Strength, Strategy and Empathy: A Conversation with Professor Mikal Abdullah
Release Date: 09/26/2025
Transformation and Growth through Jiu Jitsu with Chrissie Vogel
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
The Jiujitsu Mindset: Transformation and Growth with Chrissie Vogel In this episode of The Jiuj Jitsu Mindset, host Pete Deeley shares insights into the journey and experiences of Chrissie Vogel, co-founder, and instructor at Framework BJJ. Vogel discusses her initial interest in Jiujitsu, the transformative power of the sport, her competition experiences, and how Jiujitsu has impacted her life and the lives of her students. They also delve into the importance of community, the unique nature of Jiujitsu training, and the personal growth it fosters. The conversation highlights Vogel's...
info_outline
Finding Peace Through Combat Sports: An Interview with Coach Adam Duthie
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
The Transformative Power of Jiu-Jitsu: A Conversation with Adam Duthie In this episode of Juujitsu Mindset, host Pete Deeley navigates the discussion solo and welcomes guest Adam, a Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and coach, to explore the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu. Pete shares personal updates, including becoming a grandfather, while Adam dives into his journey from a troubled youth to finding fitness and Jiu-Jitsu, which significantly shaped his life. They discuss the intersection of Jiu-Jitsu with other aspects like art and creativity, the importance of competition, and the unique...
info_outline
Proper Alignment in Jiu Jitsu and Life with Professor Craig Sainz
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of 'The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset,' host Pete Deeey interviews Professor Craig Sainz, a dedicated chiropractor, business owner, and jiu-jitsu practitioner. Sainz discusses the profound impact jiu-jitsu has had on his personal and professional life, emphasizing the alignment, structure, and strategic thinking the martial art brings. The conversation covers various topics, including the emotional and physical learning curves, the role of competition, and integrating jiu-jitsu with chiropractic care. Sainz also shares memorable stories from his training, the concept of 'calm under chaos,'...
info_outline
Professor Gustavo Dantas | Jiu-Jitsu, Personal Growth, and Success
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of the Jiujitsu Mindset, Pete Deeley hosts a conversation with Professor Gustavo Dantas. While sharing personal milestones, Pete announces the birth of his granddaughter and promotes their signature 'Submission Coffee.' The discussion delves into Gustavo’s journey from a challenging upbringing in Brazil to becoming a key figure in the Jiujitsu community in the U.S. He speaks about his early passion for sports, his transition to Jiujitsu, and his eventual move to the United States. Gustavo emphasizes the importance of clarity, accepting challenges, and the transformative power...
info_outline
Chris Burns | The Hero's Journey
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of 'The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset,' the host reunites with Professor Chris Burns for a deeply philosophical and candid conversation. They explore the varied journey of Professor Chris, from his struggles with an early disjointed life to finding solace and passion in Jiu-Jitsu. Chris discusses overcoming skepticism, personal and professional failures, and the transformative power of therapy. He shares insights on the importance of invisible Jiu-Jitsu, his journey through self-imposed trials, and learning valuable life lessons from influential figures like Hickson Gracie. This episode...
info_outline
Strength, Strategy and Empathy: A Conversation with Professor Mikal Abdullah
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of 'The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset,' host Pete Deeley converses with guest Professor Mikal Abdullah about the profound impact Jiu Jitsu has had on his life and career. Starting from a challenge in a stranger's garage to becoming a global Jiu Jitsu instructor, Mikal shares his journey of personal growth through the martial art. The discussion covers various aspects including the personal obstacles overcome through Jiu Jitsu, strategies for continuous improvement, the importance of competition, and the unique benefits of Jiu Jitsu retreats. Mikal also recounts a surprising real-life...
info_outline
Waves of Experience: Chris Burns on Jiu Jitsu and Personal Growth
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of The Jiu Jitsu Mindset, Pete Deeley sits down with Professor Chris Burns for an insightful conversation. While Professor Lucas Rubbo is unfortunately absent, Chris Burns steps in to share his unique journey and philosophies. Chris discusses his diverse background, from being a university professor to managing a porn store, and his eventual immersion into Jiu Jitsu and teaching. The discussion explores the essence of focusing energy, the joy and balance found in Juujitsu, and the importance of self-discipline and self-confidence. Chris also delves into his relationship with...
info_outline
Surfer to Sensei: The Journey of Professor Ira Daugherty
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of the Juujitsu Mindset, Pete Deeley speaks with Professor Ira about his incredible journey from a young surfer in Hawaii to becoming a respected Jiu-Jitsu instructor. Professor Daugherty shares his early experiences and background, highlighting his shift from a life of surfing and street fighting to dedicating himself fully to the art of Jiu-Jitsu. He delves into how a series of impactful events, such as Hurricane Iniki and encounters with members of the Gracie family, introduced him to Jiu-Jitsu. They discuss the transformative power of competition, coping with panic,...
info_outline
Lessons from Professor Q: Embracing Resilience and Growth
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this episode of 'Jiu Jitsu Mindsets,' Pete chats with Professor Michael Quaintance, also known as Professor Q. They discuss the dedication and commitment required to excel in Jiu Jitsu and how this martial art has helped people transform their lives. Professor Q shares his personal journey, including his experiences as a bouncer and professional fighter, and how he ultimately found his calling as a Jiu Jitsu instructor. The conversation highlights the therapeutic and character-building aspects of Juujitsu, touching on inspiring stories of students overcoming personal challenges and...
info_outline
The Jiu Jitsu Journey: Resilience, Redemption, and Triumph with Stephen Owens
The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset
In this engaging episode of The Jiu Jitsu Mindset, Pete Deeley takes the helm solo as Professor Lucas is away fulfilling his various roles. Pete welcomes Coach Stephen Owens, a passionate jiu-jitsu practitioner and MMA fighter, to share his compelling life story. Stephen recounts his tumultuous childhood, from living alone at a young age to getting involved with dangerous crowds. A pivotal move to Alabama and the discovery of Jiu Jitsu became his salvation, steering him away from a path of destruction. Stephen delves into his competitive journey, from regional jiu-jitsu competitions to his...
info_outlineIn this episode of 'The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset,' host Pete Deeley converses with guest Professor Mikal Abdullah about the profound impact Jiu Jitsu has had on his life and career. Starting from a challenge in a stranger's garage to becoming a global Jiu Jitsu instructor, Mikal shares his journey of personal growth through the martial art. The discussion covers various aspects including the personal obstacles overcome through Jiu Jitsu, strategies for continuous improvement, the importance of competition, and the unique benefits of Jiu Jitsu retreats. Mikal also recounts a surprising real-life self-defense situation that underscored the emotional depth and human connection fostered by Jiu Jitsu. This episode is a rich exploration of how Jiu Jitsu can be a vehicle for personal development, empathy, and effective problem-solving.
00:00 Welcome to the Juujitsu Mindset
00:45 Introducing Professor Mikal Abdullah
02:04 The Impact of Jiu Jitsu on Personal Growth
02:42 Starting the Jiu Jitsu Journey
04:45 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth
10:23 Teaching and Learning in Jiu Jitsu
13:27 Overcoming Challenges and Continuous Improvement
18:58 The Value of Competition in Jiu Jitsu
23:01 The Importance of Preparation
27:09 Impactful Jiu Jitsu Stories
27:34 A Memorable Fight Story
32:44 The Power of De-escalation
33:58 Lessons from Past Generations
35:15 Connecting with the Community
35:29 Where to Find More