Movers Mindset

The Movers Mindset project includes a podcast and has its own website.

Sebastien Foucan (Part 2 of 3): Training, coaching, and preparation →

Published September 17, 2018  ·  All posts on Sep 17  ·  

Sebastien Foucan (Part 2 of 3): Training, coaching, and preparation

What strategies and principles underpin effective training, mental resilience, and personal growth?

Sebastien Foucan and Craig continue their conversation in the second part of Sebastien’s three part interview. In this episode, Sebastien discusses how he trains, how he coaches, and how he prepares for his roles in various movies and films. Craig and Sebastien also discuss the influence genetics and natural skill has on the success of a person in their sport.

Being always in motion keeps you fit and healthy. And if you don’t push too much that’s good, it’s good for you.

~ Sebastien Foucan (1:38)

The conversation explores the philosophy and practice of training, emphasizing the importance of specificity and alignment with individual goals. The discussion digs into distinctions between training and practice, the role of adaptability, and how unique circumstances dictate specific training regimens. Examples range from parkour to acting, illustrating how preparation varies across disciplines.

Mental resilience and personal growth also feature prominently, particularly through the lens of overcoming setbacks. The dialogue covers how life challenges, such as health issues and personal losses, can redefine perspectives on discipline and motivation. Additional topics include the interplay of genetics, environment, and personal choices in shaping potential, and how these elements influence broader life decisions.

Takeaways

Training specificity — Training must align with the goals and nature of the activity, whether physical, mental, or technical.

Adaptation and creativity — Effective training requires adapting to the specific challenges of each goal and using creative approaches.

Mental resilience — Life challenges, such as health setbacks, can inspire reevaluation and foster growth in discipline and motivation.

Role of environment — Success often depends on the support and conditions provided by one’s surroundings.

Genetics and potential — Physical and mental capacities are influenced by genetics, highlighting the need for realistic self-assessment.

Exploration mindset — Treating challenges as opportunities for discovery fosters growth and resilience.

Integration of play — Activities like sparring or trekking are incorporated to balance training with enjoyment and functionality.

Holistic health — Awareness of food choices and their impact on health is critical for sustainable training and well-being.

Resources

World Chase Tag — A competitive version of tag, blending physical agility and strategy.

Angry Chicken Advertisement — A pivotal project in Sebastien’s career that won a Lion d’Or award.

Cus D’Amato on YouTube — Insights into training philosophy and mentorship.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) — A framework discussed in the context of motivation and mental programming.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Travis Tetting: Building things, faith, and family →

Published September 1, 2018  ·  All posts on Sep 1  ·  

Travis Tetting: Building things, faith, and family

What lessons can be drawn from navigating challenges and fostering perseverance in life, community, and personal growth?

Travis Tetting joins Craig for a heartfelt discussion of his coaching journey, community, and building things from the ground up. Along the way he describes his love for his community and the rewards of coaching. Travis explains how his bond to his family and Christian faith have given him the strength to get to where he is today.

I think, at the heart, at the core of a ‘heart of thankfulness’, is that ability to see what’s shaping you and what’s improving you.

~ Travis Tetting (30:35)

The conversation explores themes of perseverance, adaptability, and community building, centered on Travis’s journey through personal and professional challenges. A detailed story of overcoming setbacks, such as an airport ordeal while en route to a pivotal certification, reveals insights into resilience and turning difficult circumstances into valuable lessons. Travis’s reflections on training and faith illustrate the balance between physical discipline and mental flexibility.

The dialogue goes into the creation and evolution of a parkour gym in a rural area, emphasizing frugality, modular design, and fostering innovation. The gym becomes a space for cultivating not just physical skills but also community bonds and personal growth. Travis shares stories of impactful teaching moments, where parkour acts as a medium for life lessons, underscoring the importance of gratitude, perseverance, and sharing in overcoming obstacles.

Takeaways

Faith and perseverance — A strong belief system helps navigate personal and professional challenges.

Adaptability under pressure — Difficult situations can provide valuable lessons in resilience and flexibility.

Building community — The process of creating and nurturing a supportive environment enhances both personal and collective growth.

The role of gratitude — Viewing hardships as opportunities for growth fosters a positive outlook.

Innovative design philosophy — Modularity and multi-purpose design in gym structures encourage creativity and problem-solving.

Teaching as transformation — Teaching parkour becomes a medium for instilling life-changing values and skills.

Life lessons through movement — Parkour transcends physical activity, teaching patience, innovation, and mental resilience.

