Movers Mindset

How do individuals navigate transformation and mindset shifts in their personal and professional lives, and what role does reflection and intentionality play in fostering deeper connections and growth?

Transformation is often thought of as a particular turning point, but Vivian Carrasco views it as a daily practice. She discusses stillness, shifting your mindset, and her touch stones. Vivi unpacks her thoughts on transformation, and how podcasting fits into her journey. She shares her personal practices, thoughts on success, and reflections on her beginnings and her own path.

"When I was going through my transformation, the biggest pain point for me was when you have a loved one that's closer. Even my kids are like, 'Why are you changing? You're good the way you are.' That will pull you back. […] The bus is going to come again and you can get on. The one thing that I want to say to your listeners is: You didn't miss your opportunity. It's going to come back around. You're being invited to open, to change, to have a new way of thinking. It's just going to come again. You didn't miss the bus." ~ Vivian Carrasco (30:41)

Vivian Carrasco is a wisdom teacher, mindset mentor, and podcaster based in Fort Worth, Texas. She encourages and coaches people to Love.Being.Human(tm), helping them find their truth, overcome fear, and move forward on their heart’s path. Vivian works one on one with individuals, and also created Within (U)niversity, an online platform for people to come together on their journey of living from their core.

The conversation explores the nuanced nature of personal transformation as a gradual process rooted in daily practices. It highlights the importance of stillness, patience, and self-reflection as vital tools for navigating change. The discussion ties these ideas to metaphors such as the “fan belt,” which represents interconnectedness and the continuous flow of energy between humanity and love.

Other topics include the role of movement in childhood and its connection to freedom and identity. Rituals and meaningful moments, such as family dinners, are emphasized as ways to foster connections and align with one's values. The conversation also goes into the evolution of mindset shifts, viewing life as an iterative process similar to laundry, where growth is incremental and ongoing.

Takeaways

Transformation as a practice — It is a continual and incremental process rather than a single turning point.

Role of movement — Movement is connected to freedom, play, and a natural regulation of the body and mind.

Significance of rituals — Rituals create intentional and meaningful connections with others.

Daily practices — Regular small actions can lead to significant shifts in mindset and personal growth.

Metaphors for life — Using relatable metaphors, like a fan belt, can provide clarity and connection in understanding life’s complexities.

Evolution of identity — Mindset shifts involve moving away from fixed roles and embracing change as an opportunity.

Connection and community — Building meaningful relationships is central to personal well-being and growth.

Reflection on success — Success is subjective and defined by personal alignment with values rather than external measures.

Resources

Within University — Vivian’s online platform designed for community and personal growth.

Movers Mindset Podcast — A podcast exploring movement and mindset-related topics.

Oura Ring — A wearable device discussed for tracking movement and lifestyle patterns.

(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 can individuals use movement, mindfulness, and intentional living to transform their lives and overcome challenges?

Against all odds, Howard ‘Cosmo’ Palmer survived serious heart problems in his childhood to become a healthy, active athlete into his 40s. he describes his childhood health journey and its effects on his life. Cosmo discusses his thoughts on changing your habits, and his personal intentions in the world. He unpacks the meaning behind his nickname and connection to cosmonauts, and shares his heroes and inspirations.

"For myself is to be an example to the world that you can learn to love yourself, through what we have as life, and be whatever that means to you, and then give back." ~ Howard Palmer (13:31)

Howard ‘Cosmo’ Palmer is a self-care, meditation, and wellness advocate. Born in Jamaica, and currently living in Colorado, Cosmo uses his mindfulness and meditation practices to balance his other responsibilities: engineering, parkour, and yoga. He is passionate about helping others improve their lives through intentional, peaceful daily actions.

The conversation explores the transformative journey of overcoming childhood health challenges, focusing on how movement served as a means of freedom and self-expression. From severe early health complications to becoming an advocate for mindfulness and intention, Howard shares how physical and emotional resilience shaped his perspective on life. His philosophy of movement emphasizes the connection between the physical and the emotional, treating it as an art form that reflects internal energy.

