The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset

Peter M Deeley Jr. and Professor Lucas Rubbo
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset

When you improve your Jiujitsu, you improve your life. Lessons on the mat are life lessons. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Welcome to The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset.

  1. NOV 17

    Unlocking the Magic of Jiu Jitsu: An Interview with Professor Alex Darwin

    What do Jiu Jitsu and creative writing have in common? Join Pete Deeley and Professor Alex Darwin as they explore the surprising connections between discipline, creativity, and martial arts.  Many practitioners of Jiu Jitsu—and those curious about the sport—seek both physical growth and a deeper sense of purpose. This episode delves into how Jiu Jitsu can inspire personal and professional transformation, especially for those discovering it later in life or balancing it with creative pursuits.  Learn how the discipline of Jiu Jitsu can enhance your focus and perseverance in other areas of life, including creative endeavors.  Gain insights into the mental and physical benefits of Jiu Jitsu, from improving resilience to fostering a sense of achievement and well-being.  Discover how Jiu Jitsu gyms create vibrant communities that support self-improvement and personal connections at any stage of life.  Discover how Jiu Jitsu can unlock your potential and creativity—hit play now to hear Professor Alex Darwin’s inspiring journey and insights! In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Mindset, host Pete Deeley interviews Professor Alex Darwin, delving into the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu in Alex's life. With Professor Lucas away, Pete goes solo to uncover Alex's journey from a self-proclaimed dorky kid to an accomplished Jiu Jitsu professor, entrepreneur, and author. Alex discusses his book series 'The Combat Codes,' the discipline required for both Jiu Jitsu and writing, and the unique challenges and benefits of competition. Highlighting stories of students finding a 'third place' in Jiu Jitsu, the episode explores themes of personal growth, community, and the continuous pursuit of mastery. 00:00 Welcome to the Jiu Jitsu Mindset 00:47 Introducing Professor Alex Darwin 01:26 The Impact of Jiu Jitsu on Life and Career 03:26 The Artistic and Athletic Journey 09:12 The Unique Nature of Jiu Jitsu 13:33 The Role of Competition in Jiu Jitsu 18:13 Memorable Moments and Personal Stories 21:15 The Social and Mental Benefits of Jiu Jitsu 26:04 Where to Find More About Professor Alex Darwin 27:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    30 min
  2. NOV 14

    Alignment and Transformation with Professor Rob Biernacki

    How can alignment in Jiu Jitsu transform not just your skills, but your entire approach to life? Dive into this compelling conversation as Pete Deeley and Professor Rob Biernacki unpack the philosophy behind Jiu Jitsu mastery. For many practitioners, memorizing moves can feel overwhelming, and the physical demands of Jiu Jitsu can seem daunting, especially for those without a natural athletic background. This episode offers a fresh perspective on mastering Jiu Jitsu through alignment principles and a mindset shift, paving a more accessible path to growth for all practitioners. Discover how the principles of posture, base, and structure can help you build a strong foundation, making Jiu Jitsu techniques more effective and sustainable. Learn how competition and stress inoculation can strengthen resilience, providing practical tools to handle challenges on and off the mats. Be inspired by transformation stories of students who overcame physical limitations through a cerebral approach, proving that Jiu Jitsu is accessible to everyone willing to embrace its principles. Tap into Professor Rob’s transformative insights and start building a resilient, aligned Jiu Jitsu practice today—hit play and begin your journey! The Jiu Jitsu Mindset: Exploring Martial Arts, Philosophy, and Personal Growth with Professor Rob Biernacki In this episode of 'The Jiu Jitsu Mindset,' host Pete Deeley welcomes Professor Rob Biernacki for an in-depth conversation about their martial arts journeys. They discuss the philosophy behind jiu jitsu, the importance of alignment in grappling, and how martial arts training impacts both mind and body. Rob shares personal stories of competition, the significance of skill acquisition, and the value of teaching jiu jitsu concepts. They also explore how jiu jitsu can instill confidence and resilience, particularly in students who begin their training with physical or emotional challenges. This episode highlights the transformative power of jiu jitsu and its broader philosophical implications. 00:00 Introduction and Announcements 00:51 Interview with Professor Rob Biernacki 01:22 Alternative Career Paths 02:42 Philosophical Foundations of Martial Arts 17:48 The Importance of Alignment in Jiu Jitsu 28:31 Jiu-Jitsu as a Sport and Game 29:17 The Importance of Competition 31:10 Personal Experiences in Competition 36:27 Memorable Matches and Lessons Learned 48:11 Transformative Power of Jiu-Jitsu 53:41 Teaching and Student Success Stories 54:33 Resources and Visiting Program 57:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    59 min
  3. NOV 9

