Movers Mindset

What role does curiosity play in shaping movement, interactions, and personal growth?

The nuanced relationship between uncertainty and opportunity defines how we engage with challenges.

"If you protect yourself from all uncertainty, maybe you are protecting yourself from falling down a well or getting eaten by a bear, but you're also protecting yourself from love." ~ Flynn Disney (8:05)

The conversation begins with an exploration of curiosity as a driving force behind personal growth and movement practices. Curiosity is described as a positive sense of uncertainty, where individuals embrace the unknown with hope rather than fear. This attitude ties directly to embodied experiences, where physical movement reflects the mental and emotional processes involved in navigating uncertainty.

The discussion touches on boundaries, games, and goals, emphasizing their roles in learning and engagement. A notable insight is the idea that boundaries create meaning in challenges, as seen in activities like parkour and games. The interplay of failure and success, described as the resolution of uncertainty, is vital for developing curiosity and staying motivated. Personal anecdotes, such as training dogs and solving puzzles, highlight how curiosity manifests across diverse contexts.

Takeaways

Curiosity as a mindset — Embracing uncertainty with positivity leads to exploration and growth.

Boundaries and goals — Defining clear limits gives meaning and direction to challenges.

Failure as a tool — Error and near-success foster curiosity and engagement.

The role of games — Structured play highlights universal principles of learning and connection.

Embodied practices — Physical movement reflects and reinforces mental and emotional exploration.

Uncertainty's dual nature — It holds risks and opportunities, requiring a balance to embrace.

Social dynamics — Shared curiosity creates a sense of belonging and mutual understanding.

Resources

Flynn Disney on LinkedIn

Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi — Explores the concept of engaging deeply in activities that balance skill and challenge.

Parkour training insights — Explores the movement discipline emphasizing adaptability and exploration.

Rubik’s Cube puzzles — Used in the conversation as a metaphor for learning through trial and error.

Positive uncertainty — The philosophical and psychological exploration of uncertainty's benefits.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What unique insights and challenges arise from participating in World Chase Tag and how do they intersect with the broader culture and practices of parkour?

This discussion explores the tension between preserving authenticity and adapting for mainstream appeal in parkour competitions.

"Being playful, goofing around, is part of keeping your head in the game. And if you lose that playfulness, that's when I get really worried that I won't be able to perform." ~ Olof Wood (15:20)

The conversation examines World Chase Tag as a competitive extension of parkour, highlighting its demands on reflexes and decision-making. The interplay of flow states and logical strategies is emphasized as central to mastering the sport. Its unique blend of simplicity and complexity offers accessibility to audiences and athletes while retaining its competitive edge.

Discussions also touch upon social media's influence on parkour practitioners. By choosing to disengage from traditional platforms, Olof reflects on authenticity and how parkour communities could benefit from self-owned platforms. The broader implications for personal evolution within parkour are also explored, with insights into adapting practices to life's changing demands.

Takeaways

Reflexive demands of World Chase Tag — Highlighted as a unique intersection of logical strategy and flow states that enhance traditional parkour.

Challenges in mainstreaming parkour — Explored through the potential compromises between authenticity and large-scale appeal in events like WCT.

Playfulness as a performance key — Underlined as crucial for maintaining focus and avoiding burnout during competitions.

Social media's impact on creativity — Discussed as a double-edged sword influencing personal expression and community engagement.

Adaptability in parkour practice — Acknowledged as vital for sustaining participation through different life phases.

Resources

World Chase Tag Official Website — The central hub for World Chase Tag competitions and information.

Outrun Parkour — The parkour gym where Olof coaches.

Urban Jumpers App — Highlighted as a parkour-focused social media alternative.

Olof Wood @olofwood

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What insights and experiences are shared about balancing personal life, professional commitments, and community involvement in Parkour and humanitarian work?

The journey from Washington, DC, to sabbatical in Scotland highlights the value of rest and self-reflection.

"You don’t need to earn a break; you’re allowed to just take time off and breathe and enjoy your life a little bit." ~ Adrienne Toumayan (4:59)

The conversation begins with reflections on taking a sabbatical and the challenges of prioritizing rest and recovery. Insights are shared on overcoming self-doubt and embracing the freedom to recharge. Adrienne discusses their unique journey, transitioning between a demanding career in humanitarian aid and their deep involvement in Parkour, where she has contributed to events like the North American Women’s Parkour Gathering.

