SRBJJ EP:112 TJ “Blitz” Kreutzer Fighter Pilot to Jiu-Jitsu: A Journey of Service and Healing скачать в хорошем качестве

SRBJJ EP:112 TJ “Blitz” Kreutzer Fighter Pilot to Jiu-Jitsu: A Journey of Service and Healing

Summary In this episode of the Still Rolling BJJ podcast, host Matthew Montgomery interviews TJ Kreitzer, a retired Air Force fighter pilot and current ambassador for the We Defy Foundation. TJ shares his journey from a childhood fascination with aviation to becoming a fighter pilot, his experiences during deployments, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. He discusses how he found purpose in Jiu-Jitsu and how it has become a tool for helping veterans cope with their challenges. The conversation highlights the mission of the We Defy Foundation, which sponsors disabled combat veterans to train in Jiu-Jitsu as a form of therapy. In this conversation, TJ "Blitz" Kreutzer and Matthew Montgomery discuss the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu, particularly for veterans dealing with trauma. They explore the founding of the We Defy Foundation, the physiological and cognitive benefits of Jiu-Jitsu, and the importance of community and structure in recovery. The discussion highlights the significance of trust, achievement, and overcoming negative self-talk, while also looking towards the future of the foundation and its impact on veterans and the broader community. Follow TJ and WeDefy. https://wedefyfoundation.org/   / wedefyfoundation     / blitzatwedefy   Takeaways TJ Kreitzer graduated from the Air Force Academy and became a fighter pilot. His journey to the Air Force Academy was influenced by a pivotal conversation with his mother. Deployment experiences shaped his understanding of tactical support in combat. Transitioning from military to civilian life can lead to a loss of purpose. Jiu-Jitsu provided TJ with a renewed sense of purpose and community. The We Defy Foundation helps veterans through Jiu-Jitsu training. Jiu-Jitsu is not a magic pill, but it is a powerful tool for healing. TJ emphasizes the importance of personal accountability in the healing process. The foundation has provided over 1,800 scholarships to veterans since its inception. Community support is crucial for veterans reintegrating into civilian life. They're deciding who they think you are. The beginning of We Defy Foundation. We're doing our own study right now. Physiological benefits of Jiu-Jitsu are significant. Neuroplasticity helps the brain relearn. Structure returns a sense of control. Community is vital for veterans. Achievement builds self-efficacy. Proving them wrong is powerful. Every penny helps the mission. Sound bites "I had to dump the judo." "I'm not different." "Jiu-Jitsu is human chess." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to TJ Kreitzer 01:48 Journey to the Air Force Academy 08:54 Life at the Air Force Academy 14:33 Becoming a Fighter Pilot 17:46 Deployment Experiences 20:38 Leadership in the Air Force 27:35 Transitioning to Civilian Life 29:13 Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life 39:59 The Mission of We Defy Foundation 44:26 The Five Components of Jiu-Jitsu Therapy 58:17 Building Community and Trust through Jiu-Jitsu 01:06:45 The Importance of Vulnerability and Community in Healing 01:08:02 Understanding Self-Efficacy and Achievement 01:10:12 Proving Them Wrong: Overcoming External and Internal Voices 01:11:35 Navigating Negative Self-Talk in Jiu-Jitsu 01:13:43 The Evolution of Competitive Mindset in Jiu-Jitsu 01:15:53 Shifting Focus from Self to Community 01:17:06 Supporting Newcomers in Jiu-Jitsu 01:20:29 The Future of We Defy Foundation 01:24:10 Building Community Beyond Veterans 01:28:22 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement Keywords TJ Kreitzer, Air Force Academy, fighter pilot, We Defy Foundation, Jiu-Jitsu, military transition, veterans support, mental health, combat veterans, personal growth, Jiu-Jitsu, We Defy Foundation, veterans, trauma recovery, community, neuroplasticity, self-efficacy, mental health, physical health, achievement