Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art rooted in leverage, technique, and mental fortitude, has been steadily growing in popularity over the years. While its rise is largely attributed to the visibility provided by Mixed Martial Arts events like the UFC, an unexpected catalyst has emerged: podcasts. Among the most influential voices in the podcasting world, three titans—Joe Rogan, Andrew Huberman, and Lex Fridman—are passionate BJJ practitioners. Through their platforms, they’re not just spreading the philosophy of BJJ but also influencing its global reach and appeal.
Joe Rogan: The Podcasting Juggernaut and UFC’s Voice
Joe Rogan, the host of The Joe Rogan Experience (JRE), boasts one of the most popular podcasts on the planet, with episodes garnering millions of downloads. Known for his candid, long-form discussions with a variety of guests—from comedians and scientists to athletes and political figures—Rogan has been instrumental in bringing niche topics to mainstream audiences. His podcast’s monumental reach was showcased when he interviewed former President Donald Trump, a moment many commentators believe helped solidify Trump’s recent electoral win.
Rogan’s connection to BJJ runs deep. A black belt under Eddie Bravo (10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu) and Jean Jacques Machado, Rogan frequently speaks about the discipline on his podcast. For Rogan, BJJ is more than a martial art; it’s a tool for personal growth and a metaphor for life’s challenges. His influence has encouraged countless listeners to step onto the mats, fostering a surge in BJJ gym memberships worldwide.
Rogan’s impact on BJJ’s popularity is twofold: his involvement in UFC commentary gives BJJ significant visibility, and his podcast normalizes discussions about its benefits, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Andrew Huberman: Neuroscientist Meets Grappler
Andrew Huberman, the brain behind The Huberman Lab Podcast, has carved out a niche exploring the science of optimal performance, sleep, and mental health. A professor of neurobiology at Stanford University, Huberman seamlessly blends scientific rigor with relatable storytelling, drawing millions of listeners.
What many might not know is that Huberman is also an avid BJJ practitioner. Training under the likes of Flavio Almeida, Huberman often ties his BJJ journey to his scientific insights. He discusses the cognitive and psychological benefits of grappling, from stress management to neuroplasticity. Huberman’s analytical approach has attracted a unique demographic to BJJ: professionals and academics who might not have otherwise considered a combat sport.
Through his podcast, Huberman highlights how BJJ isn’t just a sport but a powerful tool for enhancing both body and mind. His scientific breakdowns demystify the art, making it appealing and accessible to a wider audience.
Lex Fridman: The Philosopher of Grappling
Lex Fridman, a former MIT researcher and host of The Lex Fridman Podcast, blends intellectual curiosity with deep philosophical exploration. His conversations span topics like artificial intelligence, ethics, and the human condition. Yet, Fridman often weaves his love for BJJ into his discussions, training regularly with high-level practitioners and competing in tournaments.
Fridman’s podcast has become a hub for high-profile guests, from Elon Musk to Mark Zuckerberg. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly expressed interest in appearing on Fridman’s show—a testament to the platform’s global influence.
For Fridman, BJJ is both a metaphor for life’s complexities and a source of personal discipline. His soft-spoken advocacy for the art form resonates deeply with his audience, inspiring many to explore BJJ not just as a martial art but as a journey of self-discovery.
BJJ’s Global Exposure Through Podcasting
The combined influence of Rogan, Huberman, and Fridman has propelled BJJ into unprecedented territory. Through their massive platforms, they’ve introduced the art to millions who might never have encountered it. Here’s how their efforts are shaping BJJ’s trajectory:
Breaking Barriers: Their conversations demystify BJJ, showing it’s not just for fighters but for anyone seeking personal growth, fitness, or mental resilience.
Community Building: They’ve fostered a global community of grapplers, uniting people from diverse backgrounds under a shared love for the art.
Mainstreaming BJJ: Discussions on these podcasts often spill over into mainstream culture, increasing BJJ’s visibility and credibility.
While MMA and the UFC continue to act as gateways to BJJ, the rise of podcasting has created a more intimate and relatable avenue for its growth. Most people today hear about BJJ not just through fight nights but through the candid, heartfelt discussions on these podcasts. This dual exposure is driving a new wave of practitioners eager to embrace the grappling lifestyle.
The Future of BJJ: A Podcaster’s Playground
As BJJ continues to gain traction, the role of podcasters like Rogan, Huberman, and Fridman cannot be overstated. They’ve turned what was once a niche martial art into a global phenomenon, using their platforms to inspire millions. With world leaders like Zelensky eyeing appearances on these shows, it’s clear that podcasting—and the podcasters’ shared love for BJJ—has become a powerful force for cultural exchange and personal transformation.
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
