About this episode
🎙️ A powerful conversation about identity, inclusion, and resilience in the martial arts community. In this episode of Fighting Matters, co-hosts Steve Kwan and Mike Mahaffey are joined by special guest Molly Reis, a three-stripe black belt and one of the most senior trans women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Molly shares her journey through the sport, from competing every weekend in Texas to finding belonging in Seattle’s queer BJJ scene. She opens up about the challenges of transitioning mid-career, navigating concern trolling, and why visibility in leadership is key to true inclusion. ⸻ 👥 Featuring: Steve Kwan ‪@bjjmentalmodels‬ Mike Mahaffey ‪@OldBastardBJJ‬ Molly Reis ⸻ 🧠Topics We Cover: • What it’s like to transition after earning your black belt • How hormone therapy impacts physical performance • Creating safer spaces and inclusive gyms for queer athletes • Concern trolling, etiquette, and rolling while trans • Why allyship in BJJ must go beyond tolerance ⸻ 📖 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Diversity in Jiu-Jitsu 03:01 Molly's Journey in Jiu-Jitsu and Transition 06:02 Experiences of Support and Rejection 09:19 Navigating the Jiu-Jitsu Community as a Trans Woman 11:59 The Impact of Transition on Jiu-Jitsu 14:52 Understanding Hormone Therapy and Its Effects 18:17 Life Changes Post-Transition 21:04 Adapting Jiu-Jitsu Techniques After Transition 23:56 Creating Inclusive Spaces in Jiu-Jitsu 26:59 The Role of Community in Supporting Trans Athletes 30:11 Conclusion and Future Perspectives 45:40 Mindset and Gender Dynamics in Jiu-Jitsu 47:02 Creating Inclusive Spaces in Martial Arts 47:52 The Power of Representation in Leadership 49:27 Celebration vs. Tolerance in the Community 51:08 Navigating Political Sensitivities in Jiu-Jitsu 52:11 The Role of Allies in Supporting Trans Rights 56:26 Understanding Concern Trolling 01:01:11 Debunking Myths About Trans Athletes 01:05:31 Engaging in Good Faith Conversations 01:10:58 The Hypocrisy of Gender Politics in Sports 01:18:45 Encouragement for Trans and Queer Athletes 01:19:49 Finding Community and Resources in Jiu-Jitsu