Join us for an in-depth interview with Rick Williams—one of the original “Dirty Dozen” American black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, retired police officer, and executive protection specialist for NBA legends like Kobe Bryant. In this episode, Rick shares powerful stories from his decades-long career, including:

• How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu saved lives on the police force
• Behind-the-scenes insights from protecting NBA superstars
• The evolution of BJJ from street self-defense to modern sport
• The intense rivalries and loyalty of early American BJJ
• Life lessons and advice for finding your passion

Whether you’re a martial artist, law enforcement professional, or just love a good story, you’ll find inspiration and wisdom in Rick’s journey. Discover what it takes to thrive in high-pressure environments, adapt to change, and build a life around passion and service.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Rick Williams’ Martial Arts Journey
01:00 – Law Enforcement Career: 28 Years on the Force
03:00 – The BJJ Dirty Dozen & Early Black Belts
05:00 – Executive Protection for NBA Stars
07:00 – Getting Started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
10:00 – Training with the Gracies and Machados
13:00 – Rivalries and Early Tournaments
16:00 – Balancing Police Work, Jiu-Jitsu, and Wrestling
20:00 – The Value of BJJ in Law Enforcement
25:00 – Realities of Policing: Risks, Training, and Survival
30:00 – Weapon Retention & Specialized Police Jiu-Jitsu
35:00 – Transition to Executive Protection: Life with NBA Clients
40:00 – Lessons from Elite Athletes & Maintaining Fitness
45:00 – The Evolution of BJJ: Sport vs. Self-Defense
50:00 – Advice for the Next Generation & Closing Thoughts

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

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews and insights from the world of martial arts, law enforcement, and personal development!

Links mentioned in the show

Royce Gracie
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royce_Gracie

Machado Brothers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machado_family

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

Rico Chiapparelli
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rico_Chiapparelli

Dan Henderson
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Henderson

Krav Maga
https://www.kravmaga.com/

CJI
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Jones_Invitational

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.

In this inspiring episode, Dave Meyer—author, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, entrepreneur, and philanthropist—shares his powerful journey from martial arts champion to animal rescue hero. Discover how Dave led a daring mission to save 100 pets after Hurricane Katrina, and how that experience shaped his philosophy on meaning, legacy, and living a life of service.

Dave breaks down the three layers of meaning, offers practical steps to find your purpose, and challenges you to make your life matter—no matter where you start. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, a new direction, or just a great story, this episode will move you to action.

00:00 – Introduction & Setting the Scene

01:28 – The Meaning of Life: Don’t Die With Your Potential Intact

01:57 – The Hurricane Katrina Animal Rescue Story Begins

03:45 – Facing Impossible Odds: The Shelter Shutdown

06:00 – The Miracle Plane & The Power of Community

09:00 – Every Animal Saved: The Triumph and Aftermath

11:00 – What Gives Life Meaning? Dave’s Reflections

13:00 – The Three Layers of Meaning: Purpose, Legacy, Service

16:00 – Right Livelihood & Doing Good in the World

19:00 – How to Start Living a Life of Meaning

22:00 – Overcoming Doubt and Taking Action

24:00 – The Power of Community and Support

26:00 – Small Acts, Big Impact: Everyday Meaning

28:00 – The Meaning Checklist & Final Inspiration

29:30 – Outro: Subscribe, Share, and Go Do Good

Links from the show

The Man of La Mancha

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

The Impossible Dream (song)

https://youtu.be/ZxpMe_bF1Sc?si=wxgLMAbeLAoWEoBI

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.

Join host David Meyer as he sits down with Chris Haueter, one of the legendary "Dirty Dozen"—the first non-Brazilian black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). In this in-depth conversation, Chris shares his unique journey from a Southern California beach kid and punk rock enthusiast to a pioneering martial artist and influential BJJ instructor.

Discover the untold stories behind the spread of BJJ in America, the origins of the Dirty Dozen, and the pivotal role of the Machado and Gracie families. Chris and David discuss the evolution of martial arts culture, the importance of adaptation, and the duality of BJJ as both a fighting art and a path to personal growth.|

Whether you’re a seasoned grappler, a martial arts enthusiast, or just curious about the roots of BJJ, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical advice. Learn about the mindset required for longevity in the sport, the value of humility, and the lessons that transcend the mat.