The discussion also addresses the importance of mindfulness and intentional living in navigating life's adversities. Cosmo connects his personal experiences to broader cosmic and philosophical concepts, using these frameworks to inspire others. Topics include the evolving nature of identity, the role of habits in personal growth, and the impact of societal and personal adversities on self-awareness.

Takeaways

Movement as freedom — A personal journey of overcoming physical and emotional limitations through movement.

Intention in daily life — Emphasizing how deliberate actions and habits shape personal growth and transformation.

Cosmic philosophy — Connecting self-awareness with universal principles to foster a deeper understanding of life.

Legacy as daily living — Redefining legacy not as a final accomplishment but as a continuous process of authentic living.

Mindfulness and resilience — Using mindfulness to navigate trauma and foster a balanced, conscious life.

Resources

Howard 'Cosmo' Palmer @c0smopk

Ryan Ford — Mentioned as an example of inspiration and movement philosophy.

Bruce Lee Philosophy — Referenced as a guiding figure for self-expression and resilience.

(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 individual's experience with movement and community influence their personal growth and perspective on life?

Moving to a different country and starting over is a challenge that Renae Dambly embraced. She shares how parkour and movement fit into her life, and how she takes care of herself, especially after moving to Germany. Renae unpacks her perception of herself vs other’s viewpoints, and publicly representing parkour. She discusses climbing, injury, competition, painting, and hitting the ‘plateau.’

"As an athlete trying to make a positive impression on the public, I'm not going to stop training, but I'm also not going to train in a disrespectful manner. I want to make the best choice to, I think, have parkour viewed in a more positive light. So I will keep training, but I will show respect." ~ Renae Dambly (17:46)

Renae Dambly is an athlete and coach, recently moved to Germany from Colorado. She has a diverse movement background, including track, rugby, and rock climbing in addition to parkour. Renae is pursuing a career in fitness alongside her professional parkour career.

The conversation explores how movement influences personal identity and self-discovery. The participant shares their deep connection with movement, viewing it as a guide and a means of navigating life’s challenges. Experiences of balancing education and movement, adapting to new cultures, and maintaining self-care practices provide a rich context. The discussion includes insights into how movement impacts self-perception and how public perception adds complexity to training and expression.

Key topics include competition's role as a social connector rather than a competitive tool and the importance of respect and adaptability in representing movement practices. The conversation also touches on creativity, with watercolor painting and art as outlets of self-expression, and the nuanced exploration of personal and societal dynamics in movement and community participation.

Takeaways

Movement as a guide — Movement serves as a constant source of direction and grounding in life.

Dual perspectives in movement — The contrast between self-perception and public viewpoints influences personal training.

Role of competition — Competition acts as a platform for connection and personal assessment rather than just winning.

Adapting to challenges — Balancing life transitions and movement highlights resilience and adaptability.

Art and creativity — Creative practices like painting and sketching provide additional avenues for self-expression.

Cultural perspectives — Exploring the differences between European and American parkour cultures enriches understanding of movement communities.

Self-care practices — Movement, outdoor activities, and art emerge as key tools for maintaining mental and physical well-being.

Resources

Renae Dambly @renaedambly

APEX Denver online fitness classes — Provides Zoom-based fitness training and coaching.

Max Henry's "Parkour Roadmap" — A book offering guidance for parkour practitioners.

Thinking, Fast and Slow — Daniel Kahneman's book exploring psychological insights on decision-making.

(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 discipline, intuition, and personal transformation play in practicing and teaching yoga?

Mark Balfe-Taylor prefers to ‘go with the flow’ rather than plan everything out… it just so happens that his ‘flow’ led to a successful career as a yoga teacher and trainer. He shares his thoughts on teaching yoga, and the journey he embarked on to get there. Mark discusses the lessons he learned through traveling, and his adjustment to fatherhood. He unpacks the idea of discipline, how it’s impacted his life, his practice, and his work to develop it.