The dialogue also explores the Adrienne’s contributions to Parkour Earth, emphasizing the importance of foundational work in creating a transparent and inclusive global organization. Additionally, she shares her passion for storytelling through blogs and Instagram, using these platforms to connect with others and inspire engagement with their adventures. The beauty of the Scottish Highlands is also highlighted as a source of inspiration and joy during her sabbatical.

Takeaways

Balancing professional and personal life — Insights on the decision to take a sabbatical and its impact on personal well-being.

Parkour Earth’s mission — Efforts to create a global, transparent organization uniting diverse Parkour communities.

Storytelling through digital platforms — The role of blogs and Instagram in sharing experiences and connecting with others.

Cultural and geographical inspiration — Reflections on the transformative power of travel, especially in Scotland.

Identity and duality — Challenges of navigating a double life between Parkour and humanitarian aid work.

Resources

Adrienne’s Instagram — Personal insights and adventures shared through photography and stories.

North American Women’s Parkour Gathering — Event promoting women’s involvement in Parkour.

Parkour Earth — Global organization fostering the Parkour community.

Isle of Skye — Destination discussed for its magical landscapes and inspiration.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What makes bike racing a unique and transformative experience for individuals and communities?

Bike racing is Joan Hanscom’s life; from racing for fun, to professionally organizing races, to running an entire bike racing organization, Joan has done it all. She talks about all things bike racing; from how she got started, to organizing, to the challenges facing women in the sport. Joan discusses her work at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, and the importance of outreach and the larger picture. She shares her insights on passion, training, podcasting, and what a career in the sport means to her.

"As a person who’s had a career in bike racing since 2002, I was well versed in knowing what the velodrome was, and it was sort of an honor to be tasked with this role. If there’s one thing that I want the velodrome to be is, it’s fun, because that matters. But I also want it to be a place where little kids Pee Wee Pedalers, Squirts and Weebles Wobbles, all the way up to master’s racers, and everybody in between, elite or not, can come and have fun. To me, it’s a place where we can cultivate this lifelong enjoyment of the bike." ~ Joan Hanscom (20:53)

Joan Hanscom is a cyclist, podcast host, and the Executive Director at Valley Preferred Cycling Center. Her love of the sport helped her build a unique career in race promotion and production, working with organizations such as the US Gran Prix of Cyclocross, Cyclocross World Championships, and USA Cycling. Currently, Joan is the Executive Director of the Valley Preferred Cycling center in Trexlertown, Pa, and hosts the Talk of the T-Town podcast.

"It’s the process. It’s the process, no matter what your pursuit is. If you are pursuing excellence in the ballet, it is repetition. It is absolutely repetition. The process of the ballet is every day, there’s a bar, there’s plies, there’s grand plies. There’s jete. It’s a repetition and it’s a process of perfection. Maybe ballet is skewed a little bit more towards perfection than other sports, but it is definitely a repetition and a process and a refinement that you do daily." ~ Joan Hanscom (42:50)

This conversation centers on the multifaceted world of cycling, highlighting its unique sensory and communal experiences. A core theme is the immersive nature of bike racing, from the visceral sounds and sights at the velodrome to the inclusive, community-focused atmosphere it fosters. Joan reflects on her lifelong passion for cycling, tracing it back to her childhood and describing how the sport bridges personal enjoyment and professional achievement. She shares her experiences in organizing races, engaging the local cycling community, and her work at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, aiming to create an inclusive space for all cyclists, from children to elite athletes.

Another key discussion point is the systemic challenges in the sport, especially regarding women's participation. Joan outlines how structural gaps, like fewer racing categories and opportunities for women, make progression difficult. She emphasizes the need for investment in underserved groups, stressing that fostering diversity and inclusion can strengthen the sport and grow its community. Alongside these insights, Joan connects cycling to broader values of process, repetition, and community building, drawing parallels to other disciplines like ballet and movement practices.

Takeaways

Creating inclusive cycling spaces — Efforts to address systemic challenges in women's cycling highlight the importance of structured opportunities and community support.

The magic of the velodrome — The velodrome offers an unmatched sensory experience, combining sound, motion, and closeness to the action.

Community and connection — Cycling builds bridges across diverse groups, creating bonds between families, athletes, and local communities.

Repetition and mastery — The parallels between cycling, ballet, and other disciplines emphasize the value of process and refinement.

Economic potential of cycling — Integrating cycling with local tourism and community planning can make it an economic driver for regions like the Lehigh Valley.

Outreach challenges — Expanding cycling’s reach requires engaging new audiences and addressing modern distractions and competition.

