Kurt Pellegrino’s Unstoppable Journey To The UFC and Beyond: Dyslexia, Bullies & Fatherhood
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
Release Date: 05/16/2024
You’re Not Competing With AI—We're Merging With It - With AI Educator Matt Konwiser
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
In this conversation AI Designer, Educator, Futurist and Educator Matt Konwiser discusses the complexities and implications of Artificial Intelligence, particularly generative AI, with a focus on its impact on creativity, technology, and society. Konwiser emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential risks and benefits of AI integration into daily life, and the philosophical questions surrounding AI's evolution and its relationship with humanity. In this conversation, host Jay Alders & Konwiser explore the evolving subjective nature of art, the...
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"They Told Us To Trust The Science’—But Whose Science?" - Dr. Michael J. Schwartz
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
COVID changed everything—our freedoms, our beliefs, and even how we think about science itself. But in the aftermath of lockdowns, mandates, and mass fear, one question remains: Did we actually follow science, or just a carefully crafted narrative? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael J. Schwartz, a medical expert specializing in genetics, respiratory pathogens, and immunology, who has analyzed over 19,000 patients and 44,000 test results throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As a clinic owner, laboratory director, and author of and “,” Dr. Schwartz has firsthand knowledge of how...
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Click Here or Stay Broke: Steal Whitney Bonds’ Affiliate Marketing and Passive Income Secrets to Ditch the 9-5 Forever
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
In this episode, we sit down with entrepreneur and YouTuber Whitney Bonds, who transformed her career from a virtual assistant gig into a thriving online business. Whitney opens up about her path to passive income through YouTube and affiliate marketing, revealing how she built a flexible lifestyle that lets her work from home while raising a family. Perfect for entrepreneurs, career-switchers, and anyone feeling trapped in a traditional job, this conversation dives into the realities—good and bad—of designing a life with financial freedom. Whitney shares practical...
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Thinking of Quitting Your Job? Listen to This First— How You Can Break Free with CEO Aaron Harper
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
Ever feel stuck in life, knowing you’re capable of more but unsure how to break through? In this episode, I sit down with Aaron Harper, CEO of Rolling Suds, who took an unexpected leap from corporate America into building a thriving national power washing empire. Aaron doesn’t hold back—he shares the raw, unfiltered truth about risk, reinvention, and the mindset shifts that separate successful entrepreneurs from the ones who stay stuck. We talk about why most people never start, how to push past fear, and the unexpected lessons he’s learned along the way. If you’re itching to take...
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Comfort Zones Are Killing Your Soul: Why I Chose to Risk It All with Matt Dawson
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
What happens when you leave the corporate grind to conquer the world’s tallest peaks and row across oceans? In this episode, Jay Alders dives into the incredible journey of Matt Dawson, a former investment banker turned world record adventurer. Discover how loss, pain, and stepping outside of his comfort zone transformed Matt’s life—and how it can transform yours. Whether you’re stuck in a rut, craving adventure, or looking for the spark to change your path, this conversation will inspire you to risk it all and find your true purpose. ---- Support our sponsors: The DNA Company: DNA...
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Building Warriors: The Vision Behind The Tactical Games with Nick Thayer
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
In this episode, Jay Alders chats with Nick Thayer, President of The Tactical Games, about his journey from U.S. Coast Guard veteran to leader of one of the most intense fitness and shooting competitions in the world. Nick shares how The Tactical Games combines athleticism, marksmanship, and mental toughness, creating a unique challenge for competitors of all backgrounds. Discover how Nick’s unconventional path and entrepreneurial mindset have helped shape the sport, its growing community, and its impact on participants worldwide. Whether you’re into fitness, firearms, or simply love...
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Creative Identity Crisis: Searching For The Joy in Art Again with Artist Bo Bramwell
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
In this heartfelt episode of the Shifting Perceptions Podcast, artist Bo Bramwell joins Jay Alders for a deep dive into the vulnerable side of being a creative. Known for his intricate, surreal pen-and-ink and digital art, Bo has collaborated with music legends like , , and and exhibited alongside the visionary artist . But beyond his success, Bo shares the inner struggles that resonate with so many artists: dealing with creative blocks, facing identity crises, and managing the weight of public expectations. He and Jay open up about the intense emotional journey that comes with making...
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Silent Suffering is Killing Us As Men - Practical Advice for Modern Men: Interview with Traver Boehm - Hosted by Jay Alders
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
Welcome to the Shifting Perceptions Podcast, hosted by Jay Alders with special guest Traver Boehm, founder of the Man Uncivilized Movement and author of and In this episode, we dive deep into the silent struggles that many men face, especially those in their 30s to 50s, who often carry the weight of the world on their shoulders while keeping their pain hidden. Are you feeling the pressure to be the provider, the strong one, the man who has it all together? Do you sometimes feel like you’re drowning in expectations—both self-imposed and from society—without a safe space to express your...