"It was mentally how my approach to my daily life was changing because this was now a fundamental piece of the puzzle. And I wanted to be less hedonistic. I wanted to commit to doing this thing. I wanted to explore getting better at this thing. And there was all these noticeable changes, and I felt good and I felt energized. […] I was the guy that couldn’t touch my toes. I was the guy that didn’t feel like I can make and complete the class. And if I was then competently finishing the class and feeling so much better, I was like, I have to share this with other people." ~ Mark Balfe-Taylor (12:17)

Mark Balfe-Taylor is a yogi, teacher, and yoga teacher trainer who has been practicing for 15 years. He has experience and training in many different types of yoga, and spent years traveling the world teaching and learning. Mark is the creator of Revitalize, his own hot yoga sequence, and recently founded the Irie Agency, where he is creating yoga podcasts.

The conversation explores the intersections of yoga, personal transformation, and teaching philosophies. Mark and Craig discuss the foundational role of discipline in practicing yoga and how pushing through discomfort can lead to profound growth. Yoga is framed as not merely physical exercise but a tool for mental clarity and resilience.

A significant part of the discussion highlights the contrast between old-school yoga’s structured discipline and modern trends that emphasize comfort and modification. Mark advocates for a balance where individuals challenge themselves while acknowledging their limits. The conversation also touches on personal stories of transformation through travel and intuition, reflecting on how these experiences informed their journey as a yoga teacher and trainer.

Takeaways

Discipline in yoga practice — Discipline is essential to personal growth and achieving long-term benefits.

The transformative power of yoga — Yoga fosters mental clarity and self-discovery, transcending physical fitness.

The contrast in yoga styles — Old-school discipline contrasts with modern trends of ease and accommodation.

The role of intuition — Intuition can guide life decisions, often leading to unexpected opportunities.

Commitment to community — Building connections with others enhances the practice and teaching of yoga.

Navigating transitions — Life changes, like career shifts, often align with finding deeper meaning in practices like yoga.

Parenting and mindfulness — Incorporating nature and routine aids in balancing parenting challenges with mindfulness.

Resources

The Irie Agency — A platform offering yoga podcasts and online classes.

(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 one integrate diverse movement practices, personal philosophies, and life experiences to create something unique while addressing challenges like pain and injury?

Not quite fitting in can seem negative, but it is what inspired Amy Slevin to create something new. She unpacks the role movement holds in her life, and how she came to create FlowMotion Yoga. Amy discusses her thoughts on pain and injury, particularly within parkour. She shares her personal routines, habits, and what she’s been reading.

"I started doing yoga— never connected with it, but I wanted it to help me. I wanted it to help me with my anxiety, with my grieving, and all that kind of stuff, and it just never did. But the physical side of yoga I really connected with, and I found it quite interesting exploring these different ways of moving my body in the yoga capacity, and seeing how that compared with parkour." ~ Amy Slevin (5:58)

Amy Slevin is an osteopath turned yoga instructor who teaches in London, UK. She founded FlowMotion Yoga to help people feel better in their bodies, while sharing her love of movement and playfulness. Amy also teaches workshops about movement, pain, and injury, and is passionate about empowering her students through both movement and mindset.

The discussion explores how movement serves as a tool for self-discovery and overcoming personal challenges. It begins with an exploration of parkour, yoga, and osteopathy, revealing how these disciplines shaped one person’s perspective on movement and pain. Key insights emerge around the struggles of aligning with the philosophical aspects of yoga while embracing its physical benefits. The integration of parkour's playfulness and osteopathy's anatomical knowledge into a unique practice highlights a creative approach to healing and personal growth.

The conversation goes into the broader themes of self-regulation and injury prevention within movement disciplines, particularly parkour. There is an emphasis on listening to one's body and avoiding external pressures that lead to overexertion. Additional reflections address the mental and emotional dimensions of pain, drawing on personal experiences and professional insights. The discussion concludes by addressing how practices like reading, reflection, and adapting routines contribute to mental clarity and resilience.

Takeaways

Pain and movement — Insights into how physical practices can address emotional and mental challenges.

Injury prevention — Recognizing mental and situational patterns that lead to injuries.

Self-regulation — Emphasizing the importance of tuning into one's physical and mental limits.

Integrative practices — Combining knowledge from diverse disciplines to create new movement philosophies.

Mindset and expectations — Exploring how shifting expectations can improve personal experiences.

Resources

Amy Slevin @amyslevin_

Man's Search for Meaning — Viktor Frankl's book mentioned as influential and reflective of current times.

