In this episode, we dive deep into the reality that time is our most precious, and limited, resource. Drawing from personal stories, life-changing realizations, and practical advice, you’ll learn why you may have less time than you think, how to make every moment count, and how to avoid the trap of mediocrity. Discover exercises to help you refocus your life, find your purpose, and start living with intention today.

If you found this episode useful, please subscribe, like, and share. Leave your thoughts in the comments, your feedback means a lot!

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

Join host Dave Meyer as he sits down with Sensei Mike Valentine, co-founder of Practical Martial Arts in Northern California. In this deep-dive conversation, Mike shares his unique approach to martial arts—one that goes far beyond punching and kicking. Discover how martial arts can build resilience, character, and real-world strength in kids, teens, and adults alike.

Mike draws on decades of experience and a passion for neuroscience to explain how struggle, failure, and the right mindset can transform lives both on and off the mat. Whether you're a martial artist, a parent, or someone interested in personal growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories.

🔔 Subscribe for more interviews and lessons from the world of martial arts, neuroscience, and personal development!

Show Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction: Teaching Strength in Difficult Situations
01:54 - Martial Arts Beyond Fighting: Building Resilience
03:33 - About Sensei Mike Valentine & Practical Martial Arts
05:25 - Neuroscience and Martial Arts: Developing Character
07:20 - The Importance of Struggle in Growth
09:13 - Mike’s Martial Arts Journey: From TaeKwonDo to Bruce Lee
13:18 - The Role of Mentorship and Teaching
16:37 - The Science of Struggle: Neurobiology in Training
21:31 - Coaching Under Pressure: Building Heart and Resilience
25:04 - The Parent-Instructor Partnership
27:30 - Nature vs. Nurture in Martial Arts Development
30:11 - The Value of Failure and Learning from Mistakes
34:13 - Mat Culture: Creating a Supportive Environment
37:38 - Merit, Competence, and the Problem with “McDojos”
41:04 - The Evolution of Martial Arts: Realism vs. Tradition
45:15 - The Importance of Resistance and Feedback
48:40 - MMA, Self-Defense, and Real-World Scenarios
52:27 - Generalizing Martial Arts Lessons to Life
54:05 - The Power of Narrative in Teaching
58:11 - Setting Goals: The North Star Story
1:01:47 - Motivation, Boredom, and Long-Term Progress
1:04:46 - Psychological Tools for Mindset and Confidence
1:09:06 - Fitness Routines for Aging Martial Artists
1:13:39 - Joint Mobility, Speed, and Water Resistance Training
1:18:22 - Rituals, Balance, and Focus Before Training
1:22:33 - Pattern Recognition and Rolling with Variety
1:27:27 - Recovery, Water Conditioning, and Longevity
1:31:21 - The Role of Ego and Mental Health in Martial Arts
1:36:10 - Giving Back: Volunteering and Community
1:38:10 - Closing Thoughts, Book Announcement, and Gratitude
1:41:00 - Outro: Subscribe, Support, and Stay Strong

Links from the show:

Practical Martial Arts
https://www.pmadojo.com/

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
https://www.franklincovey.com/courses/the-7-habits/

Viktor Frankl
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viktor_Frankl

Steve Maxwell
https://www.maxwellsc.com/

Marv Marinovich
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marv_Marinovich

Intro Music by Robel Borja
“Disambiguation” https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A
“Erotic Spring” https://open.spotify.com/track/20RAs5iOvZGYSxQTjx8AAM?si=a0a5cead10e0441b

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

Unlock the secrets to lifelong strength and fitness with BJJ Black Belt Dave Meyer in this episode of the Ageless Warrior Lab! At 63, Dave shares his personal exercise protocol, proven strategies for building functional strength, and the six pillars of "homework" that keep him in top shape—decades after most slow down.

