On this episode of Off the Mats Podcast, I sit down with Ben Kerslake, a BJJ brown belt whose life recently changed after undergoing surgery that resulted in an ileostomy. Ben shares the story behind his health journey, what recovery has been like, and how he is adjusting physically and emotionally to life with an ostomy.

We also discuss the challenges of stepping away from Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the support he has received from the people around him, and his return to the mats. Ben speaks openly about vulnerability, confidence, adaptation, and what strength looks like when your body and daily routine suddenly change.

This is an honest conversation about resilience, ostomy awareness, major surgery recovery, and the determination to keep moving forward both on and off the mats.

BJJ brown belt Moe Brown returns to Off the Mats Podcast to help break down UFC 329: McGregor vs. Holloway 2. We discuss Conor McGregor’s long-awaited return, the unfortunate knee injury that brought the main event to an early conclusion, and whether Max Holloway should receive full credit for the victory. We also examine what the result means for both fighters, whether a trilogy fight makes sense, and whether McGregor’s latest setback could mark the end of his career inside the Octagon.

Moe also provides his technical grappling perspective on Paddy Pimblett’s quick D’Arce choke against Benoît Saint Denis, Brandon Royval’s rear-naked-choke finish, Mario Bautista’s victory over Cory Sandhagen, and Robert Whittaker’s successful light-heavyweight debut.

What was your reaction to the UFC 329 main event? Should Holloway and McGregor fight for a third time? Follow Off the Mats Podcast, leave a rating and review, and join the conversation.

Melly returns to the Off the Mats Podcast for a conversation about creativity, anxiety, and her evolving relationship with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Since her last appearance, Melly has stepped away from the mats while navigating motherhood for the first time and learning how to balance her new responsibilities with her identity as an artist and grappler.

We discuss what life has looked like during this transition, the challenges of being away from training, and why taking a break from jiu-jitsu does not mean walking away from it forever. Melly also shares the inspiration behind @artofjiujitsu and @theartofcalm_co, where she combines creativity, mindfulness, and art meditation to help people manage anxiety and find moments of calm.

This episode explores identity beyond the mats, the pressure to remain productive, and how art can become a practical tool for slowing down and reconnecting with yourself.

Follow Melly on Instagram at @artofjiujitsu and @theartofcalm_co.