Diary of Anne Frank — Suggested for its perspective on confinement and resilience.

Ekhart Yoga — Online yoga platform where Amy Slevin's classes are featured.

(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 lessons and insights can be drawn from mountaineering, personal growth, and facing challenges?

Climbing Mt Everest and the 7 Summits is a huge accomplishment, for John Beede, it’s only the beginning of the story. He discusses his book The Warrior Challenge: 8 Quests for Boys to Grow Up with Kindness, Courage and Grit, and his reasons for writing it. John shares his experiences from mountaineering and climbing Everest, and why climbing is important to him. He reflects on his journey overcoming PTSD, what he’s learned from climbing, and advice for others starting out.

"Well, how do you get young men, especially, interested in learning grit, in learning self-awareness, in learning stepping up as a human being or choosing their values? Those are pretty intense subjects even for adults." ~ John Beede (7:36)

John Beede is an adventurer, author, speaker, and one of few people to climb the tallest peak on every continent, including Mt Everest. He has traveled to 67 countries, survived avalanches and PTSD, and more recently has “settled down” to enjoy competitive kite surfing. John is also the author of 3 books, sharing what he’s learned through his adventuring and mountaineering. His newest book is called, The Warrior Challenge: 8 Quests for Boys to Grow Up with Kindness, Courage, and Grit.

The discussion centers on the transformative experiences of mountaineering, particularly climbing Mount Everest and other peaks, and how these adventures mirror challenges in personal growth. Topics include the psychological and emotional impacts of extreme conditions, such as post-traumatic stress, and the healing process that leads to growth. John emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, cultivating self-awareness, and fostering grit, especially among young people.

The conversation also explores practical tools, such as the 5-2-7 breathing technique, and its role in managing stress and achieving focus. Insights into vulnerability, teamwork, and the value of being present highlight how personal experiences can inspire others. John relates these lessons to writing and speaking, creating accessible narratives to connect with a broader audience.

Takeaways

The significance of boundaries — Setting boundaries is essential for personal and relational health, enabling clarity and mutual respect.

The power of storytelling — Sharing personal experiences can inspire others and create meaningful connections.

Lessons from mountaineering — Facing physical and emotional extremes provides deep insights into resilience and teamwork.

Practical stress management — Techniques like 5-2-7 breathing offer immediate tools for calming and focus.

The value of vulnerability — Embracing and sharing vulnerability leads to personal growth and stronger relationships.

Encouraging young people — Teaching values like grit and courage can help young individuals navigate life's challenges.

The universality of growth — Everyone, regardless of their journey, has opportunities for learning and self-improvement.

Resources

John Beede

The Warrior Challenge — John Beede's new book exploring quests for boys to grow with kindness, courage, and grit.

Essentialism — Greg McKeown's book about focusing on what truly matters by eliminating unnecessary distractions.

Breath — James Nestor's book discussing the science and techniques of breathing for health and mindfulness.

Wim Hof Method — Techniques for breathing and cold exposure to enhance health and resilience.

(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 are the intersections of movement practices, leadership, and cultural anthropology?

‘A picture is worth a thousand words’ is a statement that Alex Pavlotski lives by as a cartooning ethnographer. He explains ethnography and anthropology, and shares his thoughts on parkour and where it’s headed. Alex discusses leadership and his project Word Magick, as well as his goals for an illustrated thesis. He unpacks his observations on parkour practice, community, and defining our own future.

"I think the first thing about movement practice is that it’s deeply humbling. The first time you crawl around on all fours for hours, you understand that you have so much more to learn. And then I guess, I don’t know, at some point, it felt real; weird and real." ~ Alex Pavlotski (4:48)

Alex Pavalotski is an anthropologist, comic artist, blogger, and parkour practitioner based in Melbourne Australia. He is the creator of Parkour Panels, a satirical comic where he discussed relevant issues in the parkour community. Alex earned his PhD in 2016, and traveled extensively while working on his thesis, training with and studying global parkour communities.

The conversation examines how movement practices like parkour intersect with cultural anthropology and leadership. The discussion highlights how parkour's growth has mirrored historical patterns of other movement practices, blending physicality with philosophy as practitioners age. Leadership is portrayed as a cultural force, shaping movement communities and the way they evolve over time. The influence of space, language, and shared values in defining these communities is explored.

