Shows
The life dojoThe Real Edge in Performance: Where Science, Spirit & Discipline MeetIn this short episode, Michael is joined by Joe Watkins and Marcus Edwards for a direct and uncompromising conversation about performance, mental strength, and why most modern approaches are failing men.We break down why mindset alone isn’t enough, why grind culture burns people out, and how treating humans like machines destroys long-term performance. Drawing from combat sports, psychology, physiology, and lived experience, the conversation explores what actually builds resilience when pressure is real.We discuss discipline, nervous system regulation, dopamine, stress, purpose, and the role of meaning and spirituality in...
2026-02-1714 minThe life dojoIs Social Media Pulling Men Away From Who They Are? | Masculinity & IdentityIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores how social media has shifted from a tool for connection into a system of validation, performance, and distraction — and how this shift is quietly reshaping masculinity, relationships, and human behaviour.We examine how online personas, attention-seeking behaviour, and constant comparison pull men away from purpose and instinct. From dating apps and OnlyFans to influencer culture and performative confidence, the conversation questions whether modern platforms are weakening a man’s drive to pursue real connection, real challenge, and real growth.Guest Marc...
2026-02-131h 26The life dojoFeeling Stuck? Your Environment Might Be the Problem (Part 2)Part 2 goes deeper into why people stay stuck and what actually keeps them trapped. Michael and Marcus explore how your habits, your environment, the people around you, and the content you consume all shape your mindset and determine whether you move forward or stay exactly where you are.This episode looks at friendship circles, relationships, social media addiction, comfort zones, food choices, home environment, clutter, and the routines that silently keep people stagnant. We talk openly about how negativity spreads, how people can unknowingly hold you back, and why your surroundings often reflect the state...
2026-02-1027 minThe life dojoThe Hidden Cost of Technology: EMFs, Health & Humanity’s DisconnectionIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores the hidden cost of modern technology and the questions many people feel but are afraid to ask.We begin with the power of real human connection — shared conversations, presence, and being on the same wavelength — before moving into deeper territory. From personal experiences during 2020 to observations around EMFs, wireless technology, and constant exposure to screens, we examine whether modern progress is quietly affecting our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the conversation as we discuss rising rates of i...
2026-02-061h 23The life dojoFeeling Stuck? How to Break the Cycle and Get Your Life Moving Again (Part 1)When life starts feeling like Groundhog Day, it’s not a sign that you’re broken — it’s a sign that something needs to shift. In this episode, Michael and Marcus break down the real reason people get stuck, why comfort becomes a trap, and how to make those small but powerful moves that get your momentum back. If you’ve been feeling stagnant, overwhelmed, or unsure how to take the next step, this will give you clarity, direction, and the push you’ve been waiting for.Work with Michaelhttps://thelifedojo.com/
2026-02-0319 minThe life dojoBreaking the Script — Discipline, Identity and the War on Modern Masculinity (Part 2)In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Michael sits down again with Lloyd and Leon Sewell to dive even deeper into the psychological, cultural, and spiritual forces shaping modern life — and the mindsets men need to rise above them.We explore why most people live on autopilot, following a cultural “script” built on distractions, comfort, and false priorities. The three break down how men lose themselves in news cycles, sports, entertainment, social media, and modern expectations — and how real growth only begins when you disengage from the noise and start observing your own life with clarity.
2026-01-301h 41The life dojoHow to Handle Stress — And Take Back Control of Your Life (Part 2)Part 2 continues the deep conversation around stress, identity and taking back control of your life. Michael and Marcus explore the hidden emotional pressures that build up over years — the relationships we outgrow, the environments that drain us, the expectations we try to live up to, and the quiet battles we fight internally without ever stopping to question why we feel the way we do.This episode goes deeper into how stress shapes your mindset, your self-worth and your behaviour, and why so many people carry emotional weight that isn’t even theirs. We talk about the...
