Best Thomas Rozdzynski Podcasts (2025)

1
Alberto Crane Show #375 - Thomas Rozdzynski 45:31

Play Pause

6d ago45:31

45:31

In this episode, I talk with Professor Thomas Rozdzynski, founder of RŌL Academy of Jiu Jitsu in the Chicago area. He shares how he got started in Jiu-Jitsu, what it’s like running his own academy, and how he started RŌL TV and The RŌL Radio Podcast. A great conversation for anyone who loves Jiu-Jitsu and the journey that comes with it.Don’t forget…

1
#253 Rick Ellis 1:22:56

3d ago1:22:56

1:22:56

Send us a text On this episode, Thomas and his guest discuss the balance between knowledge and skill, the impact of online learning, and the unique lifestyle that Jiu-Jitsu offers. They also shares insights on aging in the sport, the role of instructors, and the significance of continuous learning and adaptation. Here is The RŌL Radio with the cura…

1
Alberto Crane Show #374 - Didier Chalfoun 32:47

6d ago32:47

32:47

In this episode, I sit down with Didier Chalfoun — one of our dedicated students and a valued member of the Legacy Jiu-Jitsu family. We talk about his path in Jiu-Jitsu, the role it plays in his life, and the mindset it takes to keep showing up and improving.It’s a real conversation about training, progress, and staying connected to the roots of wh…

1
Alberto Crane Show #373 - Paul Schreiner 1:03:50

6d ago1:03:50

1:03:50

Paul Schreiner began training Jiu-Jitsu in the late 1990s in Santa Cruz, California, under Claudio França and Garth Taylor. In the early 2000s, he spent significant time in Brazil, where he trained and competed extensively, becoming one of the few American athletes of that era to earn a podium finish at the World Championships held in Brazil.With o…

1
#252 Kyvann Gonzalez 1:10:56

10d ago1:10:56

1:10:56

Send us a text On this episode, Thomas and his guest discuss traveling and expieriencing jiu-jitsu around the world, how he caters to students who have different goals within the same class, the free flowing nature of jiu-jitsu vs having a structured approach to instruction, what he finds frustrating in jiu-jitsu, how his idea of academy growth dif…

1
#251 Joshua You 1:23:43

18d ago1:23:43

1:23:43

Send us a text In this conversation, Thomas’ guest shares his journey from the culinary world to becoming a Jiu Jitsu practitioner and instructor. He discusses the balance between luck and dedication in achieving success, the importance of small details in training, and the need for standards in the Jiu-Jitsu community. They discuss people’s tenden…

1
Alberto Crane Show #372 - John Kallo 41:13

21d ago41:13

41:13

Had the pleasure of sitting down with John Kallo, one of our dedicated white belts at Legacy and a longtime martial artist. In this episode, we connect over his journey, his love for martial arts, and what brought him to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A great conversation with a humble warrior who brings heart and consistency to the mat every day.Don’t forge…

1
Alberto Crane Show #371 - Ellen Kim 52:37

21d ago52:37

52:37

From MMA Bootcamp to Legacy Coach – Ellen Kim’s JourneyEllen Kim walked into Legacy with zero martial arts experience—but through an Alta MMA ad, a 20-week bootcamp, and relentless dedication, she stepped into the cage and even faced off against a former Olympian. During that time, she also began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—and she’s never stopped…

1
#250 Zach Smart 1:15:11

26d ago1:15:11

1:15:11

Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Thomas and his guest Zach Smart discuss the deep love and commitment that comes with years of training. They delve into the infinite nature of jiu-jitsu, the balance between fun and fundamentals, and the importance of learning from failure. Zach shares his personal journey from aspiring MMA fighter to d…

1
Alberto Crane Show #370 - Esau Diego 40:15

28d ago40:15

40:15

Get to know Esau Diego, one of our amazing coaches and athletes from Legacy Glendale. Always a pleasure to sit down with him, hear his story, and share it with all of you. Enjoy this conversation and insight into what makes him such a valuable part of the Legacy family.#LegacyBJJ #LegacyGlendaleDon’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!Sponsored…