    Crafting Diamonds: The Value of Pressure with Xande Ribeiro

    Have you ever wondered how a world-class Jiu Jitsu champion's mindset could transform your life on and off the mat? Discover how cultivating a champion's mentality can help you overcome daily challenges and achieve your goals, both in Jiu Jitsu and beyond. • In this episode, you'll learn:   - How to develop mental resilience and adaptability   - The profound connections between Jiu Jitsu, nature, and personal growth   - Practical strategies for maintaining honesty and consistency in your practiceListen now to gain invaluable insights from Professor Xande Ribeiro that could revolutionize your approach to Jiu Jitsu and life! The Jiu Jitsu Mindset: Insights with Professor Xande Ribeiro The conversation with Professor Ribeiro delves into the importance of mindset in life and Jiu Jitsu, his hypothetical career path had he not pursued Jiu Jitsu, and the profound connections between humans, nature, and the sport. Professor Ribeiro shares personal stories and transformative impacts Jiu Jitsu has had on individuals, emphasizes the importance of honesty and consistency in teaching, and reflects on memorable competitions. The episode also explores the philosophical depth of Jiu Jitsu, its discipline, and the profound impact it can have on peoples' lives. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:51 Guest Introduction: Professor Xande Ribeiro 01:51 Imagining Life Without Jiu Jitsu 04:50 Connection and Community in Jiu Jitsu 08:50 Teaching Philosophy and Techniques 25:34 The Role of Competition in Jiu Jitsu 27:39 The Essence of Competition 28:36 Facing Emotional Barriers 30:21 Discipline and Mindset 31:41 The Role of Competition in Personal Growth 32:46 Teaching and Leadership in Jiu Jitsu 34:38 The Importance of Honesty and Structure 36:34 Memorable Competitions and Achievements 40:29 Transformative Stories of Jiu Jitsu 42:59 The Philosophy of Jiu Jitsu 45:53 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    49 min
  4. NOV 8

    Strategies for Learning and Life: A Conversation with Steve Kwan

    Curious how Jiu Jitsu principles can enhance your life beyond the mat? Join Pete Deeley and Professor Steve Kwan as they unpack the art of skill-building and personal growth in Jiu Jitsu. Many people seek ways to learn skills faster and improve themselves through community and feedback. This episode explores how the lessons from Jiu Jitsu, like immediate feedback and community support, can accelerate skill acquisition and lead to meaningful personal growth. Discover how instant feedback in Jiu Jitsu can sharpen your learning process and help you improve faster in all areas of life. Learn how to leverage the support and structure of a community to push personal growth and maintain motivation. Gain insights into applying Jiu Jitsu principles, such as adaptability and resilience, to everyday challenges and personal development goals. Dive into this episode to unlock powerful techniques for mastering skills and strengthening your mindset—hit play and start your journey today! In this episode of The Jiu Jitsu Mindset, host Pete Deeley sits down with Professor Steve Kwan to discuss the intersection of jiu jitsu and general skill acquisition. They delve into Steve's journey, including the development of the BJJ Mental Models platform, and explore the personal and social impacts of jiu jitsu. Steve shares insights on the importance of receiving immediate feedback in jiu jitsu, the value of community, and how principles from the mat can be applied to various life aspects. They also cover the evolution of jiu jitsu skill levels over time and the role of competition in the sport. Essential listening for anyone interested in the deeper connections between jiu jitsu and personal growth. 00:00 Introduction and Host Update 00:32 Guest Introduction: Professor Steve Kwan 00:51 Journey into Jiu Jitsu 03:28 Skill Acquisition in Jiu Jitsu 05:02 Mental Models and Decision Making 12:28 The Social Side of Jiu Jitsu 20:01 Competition and Its Role 28:44 Personal Stories and Impact 32:50 Where to Find More: BJJ Mental Models 34:25 Conclusion and Farewell