2026-01-2706 minThe life dojoReality , Identity & the system that shapes us: Culture, Mental Health, and the Collapse of Modern Thinking (Part 1)In this two-part conversation, Michael sits down with twin brothers Lloyd and Leon Sewell for one of the most honest and wide-ranging discussions ever recorded on The Life Dojo Podcast.We explore the pressures shaping modern society — from censorship, identity politics, the “hive mind,” social programming, and media narrative control… to the breakdown of community, masculinity, parenting, and the mental health crisis affecting young men across the UK.The three unpack how digital culture, short-form dopamine addiction, drill music, and online echo chambers are rewiring behaviour, shaping identity, and creating fear, confusio...
2026-01-231h 47The life dojoHow to Handle Stress — And Take Back Control of Your Life (Part 1)In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, Michael sits down with Marcus Edwards to break down one of the biggest challenges men face today: stress, chronic stress, overwhelm, and emotional instability.We explore the difference between stress as a natural biological response — and chronic stress, the constant cortisol-driven state that is poisoning men both mentally and physically. We discuss how overwhelm, fear, overthinking, physical tension, injuries, stubborn fat, fatigue, digestive issues, and emotional imbalance all stem from a deregulated nervous system.Marcus and Michael talk through real-world experiences with stress, comfort ad...
2026-01-2018 minThe life dojoSpiritual warfare, the youth crisis and the path to physical masteryIn this episode, Michael sits down with returning guest Martin St Clair Hughes for a deep and wide-ranging conversation about the hidden forces shaping modern life. We unpack the realities behind social media, online personas, the collapse of internet “influencers,” and the psychological effects digital culture is having on men, young people, and society as a whole.We explore how attention, perception, and collective focus shape behaviour, identity, and culture — along with the metaphysical side of consciousness, synchronicity, reincarnation, and the Hermetic principle of correspondence.Michael and Martin also discuss the challe...
2026-01-162h 39The life dojoThe Illusion Economy: Overstimulation, Online Toxicity & Losing OurselvesModern life has become a circus of gossip, online drama, and influencer scandals — and society is addicted to it.In this episode, Michael David Climmer breaks down how negative content dominates the attention economy, why people celebrate downfall instead of growth, and how endless stimulation is destroying patience, awareness, and genuine human connection.We explore how online toxicity, fake personas, and the rise of “scammer culture” pull men away from purpose and self-mastery. In addition, we look at how tribalism, misinformation, and emotional reactivity keep people divided, distracted, and unable to think for themselves.
2026-01-091h 17The life dojoTHE HABITS OF CHAMPIONS: Discipline, Mindset & the Will to WinIn this episode, we break down the daily habits that turn fighters into champions — and how those same habits build success in every area of life.We explore the rise of Fabio Wardley, a late starter who fought his way from white-collar boxing to an unbeaten professional career and a world-title shot. His journey shows the power of dignity, discipline, and refusing to break under pressure.We then dive into the winning habits every man can apply:– Early-morning runs to build discipline and resilience– Doing the hard t...
2026-01-022h 01The life dojoYour Circle or Your Cage: The People Who Shape Your DestinyIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores one of the most important truths in a man’s life: your environment either builds you or breaks you. We dive into how the people closest to you influence your mindset, discipline, confidence, and long-term direction — often more than you realise.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the conversation as we share personal experiences of outgrowing certain friendships and recognising when loyalty becomes a cage instead of a foundation. We unpack why some people energise you while others quietly drain your ambition, and why choosing a stro...
2025-12-261h 05The life dojoFighting Demons Beyond the Ring: Mental Strength, Identity & the Warrior’s Inner BattleIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores the brutal truth behind the warrior spirit — that the hardest battles fighters face are often the ones outside the ring. We discuss the emotional weight carried by fighters at every level: the pressure, the identity struggle, the loneliness, and the demons that follow many athletes long after their careers shift or slow down.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the conversation as we reflect on why so many fighters struggle with mental health, addiction, and the loss of structure once the discipline of daily training fades. We...