1
Alberto Crane Show #369 - David Vinner 48:58

28d ago48:58

48:58

David Vinner is a bright, rising star and one of the top young Judokas in the country. Originally from Russia, David brings a strong work ethic and passion to every training session and competition. In 2023, he was the #1 ranked Cadet athlete at -60kg and earned the title of Most Valuable Cadet Athlete. Now competing at -66kg, he holds the #2 natio…

1
#249 Jake Mackenzie 1:15:31

1M ago1:15:31

1:15:31

Send us a text In this conversation, Jake Mackenzie shares his experiences as a Jiu-Jitsu instructor and competitor, and the importance of building strong bonds with training partners. He emphasizes the therapeutic nature of Jiu-Jitsu and the resilience required to overcome challenges in training and competition. Jake shares his journey from a smal…

1
Alberto Crane Show #368 - Hailee “Tiger” Moreno 32:43

1M ago32:43

32:43

Hailee Moreno has grown up on our mats — and she’s become nothing short of a force. From a focused student to a fierce competitor, and now a respected coach, Hailee embodies strength, discipline, and heart. She’s powerful, determined, and leads with quiet confidence. Watching her grow through Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and now stepping into this next ch…

1
Alberto Crane Show #367 - Alberto Crane (Interviewed by Bryan Gregerson) 1:07:14

1M ago1:07:14

1:07:14

In this special episode of The Alberto Crane Show, we flip the script.Bryan Gregerson of Legacy Pasadena takes over the mic to interview me — Alberto Crane.Instead of me asking the questions, Bryan dives into the things he’s been curious about: my journey, mindset, and everything in between.Hope you guys enjoy this role-reversal episode and get som…

1
#248 James Driskill 1:22:33

1M ago1:22:33

1:22:33

Send us a text On this episode, Thomas’ guest, James Driskill shares his journey in Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the profound influence that Rickson Gracie has had on his life and training. He discusses the evolution of training styles, the importance of fundamentals, and the challenges of modern Jiu-Jitsu, including the Dunning-Kruger effect and inform…

1
Alberto Crane Show #366 - Jessica Weiner 42:54

1M ago42:54

42:54

From gymnastics coach to Jiu-Jitsu competitor and leader at Legacy, Jessica Weiner has been an important part of our community for years. She even coached my daughters in gymnastics — and it’s been incredible to watch her evolve into a powerful presence on and off the mats.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “You…

1
Alberto Crane Show #365 - Francisco Rojas 51:17

2M ago51:17

51:17

Had the privilege to sit down with Francisco Rojas — Jiu-Jitsu competitor and coach at Legacy Glendale. We dive into his journey, mindset on the mats, and what it means to lead by example.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com…

1
#247 Randy William 1:25:18

2M ago1:25:18

1:25:18

Send us a text On this episode, Randy William shares his journey through the world of Jiu Jitsu, reflecting on the personal significance of the flags in his life, the evolution of training methods, and the importance of creating a welcoming environment for newcomers. Randy discusses his teaching philosophy that focuses on maximizing training time a…

1
Alberto Crane Show #364 - Matthew Davidson 47:01

2M ago47:01

47:01

Had a great time sitting down with one of our incredible Legacy Pasadena instructors to talk Jiu-Jitsu, real science, and much more. A thoughtful conversation you won’t want to miss.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com…

1
Alberto Crane Show #363 - Emily Russell 51:36

2M ago51:36

51:36

Emily Russell is one of our coaches and team members at Legacy Glendale. In this episode, we sit down to hear her journey—from high school to college, and how she eventually found Jiu-Jitsu and embraced the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradise” AcaiJungleCafe.com…

