In this final episode of The Gi Spot’s debut year, Rach and Kaz throw it all on the table—unfiltered, unscripted, and as delightfully chaotic as ever. They reflect on a year’s worth of deep chats, spicy takes, big laughs, and unexpected moments that shaped the podcast into the beast it is.

From their favorite episodes and behind-the-scenes misfires to what they’ve learned about themselves and their audience, it’s part therapy session, part roast, and full-on celebration. Whether you’ve been along for the whole ride or you’re just now strapping in, this episode is the perfect mix of gratitude, grit, and goon energy to close out the year.

In this sequel to their first cerebral smackdown, The Gi Spot welcomes back Grant Bradshaw to untangle the messy, beautiful process of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Forget cookie-cutter curriculums and “just show up” mantras—this episode goes deep on learning styles, retention hacks, and why some white belts skyrocket while others flail in the fog of war for years.

Grant and the hosts explore the roles of pattern recognition, conceptual learning vs. technique hoarding, the myth of “muscle memory,” and how to build game plans that actually evolve with you. Whether you’re a coach, competitor, or confused blue belt wondering why you keep forgetting mount escapes—this is your brain on BJJ.

On this episode of The Gi Spot, Kaz and Rach get unapologetically real as they celebrate the rise of women’s-only open mats—and the badass community that’s growing inside them.

They unpack what it means for women in BJJ to finally have spaces of their own—where technique can thrive without being overshadowed by brute strength or testosterone-fueled pace. It’s not about exclusion; it’s about expression. This is where women get to test themselves, push their limits, and sharpen their game in an environment built on safety, solidarity, and shared experience.

From grassroots gatherings to full-blown international movements, Kaz and Rach highlight how these open mats are not only elevating the technical level of female grapplers, but creating networks of mentorship, empowerment, and visibility across the sport. They also speak to the importance of these spaces for beginners—women who might otherwise walk out the door after a tough first roll, never realising what jiu-jitsu could give them.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a curious white belt, or someone who’s just tired of being the only woman in the room, this episode is a celebration of the movement—and the mat—that women are claiming for themselves.