The Midlife Mount Podcast

Episode 18: Skill Can't Save You if You Can't Breathe

In this episode of The Midlife Mount, we dive into the eternal grappling debate: cardio or technique—what really matters most on the mats? We explore how your gas tank and your skill set work together (or sometimes against each other), especially for midlife women navigating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. From competition prep to everyday training, we share stories, strategies, and lessons learned the hard way. Whether you're the technician, the engine, or trying to be both, this one's for you.

Episode 17: We Came for the Jiu Jitsu, Stayed for the Weird Traditions

From belt whippings to gym etiquette, we unpack the weird, wonderful, and sometimes cringeworthy traditions of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. What should stay, what needs to go, and what just makes us laugh.

Episode 16: We Took Hormone Tests: Here's What Happened

We break down the basics of hormone testing for women in midlife—why it matters, what to test, and how it can improve your training, recovery, and overall well-being. Perfect for grapplers navigating perimenopause and performance.

Episode 15: Mat Mom Round Table

An honest, uplifting, and often hilarious conversation with teammates who are navigating motherhood, midlife, and the relentless pace of BJJ. These women show up on and off the mats with grit, grace, and a sense of humor. From chaotic tournament weekends to quiet personal wins, we unpack what it really means to be a Midlife Badass—and why it's never too late to chase strength, community, and growth.

Episode 14: Breaking Grips and Breaking Labels

When midlife women step onto the mats, something shifts. In this episode, we explore how BJJ challenges who we thought we were — and helps us uncover who we’re becoming. Maybe we’re not who we used to be… and maybe that’s a good thing.

Episode 13: The Invisible Load We Roll With

This episode dives into the mental and emotional weight midlife women often carry—family, work, aging—and how it shows up on the mats. We talk about balancing it all, the guilt of taking time for ourselves, and why BJJ can be both a refuge and a mirror.

Episode 12: When the Mats Get Heavy: Navigating Gym Culture in BJJ

We explore how gym culture impacts your BJJ journey—especially for midlife women. From first impressions to red flags, we break down what makes a gym feel welcoming or off-putting, and how to find a space that truly fits your values and goals.

Week 4 Austin Open Check In: Progress, Pressure and Perspective

This week, we’re 8 weeks out from the Austin Open. In this check-in, we talk about the struggle of finding our rhythm — of trying to get into the groove when life keeps throwing curveballs. Training isn’t always perfect, and some weeks feel harder than others. But we’re learning to celebrate the small wins: showing up, hitting a clean rep, choosing rest when we need it. Most of all, we’re practicing grace — giving ourselves room to breathe when the chaos of midlife makes everything feel like too much. If you're in the thick of it too, this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone.

Episode 11: Beyond the Mirror: Body Image and the Midlife Grappler

In this episode, we get real about body image—how it shows up in training, in competition, and in our day-to-day lives as midlife women in BJJ. From self-talk to societal pressure, we’re unpacking the struggle and reclaiming the narrative. This one’s for anyone who’s ever questioned their worth based on the mirror.

Episode 10: It's Not Just in Your Head: Hormones, BJJ and Midlife Shifts

In this episode of The Midlife Mount, we dive deep into the hidden battle many midlife women face on the mats: hormones. From the unpredictable swings of perimenopause to the energy crashes, joint pain, and emotional waves that can hit without warning, we unpack how hormonal changes impact training, mindset, recovery, and competition. We'll share personal stories, practical tips, and expert advice to help you adapt and thrive during this phase. Whether you're feeling stronger than ever or struggling to show up, you're not alone — and there are ways to keep rolling through it.