VERBAL TAP (Episode 148) with Alexander Darwin

[buzzsprout episode='337460' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | We close out the year with a great interview with the author of the brand new Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu-themed fiction book, The Combat Codes, Alexander Darwin.

Yes, you read that right.

The guy wrote a fictional book about jiu-jitsu in a dystopian future (or something like that, I didn't read it).

We mostly demand that he give us a handful of reasons why he should read his book, that he explain the differences between his book and The Hunger Games, and we even give him a whole bunch of mess for enlisting our pal T.P. Grant as a "combat editor" for the book.

I know.  We should take a moment to acknowledge the "combat editor" thing again.

Nonetheless, we find out the interesting parallels to Alexander's own journey and hear how in the hell he decided to come up with this idea in the first place.

Should you or your loved ones be in need of a science fiction book to nerd out to, by all means, purchase the book here.

And if you just want to mock T.P.'s combat editing work, we'll be okay with that as well.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 147) with Eddie Cruz

[buzzsprout episode='336439' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Listen in for our annual Christmas shout outs and an awesome interview with Eddie Cruz!

If you guys want to help donate your old BJJ gear, you can send items to:

Barrio San Francisco 5 Calle 7 AVE El Progreso Yoro Apartamento No. 1

Or you can donate items to the BJJ For Honduras GoFundMe at:

https://www.gofundme.com/sb7rkvzb

Happy whatever the hell you celebrate folks.  We here at the podcast hope you and yours have a great holiday!

NOTE: If the link above doesn't work for the episode, you can download this episode of the podcast right here!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 146) with Casey Halstead

[buzzsprout episode='334806' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | On deadline, so can't write too much, but we've got the return of Austin Stack and EBI 5 matchmaker extraordinaire Casey Halstead.

Listen in folks!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 145) with Austin Stack

[buzzsprout episode='332326' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | This week my worlds collide when my podcast co-host Kevin takes on my late night comedy talk show announcer (Early Late Night), Austin Stack.

Listen in as Austin not only charms Kevin, but seems to disorient his line of thinking and picks for this week's installment of Over/Under Kevin.

Heading out to train for now, but *more to come* later folks.

You can also download our episode right here.

And also from iTunes.

VERBAL TAP Celebrates 3 Years (Episodes 143 & 144) with Rafael Lovato Jr.

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Raf's Recollection | We're just gettin started folks.

Be sure to listen to BOTH episodes this week, as we've got a two part episode with Rafael Lovato Jr., plus appearances from podcast favorites John Evans, Eric Jackman, and Bubba McDaniel.

AND we've got a shit-ton of former guests who drop in on the episode.  You're definitely gonna want to listen to both of these shows, folks!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 143

DOWNLOAD: Episode 144

VERBAL TAP (Episode 142) with Marcus Kowal

[buzzsprout episode='326554' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Coming soon.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 141) with Russ Miura

[buzzsprout episode='324347' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Oh, what's that, you didn't think we could put out TWO podcasts in one week?

That's right Verbal Tap Fans, we decided to switch it up on ya this week.  Not only did we bring you an EXCLUSIVE episode with AJ Agazarm this week, but we're also giving you another thrilling installment of Over/Under Kevin with very special guest Russ Miura.

So listen in as Russ not only threatens Kevin for the better part of the game, but also as we try to solve the mystery of "how long is it going to take Ronda Rousey to win this one?"

BTW, if you're looking to compete at Russ' tournament this weekend or check it out, be sure to hit up http://www.subfighterbjj.com/.

After you check out the episode, let us know what you think folks!

Oh, we also talk about why Bellator is losing their fucking minds.

But seriously, who the fuck is #dada5000. Also, my soul hurts. Why @bellatormma? Why?!!! #kenshamrock #roycegracie #Bellator

A video posted by Verbal Tap Cast (@verbaltapcast) on Nov 7, 2015 at 12:25am PST

VERBAL TAP (Episode 140) with AJ Agazarm

[buzzsprout episode='324053' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Chances are, you've probably heard about the match announced between AJ Agazarm and Augusto Tanquinho this morning -- but, of course, our subscribers already knew about that match yesterday (all the more incentive to subscribe to our show on iTunes).

We not only got the EXCLUSIVE match announcement on our show from AJ himself, but we also got to hear how that match all came together.  We also got to ask AJ a little bit more about the behind-the-scenes nature of FloGrappling's stream of this year's No Gi Worlds. And before you ask, yes, we did talk with AJ about that commentary gig -- you know the one.  And I have to say, that's what I appreciate about the guy, he both understands the wide scope of responses to his turn as a commentator (freely accepting constructive criticism) and is very open about talking about the practice of it.  As someone who has put on a headset a couple of times, I can attest to the crazy nature of play-by-play commentary. Having said that, it also doesn't stop us from getting in a joke here or there about it.