Overcoming adversity — Stories of setbacks, such as physical injury or logistical hurdles, highlight the importance of persistence and perspective.

Resources

American Rendezvous — A parkour event discussed in the context of training and community.

Axiom Parkour — The guest’s parkour gym, emphasizing modular design and community growth.

Williams Belle Instagram — Mentioned as an inspiration during training discussions.

ADAPT Qualifications — A certification program related to parkour, highlighting the significance of rigorous training.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Sebastien Foucan (Part 1 of 3): Explorer, evolution, and adaptation →

Published August 6, 2018  ·  All posts on Aug 6  ·  

Sebastien Foucan (Part 1 of 3): Explorer, evolution, and adaptation

What is the role of exploration in achieving personal growth and self-mastery?

Sebastien Foucan joins Craig for the first of a three part interview. Sebastien is best described – in his own words – as an explorer. Craig and Sebastien talk about what he means by explorer and how his journey of exploration has evolved over the years.

The purpose of it is liberation and self-development.

~ Sebastien Foucan (6:00)

Sebastien Foucan discusses his evolution as an explorer, emphasizing how his experiences with Parkour, freerunning, and L’art du Déplacement reflect a personal journey of discovery. He describes the origins of freerunning as an extension of Parkour, influenced by his desire to create a distinct approach that resonated with his personal philosophy. Sebastien outlines how these practices connect the mind, body, and environment, explaining their importance in fostering growth and transformation.

The conversation highlights Sebastien’s perspective on the maturity stages of development, from roots to fire, water, and air. He explores concepts like the cyclic nature of life, energy balance, and the distinction between training and practice. By emphasizing mindfulness and understanding one’s limitations, Sebastien illustrates how individuals can navigate their unique paths toward achieving their potential.

Takeaways

Exploration as a core identity — Sebastien views himself as an explorer who continually seeks growth.

Origins of freerunning — Freerunning emerged as an evolution of Parkour, focusing on self-expression.

Mind-body-environment connection — These three elements form the foundation of Parkour’s transformative potential.

Maturity system stages — Growth is seen through phases of roots, fire, water, and air.

Energy management — Recognizing cycles in life and balancing energy enhances longevity.

Training versus practice — Training is goal-oriented and intense, while practice is holistic and sustainable.

Philosophy in movement — Martial arts and other disciplines inform freerunning’s broader philosophy.

Cultural impact of Parkour — Parkour redefines boundaries and offers new ways to engage with the environment.

Universal truths — Exploring various disciplines uncovers shared principles applicable to life.

Holistic journey — Self-care and sustainability are integral to long-term practice.

Resources

James Bond movie — A film featuring Sebastien’s performance in freerunning sequences.

Madonna tour — A high-profile project Sebastien participated in.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Dylan Johanson: Gym iterations, community, and self-advice →

Published July 10, 2018  ·  All posts on Jul 10  ·  

Dylan Johanson: Gym iterations, community, and self-advice

What motivates and sustains a practice that evolves personal fulfillment and builds community?

Dylan Johanson is the owner and founder of Innate Movement Parkour in Kingston, New York. A practitioner for many years, Dylan talks about his origin story and the challenges surrounding building and then re-building his gym. Then he shares some thoughts on what advice he would give his younger self.

Sometimes, I still need to remind myself to not accidentally slip onto the treadmill of traditional success.

~ Dylan Johanson (18:00)

The conversation explores Dylan Johansson’s journey into parkour, from discovering the practice to founding Innate Movement in Kingston, New York. Early topics include Dylan’s initial experiences with parkour, how it resonated with his love for movement, and his shift from solitary training to engaging with a larger community. He describes the transformative effect parkour had on his health, outlook, and life choices, emphasizing the physical and mental benefits it provided.

Later discussions focus on the process of building a parkour community, including the challenges of starting and sustaining a gym. Dylan recounts how he transitioned from hobbyist to professional coach, discussing incremental growth strategies, the importance of partnerships, and lessons learned from different gym setups. The conversation also reflects on broader themes, such as defining success on one’s terms and embracing the evolving nature of personal practice.

Takeaways

Parkour as a transformative discipline — A personal journey from unhealthy habits to a more fulfilled and balanced life.

Starting small and evolving gradually — The value of incremental steps in building a community and opening a gym.

Challenges of traditional success — Balancing personal joy and professional growth while resisting societal pressures.

The importance of a supportive network — How a partner and community can provide stability during transitions.

Parkour as a philosophy — Viewing parkour as a lens to guide life decisions and promote self-improvement.