1
#246 Josh Presley 1:01:59

2M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Send us a text In this conversation, Josh Presley shares his journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, discussing the evolution of the sport, the challenges of starting as a beginner, and the importance of community and teaching. He reflects on his personal growth, the significance of achieving a black belt, and how Jiu-Jitsu serves as a metaphor for life, e…

1
Alberto Crane Show #362 - Bryan Gregerson 56:36

2M ago56:36

56:36

In this episode, I sit down with Bryan Greggerson—not only a holder of multiple master’s degrees, but also an exceptional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and an even better teacher. It’s been an honor to call him a friend, professor, and business partner at Legacy Pasadena.Enjoy the conversation.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout”…

1
Alberto Crane Show #361 - Josh Ayon 59:12

2M ago59:12

59:12

Sat down with Coach Josh to talk about his path—from early days on the wrestling mat to finding his passion in Jiu-Jitsu. It’s been amazing to watch his growth on and off the mat—and now he’s giving back to both our kids and adults through his coaching.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your neighborhood Paradi…

1
#245 Jasmine Rocha 1:14:49

2M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss the pressure put on young athletes, mindset, the importance of focusing on what you can control, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with bjj black belt under Vagner Rocha at Vagner Rocha Martial Arts, and a top competetor in both the IBJJF and ADCC, Jasmine Rocha. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discou…

1
Alberto Crane Show #360 - William Antonyan 59:09

2M ago59:09

59:09

Had an awesome time sitting down with Willian Antonyan—Black Belt, Jiu-Jitsu instructor, and an important member at Legacy Glendale and our Legacy Team. Always a blast getting to know the stories behind the warriors on our team and bringing those conversations to you. You’re gonna love this one—enjoy!Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Wo…

1
Alberto Crane Show #359 - Destinee Laney 52:21

2M ago52:21

52:21

It was a pleasure to sit down with Coach Destinee Laney from Legacy!With a background in gymnastics and athletics, Destinee brings a unique energy and perspective to the mats. In this conversation, we dive into her journey, what drew her to Jiu-Jitsu, and why she’s so passionate about teaching — especially working with kids.Sponsored by TACFIT.com …

1
#244 Cody Smith 1:09:49

2M ago1:09:49

1:09:49

Send us a text On this episode thomas and his guest discuss the importance of living a life filled with positivity and purpose, and how that leads to self-disscovery and personal growth. They also discuss how brotherhood and community help you overcome challenges and the impact it has on your journey. Here is The RŌL Radio with the founder of Virtu…

1
Alberto Crane Show #358 - Arman Fathi 1:13:12

2M ago1:13:12

1:13:12

In today’s episode, we welcome Arman Fathi, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and doctor of chiropractic. Known for his journey with 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, Redzovic Jiu-Jitsu in Chicago and Gracie University. Arman shares his experience on the mats, his perspective of No-Gi and Gi Jiu-Jitsu, and how his chiropractic background enhances his work as b…

1
Alberto Crane Show #357 - Paul Gamez 1:01:03

2M ago1:01:03

1:01:03

It’s been a pleasure getting to know Paul Gamez. One of the first students at Legacy Pasadena, he’s now a conpetitor, coach, a leader in our community, and a passionate strength and conditioning expert. In this episode, we talk about growth, discipline, and the journey!Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s Smartest Workout” Açai Jungle Cafe “Your ne…

1
#243 Dan Covel 1:10:14

3M ago1:10:14

1:10:14

Send us a text On this episode, Dan Covel shares his passion for teaching martial arts and combat sports, emphasizing its importance as a life skill. He and Thomas discuss the community aspect of training, the challenges of overcoming fear and discomfort, and the personal growth that comes from engaging in combat sports. Here is The RŌL Radio with …

1
Alberto Crane Show #356 - Marcus Kowal 1:03:00

3M ago1:03:00

1:03:00

Marcus Kowal is a Swedish-born martial artist, author, and activist with a multifaceted career spanning military service, professional fighting, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. He served in the Swedish Special Forces as an Army Ranger before transitioning to a distinguished career in martial arts. Kowal competed at elite levels across multiple disc…