2025-12-191h 04The life dojoEmbrace Your Primal Self: Instinct, Strength & the Truth of Masculine EnergyIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores what it really means for a man to reconnect with his primal self — the inner force that fuels purpose, strength, and mental clarity. We discuss how powerful insights can emerge in moments of deep presence, whether through spiritual reflection or the raw honesty felt in a sparring session. These experiences reveal a truth many men have forgotten: the instinct to fight, protect, and pursue meaning is not a flaw, but an essential part of who we are.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the conversation as we...
2025-12-122h 13The life dojoFeed Your Inner Tiger: Purpose, Discipline & Awakening the Fire WithinIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores the idea of the “inner tiger” — the primal drive for purpose, strength, and passion that every man carries within him. We discuss how this hidden power awakens when a man has a clear “why,” and how reconnecting to that inner fire transforms not only your mindset but the direction of your entire life.Guest Marcus Edwards contributes a powerful story of returning to boxing as an amputee, proving that discipline and belief can defy limitations. These moments show that when you feed your inner tiger, you...
2025-12-022h 05The life dojoFighting for a Better World: Discipline, Community & Navigating Modern ChallengesIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores how lessons from the fighting world can help men navigate the challenges of modern society. From discussing aging legends like Carl Froch to the rise of “crossover” boxing, we highlight how combat sports teach discipline, respect, and emotional control — qualities that can make a real difference both inside and outside the ring.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the conversation as we expand from combat sports into the wider issues affecting our communities today. We look at the pressures men face around homelessness, hardship, and social divisi...
2025-11-251h 31The life dojoBe the Man You’re Meant to Be: Authenticity, Confidence & the Power of Real ConnectionIn this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores what it truly means to become the man you’re meant to be. We begin by looking at the difference between genuine human expression and the emotionless patterns of AI-style communication — and why real connection is essential for growth. Michael reflects on how Muay Thai, discipline, and authentic interaction shaped his character and strengthened his path.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the discussion as we examine the confidence crisis many men face today. From the fear of rejection to the pressure created by modern social medi...
2025-11-181h 29The life dojoTruth Is the Medicine: Identity, Health & Reclaiming ResponsibilityIn this powerful episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores truth as a form of healing — from the stories that shape our identity to the systems that influence our wellbeing. We begin by unpacking myths and cultural narratives, including a deeper look at the legend of St. George and how heritage, upbringing, and immigrant backgrounds shape who we become.The conversation then shifts toward health, where Michael and guest Marcus Edwards share personal experiences within the NHS — both moments of excellent care and situations that revealed limitations within the system. This episode does not...
2025-11-111h 09The life dojoOpen Your Mind: Expanding Awareness, Questioning Narratives & Awakening Inner ClarityIn one of our most thought-provoking conversations, Michael David Climmer explores what it truly means to open your mind in a world full of noise, distraction, and competing narratives. Rather than accepting the stories handed to us about history, society, or the future, we discuss the importance of critical thinking, discernment, and understanding the deeper forces that shape human behaviour.Guest Marcus Edwards contributes to a discussion that examines how trends, media, and cultural movements influence the way we see ourselves — and how they often pull men away from their instincts, intuition, and higher purpose. In...
2025-11-041h 02The life dojoRediscovering Our True Nature: Instinct, Consciousness & Rising Above Modern DistractionWhat does it really mean to return to our true nature?In this episode, Michael David Climmer explores the journey from primal instinct to higher consciousness, asking how modern systems, beliefs, and technologies influence the way we think, act, and connect.Guest Marcus Edwards joins the conversation as we examine how balance in nature reflects the balance we need within ourselves. In addition, we discuss the dangers of extreme ideologies, the impact of digital overstimulation, and how conversations around technology and transhumanism raise deeper questions about freedom and human potential....
