Movers Mindset

How can transformative personal experiences and advancements in addiction biology contribute to understanding and addressing addiction as a multifaceted issue?

From hiking across Spain to unraveling the biological roots of addiction, Evelyn Higgins reveals her personal and professional transformations.

"You're going to have three meetings along the way… You're going to have a meeting with yourself. You're going to have a meeting with the people that you meet along the way… And then your third meeting is going to be with God. And this was the kicker—he said, right now, you know exactly who you are; when you're finished, you'll be somebody completely different." ~ Evelyn Higgins, 5:20

Evelyn Higgins begins by sharing her transformative experience walking the Camino de Santiago, a 32-day journey across Spain that becomes a turning point in her life. Originally expecting to broadcast her radio show from the trail, she instead finds herself immersed in personal reflection, profound conversations with strangers, and spiritual exploration. On day twelve, a pivotal moment occurs when a priest mentions the "three meetings" she will encounter on her journey—with herself, others, and God—forever changing her perspective. This journey, undertaken at a turning point in her life, helps Evelyn gain a deeper understanding of her purpose, shifting how she approaches life and later influences her work.

The conversation shifts to Evelyn’s professional work with Wired For Addiction, where she applies genetic testing to understand and treat addiction and mental health disorders. She discusses the gap in current addiction treatment, which often neglects the biological components in favor of the psychosocial, and how her work seeks to identify 85 biomarkers linked to addiction. Highlighting the revolutionary nature of her research, Evelyn emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying physiological changes resulting from trauma and undiagnosed conditions. She also shares her passion for helping people understand their genetic predispositions to behaviors like addiction, offering a personalized approach to treatment that challenges conventional methods.

Takeaways

The Camino de Santiago experience — A 32-day journey becomes a personal transformation, providing insight into self, spirituality, and human connection.

The concept of the “three meetings” — Encounters with self, others, and God offer profound shifts in perspective and personal growth.

Taking risks to find purpose — Leaving behind daily responsibilities and routines can lead to unexpected discoveries and clarity of life's path.

The impact of profound experiences on life and work — A significant journey or event can reshape personal views and directly influence professional focus and passions.

Genetic testing for addiction — Modern technology allows for the identification of genetic markers, offering a more personalized approach to addiction and mental health treatment.

The limitations of traditional addiction treatment — Current methods often overlook the biological aspects of addiction, focusing primarily on psychosocial factors.

The biological component of addiction — Acknowledgment that underlying genetic predispositions and physiological changes are crucial to understanding and addressing addiction effectively.

Trauma and undiagnosed conditions — Life experiences and unaddressed mental or physical health issues alter physiology and play a significant role in addictive behaviors.

The stigma around addiction — Outdated perceptions persist, viewing addiction as a moral flaw rather than a disease with biological underpinnings.

Multifaceted identities — Professionals can have multiple aspects of their identity that may not always be immediately visible or understood by others.

Personalized health strategies — Knowing one’s unique genetic predispositions can help inform better decisions regarding substance use and mental health management.

Importance of holistic understanding — Addressing physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual health is key to personal well-being and recovery.

Sharing and connection on life journeys — Conversations and deep exchanges with strangers on a shared journey can lead to mutual understanding and personal breakthroughs.

Reevaluating life's direction — Milestones and transformative experiences can act as catalysts for reassessing one’s life purpose and future goals.

Resources

Wired For Addiction — A resource offering genetic testing to identify biomarkers related to addiction, substance abuse, and mental health disorders. Their goal is to address the biological components of addiction and provide personalized treatment options.

The Camino de Santiago — A renowned pilgrimage across Spain, traditionally beginning in France, offering a transformative walking experience for many travelers.

TEDx Talk by Evelyn Higgins — A talk that provides context for the creation of Wired For Addiction, discussing both the professional and personal motivations behind this work in addiction treatment. The talk can be viewed on the TEDx YouTube channel or via a search for Evelyn Higgins’ TEDx talk.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho — A popular book that inspires many to pursue their personal journeys and quests, including the Camino de Santiago.

The Pyrenees Mountains — The mountain range that forms a natural border between France and Spain, marking the challenging start of the Camino de Santiago for many pilgrims.

(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 one balance the physical, mental, and social aspects of movement practices while teaching and maintaining personal growth?

The conversation explores how movement practice evolves from playful beginnings to structured teaching.

"I prefer the term still mind… because I want the— however exerted my body is, I wanted my mind to stay as calm as possible." ~ Martin Svenselius (21:51)

The conversation examines the challenges of balancing the physical joy of movement practice with the structured demands of teaching it. Martin reflects on the evolution from playful group activities to professional instruction, noting the difficulties of maintaining personal practice while managing classes. He discusses the need to balance work and play, particularly when movement becomes a career, and the psychological strain of sustaining this balance.

