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