2025-10-281h 21The life dojoFrom Trauma to Transformation: Healing Generational Wounds & Reclaiming Inner StrengthIn this episode, Michael David Climmer explores how men can break free from the patterns, traumas, and dependencies that quietly shape their lives. We look at the systems — both societal and personal — that keep men stuck, and discuss what real freedom means in a world full of distraction and emotional pressure.Guest Marcus Edwards contributes to the conversation as we unpack how generational wounds are passed down, and more importantly, how they can be healed through accountability, emotional awareness, and conscious choice. In addition, we discuss the role of family connection, empathy, and honest communication in b...
2025-10-2147 minThe life dojoThe Fighting Spirit & Inner Peace: Discipline, Forgiveness & the Warrior MindsetWhat does it truly mean to be both powerful and peaceful?In this episode, Michael David Climmer explores the warrior mindset through the lens of martial arts, discipline, and emotional mastery. From the relentless drive of fighters like Khamzat Chimaev to the life-saving structure of boxing, we show how combat sports build resilience for the real battles men face outside the ring.Guest Marcus Edward’s joins the discussion as we connect the adaptability required in fighting to entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth. In addition, we examine why mo...
2025-10-1452 minThe life dojoThe Battle for Truth Part 2: Resilience, Gender Divides & Rising Above Modern ChaosIn Part 2 of The Battle for Truth, Michael David Climmer continues the exploration of the forces shaping modern society and the pressures placed on men today. We examine the growing divide between men and women, the rise of engineered distraction, and how modern life has contributed to emotional softness and declining resilience.Guest Marcus Edwards adds perspective as we contrast environments of survival — such as the streets of Chicago — with the sheltered comfort that weakens discipline and character. In addition, we discuss whether today’s mental health crisis is being amplified by systems that benefit from k...
2025-10-071h 45The life dojoThe Battle for Truth Part 1: Discipline, Authenticity & the Hidden Forces Shaping Your LifeTruth is under attack in today’s world, and most men don’t realise how deeply it affects their daily lives.In this episode, Michael David Climmer explores the subtle battles that shape your mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing — from disrupted sleep to the erosion of authenticity in modern culture.Guest Marcus Edwards shares his recent struggle with rest, questioning whether it’s caused by modern overstimulation or the deeper spiritual exposure that comes with practices like breathwork and meditation.In addition, we look at the masks people wear, the envy embedded in UK cultu...
2025-09-301h 41The life dojoModern Relationships Part 2: Narcissism, Cheating & Rebuilding Healthy ConnectionIn Part 2 of our deep dive into modern relationships, Michael Climmer explores the hidden emotional battles men and women face today. This episode goes further into the realities of narcissistic partners, the complex ethics of cheating within friend groups, and how jealousy becomes a destructive power play when accountability is missing.Rather than focusing on blame, we examine how responsibility and emotional honesty become the only path out of toxic patterns. In addition, the episode challenges the culture of “relationship gurus” who speak from dysfunction instead of healthy experience, reminding listeners that real guidance must come...
2025-09-251h 49The life dojoModern Relationships: Accountability, Authentic Love & The Truth Behind Modern DatingModern relationships have changed dramatically — shaped by money, corporate influence, and a culture obsessed with attention rather than genuine connection.In this episode, Michael David Climmer examines how authenticity is being replaced by performance, from podcasting to dating to marriage itself. We break down how social pressure, image-based lifestyles, and modern expectations distort what love and partnership are meant to be.In addition, the episode explores the realities of dating and divorce, the myths sold by industries like the diamond market, and why men often face the harshest consequences when relationships break down. We di...