    36 min
  5. NOV 2

    Resilience and Growth with Professor Jeff Shaw

    How can Jiu Jitsu teach you resilience, balance, and personal growth—both on and off the mats? Join host Pete Deeley and Professor Jeff Shaw for a conversation that explores these core aspects of the Jiu Jitsu journey. In a world that demands both mental toughness and a healthy balance between work and passion, Jiu Jitsu offers valuable lessons that align with your goals of personal growth and building resilience. This episode dives into how Jiu Jitsu can shape not just skills but also mindset, benefiting all areas of life. Gain insights on developing resilience through Jiu Jitsu, a skill that can enhance mental strength in all aspects of life. Learn how to balance passion for Jiu Jitsu with other life commitments, fostering a sustainable and fulfilling training routine. Discover the universal lessons within the Jiu Jitsu community that promote growth, support, and continuous learning. Ready to deepen your resilience and find balance through Jiu Jitsu? Hit play and unlock insights from Professor Jeff Shaw’s journey today! The Jiu Jitsu Mindset: Insights with Professor Jeff Shaw In this engaging episode of 'The Jiu Jitsu Mindset,' host Pete Deeley welcomes Professor Jeff Shaw for a deep dive into the diverse aspects of Jiu Jitsu. They discuss the importance of resilience, the role of competition, and the impact Jiu Jitsu has on personal and community growth. Professor Shaw shares anecdotes about his own competitive experiences and the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu in various walks of life. They touch on the significance of balancing passion and professional life, fostering a healthy training environment, and the universality of learning within the Jiu Jitsu community.   00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk 00:32 Guest Introduction: Professor Jeff Shaw 02:20 The Journey to Jiu Jitsu 04:21 Building a Jiu Jitsu Community 06:50 Teaching and Learning Jiu Jitsu 13:47 The Role of Competition 17:54 The Importance of Basics in Jiu-Jitsu 18:05 Learning from Diverse Training Experiences 18:33 The Myth of the Magic Technique 19:15 Competition Lessons and Personal Growth 19:50 Memorable Matches and Valuable Lessons 21:05 The Real Value of Jiu-Jitsu 24:11 Jiu-Jitsu as a Metaphor for Life 27:21 Community and Personal Stories 35:18 The Role of Honesty and Clarity in Training 37:36 Connecting with the Jiu-Jitsu Community

    40 min
  6. OCT 30

    Inspired Discipline: Jiu Jitsu Lessons On and Off the Mat

    Curious how two top Jiu Jitsu professors balance discipline, spirituality, and the mat? Dive into this episode with Professors Alexis and Gustavo Fonseca as they share their unique journeys. Many practitioners seek more than just physical skill from Jiu Jitsu—they want personal growth, discipline, and a supportive community. This episode unpacks how martial arts can transform lives both mentally and spiritually, aligning with your pursuit of a balanced, growth-focused mindset. Gain insights into the powerful connection between spiritual practices and Jiu Jitsu, which can elevate your mental focus and resilience. Discover the transformative potential of a growth mindset, as shared through personal stories that can motivate you to push past challenges. Learn the essentials of building a supportive community that can enrich your Jiu Jitsu experience and personal development journey. Tap into the wisdom of two experienced professors to enrich your own Jiu Jitsu journey—hit play and start transforming your mindset today! The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset: Conversations on Discipline, Growth, and Community with Professors Alexis and Gustavo Fonseca The episode explores their transition from potential careers in coaching and meditation to dedicating themselves fully to jiu-jitsu. The professors share stories about their early struggles, moments of competition, and the deeper connection between spiritual practices and martial arts. The conversation further delves into the impact of jiu-jitsu on individuals, highlighting heartwarming transformations within their community. Amidst personal anecdotes and reflections, the importance of fostering a growth mindset and building a supportive jiu-jitsu community shines through.   00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:45 Guests Introduction and Initial Discussion 00:53 Alternative Career Paths and Early Influences 03:04 The Impact of Coaches and Mentors 05:10 Spiritual Connections and Jiu Jitsu 12:15 The Gentle Art and Technique Mastery 18:32 Challenges and Growth in Jiu Jitsu 28:19 The Role of Competition in Jiu Jitsu 29:15 Creating a Competitive Atmosphere 30:33 Memorable Moments in Competition 33:50 The Importance of Belief and Support 36:44 Balancing Competition and Personal Goals 44:58 Transformative Power of Jiu Jitsu 51:44 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    55 min
  7. OCT 28