Links from the show

Chris and Melissa Haueter podcast

https://www.youtube.com/@combatbase

Chris Haueter on Instagram
@chrishaueter96

Chris Haueter website

https://www.combatbase.com/

Muay Thai

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

Mits Yamashita

https://maytt.home.blog/2022/09/07/interview-with-sanbukan-dojo-mits-yamashita-in-memoriam/

IMB Academy
https://www.imbacademy.com/

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

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

Machado Brothers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machado_family

Mario Sperry

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A1rio_Sperry

Mario Sperry vs. Dave Meyer 1998 BJJ World Championship
https://youtu.be/Kx8f7mBD3Hk?si=2_LyzGnv3hcfenVc

Tom Nichols, “The Death of Expertise”

https://a.co/d/9wonvgN

Stephen Jay Gould, “Triumph and Tragedy in Mudville” about why we remember athletic achievements

https://a.co/d/eHhD6FI

Jane Goodall

https://janegoodall.org/our-story/about-jane/

Dan Palotta Ted Talk about paying people who work for charities
https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_pallotta_the_way_we_think_about_charity_is_dead_wrong

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Action video (A MUST WATCH for BJJ History)
https://youtu.be/-X_LpYdUAo4?si=wCt0GQvVtlOparhX

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 us for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation with Arvind Gupta—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, venture capitalist, biotech pioneer, and lifelong learner. Hosted by Dave Meyer, this episode dives deep into the parallels between martial arts and entrepreneurship, the mindset required to build world-changing companies, and the personal stories that shaped Arvind’s journey from athlete to investor.

Arvind shares his experiences in extreme sports, the lessons learned from failures and victories, and how the discipline of Jiu-Jitsu informs his approach to investing in breakthrough technologies. Discover how he built IndieBio, the world’s leading biotech accelerator, and why he believes in “better capitalism” as a force for good.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, martial artist, or simply curious about the intersection of physical and mental mastery, this episode is packed with actionable insights, candid stories, and wisdom on resilience, learning, and impact.

Links for the show:

Arvind Gupta

https://www.linkedin.com/in/arvndgpta/

El Capitan

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

Lodi skydiving

https://skydivelodiparachutecenter.com/

Hapkido USA

https://www.hapkidousa.com/

Alex Coriano

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-coriano-iii-34687b1/

AKA

https://www.americankickboxingacademy.com/

Shanghai BJJ

https://shbjjhk.com/shbjj-in-shanghai

El Nino Training Center

https://elninomma.com/

IDEO

https://designthinking.ideo.com/

IndieBio

https://indiebio.co/

Krissa Hjartar

https://www.krissa.art/

Waymo

https://waymo.com/

Colonel John Boyd

https://www.colonelboyd.com/#americanmilitarytheorist

OODA Loop

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

Adopt-a-Pet.com

https://www.adoptapet.com/

Book- Decoding The World

https://www.amazon.com/Decoding-World-Questioner-Po-Bronson/dp/1538734311

Eric Reis

https://leanstartup.co/about/team/eric-ries/

“The Lean Startup” book

https://a.co/d/dBZ0euZ

“Zero to One” book

https://a.co/d/fwrysyK

Black Sheep BJJ

https://www.blacksheepjiujitsu.com/

Music by Robel Borja

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

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please subsc

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 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!

Links from the show:
Way of the Peaceful Warrior
https://www.peacefulwarrior.com/way-of-the-peaceful-warrior/

You’ve Got Time (Live Life Like You’re Gonna Die) by Bill Shatner

Be patient- it starts slow! https://youtu.be/ffJbFx1WuO0?si=m9tqGYbwvK-OFNYv

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.

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.

Dr. Rhonda Patrick
https://www.foundmyfitness.com/

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

Show Chapters:

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!

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

Show Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction: Teaching Strength in Difficult Situations
00:34 - Martial Arts Beyond Fighting: Building Resilience
01:13 - About Sensei Mike Valentine & Practical Martial Arts
01:59 - Neuroscience and Martial Arts: Developing Character
02:53 - The Importance of Struggle in Growth
03:51 - Mike’s Martial Arts Journey: From TaeKwonDo to Bruce Lee
05:11 - The Role of Mentorship and Teaching
07:57 - The Science of Struggle: Neurobiology in Training
08:17 - Coaching Under Pressure: Building Heart and Resilience
11:01 - The Parent-Instructor Partnership
12:26 - Nature vs. Nurture in Martial Arts Development
13:11 - The Value of Failure and Learning from Mistakes
15:25 - Mat Culture: Creating a Supportive Environment
16:51 - Merit, Competence, and the Problem with “McDojos”
18:24 - The Evolution of Martial Arts: Realism vs. Tradition
20:04 - The Importance of Resistance and Feedback
21:15 - MMA, Self-Defense, and Real-World Scenarios
22:26 - Generalizing Martial Arts Lessons to Life
24:07 - The Power of Narrative in Teaching
25:54 - Setting Goals: The North Star Story
27:11 - Motivation, Boredom, and Long-Term Progress
28:31 - Psychological Tools for Mindset and Confidence
29:54 - Fitness Routines for Aging Martial Artists
31:06 - Joint Mobility, Speed, and Water Resistance Training
32:24 - Rituals, Balance, and Focus Before Training
34:33 - Pattern Recognition and Rolling with Variety
36:00 - Recovery, Water Conditioning, and Longevity
37:57 - The Role of Ego and Mental Health in Martial Arts
40:00 - Giving Back: Volunteering and Community
41:00 - Closing Thoughts, Book Announcement, and Gratitude
42:00 - Outro: Subscribe, Support, and

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, edited by Phil Marriott 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

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.