Ep. 25: From the Marine Corps to the Mat - Coach Kelly Grissom on BJJ, Lineage, and Leadership (Part 2)

Jan 29

In Part 2 of this two-part conversation, we pick up where military service meets lifelong practice.

Retired Marine Major Kelly Grissom, known to many as Coach Kelly, shares how his transition from the Marine Corps led him to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and how the principles of leadership, discipline, and accountability carried seamlessly from command to the mat.

We talk about:

☕ Discovering BJJ as a path to self-mastery
☕ Why the name KOA connects his military service to his next chapter
☕ The importance of lineage in martial arts, including the influence of Master Leo Dalla
☕ Training first responders, military, and federal law enforcement
☕ Coaching confidence, humility, and resilience — without overemphasizing competition
☕ What it means to leave behind a legacy

This episode is about showing up every day, doing the work, and carrying forward what was entrusted to you.

careerscareer journeypublic servicemilitarygrowth mindsetAfghanistanwarcombatleadershipMarineU.S. Marine CorpsOperation WhalersOperation Red Wingsmartial artsBrazilian Jiu JitsuBJJJudowrestlingcareer transition

Laura Edwards

Ep. 25: From the Marine Corps to the Mat - Coach Kelly Grissom on BJJ, Lineage, and Leadership (Part 2)

Episode 26: Shared Responsibility Saves Lives: Craig Fugate on Disasters and Leadership

Ep. 24: Coach Kelly Grissom on Operation Whalers, Combat Leadership, and the Path to Jiu Jitsu (Part 1)