    Mastering Defense: Coach Priit Mihkelson's Insights into Jiu Jitsu and Life

    Ever wondered how a journey from UFOs and spiritual books could lead to mastering Jiu Jitsu? Tune in as Coach Priit Mihkelson shares his incredible path from youthful exploration to becoming one of Estonia's most respected martial arts coaches. Many Jiu Jitsu practitioners struggle with balancing defense and offense, often feeling vulnerable on the mats. This episode dives into the wisdom of emphasizing defense—a mindset shift that could revolutionize your approach to martial arts and improve your performance.    - Discover how focusing on defense can enhance your offensive skills and create a stronger foundation on the mat.    - Learn about Priit Mihkelson's unique martial arts journey and how it shaped his teaching philosophy, which can bring fresh insights to your own practice.    - Gain inspiration from Priit's experience in developing elite grapplers and coaching across disciplines, from boxing to wrestling, that could motivate you in your Jiu Jitsu journey. Don’t miss the chance to gain valuable insights from a coach with over two decades of experience—hit play and take your Jiu Jitsu mindset to the next level today! The conversation shines a light on defense's role in enhancing offensive capabilities and overall performance. It concludes with Priit sharing his notable achievements and his profound influence on students, nurturing top-tier grapplers in Estonia, and remaining committed to spreading his knowledge through various platforms.   00:00 Introduction and Host Update 00:37 Guest Introduction: Priit Mihkelson 01:23 Preet's Journey: From Basketball to Martial Arts 04:05 Stage Fighting and Early Career 05:08 The Impact of Martial Arts on Priit's Life 10:45 Transition to Jiu Jitsu 13:28 Challenges in Wing Chun and Embracing Jiu Jitsu 21:02 The Philosophy of Defense in Jiu Jitsu 25:09 The Importance of Defense in Jiu Jitsu 26:43 Epiphany and Evolution of Techniques 27:50 Teaching Defense and Survival 28:48 Influences and Philosophies 36:27 Competition as a Teaching Tool 40:31 Memorable Fights and Personal Growth 43:44 Success Stories and Impact of Jiu Jitsu 47:29 Where to Find More Instruction 49:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    51 min
  8. OCT 25

    Finding Strength: A Conversation with Professor Jen Zanotti-Ferrari

    How can simple shifts in fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle transform your physical and mental well-being? If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by life’s pressures or struggled with self-belief and stress management, this episode delves into strategies and real-life examples that show how the right mindset and community can help you rise above these challenges. Discover actionable steps to improve your well-being by balancing fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. Learn the role of community and competition in building resilience and stress management. Gain insights into unique retreat experiences blending Jiu Jitsu, meditation, and self-care techniques for a holistic approach to growth. Hit play now to uncover practical strategies for a healthier, stronger, and more mindful lifestyle with The Jiu Jitsu Mindset! The Transformative Journey of Jiu Jitsu: Insights and Inspirations We discuss the profound impact of fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle changes on their physical and mental well-being. The episode also covers personal journeys, such as managing a gym and winning double gold in competitions, shedding light on the internal and external pressures of life changes. The speakers talk about building self-belief, stress management through competition, and fostering a supportive community. Additionally, the episode explores unique retreats that blend Jiu Jitsu with meditation, yoga, and Reiki, emphasizing the mental and physical presence required. Listeners are provided with insights on self-improvement, self-discovery, and the enduring community created through Jiu Jitsu. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:47 Guest Introduction: Professor Zanotti Ferrari 00:56 The Role of Jiu Jitsu in Life 01:45 Personal Transformation Journey 02:33 The Impact of Fitness and Nutrition 07:23 Cultural Connections and Family 09:20 The Love for Jiu Jitsu 12:57 Competitive Experiences and Lessons 19:07 Personal Reflections and Childhood Memories 20:46 The Importance of Physical Activity 21:52 Creating a Positive Training Environment 23:17 The Value of Competition 28:30 Transformative Power of Jiu Jitsu 32:24 Community and Trust in Jiu Jitsu 35:56 Retreats and Future Plans 37:29 Conclusion and Contact Information

    39 min
5
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

When you improve your Jiujitsu, you improve your life. Lessons on the mat are life lessons. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Welcome to The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset.

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