A BJJ Champ who says it's ok to lose - With Robert Drysdale

About this episode

Jeevan Matharu interviews Robert Drysdale about the importance of embracing failure and the philosophical insights of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In this episode of The Vancrux Podcast, I sit down with Robert Drysdale — one of the most respected figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. An ADCC World Champion, IBJJF World Champion, and widely regarded as one of America’s Jiu-Jitsu superheroes, Robert brings a rare blend of elite performance, deep knowledge, and philosophical insight. We dive into what it truly means to lose — and why embracing failure is essential for growth, both on and off the mats. Robert shares powerful insights on resilience, mindset, and how Jiu-Jitsu mirrors life itself. Beyond competition, we explore his work as an author and historian of the sport, unpacking the origins and evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — from its Vale-Tudo roots to its global expansion. We also discuss leadership, discipline, and the long-term mindset required to master any craft. This is a conversation about humility, mastery, and why sometimes losing is exactly what you need to win. 📚 Robert Drysdale’s Books: Opening Closed-Guard: The Origins of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil (The Story Behind the Film) The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Vale-Tudo, to Carlson Gracie, to its Democratization The Triumph of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: 50…

People in this episode

Host: Jeevan Matharu

Guest: Robert Drysdale

Topics covered

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• failure and growth
• resilience
• mindset
• leadership
• discipline

Keywords

• BJJ
• failure
• growth
• resilience
• mindset
• leadership
• discipline
• Jiu-Jitsu
• philosophy

Sponsors

Strong Coffee Company

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Opening Closed-Guard: The Origins of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Vale-Tudo, to Carlson Gracie, to its Democratization, The Triumph of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: 50 Years of a Martial Arts Revolution, What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Today? : Discussions about the Present and Future of the Art

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