Embrace Challenges, Don't Quit, and Be Resilient | Professor Justin Lesko
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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 resilience, helping you face challenges both on and off the mats. Gain insights into how Jiu...
info_outline
Fighting for Change: Marcus Kowal's Mission Beyond the Mat
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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 military and his foray into entrepreneurship while emphasizing the importance of martial arts in shaping...
info_outline
Unlocking the Magic of Jiu Jitsu: An Interview with Professor Alex Darwin
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Alignment and Transformation with Professor Rob Biernacki
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Crafting Diamonds: The Value of Pressure with Xande Ribeiro
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Strategies for Learning and Life: A Conversation with Steve Kwan
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Resilience and Growth with Professor Jeff Shaw
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Inspired Discipline: Jiu Jitsu Lessons On and Off the Mat
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Mastering Defense: Coach Priit Mihkelson's Insights into Jiu Jitsu and Life
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outline
Finding Strength: A Conversation with Professor Jen Zanotti-Ferrari
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
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...
info_outlineHave 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 the power of community in Jiu Jitsu and how it can push you beyond your limits.
- Hear inspiring stories from Jeff’s journey and his students' transformations, and explore how to apply those lessons in your own life.
Hit play now and unlock the keys to making Jiu Jitsu more than just a practice—make it a lifestyle!
This episode of 'The Jiu Jitsu Mindset' features Professor Jeff Serafin, a prominent figure in the Jiu Jitsu community. Together with hosts Professor Lucas and Peter, they delve into the profound influence of Jiu Jitsu on personal and professional lives. Jeff shares his journey in the art form, starting as a teen who found passion and purpose through Jiu Jitsu. He discusses his evolution from student to coach, facing challenges like a serious injury that tested his resilience. The conversation touches on competition's role in Jiu Jitsu, the supportive community it fosters, and the transformative stories of students who've pursued Jiu Jitsu. They highlight the opening of Jeff's state-of-the-art gym in Evanston, Illinois, designed to welcome and enhance the Jiu Jitsu experience for everyone. Jeff's commitment to spreading the art's benefits and fostering personal connections mirrors the shared ethos of building a lasting Jiu Jitsu community.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:44 Special Guest: Professor Jeff Serafin
01:26 Jeff Serafin's Jiu Jitsu Journey
06:38 Overcoming Injuries and Challenges
10:19 Competitive Achievements and Coaching
17:11 Memorable Fights and Lessons Learned
20:11 Reflecting on the Decision to Leave MMA
21:04 Lessons from Legendary Jiu Jitsu Coaches
21:45 The Importance of Competing and Pushing Boundaries
23:35 Building Personal Connections with Students
24:46 The Unique Community of Jiu Jitsu
26:12 Early Influences and Role Models in Jiu Jitsu
31:56 Transformative Stories from Jiu Jitsu
36:57 Promoting a State-of-the-Art Jiu Jitsu Gym
38:40 Concluding Thoughts and Future Aspirations