In this episode of the Jiu-Jitsu Mindset, Pete Deley hosts Dr. Kris Martin to discuss his unique journey as both a Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a physical therapist. They explore how his Jiu-Jitsu experience informs his healing practice and vice versa. Dr. Martin shares insights into the physical and mental demands of Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of competition in personal development, and the distinct qualities of Jiu-Jitsu athletes. He also talks about his work with UCLA's Jiu-Jitsu club and his onli...
May 26, 2025•33 min
In this episode of The Jiujitsu Mindset, Pete Deeley welcomes Dr. Diana Wang, a physical therapist with a passion for Jiujitsu. Dr. Wang shares her journey from a high school student interested in sports medicine to a physical therapist focused on the Jiujitsu community. They discuss the intersection of physical therapy and Jiu-Jitsu, including the unique mindset of Jiu-Jitsu athletes and the importance of tailored rehabilitation. Dr. Wang also reflects on her personal experiences in Juujitsu, i...
May 13, 2025•32 min
In this episode, Professor Rob Biernacki delves into his jiu-jitsu journey, highlighting memorable matches and the validation he has gained from his unique training methods. He recollects two pivotal matches that proved his capabilities: a victory against Todd Margolis at the Nogi Worlds, and a strategic win over Dave Porter at the ADCC Open in Vancouver. Additionally, Professor Rob discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and the struggle for legitimacy in the jiu-jitsu community. He praises infl...
May 05, 2025•43 min
Jujitsu with Alfie Penny: The Intersection of Sport, Discipline, and Life In this episode of the Jujitsu Mindset, host Pete Deeley interviews jujitsu practitioner and coach Alfie Penny. Alfie shares his journey through various sports, emphasizing how jujitsu and rugby shaped his character and discipline. The conversation delves into the similarities between different athletic pursuits, the significance of 'mat time' for skill acquisition, and the importance of playfulness in training. Alfie disc...
Apr 17, 2025•31 min
The Jujitsu Mindset: From Competition to Character Development with Professor Jeff Haddad In this episode of 'The Jujitsu Mindset,' host Pete Deley welcomes Professor Jeff Haddad, a seasoned competitor and experienced teacher in various martial arts. The conversation delves into Haddad's career, his alternate passions such as astrophysics, and the role of discipline in jiujitsu. They discuss the mental and physical challenges unique to jiujitsu, the importance of consistency in skill acquisition...
Mar 18, 2025•27 min
How does Jiu Jitsu help build resilience when life throws its toughest challenges your way? Tune in as Justin Lesko shares his inspiring journey through adversity and transformation. Many people struggle with setbacks—physical, mental, or emotional—and seek a path to regain confidence, resilience, and balance. This episode explores how Jiu Jitsu can serve as a powerful tool for overcoming life's obstacles, shaping both mental and physical strength. Discover how Jiu Jitsu fosters perseverance and...
Dec 21, 2024•42 min
The Jiu Jitsu Mindset: Resilience, Loss, and Advocacy with Marcus Kowal In this episode of The Jiu Jitsu Mindset hosted by Pete Deeley, Marcus Kowal shares his extraordinary journey from martial arts to becoming an advocate against drunk driving following the tragic loss of his son, Liam. Kowal discusses his life from growing up in Sweden, his passion for fighting, his move to Mexico to hone his skills, and his transition to mixed martial arts (MMA). Kowal also touches on his time in the militar...
Dec 20, 2024•44 min
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. Lea...
Nov 17, 2024•30 min
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 ...
Nov 14, 2024•59 min
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 practiceListe...
Nov 09, 2024•49 min
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 J...
Nov 08, 2024•36 min
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, ...
Nov 02, 2024•40 min
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...
Oct 30, 2024•55 min
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 yo...
Oct 28, 2024•51 min
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 c...
Oct 25, 2024•39 min
The Transformative Power and Interplay of Capoeira and Jiu Jitsu Have you ever wondered how blending two martial arts like Capoeira and Jiu Jitsu can unlock a new level of athleticism and personal growth? In this episode of the Jiu Jitsu Mindset, host Pete Deeley speaks with Tum Energia, a martial arts instructor from the Netherlands, about his journey from being an elementary teacher to a dedicated practitioner of Capoeira and Jiu Jitsu. They explore the physical and mental benefits of both mar...
Oct 25, 2024•34 min
What can a 25-year Jiu Jitsu journey teach you about long-term success, both on and off the mats? Whether you're just starting your Jiu Jitsu journey or already a seasoned practitioner, you might be wondering how to maintain that "beginner's mindset" to keep progressing. In this episode, Professor Beto Vilanova shares his secrets to lifelong growth through Jiu Jitsu, valuable for anyone striving to improve continuously, stay humble, and build a strong community. Discover the key principles behin...
Oct 20, 2024•37 min
Have you ever wondered how real-life altercations and unpredictable confrontations can completely shift your mindset and approach to life? In today's world, understanding how to manage aggression, make quick decisions under pressure, and adapt as you age can be the difference between staying safe or being caught off guard. This episode explores how these critical lessons apply to both everyday life and high-stress situations. Gain insights from experts in street altercations and security confron...
