Rolling Through Negotiations: First Nations Leadership, BJJ & Business Strategy

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 What does it take to become one of the first female black belts in a male dominated sport and how does that mindset translate to life off the mats?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, Matthew sits down with Kim Cousins, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt and co-host of the Roll or Die podcast. With over 15 years on the mats, Kim reflects on the lessons that have shaped her from building confidence and community through BJJ to learning how to breathe, slow down, and adapt under pressure.Key Takeaways:Breath is your anchor, slowing it down can shift your entire nervous system.Meet people where they’re at, negotiation and training both benefit from empathy and presence.Strategy is timing, knowing when to hold, when to move, and when to let go.This is a thoughtful and honest conversation from someone who’s walked the walk and still shows up with a learner’s mindset.🎧 You can follow Kim’s podcast Roll or Die wherever you listen to your favourite shows.New Rolling Through Negotiations episodes drop every Thursday. Thanks for listening, peace and love to you and until the next one, take care. OSS!Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 Can the mindset you build on the mat help you navigate chaos, set boundaries, and negotiate with clarity?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, Matthew sits down with James “JT” Tomlinson, co-host of Bulletproof for BJJ, black belt under Lachlan Giles, and lifelong coach and movement expert. Together, they explore how the principles of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu intersect with negotiation, emotional intelligence, and self-mastery. From the dangers of going all out with no plan (the 'porrada” mentality) to the power of introspection and belief, this is an honest conversation about learning from your experiences, knowing your limits, and showing up with awareness.  Key Takeaways:Self-awareness is the foundation of any negotiation.You don’t have to go hard all the time and strategy matters. Belief systems shape reality, in training and in life.Chaos is natural and peace comes from learning to move through it.This is a thoughtful, grounded chat between two lifelong learners who understand that every roll, like every conversation, is a chance to reflect, adapt, and grow.If you don’t already follow JT’s work, you can find him on Instagram at @jt_tenacity and through the Bulletproof for BJJ platform.🎧 New episodes every Thursday.Thanks for tuning in to Rolling Through Negotiations. OSS!Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 How do structure, discipline, and self-awareness create better leaders on and off the mats?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Thomas Rozdzynski, 3rd Degree Black Belt, Judo Black Belt, owner and head instructor of RŌL Academy of Jiu Jitsu, Host of The RŌL Radio, and Creator of RŌL TV. With decades of experience as a student, instructor, and leader, Thomas shares how the principles of Jiu Jitsu shape not only how we train, but how we teach, lead, and connect.Key Takeaways:Keep it Simple to Build Trust: Thomas breaks down why clarity, not complexity is key to better communication and stronger relationships.Coaching is Negotiation: From the dojo to leadership teams, Thomas reveals how asking better questions and listening more closely opens doors in any conversation.The Mat Reflects the Mind: If you're negotiating from fear or tension, it shows. Thomas explains how to stay grounded, even under pressure.This is an honest, real, and powerful conversation with one of the most respected voices in the Jiu Jitsu community.Follow Thomas Rozdzynski: Instagram: @rozdzynskibjj Listen to The RŌL Radio: https://www.therolradio.com🎧 New episodes drop every Thursday.Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Rolling Through Negotiations. OSS!Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 How do you stay strong when negotiations start from a place of disadvantage?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Andrew Bacon, a proud Yamaji man, governance and cybersecurity professional, and advocate for Indigenous affairs to talk about the power of voice, self-awareness, and foundations that last.From boardrooms to remote communities, Andrew’s work bridges the corporate and the cultural. With over a decade of experience in governance, risk, compliance, and cyber security, Andrew brings lived experience, inner strength, and a passion for creating space where community voices can be truly heard.We explore how deep listening, mental health, martial arts, and culturally safe practices can shape a better future for all of us navigating high-stakes decisions and internal negotiations.Key Takeaways:Why “listening” is more than a skill, it’s the foundation of respectful negotiation.How mindfulness, movement, and martial arts build inner resilience for difficult conversations.What Indigenous governance can teach us about leadership, innovation, and protecting community.This episode is a reminder that sometimes the strongest negotiations begin quietly, within ourselves.Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/andrewpbacon Learn more about 13YARN: https://www.13yarn.org.au/New episodes drop every Thursday.Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS!Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 What do you do when negotiations escalate beyond words?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Adam Evans, a strategic thinker, military veteran, and co-founder of Anywise Consulting to explore what balance really means when the stakes are high.From leading complex defence projects to fostering agile, values driven teams, Adam brings over 30 years of leadership experience. But it’s his calm under pressure, including a real-life military negotiation that escalated with weapons drawn that shows us the power of empathy, preparation, and clear communication.Key Takeaways:The underrated strength of balance over “win-win”. Why assumptions can be dangerous and how curiosity is your best negotiation tool. How preparation and empathy can prevent even the most heated situations from turning explosive. Whether you're navigating boardroom deals or family dynamics, this episode will challenge how you think about “winning” and highlight why bringing your whole self to the table matters.Learn more about Adam’s work and connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamwevans Anywise Website: https://www.anywise.com.au/New episodes drop every Thursday.Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS! Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 What happens when a fighter, visionary coach, and savvy business owner shares the mental framework that turns setbacks into stepping stones for success?In this new episode, we yarn with Jason Petropoulos, better known as "Argonaut"  a standout MMA fighter in the Geelong combat sports scene, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and co-founder of Adept MMA, Geelong’s premier mixed martial arts and BJJ academy, Jase has spent a lifetime refining his craft. From starting BJJ at 16 to collecting gold medals and multiple championship titles across Victorian, Australian, Pan Pacific, GTA, and Australasian competitions, his journey is a masterclass in discipline and resilience.Key Takeaways:Authenticity in Action: Jase reveals how genuine passion and hard work forge champions, both on the mat and in life.Mindset is Everything: Discover why mental toughness, strategic thinking, and a refusal to settle are the cornerstones of peak performance.Own Your Journey: Learn how taking full responsibility for every win and loss transforms challenges into growth opportunities.Packed with raw insights, this episode shows how embracing a fighter’s mentality can inspire success far beyond the arena. Tune in to hear Jase break down the art of turning every bout into a lesson in life. Follow Jason Petropolous on Instagram: @jasonpetropoulosNew episodes drop every Thursday.Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS! Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 What happens when a lifelong competitor, coach, and mindset expert reveals the mental framework behind peak performance?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Gustavo Dantas, a 6th degree BJJ black belt, world class competitor, and founder of The BJJ Mental Coach podcast. With 35 years in Jiu Jitsu and a deep understanding of mental resilience, Gustavo shares how mindset, discipline, and self-awareness shape not just athletes but high performers in all areas of life.Key Takeaways:Authenticity Wins Battles: Gustavo explains why facing challenges with authenticity, not ego leads to stronger decisions, better performances, and personal growth.Awareness + Action = Transformation: It’s not enough to recognise your fears and limitations; taking massive action is the key to breaking through barriers in Jiu Jitsu and beyond. Own the Outcome: Whether on the mats or at the negotiation table, true power comes from taking full responsibility. Stop blaming the ref, the opponent, or bad luck, learn from every experience and use it to improve.This episode is packed with wisdom from one of Jiu Jitsu’s sharpest minds. Gustavo also shares insights from his upcoming book, Inner Discovery for Outer Success, offering 10 powerful rules for competition, mindset, and personal growth.Follow Gustavo Dantas: Instagram: @gustavodantasbjj Learn more: www.thebjjmentalcoach.comNew episodes drop every Thursday. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS! Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 How do you balance innovation, legal expertise, and the human touch in a fast changing world?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Alex Solo, co-founder of Sprintlaw, a law tech firm transforming the way small businesses access legal services. From launching a disruptive business model to navigating the rapid rise of AI in law, Alex shares deep insights on the intersection of technology, negotiation, and personal balance.