AJ also happened to bring along a couple buddies who crash the very top of the interview (one of whom had a very, very nice weekend).  AJ and friends tell us who they enjoyed watching compete and even indicate what up-and-coming killers are coming up on their radar.

It's a fun time that's had by all.

We start the episode talking about my experience hanging out at Worlds, and also discussing a few behind-the-scenes "secrets" that happened at this year's big event (#NoGiWorldsSecrets).

Also, this meme perfectly sums up the one thing that threatened to ruin my days at Worlds.

But nacho cheese is totally cool to eat in the stands, right? Like and share if you feel the same way about #acaijail #nogiworlds #nogiworlds2015 #ibjjf #bjj

A video posted by Verbal Tap Cast (@verbaltapcast) on Nov 8, 2015 at 11:00am PST

And don't get too comfortable, folks.  Because a second episode this week is gonna drop sooner than you think (keep a look out to your iTunes subscriptions this week, as we've got another episode previewing this weekend's UFC 193 coming up very, VERY soon... like now, cuz here it is, EPISODE 141). Oh, btw, what'd you guys think of this #wwebjj move we came up with?

In honor of the #montrealscrewjob, please enjoy the time I caught @metachallenger black belt @funkjitsu in a #sharpshooter in this homage to the GOAT, @brethitmanhart. Wishing all the best to my man Rodrigo as he competes in the #metamorischallenger this weekend. Warning to all, he will NOT be this easy to catch (anyone who rolls with him regularly knows that). Give 'em hell, good sir. @metamoris #wwebjj A video posted by Verbal Tap Cast (@verbaltapcast) on Nov 9, 2015 at 9:28am PST

VERBAL TAP (Episode 139) with Jon Thomas

[buzzsprout episode='321782' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | It's been awhile since we've had the pleasure of chatting with our pal Jon Thomas (of Tap Cancer Out), but when we do we make sure to make the conversation memorable and light.

I have a lot of respect for the work that Jon does.  Tap Cancer Out donates hundreds of thousands of dollars (for a sport that often struggles to make financial sense).  And yet, here is a tournament that puts charity right at the epicenter of a great opportunity for those who like to compete to get out there and raise money for a good cause.

I can get behind that.

Not only do we talk about Tap Cancer Out's upcoming venture back out to San Diego (January 16th, be sure to sign up here!), but we also find out more about Jon's journey in jiu-jitsu, his competitive philosophy, what he thinks when he goes to other tournaments he's not running, and maybe even hear a little bit about what it feels like to get a private from Keenan Cornelius.

Plus, we talk about my adventures over at Cobra Kai Jiu-Jitsu in Vegas over the weekend, and give you guys a little more context about these two killer moments that happened there:

[embed]https://instagram.com/p/9l2ovND6ru/[/embed]

[embed]https://instagram.com/p/9g99WTD6it/?taken-by=verbaltapcast[/embed]

Plus, you can hear all about how Lance Storm, MVP, and William Regal all basically became fans of my technique here.

It's all good stuff you guys.  Listen in and enjoy, folks!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 138) with Ricardo Tubbs

[buzzsprout episode='319280' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Hey Folks, on another deadline as I write this (so I have to keep things short) but you're in for a good one this week.

On this episode, we bring on Ricardo Tubbs, the President of De FIRMA Kimono Company. For those of you who tuned in to hear me commentate live at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, you may have heard Ricardo send in some hilarious tweets -- going as far to even provide an incentive for me to continue plugging his gear.

Curious to hear more about what would compel someone to dare me to plug, as well as a genuine interest in the company, we brought Ricardo on the show. And we were delighted to hear the cool story behind Ricardo's BJJ beginnings (it's almost unbelievable), as well as the way he began his company.

It's a rich conversation that takes us all over the place and really gives you a great take-away as to what makes his company so unique and invested in the community.

Listen in and let us know what you think folks!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 137) with Gabriel Arges

[buzzsprout episode='317497' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Full write up with Gabe Arges coming up soon!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 136) with Shawn Fowler and Mike Perez

[buzzsprout episode='316047' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Never a dull moment round these parts, folks.  This week we bring on Sub Con's Shawn Fowler to talk a little bit about the organization's next tournament on November 1st, and then we chat with ATOS's Mike Perez who talks with us about everything from ADCC to competitive spirit, his future plans, and even mentions some things you might not know about the guy.

