Roy Dean is a martial artist, filmmaker, and creative storyteller whose work bridges the worlds of combat and art. A black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Roy Harris, Roy is known for his elegant approach to movement, mastery, and self-expression. Through his films, writings, and instruction, he reveals the artistry within discipline—showing how the resistance of training can refine both technique and character. His latest projects continue to explore the intersection of creativity, philosophy, and the martial path.
Topics Discussed In This Episode:
- Roy's origin story in martial arts and the philosophies that shaped him (00:03:23)
- Applying martial arts philosophy to everyday life (00:18:16)
- On letting go — acceptance, release, and personal evolution (00:34:38)
- Transforming stress into deeper empathy and expanded perspective (00:42:44)
- Men and masculinity — reflections on growth and identity (00:51:31)
- Mentorship — Roy on his teacher, Roy Harris (00:57:58)
- The duality of jiu jitsu: humbling yet deeply inspiring (01:06:05)
- The intersection of art and martial arts (01:11:38)
- Longevity in training — practical advice for recovery and staying in the game (01:18:44)
- Mastery and style — Roy speaks on mastery; Yoshino on artistic style (01:33:53)
- Refining fundamentals — patterns, basics, and the value of repetition (01:40:30)
- Value structures — understanding them and knowing when to transcend them (01:46:58)
- Embodiment and physicality in art (01:59:50)
- Roy Dean's upcoming jiu jitsu retreats (02:07:23)
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