Jiu Jitsu as a Life Pivot: Humility and Persistence | The Splendid Savage  Professor Carlos Reyes

Jiu Jitsu as a Life Pivot: Humility and Persistence | The Splendid Savage Professor Carlos Reyes

July 7, 2026 · 55 min · Season 1

About this episode

Professor Carlos Reyes discusses how jiu-jitsu transformed his life, emphasizing humility, persistence, and the importance of self-defense.

Professor Carlos Reyes (Splendid Savage) on Jiu-Jitsu, Humility, Self-Defense, and Life Change Host Pete Deeley welcomes Professor Carlos Reyes ("Splendid Savage") to The Jiu-Jitsu Mindset, promotes the My Jiu-Jitsu Journey social app and Submission coffee, and discusses how jiu-jitsu redirected Reyes' life away from trouble associated with his band years, alongside faith. Reyes describes being drawn in through punishing early experiences, including being repeatedly submitted by a much smaller blue belt, which taught humility and openness to learning. He recounts a DUI and time in jail that prompted a commitment to jiu-jitsu, and how competition can inoculate practitioners against stress, though it should not be forced. Reyes contrasts sport-focused training with self-defense principles, emphasizing "DNA" concepts like base, connection, leverage, and weight distribution. He shares a student's transformation—losing 70 pounds and gaining confidence—illustrating jiu-jitsu's off-mat impact, and closes with where to find him online. 00:00 Welcome and Announcements 01:42 Life Without Jiu Jitsu 04:31 First Roll Reality Check 06:58 Humility and Honest Growth 12:13 Jail Wake Up Call 15:37…

People in this episode

Host: Peter M. Deeley Jr.

Guest: Carlos Reyes

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: My Jiu-Jitsu Journey, Submission coffee

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