Lessons from failure — How personal struggles and setbacks can serve as stepping stones for growth and learning.

Joy in movement — Emphasizing the playful and creative aspects of training for sustained passion and engagement.

Organizing principles for life — Using parkour to create a framework for healthier, more intentional choices.

Resources

Innate Movement — The parkour organization founded by Dylan Johansson.

PK Gen — A global organization promoting parkour education and certifications.

ADAPT Certification — A leading qualification program for parkour coaches.

Rich Roll Podcast — A podcast featuring topics on health, fitness, and personal transformation, mentioned as an inspiration in the discussion.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Jesse Danger: Systems thinking, game design, and novelty →

Published May 27, 2018  ·  All posts on May 27  ·  

Jesse Danger: Systems thinking, game design, and novelty

What principles can we learn from integrating movement, play, and systems thinking to foster personal growth and collaborative learning?

Jesse Danger takes time out from teaching parkour to share thoughtful insights on topics such as systems thinking through game design, the role of novelty, and how to work with a group toward a single focus while still honoring the individual. Along the way we also discuss life lessons learned through playing chess.

Nothing will ever be the same as it was. Things are constantly changing. So everything is novel all the time.

~ Jesse Danger (14:00)

The conversation centers on Jesse Danger’s journey from being a parkour practitioner to a facilitator and educator. Topics include his personal experiments with consistency in training, the philosophy behind his organization, and how business serves as a tool for sharing his vision. Jesse highlights the transformative power of systems thinking, particularly through game design, as a method for teaching life skills and movement principles.

Jesse and Craig also discuss the role of novelty in personal and group development, emphasizing how new experiences can level the playing field and foster deeper connections. The conversation touches on broader themes like balancing individual needs with group goals, overcoming the constraints of competition and authority, and cultivating an integrated, holistic approach to learning and living.

Takeaways

The transition from practitioner to facilitator — Jesse reflects on how his consistent personal training evolved into a broader leadership role in the parkour community.

The Movement Creative’s philosophy — A focus on creating a business that aligns with personal values rather than conventional success metrics.

Systems thinking through game design — Teaching movement and life skills through intentional, co-created games that adapt to participants’ goals.

The importance of novelty — Novel experiences can equalize skill levels, spark creativity, and deepen interpersonal connections.

Balancing individual and group needs — Strategies for fostering collaboration without alienating individual autonomy.

Unpacking competition and authority — How overcoming personal challenges with competition and authority shaped Jesse’s teaching philosophy.

The role of play in growth — Play as a tool for exploration, skill-building, and connection.

Life lessons from chess — The shift from finite to infinite games and their impact on personal growth and perspective.

The tribe’s responsibility — Supporting individuals’ unique needs while fostering collective growth.

Resilience, adaptability, and delusion — Key principles in Jesse’s personal and professional practice.

Resources

The Movement Creative — Jesse’s organization focused on movement and education.

Quest to Learn — A school where Jesse first explored systems thinking through teaching parkour.

Institute of Play — An organization partnering with Quest to Learn to implement game-based learning strategies.

Brendon Trombley — A game designer who collaborated with Jesse to design educational games.

Minecraft — A platform used creatively by Brendon to teach biology concepts through interactive simulations.

Rafe Kelley — Referenced for insights on play and movement.

CrossFit — Mentioned as a comparison for physical training methodologies.

International Gathering — A community event showcasing parkour practices.

Fight Club (1999) — Referenced metaphorically for its concept of transient connections.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Imposter syndrome… for the win! →

Published April 21, 2018  ·  All posts on Apr 21  ·  

while it is always a good idea to question one’s own work, and to be open to outside criticism, if you are a professional in a given field there probably are good reasons to think you know what you are doing, especially when your work gets repeatedly validated externally.

~ Massimo Pigliucci from, Stoic advice: impostor syndrome

slip:4uwoso1.

One of the things I particularly LIKE is the imposter syndrome aspect of the Movers Mindset podcast.

“…wait. wat?”

Yes.

You see, there’s an entire universe of “perform interview” skills that I don’t have, and I’m loving learning something entirely new. It’s also pretty much orthogonal to my previous life experience — “listen,” had to learn that. “empathize,” had to learn that. Even this weird thing you have to do to imagine everyone who is listening and try to read the minds of people you are imagining… it’s bonkers. I love it.

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Andy Taylor: Gym building, inspiration, and build standards →

Published April 15, 2018  ·  All posts on Apr 15  ·  

Andy Taylor: Gym building, inspiration, and build standards

What are the key considerations in designing, constructing, and sustaining inspiring gym spaces that foster exploration and play?