1
Alberto Crane Show #355 - Konstantin Epishin 1:15:59

3M ago1:15:59

1:15:59

I always enjoy sitting down with Konstantine. A former monk who joined a temple as a teenager. He is now a dedicated yoga teacher, Jiu-Jitsu instructor, and one of the most thoughtful humans I know. In this episode, we talk about discipline, spirituality, martial arts, and what it means to live a life of purpose.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The World’s…

1
Alberto Crane Show #354 - Damon Walker 41:02

3M ago41:02

41:02

In this episode, I sit down with Damon Walker Legacy Jiu-Jitsu coach, competitor, and all-around good soul. We talk about his journey from moving to L.A. for college to discovering Jiu-Jitsu after a year of high school wrestling. He shares how the art has shaped his life, on and off the mats. It was an honor to hear his story can’t wait for you to …

1
Alberto Crane Show #353 - Genesis Lira 18:52

3M ago18:52

18:52

Today we’re joined by 13-year-old figure skater Genesis Lira. She’s been on the ice since she was just 3 years old, and her passion for the sport is undeniable. With her eyes set on Worlds and one day the Olympics Genesis shares a little of her training routine, what she loves about competing, and the journey she’s been on so far.Sponsored by TACFI…

1
#242 Tanner Hall 1:23:26

3M ago1:23:26

1:23:26

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss the distractions within jiu-jitsu. They discuss the shiny objects that distract us from what’s been proven to work, and the distraction jiu-jitsu provids from everyday life. They discuss the importance of fundamentals. They also discuss the communal aspects of jiu-jitsu, embracing failure …

1
Alberto Crane Show #352 - Arin Adjamian 39:47

3M ago39:47

39:47

Arin Adjamian is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt world champion with a degree in philosophy and a focus on religion. I always enjoy our conversations, and this time, we picked up a fascinating one we started in the locker room about the pyramids of Egypt and the latest discoveries beneath them. This episode dives into ancient mysteries, philosophy…

1
#241 Josh Vogel 1:21:50

3M ago1:21:50

1:21:50

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and his guest discuss structure and flexibility. The structure and flexibility needed in teaching, coaching, and training, as well as in the business of jiu-jitsu. Here is The RŌL Radio with co-founder and head instructor of Philadelphia’s The Jiu-Jitsu Company, 3rd degree BJJ black belt, and creator of 90 Day …

1
Alberto Crane Show #351 - Brian Kiley 56:01

3M ago56:01

56:01

Brian Kiley has made over 20 appearances on legendary shows like The Late Show with David Letterman, The Tonight Show, and Late Night with Conan O’Brien. He spent more than two decades as a staff writer for Conan, eventually becoming the head monologue writer earning 16 Emmy nominations and winning in 2007. He’s also the author of The Astounding Mi…

1
Alberto Crane Show #350 - Vaia Zaganas 1:05:10

3M ago1:05:10

1:05:10

Today’s guest is someone I’ve had the pleasure of training TACFIT with for many years, and it was awesome to finally sit down and hear more of her story. Vaia ‘Vicious’ Zaganas is a former world champion boxer from Canada, with an incredible journey—from dominating the amateur and pro circuits to building a second career in Hollywood as a stunt per…

1
#240 Matt Arroyo 1:16:57

3M ago1:16:57

1:16:57

Send us a text On this episode Thomas and Matt Arroyo discuss how Matt’s personal growth has affected his transition from fighter to academy owner and instructor, the importance of accepting change, Matt’s time on The Ultimate Fighter, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with the owner of Gracie Tampa South MMA, former Ultimate Fighter competitor, and …

