Show notes
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 Habits and Incremental Change 17:30 Why Compete at All 20:27 Competition as Stress Training 26:16 Most Memorable Rolls 29:10 Self Defense Awakening 30:40 Sport Gym Shark Tank 31:53 Choosing the Right Gym 37:36 Principles Over Moves 39:48 Embracing Failure and Time 43:47 Student Transformation Story 49:26 Virtuous Cycles and Lifestyle 51:21 Splendid Savage Identity 52:44 Wrap Up and Where to Find