Whether you’re a martial artist, athlete, or just want to stay fit as you age, discover practical tips on strength, flexibility, endurance, speed, balance, and toughness. Learn how to avoid injury, break through plateaus, and develop habits that support long-term health and performance.

Don’t miss Dave’s real-world stories, expert advice, and actionable routines to help you become stronger, healthier, and more resilient—at any age!

Subscribe for more wisdom from the mat, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Links mentioned in the show.

Sand Dune Park

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sand_Dune_Park

Andy Wang

https://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Andy-Wang-1331

Joseph Lepera

https://www.leperalaw.com/joseph-lepera

David Mitchell

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@TeamChaosJiuJitsu

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dmitch442/

Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/TeamChaosJiuJitsu

Intro Music by Robel Borja
“Disambiguation” https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A

“Erotic Spring” https://open.spotify.com/track/20RAs5iOvZGYSxQTjx8AAM?si=a0a5cead10e0441b

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

Join host Dave Meyer for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation with Jeremy Corbell—martial artist, artist, documentary filmmaker, and one of the leading voices in UFO/UAP journalism today.

In this episode of the Ageless Warrior Lab, Jeremy shares his journey from a scrappy, out-of-control kid to a disciplined martial artist, successful artist, and now a prominent investigative journalist uncovering the mysteries of UFOs. The discussion dives deep into the power of mentorship, the importance of curiosity, and the lessons learned from both triumph and adversity.

Jeremy opens up about his formative years in martial arts, the life-changing impact of illness, and how he continually reinvents himself by following his curiosity and embracing new challenges. The conversation also explores the misconceptions around UFO research, the value of patience and persistence, and the importance of living authentically and joyfully.

Whether you’re interested in martial arts, personal growth, or the search for truth in the unknown, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and actionable insights.

0:00 Introduction & Jeremy's Background

1:35 How Jeremy Got Into Martial Arts

7:11 The Harvard Westlake Dojo & Early Training

13:21 Key Life Lessons from Jiujitsu

24:25 Valley Fever Illness & Identity Crisis

33:54 UFO/UAP Journalism & Misconceptions

40:19 Mental Health & Replacing Negative Thoughts

45:45 The Way You Do Anything Is the Way You Do Everything

54:16 Letting Go & Making Life Changes

1:05:40 Closing Thoughts & Jeremy's Podcast "Weaponized"

Links for Show notes:

Sept. 10, 2025 Congressional Heating on UFOs.

https://www.youtube.com/live/CVhqAGFZ6Is?si=whpDzmlhvYTJdjTf

George Knapp
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Knapp_(television_journalist)

George Kirby
https://share.google/MC3CnKTRnPQeYFU6I

Frank Shamrock
https://frankshamrock.com/

Jeremy Corbell Website
https://www.extraordinarybeliefs.com/icon

Weaponized podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyCorbell

Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of anxiety—what it is, how it manifests, and most importantly, how to overcome it. Drawing from personal experiences in high-stakes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions, neuroscience insights, and practical tools, you'll learn how to manage both situational and generalized anxiety.

Discover the difference between fear and anxiety, why even elite athletes and professionals experience it, and how our brain chemistry plays a crucial role. We explore actionable strategies including mindfulness, journaling, and even cold exposure, all backed by science and real-life stories.

Whether you're facing a big competition, a work presentation, or just everyday stress, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration to help you conquer anxiety and live your best life.

Links for Show notes:

Rickson Gracie
https://www.ricksongracie.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rickson_Gracie

Rigan Machado
https://www.theacademybeverlyhills.com/instructors/rigan-machado/

Yerkes-Dodson Law

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yerkes%E2%80%93Dodson_law

The Monster Who Grew Small
https://eng.1sept.ru/article.php?ID=200702212

Writing About Testing Worries Boosts Exam Performance in the Classroom

https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1199427

Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17993252/

Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

In this gripping episode of Ageless Warrior Lab, BJJ Black Belt and Dirty Dozen member Dave Meyer takes you on a journey through the heart of Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath, sharing powerful stories of animal rescue, courage, and the raw reality of fear.