Resources

Valley Preferred Cycling Center — The premier venue for track cycling in Trexlertown, PA, hosting programs for all ages and skill levels.

Podcast: Talk of T-Town

Discover Lehigh Valley — A regional tourism organization collaborating with cycling events to promote local attractions.

Rodale Institute — A partner organization focused on sustainable farming and preserving the scenic roads used by cyclists.

TrainingPeaks — A platform for planning and tracking structured training programs, mentioned for its role in athletic preparation.

Artemis Racing group; unique and thorough onboarding process, really made it accessible

Cycling museum in Belgium: Tour of Flanders Museum

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What insights can be gained from a 15-year journey with Parkour, including its challenges, influences, and personal growth?

Parkour becomes a lens to explore passion, longevity, and the evolution of personal practice.

"The thing with Parkour, we don't have enough money in our industry right now to care enough about rehab and pre-hab… strength and conditioning and everything." ~ Callum Powell (18:48)

The conversation focuses on Callum’s 15-year journey with Parkour, exploring how his passion has remained steadfast despite challenges. He discusses the balance between pursuing high-level skills and staying connected to the joy of movement. Injuries have played a significant role in shaping his approach, forcing him to listen to his body and adopt a more generalist mindset. This shift has led to a deeper appreciation for longevity and sustainability in practice.

Another key topic is the cultural and structural aspects of Parkour, including the lack of resources for injury prevention and recovery. Callum highlights his efforts to learn from other sports and share this knowledge with the Parkour community. Additionally, he reflect on the concepts of performance, play, and dedication, emphasizing the importance of adapting one’s goals over time to maintain passion and fulfillment.

Takeaways

Performance and play — The duality of structured skill progression and unstructured enjoyment enhances long-term practice.

Longevity in movement — A focus on listening to the body and adapting goals ensures sustainable engagement in Parkour.

Impact of injury — Challenges like back pain can lead to profound shifts in mindset and training philosophy.

Cultural growth — The Parkour community's lack of resources for rehab and pre-hab presents opportunities for learning from other sports.

Role of identity — Letting go of peak-focused identities allows for more holistic and fulfilling movement experiences.

Sharing knowledge — Writing and teaching become powerful tools for giving back to the community.

Resources

Callum Powell @callumstorror

Chris Rowat's "Dilution" — A foundational text mentioned for its enduring relevance to Parkour philosophy.

Parkour Generations — Organization influential in promoting longevity and education in movement.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What role do movement and Parkour play in personal growth and self-discovery?

The journey from childhood play to structured Parkour reveals profound insights into discipline and self-development.

"In order to be free, you have to do what you feel is the right thing, not just what you want to do the whole time." ~ Pedro Bessa (21:28)

The conversation examines the transition from casual exploration to structured training in Parkour, highlighting the importance of discipline, values, and self-discovery. Pedro shares how childhood experiences with activities like BMX and skateboarding laid a foundation for Parkour. He emphasizes that movement is not merely about physical achievement but about cultivating a mindset that fosters lifelong exploration and learning.

The discussion touches on coaching and self-training, focusing on the role of community and individual accountability. Pedro reflects on the impact of values like honesty and persistence in self-directed training. Additionally, he discusses how traveling and experiencing new environments and cultures enhances both physical practice and personal growth.

Takeaways

The transition from challenges to training — The evolution of movement from playful challenges to structured Parkour.

The philosophy of exploration — Applying lessons from movement to various areas of life.

The importance of values — How honesty and discipline shape self-coaching and personal growth.

The role of community — How collaborative feedback and shared experiences enhance training.

The impact of travel — How experiencing different cultures and environments fosters unique physical and mental growth.

The magic of shared play — How engaging with others in Parkour creates meaningful connections.

Discipline as freedom — How structured practice enables more profound personal liberation.

Resources

ADAPT Qualifications — The coaching program discussed, emphasizing structure in Parkour training.

Parkour Generations — An organization mentioned as a source of learning and coaching in the discipline.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How does an obsession with movement shape personal practices and creative expression?

Exploring movement extends beyond physicality into music, art, and mindfulness.

"I try to listen to whatever my heart tells me to be doing." ~ Andrew Obenreder (5:37)

The conversation explores Andrew's lifelong obsession with movement and its far-reaching impact on personal and creative practices. Movement, in this context, is not just about physicality but also integrates art forms such as music, painting, and tattooing. Andrew describes movement as an intrinsic part of their life, dating back to childhood, where their passion extended even to the mechanical elegance of trains. He also reflects on how balance is a recurring theme—balancing creative urges, physical demands, and mental well-being.