1
Alberto Crane Show #349 - Pete “The Greek” Letsos 1:14:19

3M ago1:14:19

1:14:19

Pete "The Greek" Letsos returns for his third appearance on the podcast! A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Carlon Gracie Jr., Letsos has built an impressive career, earning medals at the Pan Ams, Gracie World Championship, and competing in legendary tournaments like Copa Atlantica and the Brazilian Teams Nationals. Over the years, he has train…

1
Alberto Crane Show #348 - Luis Casas 47:31

3M ago47:31

47:31

Luis Casas is a 3rd degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a deep passion for horticulture. When he’s not on the mats, he’s caring for trees and plants through his company, Legacy Tree Care. In this episode, we dive into his martial arts journey and his love for plant life. A unique and inspiring conversation enjoy!Sponsored by TACFIT.com “The …

1
#239 Rachel Nelson 1:15:13

3M ago1:15:13

1:15:13

Send us a text Today, Thomas and Rachel Nelson discuss her move to one of the most competition focused academies in the world, how her stubbornness and goal oriented mindset have helped her overcome obstacles, finding personal meaning in our journeys, and more. Here is The RŌL Radio with a military veteran, Doctor of Philosophy, Atos Hq team member…

1
Alberto Crane Show #347 - Sam Sachs 47:26

3M ago47:26

47:26

In this episode of the Alberto Crane Show, I sit down with Sam Sachs, one of the rising stars in wrestling in the United States. Sam, a standout athlete in women’s wrestling, shares her journey, challenges, and achievements, including her victory at the CIF State Wrestling Championship and Fargo USA Wrestling National Championships. Learn how she p…

1
Alberto Crane Show #346 - Julian Espinoza 55:51

3M ago55:51

55:51

Join us as we sit down with Julián Espinosa, one of Costa Rica’s best and among the premier grapplers in the world. Julián has made his mark on the international stage with notable achievements, including gold at the IBJJF European No-Gi Championship and silver at the World No-Gi Championship. In 2024, he continued his impressive run by securing go…

1
#238 David Figueroa-Martinez 1:14:53

4M ago1:14:53

1:14:53

Send us a text This week Thomas and his guest discuss the transformative power of jiu-jitsu, the need to embrace failure, the role of instructors beyond the mats, and more. Here is the curator of DFM Coaching, and instructor at Gracie La Mesa in La Mesa California, David Figueroa-Martinez. www.rolacademy.tv 30% discount with ROLRADIO code at checko…

1
Alberto Crane Show #345 - Milo Bitton 47:13

4M ago47:13

47:13

Milo Bitton found Jiu-Jitsu later in life after bringing his kids into martial arts, eventually embracing the journey himself. It’s been a pleasure training him and with him, watching his kids grow on and off the mats, and now seeing his entire family win gold across many tournaments. In this conversation, we dive into his perspective as a father, …

1
Alberto Crane Show #344 - Andrew Adlersberg 57:22

4M ago57:22

57:22

Andrew Adlersberg is a former football player who competed in high school and college before finding his passion for Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. I always enjoy sitting down with him it’s always a great time with plenty of laughs. In this episode, he shares his take on training, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and much more.Sponsored by TACFIT.com “…

1
Alberto Crane Show #343 - Cody Vidal 1:21:33

4M ago1:21:33

1:21:33

Matthew Cody Vidal is a professional fighter who has competed in Bellator and currently fights in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). Beyond his career in combat sports, he is also a certified hypnotherapist, using the power of the subconscious mind to help others with personal growth and performance enhancement. Through his practice, Vidal …

1
Alberto Crane Show #342 - Andy Lazarit 1:20:03

4M ago1:20:03

1:20:03

Sensei Andy Lazarit is our head Muay Thai coach at Legacy. He’s an incredible coach, a great person, and someone I’ve been grateful to know for many years. Andy came up training Muay Thai under Kru Walter Michalowski from Sityodtong LA and later earned his Bang Muay Thai Black Belt under Sensei Duane Ludwig and Bas Rutten. In this conversation, we …