2025-09-231h 40The life dojoFrom Struggle to Strength: Ego, Discipline & Overcoming Self-SabotageEvery man battles with ego — whether in training, competition, relationships, or the quiet moments of daily life.In this episode, Michael David Climmer opens up about the hidden ways self-sabotage, overthinking, and fear of rejection limit a man’s potential. Guest Marcus adds his own experiences, revealing how the mind can become either a weapon or a barrier depending on how it’s trained.We contrast life in LA with life in the UK, exploring environments that encourage ambition versus those that suppress it. In addition, the episode draws inspiration from warriors like Miyamoto Musash...
2025-09-181h 36The life dojoThe Power of Authentic Growth: Identity, Symbolism & Escaping Modern TrapsAuthentic growth requires honesty, self-awareness, and the courage to confront who you are — and who you’re becoming.In this episode, Michael Climmer explores the deeper meaning behind personal branding, masculine identity, and the symbols that shape a man’s journey. Guest Marcus Edwards shares the story behind Lionheart Fitness, while Michael breaks down the meaning of The Life Dojo logo and how the tiger, samurai, and path of continuous improvement represent the balance between primal instinct and higher self.In addition, we examine how limiting beliefs, ego, and fear-based conditioning keep men stuck. The ep...
2025-09-161h 40The life dojoWinning Your Silent Battles: Turning Pain Into Power & Reclaiming DisciplineIs modern life making men soft — or are men simply losing connection with their own strength?In this episode, Michael Climmer returns to Muay Thai after nearly a decade, pushing through a cracked rib and reigniting the fighting spirit that discipline creates. This journey becomes the starting point for a much deeper discussion: the silent battles men face every day.From comfort and obesity to victim mentality and bullying, Michael breaks down the hidden wars that weaken men and keep them trapped in cycles of quiet resignation. In addition, he shares raw stories about we...
2025-09-093h 27The life dojoStrengthen Your Connection: Masculine Fulfilment, Warrior Mindset & Rising Above Modern DistractionsGenuine connection is collapsing in the modern world — replaced by shallow interactions, digital validation, and relationships built on convenience instead of depth.In this episode, Michael David Climmer and guest Warren Anthony explore how men can strengthen their inner and outer connection in an era dominated by OnlyFans, dating apps, and AI-driven attention traps.We discuss why your circle should elevate your energy, not drain it, and how real fulfilment comes from building yourself — not chasing approval. In addition, the episode explores the warrior mindset, returning to martial arts at 46, and how reframing setbacks tran...
2025-09-041h 41The life dojoFocus on What Matters: Purpose, Attention, and Breaking Free From a Distracted WorldIn a world built to distract men, staying focused has become a superpower.In this episode, Michael David Climmer sits down with guest Warren Anthony for a raw conversation about purpose, attention, and the systems that shape how men think and behave. They explore how schools, media, and modern culture push labels and narratives that often limit a man’s potential instead of unlocking it.This isn’t about denying mental health challenges — it’s about questioning who benefits from keeping men overstimulated, stressed, and disconnected from their inner power. In addition, the episode exposes...
2025-09-021h 48The life dojoGo From Stuck to Unstoppable: Discipline, Nervous System Control & Reclaiming Masculine DriveFeeling stuck, soft, or stagnant is a silent battle many men face — and most try to hide.In this episode, Michael David Climmer breaks down the real reasons men lose their drive and fall into cycles of stress, avoidance, and low motivation. From modern comfort numbing ambition to the “no time” excuse that kills discipline, this conversation exposes the patterns holding men back.In addition, we explore how to shift the nervous system through breathwork, build routines that actually stick, and remove the toxic influences that weaken masculine identity. Guest Marcus Edwards shares how losing...
2025-08-263h 05The life dojoFrom Pain to Purpose: Male Suicide, Healing, and the Path to Self-MasteryIn this powerful and personal episode, Michael David Climmer confronts the silent epidemic of male suicide and the deep emotional battles men carry alone. Strength and suffering often sit side by side, and many men never speak about what they’re going through until it’s too late.Guest Marcus Edwards shares his journey through depression after losing his leg — and how the loyalty of his dog kept him alive during his darkest moments. Michael also opens up about losing a veteran friend to PTSD, offering a raw look at how pain, pressure, and expectation can ov...