Discover how martial arts wisdom and real-life crisis experiences reveal the difference between fear and danger, and learn practical strategies to manage fear—whether you’re facing a life-threatening storm, a bully, or your own inner anxieties.

Dave breaks down the four types of fear, shares adrenaline-fueled moments from the rescue frontlines and the BJJ mat, and offers actionable tips for transforming fear into a tool for growth, resilience, and peace.

If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety, self-doubt, or high-pressure situations, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to act with courage and clarity.

👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support the channel! 💬 Drop your thoughts and stories in the comments—how have you faced fear in your life? ⭐️ Leave a review on Apple or Spotify to help us spread the message

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

EP.Join David Meyer and John Will as they sit down with the legendary Rigan Machado—one of the most influential figures in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a key member of the iconic Machado and Gracie families. In this in-depth interview, Rigan shares his journey from growing up in a house full of future BJJ champions, to dominating competitions in Brazil, pioneering Jiu Jitsu in the United States, and working with Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Discover untold stories about the origins of the UFC, the family dynamics that shaped modern martial arts, and Rigan’s unique philosophy on training, teaching, and living with purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or new to BJJ, this conversation is packed with wisdom, history, and inspiration.

This episode is directed and hosted by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie and music by Robel Borja.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with martial arts legends!

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Rigan Machado
01:15 – The Machado & Gracie Family Legacy
04:30 – Rigan’s Early Years in Brazil
08:00 – Training with Family: The Big House
12:45 – Competing in Judo, Sambo, and Wrestling
16:20 – Moving to the United States
20:10 – Building BJJ in America & Hollywood Connections
25:00 – Celebrity Students and the UFC
29:30 – Rigan’s Movie Career & Directing
34:00 – Teaching Philosophy & Advice for Students
38:15 – Awarding the Coral Belt & John Will’s Impact
42:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Choose the Right Academy
45:00 – Outro: Stay Connected & What’s Next

Links from the show

Walker Texas Ranger - Machado clip
​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUSqG89vWwI

Rigan Machado school in Beverly Hills
https://www.theacademybeverlyhills.com/

Blow for Blow movie
https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0FBKL6F9Q/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

Unlock the secrets to true confidence with Dave Meyer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and martial arts champion. In this episode, Dave shares powerful stories from the mat, including lessons from legends like Gene LeBelle and the Machado brothers, and reveals the real difference between confidence, underconfidence, and overconfidence.

Discover practical tools to build lasting confidence, avoid the pitfalls of arrogance, and learn how humility can be your greatest ally. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just looking to level up in life, these insights will help you perform under pressure and grow from every challenge.

Timestamps and chapters below make it easy to jump to the moments that matter most.

This weeks show was directed and hosted by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, with title music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more wisdom from the lab!

Chapters From This Weeks Episode

00:00 – Introduction: Lessons from Gene LeBelle

00:24 – The Power of Confidence in Martial Arts

01:42 – What Is Confidence, Really?

02:54 – Underconfidence: Holding Yourself Back

05:08 – Overconfidence: Lessons from the Mat

07:10 – The Dunning-Kruger Effect Explained

09:05 – Is Overconfidence Ever Good?

10:33 – Building True Confidence: 3 Essential Steps

13:20 – Step 1: Build Your Defense

14:32 – Step 2: Create Your Evidence Bank

17:06 – Step 3: The Pre-Mortem Technique

19:00 – The Role of Humility in Confidence

20:45 – Final Thoughts & Your Confidence Journey

21:48 – Outro: Subscribe for More Lessons

Links from this weeks show

Gene LeBell

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene_LeBell

Jean Jacques Machado

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Jacques_Machado

Kruger & Dunning (1999) “Unskilled and Unaware of It…“

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10626367/

Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.