Another focal point is the anthropological study of leadership, where the capacity to shape culture and practice is critical. The conversation also critiques the commodification and institutionalization of movement practices, suggesting that they risk losing their authentic and transformative potential. The potential of comics as a medium to communicate complex ideas, such as movement or leadership, is also emphasized.

Takeaways

Parkour as cultural evolution — The practice reflects historical patterns and adapts to contemporary environments.

Leadership's influence — Leaders shape not just practices but also cultural interpretations of movement.

Manipulation in communities — Awareness of harmful leadership and group dynamics is crucial for healthy community growth.

Formalization and risk — Institutionalizing movement practices can lead to both opportunities and challenges.

Comics as communication — Visual storytelling offers a compelling way to explore and share ideas.

Trauma and learning — Physical and emotional struggles in movement lead to meaningful growth.

Anthropology's role — Ethnographic studies provide valuable insights into how movement connects people.

Global dynamics — Different cultural approaches to parkour highlight varying values and goals.

Resources

Alex Pavlotski

Parkour Panels — A satirical comic by Alex addressing issues in the parkour community.

Word Magic — Alex’s project exploring leadership and community dynamics.

(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 intentionality play in effective communication and personal growth?

Although she is officially an ‘expert’ in communication, Angie Flynn-McIver simply considers herself constantly fascinated by it. Angie Flynn-McIver discusses intention; What it is, coaching it, and practicing it. She shares her own stories of intention, coaching, and travel, and gives advice on finding your guiding stars. Angie unpacks her thoughts on the power of storytelling and how to use your intention to chart your course.

"The answer to all of that is intention. The answer to all of that is actually you have to do some really deep personal work to figure out where you’re coming from and what motivates you." ~ Angie Flynn-McIver (12:54)

Angie Flynn-McIver is a communication expert, theater director, and business woman based in North Carolina. As the founder of Ignite CSP, she uses her theater experience to coach others in effective and intentional communication. Angie and her husband are also the founders of the North Carolina Stage Company, an award winning theater in it’s 19th season.

The conversation explores how intentionality shapes communication and personal growth, particularly in coaching and storytelling. It begins by examining the concept of deliberate versus default intentions, explaining how our unexamined patterns often drive behavior and how adopting deliberate intentions fosters meaningful interactions. Insights are shared about how actors use intention to create authenticity, with parallels drawn to everyday communication challenges.

Another focal point is the role of storytelling as both a coaching tool and a human experience. Stories connect intention to outcomes, providing a narrative framework for understanding and navigating life. Practical advice is offered, such as practicing intention in mundane settings like grocery stores to build self-awareness. The conversation highlights the importance of narrative, not just as an enhancer of coaching but as a foundational tool for aligning actions with goals.

Takeaways

Storytelling as a tool — It connects deeply with human cognition and emotions, making it an effective coaching method.

Default versus deliberate intention — Identifying and shifting from default patterns can transform communication and actions.

Practical application of intention — Small everyday tasks, like grocery shopping, serve as effective practice grounds for cultivating deliberate intention.

Intention in coaching — Coaches use intention to help clients align actions with larger goals while addressing immediate needs.

Empathy through communication — Building understanding and connection requires intention to be present and aware in every interaction.

Resources

Ignite CSP — Angie’s coaching company focusing on intentional communication and leadership.

North Carolina Stage Company — A theater co-founded by Angie, showcasing innovative performances.

David Cain’s Raptitude — Blog offering reflective essays, including "How to Walk Across a Parking Lot," on intentional living.

The Storytelling Animal — Jonathan Gottschall’s book exploring the science and power of storytelling in human life.

(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 inspires the integration of movement disciplines, performance art, and endurance challenges to create a meaningful cultural and personal impact?

Is parkour about athleticism, or performance art? To David Banks, it is both at once. He shares his movement journey and inspirations, from martial arts to parkour to drama. David unpacks some of his projects, including the Movement Card and his various charity endurance challenges. He discusses performance art and how it relates to his parkour practice, and reflects on injury and recovery.