2025-08-192h 55The life dojoBecome Mentally Unbreakable: Discipline, Spiritual Strength & the Warrior MindsetWhat makes certain men mentally unbreakable?In this episode, Michael David Climmer explores how elite warriors like Oleksandr Usyk rise above impossible challenges through discipline, spiritual strength, and an unshakable inner foundation.Their mindset isn’t an accident — it’s built through years of self-mastery.We also break down how modern society weakens men by encouraging emotional dependency, numbing instinct, and disconnecting them from purpose. In addition, the episode exposes how distraction, overstimulation, and social conditioning erode a man’s discipline and inner power if he isn’t aware of it.Most...
2025-08-123h 37The life dojoThe Whole Way & Beyond: Peak Performance, Emotional Regulation & Reclaiming Your PresenceIn this episode, Michael David Climmer sits down with strength and conditioning coach Joe Watkins to explore “The Whole Way,” a philosophy that merges science, self-mastery, and ancient wisdom to create peak performance without burnout. Joe challenges the toxic grind mentality that dominates modern training culture, revealing why true excellence comes from rest, emotional awareness, and a calm nervous system — not just relentless effort.This raw conversation goes far beyond physical training.In addition, we expose the dark side of achievement, the dangers of digital addiction, and the hidden cost of chasing success without ground...
2025-08-052h 24The life dojoBe Your Own Religion: Ancient Wisdom, Self-Mastery & Escaping Modern DogmaModern belief systems often pull men away from their true power.In this episode, Michael David Climmer explores whether mainstream religions and modern ideologies genuinely guide people — or simply control them. He dives into ancient wisdom traditions such as Bushido, the teachings of the Dogon tribe, and spiritual philosophies that existed long before modern dogma diluted the deeper truths of human consciousness.This isn’t a rejection of spirituality. Instead, it’s an invitation for men to become their own religion — to build an inner code based on discipline, truth, unity, and self-mastery. In addition...
2025-07-293h 10The life dojoReclaim Your Mind & Spirit: Escaping Social Programming and Modern DistractionsModern society is built to distract, weaken, and disconnect men from their true power.In this episode, Michael David Climmer exposes the forces that manipulate our attention, shape our beliefs, and disconnect us from our emotional and spiritual centre. From the corruption and PED culture in combat sports to the influence of media and technology, you’ll see the patterns used to dull masculine strength and awareness.This conversation is both an exposé and a call to reclaim your mind. In addition, Michael breaks down how emotional control, critical thinking, and disciplined awareness act as...
2025-07-223h 16The life dojoEmotional Mastery for Men: Breaking Mental Limits & Reclaiming Inner StrengthUnchecked emotions can destroy a man’s life, not because feeling is weakness, but because a lack of mastery leads to reactivity, instability, and self-destruction.In this episode, Michael David Climmer breaks down how men can move from emotional chaos to emotional control, and why real strength comes from awareness, discipline, and facing the truth about yourself.We explore how anger, childhood wounds, and unprocessed experiences create destructive patterns in adulthood. In addition, Michael explains how martial arts, adversity, and disciplined self-reflection build the emotional intelligence men desperately need but rarely develop.You’ll a...
2025-07-153h 09The life dojoModern Masculinity: Why Men Feel Lost & How to Rebuild Strength and PurposeModern masculinity is under pressure, and many men feel lost, disconnected, or unsure of who they’re supposed to be in today’s world.In this episode, Michael Climmer breaks down why men struggle with identity, emotional suppression, and the weight of modern expectations and what it truly takes to rebuild strength and purpose from the inside out.You’ll learn how discipline, emotional control, self-awareness, and spiritual grounding create a stronger masculine foundation. In addition, we explore how modern dating, social media, and the search for validation weaken men — and how to rise above it...
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