Stress and mindfulness emerge as critical themes. Andrew challenges traditional notions of stress, suggesting it can be constructive in pushing boundaries. He also emphasize the importance of being present and prioritizing genuine desires over societal or internal pressures to perform. This perspective encourages letting go of "should" and replacing it with intentional actions aligned with personal motivations.

Takeaways

Balancing movement and creativity — Movement intertwines with various creative pursuits like art, music, and tattooing, requiring a balance between physical and mental expressions.

The role of stress — Stress can be both destructive and constructive, depending on how it is perceived and managed.

Mindfulness in practice — Remaining present and listening to immediate desires shapes both personal growth and movement practices.

The concept of "should" — Avoiding unnecessary obligations creates freedom and reduces stress.

Universal struggles — Everyone experiences moments of stagnation, regardless of expertise or experience.

Movement as identity — Movement is deeply personal and rooted in early life experiences.

Resources

MÜV — Andrew's periodical mixing written, audio and visual mediums.

David Allen's "Getting Things Done" — A productivity system mentioned for its advice on balancing commitments.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What challenges and insights arise from navigating menopause, maintaining health, and balancing creative pursuits?

Selene Yeager doesn’t shy away from topics other might avoid; in fact, she is leading the conversation around menopause. She shares her journey into creating a podcast about menopause, and her own experiences with menopause. Selene explains her thoughts on diet, nutrition, health tracking, and cycling. She discusses her relationship with writing, and what she’s currently reading.

"Women drop out at the other end of the spectrum just as much, because they're alone, their bodies are changing, and it's worse; you feel like Carrie. It's almost like Carrie. Remember that Stephen King book? No one is telling you these changes that are going to happen." ~ Selene Yeager (8:30)

Selene Yeager is a professional health and fitness writer, cycling and nutrition coach, personal trainer, athlete, and podcast host. She has written articles for many publications, including Bicycling Magazine, Runner’s World, and Men’s and Women’s Health, in addition to authoring, co-authoring, and contributing to over 2 dozen books. Beyond writing, Selene is the host of Hit Play Not Pause, a podcast focusing on menopause for athletes.

The conversation explores the complexities of menopause, emphasizing the intersection of physical changes, societal stigmas, and personal identity. Selene discusses her journey of embracing menopause as both a challenge and an opportunity, using her experiences to inspire and educate others. Topics such as hormonal fluctuations, their effects on mental and physical health, and the lack of open discourse surrounding menopause are examined.

In addition to menopause, the conversation highlights the speaker's multi-faceted career as a writer, athlete, and podcaster. She shares insights into maintaining creative energy, managing time, and balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Discussions also touch on broader health themes like intermittent fasting, its specific impact on women, and the importance of listening to one's body for optimal well-being.

Takeaways

The transformational journey of menopause — Women can navigate menopause as an empowering phase of self-discovery and growth despite societal stigma.

The interplay of science and storytelling — Communicating complex health information in relatable ways fosters understanding and action.

Challenges of aging athletes — Physical changes can lead to disconnection from familiar identities, but adaptation and support networks are crucial.

The pitfalls of intermittent fasting for women — Unlike men, women often experience adverse effects due to physiological differences.

Balancing creative and physical pursuits — Structuring time around energy rhythms can help sustain productivity and joy.

Supportive communities for menopausal women — Finding a network of peers can significantly ease the challenges of life transitions.

Resources

Hit Play Not Pause — Selene's podcast focused on menopause for athletes, hosted by the speaker.

Feisty Menopause Community — Menopause guidance for active women.

Roar by Stacy Sims and Selene Yeager — A book addressing the unique needs of female athletes.

North American Menopause Society — Offers resources and certifications for professionals specializing in menopause care.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What role does movement, particularly parkour, play in fostering personal growth, connection, and creativity?

Playing tag on national television was never something Mike Araujo imagined when he started training parkour. He discusses his path in parkour and the opportunities he’s gained from it. Mike shares his experiences with World Chase Tag, and his thoughts on competition. He explains his personal definition of parkour, sharing it with others, and his thoughts on how the community has changed.

"Everyone needs to find the thing that moves them to move. Whether that be parkour or whatever other sport. I think as long as you're moving and connecting with people and your environment then you're on the right path." ~ Mike Araujo (7:07)

Mike Araujo is an athlete and head coach with the Movement Creative. He has trained parkour in NYC for over a decade, and coached nearly as long. Mike often travels for parkour, and recently competed in World Chase Tag’s first USA based event.