Oct 15, 2024•59 min
Dr. Sarah Turner, also known as the Rebel Scientist, talks about the importance of the gut-brain connection and the benefits of red light therapy. They discuss how healthy lifestyle choices, such as proper nutrition, sleep, and exposure to natural light, can enhance one's jiu jitsu practice and overall wellness. Dr. Turner explains the science behind red light therapy, its applications, and how it can aid in brain health, injury recovery, and stress management. She shares compelling stories, inc...
Oct 13, 2024•31 min
Ever wonder how Jiu Jitsu can transform not just your body, but your entire mindset and approach to life? If you’ve been seeking a way to channel aggression, develop mental clarity, or build lasting confidence, this episode dives deep into how Jiu Jitsu can be a life-changing tool—not just for the physical, but for the mental and emotional battles we face. Learn how Professor Shelby Young transitioned from aggression to a calm, methodical approach through Jiu Jitsu. Discover the mental and emoti...
Oct 12, 2024•33 min
Have you ever wondered how Jiu Jitsu can transform not just your physical abilities but your entire life path? In this episode, Professor Jeff Serafin shares how Jiu Jitsu took him from feeling lost as a teenager to building a thriving career and a community. If you're looking to find purpose, overcome obstacles, or deepen your connection to Jiu Jitsu, this conversation has something valuable for you. Learn how to leverage Jiu Jitsu as a tool for personal growth and mental resilience. Discover t...
Oct 11, 2024•41 min
How can practicing Jiu Jitsu help you manage stress and improve your resilience? In this episode, we dive into how the discipline of Jiu Jitsu translates into everyday life. From building mental toughness to managing personal and professional stress, Professor Ray Griffin shares his insights on using Jiu Jitsu principles, grounded in military experience, to navigate life’s challenges. 1. Uncover the deep history of Jiu Jitsu’s growth in the U.S. and the role of the Gracie family. 2. Explore how ...
Oct 08, 2024•48 min
Have you ever wondered how practicing a martial art like Jiu Jitsu can transform not just your body, but your mindset and approach to life's toughest challenges? In today's fast-paced world, building confidence, resilience, and a sense of community can be harder than ever. Discover how the principles of Jiu Jitsu can help you grow mentally and emotionally, equipping you to face personal struggles and rise stronger. Learn how Jiu Jitsu sharpens focus and builds resilience, even outside the gym. H...
Oct 04, 2024•31 min
How does an athlete transition from football to strongman to jiu jitsu, mastering discipline and consistency along the way? If you're seeking to elevate your athletic mindset, whether you're a martial artist, strength trainer, or simply striving for personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights into how discipline and hard work across different sports can transform your performance. Learn the key mental and physical principles that allow athletes to excel across multiple sports. Underst...
Oct 01, 2024•44 min
Whether you’re facing post-military challenges, striving for personal growth, or just curious about the power of Jiu Jitsu, this episode dives into how one man’s journey can serve as inspiration for anyone looking to push through their limits. Discover how consistent training in Jiu Jitsu can transform your mindset and life beyond the mat. Learn how a supportive mentor can guide you through fear and uncertainty toward confidence and skill. Hear powerful real-life stories of students, including t...
Sep 30, 2024•32 min
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a multiple-time world champion in Jiu Jitsu while helping the sport evolve on a global scale? In today's competitive world, athletes are constantly seeking ways to level up their skills, mindset, and training regimen. Whether you're an aspiring competitor or a dedicated practitioner, understanding the mindset of champions like Bernardo Faria can bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be Discover how humility and trust shape succe...
Sep 26, 2024•44 min
In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Mindset, Peter welcomes back Professor Lucas. They discuss the launch of their first online academy course for kids aged 7 to 14, available at jujitsumindsetacademy.com. Professor Lucas shares his most memorable fights, recounting his very first competition at 12 years old in Sao Paulo and an intense match as a black belt. The episode highlights the growth and learning experiences from losses in competitions, and ends with a promotion for their new online course desi...
Sep 07, 2024•13 min
How can one sport transform your life physically, mentally, and emotionally? Whether you're just starting out or have been practicing for years, this episode explores how Jiu Jitsu can solve problems like improving fitness, fostering resilience, and building a strong sense of community—no matter your experience level. Discover how Keith Steinacher's 13-year Jiu Jitsu journey improved his health and mindset. Learn about the benefits of competing and how Jiu Jitsu fosters a powerful, supportive co...
Sep 06, 2024•31 min
What drives someone to walk away from an academic career for a life on the mats? Whether you're struggling with balancing your passions with your career or searching for a deeper sense of fulfillment, this episode explores how one man’s journey can provide the insights you need. Learn how Corey Guitard transitioned from academia to teaching jiu jitsu full-time and what he learned along the way. Discover the parallels between skill acquisition in jiu jitsu and other areas of life, and how intenti...
Sep 02, 2024•34 min
Is Jiu-Jitsu truly an individual sport, or is it actually the ultimate team endeavor? Whether you're a solo competitor or seeking a supportive training community, this episode unpacks how Jiu Jitsu’s unique blend of personal challenge and teamwork can accelerate your growth both on and off the mat. Learn how to balance personal mastery with the strength of training alongside others. Discover the power of accountability in pushing your limits. Find out how connection and community in Jiu Jitsu fo...
Sep 01, 2024•9 min
