Lauren Barone is a blue belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, entrepreneur, and the visionary behind Philly Phenoms, a sci-fi-inspired pro grappling franchise designed to create real opportunities for hardworking athletes, especially women. In this exclusive interview, Lauren shares her journey from hobbyist to leader, how she balances her projects, and why representation on the mats matters more than ever.
1. What was the moment you realized you were hooked on jiu-jitsu?
Growing up a fan of martial arts definitely laid the foundation for me. Starting classes at the same time as my husband helped a lot too. Having a built-in training partner made the early days easier and more fun.
2. Why did no-gi become your preferred style?
I still have a lot of respect for the gi and enjoy it now and then. But the pace and freedom of no-gi really match how I like to move and solve problems.
3. Your ‘Thicc Girl Jitsu’ message is super empowering. What inspired it?
As a heavyweight competitor, I fully embrace the nickname and have fun with it. I hope that confidence and silliness help others feel more comfortable owning who they are on the mat.
4. What have you learned from training with 10th Planet and Nomad Grappling Team?
Nomad Grappling Team, who sponsors me, has supported me so much throughout my journey. Training with 10th Planet has also been amazing, especially diving into leg locks and different grappling systems.
5. Philly Phenoms is all about athlete opportunity. What’s the mission behind it?
I wanted to help hardworking athletes get onto the pro grappling stage. I’ve already suggested names for women’s matches, and I’d love to see a full women’s PGF bracket in the future!
6. How do you balance being both an athlete and an entrepreneur?
My schedule has definitely changed while juggling multiple projects. Hiring a small team has helped a ton. I rely heavily on structure, checklists, and being organized.
7. Which of your projects feels the most you, and why?
Philly Phenoms is the most me. Owning this new franchise is incredibly exciting. As a sci-fi fan, I love the theming and I’m always brainstorming fun ideas to hype the brand and spread the message.
Her work stands out not only for its creativity but also for its impact. In a sport where representation still lacks, Lauren Barone is setting a bold example. Through inclusive branding, athlete advocacy, and fearless leadership, she is proving that success in grappling comes in many shapes, styles, and stories.
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It’s worth noting that “Thicc Girl Jitsu” and Philly Phenoms are two distinct but equally powerful expressions of Lauren Barone’s presence in the grappling world.
“Thicc Girl Jitsu” is her personal brand, rooted in confidence, inclusivity, and humor. It’s a body-positive message for women who don’t see themselves represented in the traditional jiu-jitsu image.
Philly Phenoms is her professional franchise, themed around science fiction. As a proud sci-fi fan, Lauren built a grappling team that blends athletic performance with creativity and storytelling. It’s not just a team, it’s a movement.
We thank Lauren Barone for taking the time to share her journey with us. More importantly, we thank her for what she is building within the jiu-jitsu community. Whether she is creating new platforms for athletes, challenging outdated body norms, or bringing fresh energy to the sport, her work is a clear example of what empowerment looks like on and off the mats.
Lauren’s approach blends performance, personality, and purpose. As she continues to grow Philly Phenoms, she’s also inspiring a new generation of confident, unapologetic grapplers. She is not just grappling opponents, she is grappling expectations and changing the game.