The conversation explores the transformative power of parkour as a practice that transcends physical movement. Parkour serves as a medium for personal growth, offering opportunities to connect with one's body and environment intentionally. The practice is presented as adaptable, requiring no specific equipment or space, which makes it accessible to anyone seeking a meaningful connection with movement.

The discussion also examines parkour's evolving culture, from intimate, small gatherings to large-scale global events. Topics include the impact of structured competitions like World Chase Tag, the community's adaptation during the pandemic, and the balance between maintaining the sport’s original spirit while embracing its growth. Reflections on coaching and transitions in life highlight the importance of aligning passion with action, even when faced with uncertainty.

Takeaways

Movement as nourishment — Physical activity is essential for mental and physical well-being.

The intention behind practice — The focus should be on personal growth and meaningful connection, not just the movements themselves.

Accessibility of parkour — As a discipline, it requires minimal resources and emphasizes adaptability.

Coaching philosophies — Evolving as a coach means shifting from making others love the discipline to helping them find their own path.

Parkour and community — The growth of events and gatherings showcases how parkour fosters connections among practitioners worldwide.

Competitions and novelty — Events like World Chase Tag add new dimensions to training, blending creativity and structured athleticism.

Resources

Mike Araujo @pyro4pk

The Movement Creative — Parkour coaching and event organization company.

World Chase Tag — Competitive tag event blending parkour with high-speed athleticism.

Jump London — A documentary showcasing the origins of parkour.

Max Henry @maxhenryparkour — Parkour athlete and author known for his innovative approach to movement.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How do the experiences of deafness, architecture, and parkour intersect to influence design and accessibility?

While it’s not immediately apparent that Jade Amber Ragoshke is unilaterally deaf, it is a defining factor for her life and work. She shares her experiences with deafness, learning about it, and adapting to it. Jade discusses architecture and her ongoing research into the connections between architecture, parkour, and accessibility. She reflects on disability, designing for all people, and creating more inclusive environments in all communities.

"I think, after this conversation that we've had about art— I think that what art really is, is breaking the boundaries of the standard." ~ Jade Amber Ragoschke (30:14)

Jade Amber Ragoschke is an architect, parkour practitioner, and the vice president of World Deaf Architecture. Her involvement in parkour led to her interest and eventual career in architecture. After finding her place in the Deaf community, she discovered a new perspective and approach to architecture that is more inclusive, empathetic, and accessible to everyone. Jade specializes in accessible design for people with disabilities and provides architectural consultation to parkour communities. She advocates for inclusive play spaces for all ages and is researching the intersections between architecture, parkour, and accessibility.

This conversation explores the unique intersections of parkour, architecture, and accessibility, weaving together personal experiences and professional insights. Discussions highlight how accessible designs often double as ideal spaces for creative physical movement, reflecting an unexpected synergy between inclusivity and play. Jade emphasizes the importance of designing spaces at a human scale, focusing on sensory experiences and personal engagement rather than purely aesthetic considerations.

The dialogue also examines the philosophical and practical roles of architecture and art in memorializing history and shaping societal experiences. By referencing specific examples like the 9/11 Memorial and other landmark designs, the conversation illustrates how architecture can evoke emotions, honor history, and inspire resilience. The shared experiences of adapting to hearing loss further contextualize Jade’s perspectives on design, emphasizing the transformative potential of inclusivity.

Takeaways

Architecture and human scale — The focus on personal experience in space design emphasizes sensory engagement over aesthetics.

Parkour and accessibility — Accessible spaces unintentionally become ideal settings for creative movement and parkour.

Art and architecture integration — Structures can serve as both functional spaces and artistic installations, enriching urban environments.

Design as inclusivity — Inclusive designs provide comfort and accessibility for all, enhancing the utility of spaces.

Memorializing through design — Architecture captures historical moments, offering spaces for reflection and resilience.

Architectural unpredictability — People often use spaces in unintended ways, revealing the dynamic relationship between design and behavior.

Resources

Jade Amber Ragoschke @antiphase.motion

World Deaf Architecture — Organization focused on accessibility and architecture for Deaf communities.

Bjarke Ingels Group — Architecture firm led by Bjarke Ingels, known for innovative projects like those highlighted in the conversation.

ADA Standards for Accessible Design — Guidelines defining accessibility in architecture.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

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I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

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