🎯 Key Takeaways:Find Your Rhythm in Negotiations: Whether it’s music, business, or BJJ, success comes from knowing your team, playing to your strengths, and creating harmony in decision making.Technology Won’t Replace Human Connection: AI is a powerful tool, but when it comes to law and negotiations, understanding people’s true interests and emotions still makes all the difference.The Art of Balancing Innovation and Structure: The best businesses (and negotiations) blend strong systems and processes with the flexibility to adapt, the creativity to innovate, and the human touch to build real connections.From legal tech disruption to personal lessons on leadership, negotiation, and creativity, this episode explores how to embrace innovation without losing the human connection.Follow Alex Solo on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/asoloNew episodes every Thursday! Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS!Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 How do First Nations leadership, resilience, and truth shape success in business, negotiations, and life?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we sit down with Mervyn Fernando, a proud Dunghutti and Kamilaroi First Nations leader, dedicated Christian, and founder of Claystone Marketing, Indigenous Medical Supplies, and AIQCAI Institute of Ethics. Merv shares his journey from a freelancer to a business leader, how he navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship, and why truth is the most powerful force in marketing and negotiation.🎯 Key Takeaways:Roll with the Punches: Whether in the boxing ring, business, or negotiations, setbacks are inevitable. Merv explains how staying composed, adapting, and keeping forward momentum are the key to long term success.Leadership is More Than a Title: Merv shares his transition from a solo entrepreneur to leading a team, discussing the balance between micromanagement, trust, and setting a strong example for others.Marketing as Influence in Negotiation: Merv reveals how the same three steps in marketing knowing your audience, crafting the right message, and choosing the right channel are key to successful negotiations.Protecting First Nations Businesses from Black Cladding: Merv shares how learning every aspect of his business gave him full control, helping him avoid pitfalls like black cladding. He leaves us with a thought provoking question: Have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities negotiated a fair deal with this country?Follow Merv on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/mervyn-fernandoThanks for listening, and we’ll see you next Thursday on Rolling Through Negotiations! OSS!Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.

Send in a question or comment via text. 🥋 How do resilience, identity, and love shape the way we negotiate in life and business?In this episode of Rolling Through Negotiations, we’re joined by Uncle Lionel Dukakis, a Proud Gunditjmara Man, business leader, and survivor of the Stolen Generation. As Managing Director of First Nations Traffic Management & First Nations Labour Hire Pty Ltd, he has turned hardship into a mission to uplift First Nations workers.Born in 1962, under policies that denied First Nations people recognition as citizens and treated them as part of the fauna and flora, Uncle Lionel was not recognised as a human being under Australian law. As a member of the Stolen Generation, he was taken from his mother at just 18 months old, raised in foster care, and forced to start life at a disadvantage. Despite these hardships, he went on to create a thriving Indigenous owned business, helping First Nations workers gain employment and and financial independence across the country.🎯 Key Insights:Resilience in Business & Life: Despite the deep trauma of growing up disconnected from his culture and family, Uncle Lionel refused to let pain define him, choosing resilience over addiction. Today, he is a leader in Indigenous business, creating opportunities for First Nations workers across the country. But above all, he is a proud father and grandfather, with a big, loving family that keeps him grounded and inspired every day.Knowing Who You Are: He highlights how cultural identity plays a key role in negotiations, whether in business, community, or personal growth and why standing strong in who you are is non negotiable.Love as a Negotiation Strategy: At the core of Uncle Lionel’s work is love for family, for mob, for creating lasting change. He shares how love can be a powerful tool in overcoming challenges and leading with integrity.📢 Connect with Uncle Lionel’s WorkSupport Uncle Lionel’s mission by following and engaging with First Nations Traffic Management & First Nations Labour Hire Pty Ltd.🔗 Follow Uncle Lionel on LinkedIn: Lionel DukakisDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.