing the value of competing and the evolution of her training journey. Nikki offers advice for overcoming challenges and reflects on her goals in Jiu-Jitsu while highlighting her experiences working with kids in the sport. Additionally, Nikki May shares her experiences with burnout in Jiu-Jitsu, the mindset she adopts before competitions, and the pressures of performance. Furthermore, the discussion concludes with redefining oneself in the face of uncertainty, and the importance of self-awareness and personal stability. The speakers emphasize the significance of community support and maintaining a positive mindset while navigating challenges in both sports and life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chokes and Consciousness03:32 Nikki's Journey and Background06:29 Check-in and Energy Discussion09:28 Transitioning to Jiu-Jitsu18:33 Exploring Influences and Inspirations24:07 Nostalgia and Martial Arts Movies25:59 First Experiences in Jiu-Jitsu29:05 Transitioning to Regular Classes30:05 Gi vs. No-Gi Preferences37:13 The Journey of Competing43:25 Early Competitions and Lessons Learned52:40 The Evolution of Skill in Jiu-Jitsu54:58 The Rise of Female Athletes57:25 The Importance of Weight Training01:00:36 Navigating Injuries and Recovery01:10:42 The Role of Community in Recovery01:22:47 Advice for Overcoming Challenges01:28:09 The Journey of Jiu-Jitsu: Goals and Growth01:30:35 Navigating Aging and New Faces in Jiu-Jitsu01:39:46 Overcoming Burnout: Finding Balance in Training01:43:05 Mindset and Competition: Preparing for the Mat01:53:09 Learning from Losses: The Value of Experience01:55:14 Community and Connection: The Role of Relationships in Jiu-Jitsu01:57:10 Navigating Communication and Feedback02:00:23 Finding Inspiration in Sports and Life02:01:04 The Journey of Jiu-Jitsu: Learning and Growth02:03:06 Redefining Self in the Face of Uncertainty02:11:25 Personal Stability and Self-Awareness02:16:20 Embracing Change and Positivity02:23:53 Choke and consciousness outro edit.mp3