Another focus is on teaching methods that encourage self-leadership. Martin emphasizes the importance of understanding body mechanics, offering scalable challenges, and fostering creativity. He stresses how personal training values, such as calmness and consistency, shape their approach to coaching, while also exploring the need to challenge traditional views on physical training.

Takeaways

Balancing work and play — Achieving a sustainable relationship between teaching movement and personal practice.

Self-leadership — Helping students transition to self-directed training through scalable challenges and creativity.

Role of creativity — Encouraging exploration and adaptation in movement practice to foster personal growth.

Importance of mindset — Viewing training as a means to challenge oneself physically and mentally rather than just seeking comfort.

Teaching philosophy — Emphasizing understanding the body's mechanics over reliance on equipment.

Cultural and psychological layers — Addressing differences in training mindsets across cultures and individual personalities.

Consistency in practice — Incorporating movement daily to maintain personal growth and discipline.

Resources

Jersey Gregorek — Known as the "Lion of Olympic Weightlifting," who coined the phrase, "easy choices, hard life; hard choices, easy 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 are the goals, challenges, and experiences shaping the Women's Parkour Movement and its annual gatherings?

Volunteer organizers reflect on the balance between leadership, inclusion, and community building in parkour.

"For me, the women's parkour movement space is much, much more about the feeling of being accepted and valued for what it is and who it is that you are and whatever you're bringing to the table." ~ Alice Popejoy (26:45)

"Whether parkour companies are sharing more female movement because of guilt or social pressure, the fact that it’s happening and we’re seeing more of it is a good thing." ~ Gabby St. Martin (43:08)

The conversation focuses on the Women's Parkour Movement organization, emphasizing the need for safe, empowering spaces for women and non-binary individuals in parkour. Gabby, Adrienne and Alice discuss the origins, leadership transitions, and ethos of the annual gatherings, highlighting the importance of fostering inclusivity, play, and body positivity. They share personal stories of discovering parkour and finding strength and community within women-centered spaces.

Challenges like representation, leadership diversity, and societal biases are explored, alongside positive trends in visibility and inclusion. The discussion touches on the broader implications of creating platforms that amplify underrepresented voices, with reflections on the impact of movements like "#MeToo" and strategies to build empathetic, inclusive communities.

Takeaways

Creating women-focused parkour spaces — fosters empowerment and community building.

Importance of inclusivity — ensuring spaces welcome women, non-binary individuals, and other underrepresented groups.

Volunteer leadership — highlights the dedication and personal sacrifices of organizers.

Play and creativity — emphasized as key elements of parkour practice in these spaces.

Challenges of representation — ongoing efforts are needed to improve visibility and leadership diversity.

Cultural shifts in parkour — moving toward valuing diverse styles beyond power and strength.

Addressing gender-based issues — from biases in coaching to ethical challenges in leadership.

The role of social media — visibility for women in parkour is increasing but requires further equity.

Resources

Women’s Parkour Movement — Includes event details and registration.

Queen City Documentary — Showcases female parkour athletes, and the need for inclusive spaces in parkour.

Recommendations for Increasing the Number of Women and Girls in Parkour — Alice Popejoy’s analysis of representation in parkour.

On Equal Prize Money and Women’s Participation in Parkour Competitions — Adrienne Toumayan’s article on women's participation in parkour competitions.

Bonfire WPKM — Event fundraising merchandise.

Art of Retreat — Workshops discussing gender, inclusion, and leadership in 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

What insights can be gained from exploring human movement, physics, and juggling in weightlessness?

Adam Dipert is a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Physics at North Carolina State University and has wowed audiences as a professional circus performer for nearly twenty years. He started studying human movement in weightlessness in preparation for his first parabolic flight in 2016, and since then he has logged countless hours exploring the frontiers of microgravity flow in pools, aerial harnesses, flotation tanks, wind tunnels, and airplanes. In addition to developing a new suite of dance moves for outer space, he has exercised remarkable restraint not asking NASA for permission to spin fire on the ISS.

"And you’ve become only eyes, because you now no longer have a way of sensing where your body is. And not only do you only become eyes, but you’re also experiencing tunnel vision. And so when you enter weightlessness, and start to develop the skills which will be necessary to become a competent movement artist in that environment, you have to first figure out how to re inhabit your body and how to come back from just being eyes and realize that you have a head and find out where your arms are, and have some idea about where your arm is, say when it’s behind your back because, you know, right now on Earth, probably everybody listening to this is on earth, waving your arm. Yeah, you put your arm behind your back and and what is it that tells you where your arm is? It’s the tension in your shoulder, right? It’s the torque in your arm, elbow. It’s a lot of things that are all gravitationally oriented. And so you have to come with a totally new set of skills." ~ Adam Dipert (16:55)

This episode is far out, and far ranging. Adam and I managed to coordinate a recording session with little advanced notice… and then we proceeded to go wide and deep on circus stuff, juggling, physics, mathematics, and movement in weightlessness.