Andy Taylor discusses the intricacies of designing and building a great parkour gym. Along the way, we talk about what makes a gym inspiring, the evolution of build standards that are safe without limiting parkour vision, and how parkour has been instrumental in the development of a young autistic girl.

When I sit down to design a gym, I try to call to the inner child that is in us that makes us wanna play.

~ Andy Taylor (1:30)

This conversation deconstructs the intricacies of designing gym spaces that inspire creativity and exploration. Topics include the importance of tapping into a child-like desire to play, using thoughtful design to increase engagement, and ensuring safety without stifling creativity. Practical examples are shared, such as integrating features that naturally draw attention and encourage varied movements.

The discussion also touches on challenges unique to parkour gyms, such as meeting building codes, balancing budgets, and navigating regulatory hurdles. Andy and Craig explore how gym designs can range from expansive, multi-use facilities to smaller, community-oriented spaces. They emphasize the need for better standards and guidelines to support gym builders in creating safe yet imaginative environments.

Takeaways

Designing for play — Gym spaces should inspire a child-like desire to explore and interact.

Balancing aesthetics and utility — Effective gym design combines visual appeal with practical use.

Safety through design — Safety features must be thoughtfully integrated to minimize risk without diminishing creativity.

Regulatory challenges — Parkour gyms face unique obstacles with inconsistent building codes and standards.

Scale considerations — Smaller gyms provide intimacy, while larger facilities require diversification for sustainability.

Importance of standards — Developing shared guidelines for construction and safety is crucial for the parkour community.

Encouraging creativity — Well-designed spaces enable a wide range of movements and inspire new possibilities.

Support for new builders — Mentorship and resources are vital for those new to gym construction.

Inclusivity in design — Gym spaces can support diverse users, including those with special needs.

Resources

TeachBuildPlay Facebook Page — Andy’s platform for sharing ideas and connecting with the community.

Google SketchUp — A tool used for designing and modeling gym spaces.

Tempest Freerunning Academy — An example of a large, well-known parkour gym.

SCORE — A resource mentioned as a helpful guide for entrepreneurs navigating business challenges.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Elet Hall: Not training, risk, danger, and Lyme disease →

Published March 1, 2018  ·  All posts on Mar 1  ·  

Elet Hall: Not training, risk, danger, and Lyme disease

What motivates and shapes individual approaches to physical training, risk management, and personal growth?

Elet Hall takes time out from a motorcycle engine rebuild to discuss his approach to training (and not training), challenge, risk, danger, consequences, and why he walked away from American Ninja Warrior. Along the way, we talk about Lyme disease, and his work with the Bay Area Lyme Foundation, before he shares his four words to describe his practice.

Strength of character is what I’m looking for in almost everything that I do.

~ Elet Hall (30:00)

The conversation begins with reflections on Elet’s experiences in Ninja Warrior and parkour, emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are in their personal journeys. It touches on how perceptions of these activities differ and how they can be bridges rather than barriers for people seeking self-improvement.

Further, the discussion moves to Elet’s personal training philosophy, rooted in nature and holistic approaches. Topics like the subjective and objective impacts of training, footwear choices for outdoor activities, and the biological and psychological effects of connecting with natural environments are explored. He highlights the value of understanding one’s own body and tailoring training to personal goals and limitations.

The latter part delves into a life-threatening incident that prompted Elet to reassess motivations and commitments. This leads to discussions on Lyme disease, its impact on energy levels, and the necessity of intentional training. The conversation ends with a reflection on building strength of character through thoughtful engagement with challenges, whether in parkour, life, or other pursuits.

Takeaways

Training for personal growth — Physical challenges can be transformative when approached with the right mindset.

Risk versus consequence — Every action in parkour and life involves balancing potential risks and consequences.

Connection with nature — Training outdoors provides unique challenges and rewards, fostering a deeper sense of fulfillment.

Minimalist footwear benefits — Choosing less structured footwear can enhance sensory feedback and overall physical awareness.

Holistic health management — Balancing exercise, diet, and self-care is critical for managing chronic conditions like Lyme disease.

Motivations for participation — It’s vital to understand why someone engages in a practice and to support their journey.

Strength of character — Facing and overcoming challenges builds self-confidence and personal resilience.

Reevaluating goals — Life events can prompt reassessment of what truly aligns with one’s values and passions.

Resources

Bay Area Lyme Foundation — An organization raising awareness and funding research for Lyme disease.

