Rolling over 40: Discussions on starting Jujitsu as an adult
Rolling over 40: Discussions on starting Jujitsu as an adult
Podcast Description
Join me, Conor Whelan, and other jujitsu practitioners as we discuss our exciting, yet sometimes, painful, journeys through learning this fascinating art. From dads who are new to the game to black-belts on the competition circuit, hear about why they started, what keeps them going, and how they balance training jujitsu with life.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Explores the personal journeys of jujitsu practitioners, emphasizing themes such as motivation, competition experiences, and training challenges. Episodes cover topics like the transition from white to blue belt, and the emotional and physical aspects of competition, with examples including the experiences of practitioners at different belt levels.
Jiu-jitsu isn’t just for the young — it’s for anyone willing to step on the mats. I’m Conor Whelan, and each week I talk with fellow BJJ practitioners about what it’s really like to train as adults. From dads discovering jiu-jitsu in their 40s to black belts competing at the highest level, we share stories of aches, breakthroughs, and everything in between. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance training, family, and life while still chasing growth on the mats, this podcast is for you.
In this episode, I sit down with Mr. Travis Sparks. Travis is a two-stripe purple belt who’s been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for eight years. Originally from Marble Falls, Texas, he grew up roughhousing with his brothers, playing football through high school and college, and spending weekends hunting and fishing. He first started bjj as a grad student at Texas Tech before continuing his journey in Midland, where he now works as a geologist and focuses on mastering the art of “big guy jiu-jitsu.”
We talk about what it’s like adapting technique for a larger frame, the lessons learned from competing — including the time he faced off against a Gracie — and how the mental side of BJJ continues to challenge him after nearly a decade on the mats. It’s a conversation full of grit, humility, and insight from a Texas grappler who proves that size might be an advantage, but mindset is everything.
There is something for everyone to enjoy in this episode of Rolling Over 40!
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