So listen in and let us know what you guys think.

Oh, BTW, I tricked my work into letting me write about jiu-jitsu today.  So I think that means you all are obligated to read about it.

Give it a read here and then make plans to watch Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown this Sunday on CNN.

Oh, and also, you should make plans to watch the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam this Sunday, because yours truly will be doing commentary with John Evans yet again.

So get excited folks.  It's all going down!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 135) with Jesse J. Saxon

[buzzsprout episode='313538' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | I don't recall getting asked to play Over/Under Kevin against Jesse J. Saxon (from WB Survival), so don't believe this photo.

We recap all things UFC 192, plus we chat Flo Grappling No Gi Pans commentary and we even close out with a quick note about my grandfather.

Great episode here folks.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 134) with Jesse J. Saxon

[buzzsprout episode='311127' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Full recap coming later.  But, for now, please enjoy the nonsense that is Jesse J. Saxon From WB Survival doing his best to match wits (er, thoughts?) with Kevin as they play an installment of Over/Under Kevin.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 133) with Vinny Magalhaes

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Raf's Recollection | Full write up coming later folks, but this episode with Vinny is can't miss.  He talks about everything.  And you'll definitely want to hear his take on ADCC, including his match against Garry Tonon.

Also, we're starting a new thing where you can look up parts of our episodes on YouTube.

Feel free to check out this episode on YouTube right here.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 132) - Newaza Challenge / Polaris Pro 2 / ADCC / UFC 191

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Kevin's Total Recall: If you didn't see the Newaza Challenge, do yourself and jiu-jitsu a favor and go watch it right now (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UaUpGZpGls).... we'll wait. Okay, so you now you know how amazing it was. Raf Esparza and John Evans were amazing calling the fights. Tune in as Raf explains why Kevin's absence might have beautiful minded his performance.

Raf and Kevin scream in support of Polaris Pro 2 and debate who was better, Garry Tonon or Josh Palmer. Then, Raf graciously catches Kevin up on ADCC 2015 because Kevin was moving Denver. Nay, Kevin moved to Denver. Thats right, Episode 132 is live from Denver (and LA but that's not new).

This podcast ends with Kevin winning Over/Under UFC 191. Watch Major League and afterwards you can send your congratulations to Kevin on his winning streak @phillipskevin1 on twitter.

Stay cool Verbal Tap fans, your the best in the world.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 131) with T.P. Grant

[buzzsprout episode='300919' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Hey gang, don't have much time for a write up this week (on assignment), but we have a killer Over/Under Kevin preview for UFC 191 with our pal T.P. Grant (who also sticks around to preview ADCC with us on this episode).

Listen in.

Oh, and speaking of ADCC.  What would you say about maybe watching/listening to a possible live scream visual commentary of ADCC with yours truly?  Maybe some kinda Google Hangout kinda thing?

Just spit balling.  Sound off in the comment section below!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 130) with AJ Agazarm

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Raf's Recollection | Before we start I feel it’s important to ask: What are your true feelings about AJ Agazarm?

Obviously his jiu-jitsu places him in the conversation for some of the most reliably exciting and memorable jiu-jitsu matches, but it’s the next part that sometimes tends to throw people: is he a lovable heel working the crowd or is he a guy who’s merely pushing aside jiu-jitsu norms and conventions to “show off?”

This week we not only get the chance to talk with the man in question himself, but also got to ask him about his stellar last minute match up against Karo Parisyan at Metamoris Underground.

We cover it all: how he came to replace JT Torres at the last minute, what goes through his brain the hour before he goes into competition mode, and even why he felt the need to start pushing the action a little bit (ya know, by literally pushing Karo several times here and there throughout the match).

Oh, and before you ask, yes we definitely talk about this.

Our one hour discussion takes through topics big and small, as we also discuss his jiu-jitsu philosophy, what it was like to corner Joao Miyao at EBI 4, I his incredible journey back to ADCC, and maybe even get down to the type of influence his favorite TV show has on his grappling game.

It’s a fascinating discussion into the mind of AJ Agazarm that might even change your perspective on the guy (or not, we don’t really know your situation).

Plus, our good pal John Evans drops in to tell us how in the hell he ended up on our TV screens this week.

Also, be sure to check out this awesome interview I did with Joe Soto right after his head-turning performance at EBI 4!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 129) with Russ Miura and Brandon McCaghren

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VERBAL TAP (Episode 128) with Jared Dopp

[buzzsprout episode='295240' player='true'] Raf's Recollection | Full write up coming soon.