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The Surfing Entrepreneur Behind Indo Board: Meet Hunter Joslin
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
Ever wondered how a simple idea can revolutionize an industry? Meet Hunter Joslin, the surfing Entrepreneur and Founder of a game-changer in fitness and sports. My chats with Hunter, a long-time friend, are always fun and insightful. I'm glad I finally got Hunter on the podcast to talk about his incredible journey. Hunter’s Early Days: Discover how a young Hunter Joslin, balancing on homemade boards in the 60s, laid the foundation for Indo Board. Growing up during the surfing boom, Hunter’s passion for balance and innovation began with makeshift balance boards and evolved into a...
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Kurt Pellegrino’s Unstoppable Journey To The UFC and Beyond: Dyslexia, Bullies & Fatherhood
The Shifting Perceptions Podcast by Jay Alders - Inspiration For Creative Lifestyles
Former UFC Fighter, instructor, entrepreneur, and world-renowned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu martial artist . In this interview Kurt opens up about his battles with dyslexia and bullying, and how his mindset has helped him on and off the mats. Early Life and Dyslexia Kurt faced significant challenges from a young age. Born with severe dyslexia, he struggled in school and became the target of bullying. "I've been broken since I can remember," he shared, highlighting his lifelong battle with a learning disability. Despite these obstacles, Kurt's resilience and determination were unwavering. ...
info_outlineFormer UFC Fighter, instructor, entrepreneur, and world-renowned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu martial artist Kurt "Batman" Pellegrino. In this interview Kurt opens up about his battles with dyslexia and bullying, and how his mindset has helped him on and off the mats.
Early Life and Dyslexia
Kurt faced significant challenges from a young age. Born with severe dyslexia, he struggled in school and became the target of bullying. "I've been broken since I can remember," he shared, highlighting his lifelong battle with a learning disability. Despite these obstacles, Kurt's resilience and determination were unwavering.
Wrestling as a Lifeline
Wrestling became a sanctuary for Kurt. Encouraged by his father, a Marine, he dedicated himself to the sport, finding both an outlet for his frustrations and a path to respect. His hard work paid off, and he became a two-time New Jersey State Wrestling Finalist and a Region Six champion and MVP. Wrestling not only honed his physical skills but also built his mental toughness, preparing him for future challenges.
Transition to MMA
Kurt transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2003, bringing his wrestling prowess to the UFC octagon. Kurt trained under BJJ legend Marcelo Garcia and he quickly made a name for himself, debuting in the UFC on July 8, 2006. Despite early setbacks, including a loss to Drew Fickett, Kurt's resilience shone through as he secured notable victories over fighters like Rob Emerson, Alberto Crane, and Thiago Tavares. His submission win over Fabrício Camões at UFC 111 earned him the "Submission of the Night" honor.
Mindset and Motivation
Kurt's mindset was shaped by his early experiences with bullying and dyslexia. He used these challenges as fuel for his success, maintaining an unwavering pace in training and competition. "I've been battling a learning disability and being in uncomfortable situations my whole life," he explained. This relentless drive was a key factor in his rise to prominence in the MMA world.
Family and Coaching
Balancing fatherhood and coaching, Kurt is deeply committed to his family. He ensures that his children, especially his son Kurt Jr., a talented young wrestler, receive the support and encouragement they need. By fostering a positive and supportive environment, Kurt aims to prevent his children from facing the same pressures he did. "Ever since I started telling him, 'I love you,' he's been doing really good," Kurt shared, highlighting the importance of love and support in achieving success.
Retirement and Legacy
After retiring from professional fighting, Kurt established Pellegrino Mixed Martial Arts, a premier training center at the Jersey Shore. Here, he continues to inspire and train the next generation of fighters. His legacy in the sport remains impactful, with numerous accolades, including Fight of the Night and Submission of the Night honors, and inductions into the Grapplers Quest Hall of Fame and the New Jersey MMA Hall of Fame.
Kurt Pellegrino's Accolades
- 3rd degree black belt certified IBJJF
- 7-5 UFC record
- 2x NJ state finals
- Region six champion and MVP
- Region six Hall of Fame
- Pt. Pleasant Borough Hall of Fame, Pt. Pleasant Borough Wrestling Hall of Fame, Retired singlet
- 13-0 Grapplers Quest super fight champion
- Grapplers Quest Hall of Fame
- NJ MMA Hall of Fame
- US trials runner up
- Pan Am gi gold medalist
- Pan Am nogi black belt gold medalist
- 3x New York Open gold medalist
- 14 fights in the UFC
- 5 fight of the night plus submission of the night winner
- Arnold Classic Open champion
- Fight to Win winner via submission of the Night
Kurt Pellegrino Links & Resources:
- UFC Profile: https://www.ufc.com/athlete/kurt-pellegrino
- Pellegrino Mixed Martial Arts: https://www.pellegrinomma.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/kurtpellegrino/
Connect with Jay Alders
- Jay Alders Website: jayalders.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/jayalders
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jayalders
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jayalders
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/jayalders
- Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/jayalders
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