Merrell Trail Gloves — Minimalist footwear favored by the speaker for natural training environments.

Old Rag Mountain — A popular hiking spot mentioned in the discussion.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Ševo Saša: Yugoslavia, injury, and growth →

Published February 5, 2018  ·  All posts on Feb 5  ·  

Ševo Saša: Yugoslavia, injury, and growth

What drives personal growth and resilience in the face of immense physical, emotional, and cultural challenges?

Ševo Saša is best-known as an amazing and creative mover, and the founder of the Skochypstiks clothing line. In this interview he shares the story of his Parkour beginnings after the collapse of Yugoslavia, and his motivation for overcoming a devastating injury in his youth. Sasa’s love of people and profound discipline have enabled him to thrive amidst the cycles of life, and have lead him to tremendous personal growth.

It doesn’t happen with everyone. Everybody can motivate us in different ways, this is true, but this special moment is something that I will remember forever. Because I did something that I really didn’t want to do, I kind of refused it with all my body, with everything, and when we ended I think I hugged him so hard, I was so happy doing this.

~ Ševo Saša (14:00)

The conversation explores the transformative journey from a war-torn Balkan region, navigating through cultural and personal challenges to find purpose and resilience in parkour. The discussion begins with the historical context of Yugoslavia’s dissolution and the challenges of displacement, providing a backdrop to his initial experiences with movement and the foundational influence of his father. Overcoming severe physical injuries, Saša develops discipline through self-directed training and a deep love for movement.

The narrative progresses into his parkour evolution, shaped by diverse environments and communities. From training in Serbia to pioneering connections between neighboring Balkan countries through parkour, the conversation emphasizes the significance of shared experiences. Saša reflects on the broader cultural impact of these connections, uniting people across former divisions, and concludes by highlighting the importance of love, discipline, and people in his practice.

Takeaways

Love for movement — A central theme that inspired dedication and growth in parkour.

Impact of displacement — How personal and cultural history shaped his outlook and resilience.

Discipline as a foundation — Rigorous self-training and perseverance despite physical and mental barriers.

Role of community — The importance of shared experiences in parkour to build connections and unity.

Parkour as a bridge — Its role in uniting people across post-war Balkan countries.

Adapting to environments — Embracing change and new challenges to drive personal growth.

Transformative experiences — How struggles, such as the 101 training, pushed personal limits and created lasting memories.

The power of connection — Focusing on people and relationships over obstacles or achievements.

Resources

Laurent Piemontesi — Insight into the “101” quadrupedal training exercises.

Colin McRae Rally Video Game — A part of Sasa’s recovery story and early life context.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Matthew Poprocki: Artistry, challenges, and personal expression →

Published October 29, 2017  ·  All posts on Oct 29  ·  

Matthew Poprocki: Artistry, challenges, and personal expression

What motivates individuals to transform their lives and turn challenges into opportunities for growth and creativity?

Matthew Poprocki does what he loves. Formally a visual artist, he is now a movement artist who likes to play and overcome obstacles. He discusses the challenges he’s faced and how he rediscovered his artistic expression through Parkour.

I realized after a few years, I didn’t lose it, I’m still an artist, I’m a Life artist.

~ Matthew Poprocki (7:16)

The conversation explores the profound journey of an individual who transitioned from a career in graphic design to becoming a movement artist and coach. Struggling with dissatisfaction in a desk job, addiction, and health challenges, Matthew found solace and purpose in Parkour. This shift allowed him to embrace creativity and play, not only as an outlet but as a way to teach and inspire others.

Key topics include the philosophy of overcoming obstacles, the transition from visual to movement arts, and the role of Parkour in cultivating resilience and mindfulness. Through personal anecdotes, Matthew shares insights on viewing challenges as opportunities and finding joy in being present, creative, and connected to life.

Takeaways

Creativity through movement — Parkour offers a new medium for artistic expression and personal fulfillment.

Life as art — Redefining artistry by integrating creativity into daily activities and experiences.

Resilience in adversity — Viewing life’s challenges as opportunities to demonstrate strength and adapt.

Philosophy of play — Rediscovering joy and presence through movement and coaching.

The transformation of perspective — From seeing obstacles as burdens to viewing them as opportunities for growth.

Impact of mindfulness — Being fully present enhances life experiences and fosters creativity.

Redefining success — Prioritizing passion and fulfillment over societal expectations of work and productivity.

The role of Parkour in teaching — Empowering others through creative coaching and sharing lived experiences.

Resources

Parkour Generations — Mentioned as a movement-focused community and training resource.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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