"What is difficult is that our current urban conditions reject the possibility for a creativity in urban spaces. This is often—in Scotland because of social contracts, as opposed to written law. It's 'Get down off that wall.' 'You're not allowed to do this, I'm phoning the police.' For people that maybe don't practice parkour that are listening to this, you might think, 'You just tell him it's fine, you just wait for the police to come.' But the amount of times I've taken an hour or two out of my training over the years to deal with that, is just very frustrating." ~ David Banks (12:45)

David Banks is an artist and mover from Glasgow, Scotland. As a co-founder of the company Ukemi, he merges his background in art and parkour by creating projects that encourage play, improve health, and make movement accessible in urban areas. David has been a part of various projects through Ukemi, collaborating on Youth Urban Games festival and creating the Ukemi card game.

This conversation explores the multifaceted intersections of movement, performance art, and personal development. The discussion begins with the inspiration behind integrating artistic and athletic disciplines, as exemplified by an enduring fascination with characters like Spider-Man. David explains how this passion evolved into a commitment to parkour, boxing, and mixed martial arts, as well as how these practices contributed to storytelling and artistic expression.

The conversation goes into various projects, including the creation of the Movement Card, which aims to clarify legal rights for movement practitioners in different countries. The conversation also highlights endurance events such as crawling eight miles to raise funds for charity and the ambition to complete a rail marathon. These endeavors underline the speaker's commitment to using movement as a medium for personal and social change, while emphasizing themes like injury, recovery, and the pursuit of authenticity in artistic expression.

Takeaways

Creative endurance events — Highlighting the significance of pushing personal and physical boundaries to achieve societal and artistic goals.

Parkour's cultural and personal dimensions — Discussing how parkour combines physicality with storytelling and cultural commentary.

Legal and societal barriers — Examining how societal norms and legal frameworks shape the accessibility and acceptance of movement in urban spaces.

Artistic purity — Reflecting on reducing complex ideas to their rawest, most meaningful expressions through performance art.

Personal growth through movement — Emphasizing movement disciplines as tools for overcoming trauma and building mental resilience.

Resources

Movement Card website

Parkour Outreach — An organization collaborating on movement and accessibility projects.

Parkour Earth — A global organization aiming to promote and protect the practice of parkour.

(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 personal practices in movement, mindfulness, and creativity interconnect and influence an individual's approach to life and challenges?

At first glance, Adam Echa is a jack of all trades, but all of his practices and interests are connected. He shares the role of music in his life, his interest in photography, and his experiences riding bicycle deliveries in New York City. Adam discusses his parkour training, flips, cross training, and filming. He unpacks his personal mindfulness practices, and reflects on where and why he wants to travel.

"I love the filming aspect of Parkour, like by yourself, just filming the line. […] I think I have more fun figuring out how I fit in the frame doing movement than like going from point A to point B." ~ Adam Echa (19:00)

Adam Echa is an athlete, musician, videographer, and overall creative human. As an athlete and a coach, he works to balance his training and develop in both areas. In addition to parkour, Adam plays guitar, writes music, and occasionally performs.

The conversation examines how the interplay of physical movement, creativity, and mindfulness shapes personal growth and perspective. Key topics include the nuances of Parkour and its mental and physical demands, the relationship between personal art forms like music or photography, and the grounding influence of mindfulness practices. These pursuits reveal how discipline in one area can inform and complement another.

Adam reflects on experiences of minimalism, personal transitions, and the importance of authenticity in creative and physical practices. Discussions touch on concepts like control—whether in movement, artistic expression, or life decisions—and how moments of vulnerability can lead to breakthroughs in both performance and personal understanding. The emphasis is on finding one’s path and defining success in ways that align with internal values rather than external pressures.

Takeaways

Parkour as mindfulness practice — Movement creates an opportunity to be fully present and self-aware.

Yoga as personal discovery — Practicing yoga goes beyond imitation, requiring one to explore what works individually.

Photography as self-expression — Personal photography can serve as an evolving reflection of one’s identity.

Control in movement — Fixies and Parkour alike teach the importance of direct, unmediated control.

Creativity's iterative process — Repeating small steps helps solidify both artistic and athletic skills.

Resources

Adam Echo @amaku_guy

(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