Since I clearly cannot cram the visuals into the audio, you simply must float over to Adam’s web site: TheSpaceJuggler.com

The conversation explores the unique challenges and opportunities of human movement and artistic expression in microgravity. One key topic is the disconnection from conventional proprioception in zero gravity, requiring innovative methods to reorient oneself and move effectively. The discussion also covers the physics of rotations and how understanding moments of inertia can inform both practical and artistic endeavors, like juggling in altered environments.

Another important focus is how altered environments like space could fundamentally change our understanding of what it means to be human. Insights about the adaptability of the human body, new forms of artistic expression, and philosophical reflections on perspective and truth highlight the broader implications of this work. The conversation also touches on the importance of preparing humanity for future space exploration, emphasizing the potential for cultural and intellectual growth through such endeavors.

Takeaways

Human proprioception in weightlessness — The experience of zero gravity requires a complete relearning of body orientation and movement.

Rotational dynamics in microgravity — Understanding how the human body rotates in space helps develop both practical movement skills and new artistic expressions.

Integration of physics and art — Combining physics with creative disciplines like juggling leads to innovative insights and applications.

Space as a proving ground — Microgravity environments challenge and expand human understanding of movement and adaptation.

Embodied cognition and ethics — Exploration of movement in space raises questions about how gravitational experiences shape human cognition and morality.

Philosophical dualities — Weightlessness provides a powerful metaphor for understanding multiple truths from different perspectives.

Preparation for space exploration — Analog environments are essential for developing skills and knowledge before venturing into true microgravity.

Resources

The Space Juggler — Adam’s official website showcasing his projects, videos, and information about space juggling.

Adam Dipert on LinkedIn

MIT Media Lab — A location where Adam has shared insights into his work on microgravity and movement.

Kitsou Dubois — French choreographer and dancer specializing in zero gravity dance.

International Jugglers’ Association — Organization where Adam has showcased his pioneering work in space juggling.

SpaceX — One of the private companies advancing human space exploration discussed in the conversation.

(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 the process of reflection and self-improvement shape personal growth and teaching methodologies?

Alan Tran is a parkour coach and collaborator from Raleigh, North Carolina. He’s the founder of Enso Movement and is a director for both the Art of Retreat and the United States Parkour Association. Alan continues to serve the parkour and movement community through active service and outreach.

"I carved out the space to de-evolve and reinvent myself. In many ways, it wasn't intentional by any means, at the start of my personal practices. But in many ways, it was a way for me to redefine who I was, who I wanted to be, and where my work would lead to." ~ Alan Tran (29:36)

The discussion weaves through themes of reflection, journaling, and the impact of vulnerability on personal growth and teaching. Through daily journaling practices, the importance of documenting emotions, achievements, and challenges emerges as a way to identify growth and patterns over time. Cultural connections, like the preservation of family history through photography, also highlight how past experiences inform one’s values and identity.

The conversation also explores innovative teaching techniques inspired by training a dog using communication buttons. This segues into reflections on coaching methodologies, the value of structured progressions, and how spontaneity plays a role in both teaching and personal development. By examining challenges like preparing for workshops under time constraints and balancing intuition with structure, the dialogue emphasizes growth through experimentation and self-awareness.

Takeaways

Reflection as a practice — Journaling and revisiting past thoughts help in recognizing personal growth and emotional patterns.

Cultural connections — Family stories and historical documentation preserve identity and values across generations.

Coaching methodologies — Structured progressions and spontaneity are key elements in effective teaching.

Experimentation and intuition — Creativity and growth often stem from embracing failure and learning under pressure.

The role of vulnerability — Being authentic and open fosters meaningful interactions and personal development.

Resources

Alan Tran @alanstran

Alan Tran on LinkedIn

Enso Movement — A Parkour and movement facility focused on coaching and community engagement.

A New Earth — Book by Eckhart Tolle that explores spiritual awakening and the importance of presence.

The Artist's Way — Book by Julia Cameron emphasizing creativity through practices like morning pages.

What About Bunny — A famous dog trained to use communication buttons to "speak."

United States Parkour Association (USPK) — An organization supporting Parkour practitioners and events across the U.S.

(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 play and movement intersect with personal growth, mental health, and the practice of Parkour?

Exploring how Parkour connects to mental health and play reveals deep personal insights.

"It's all about play. And I think that making— I love strengthening and I love building— you know, physical capacity. But in the end, that's just a couple of stepping stones towards building people's ability to play." ~ Kel Glaister (6:46)

The discussion opens with reflections on the influence of animals, like Kel's dog, on humility and how they bring perspective to human movement practice. The conversation then expands to explore the cultural and environmental factors shaping Parkour, emphasizing the unique styles and strengths fostered by different regions. There’s an emphasis on how community and environmental context influence the practice.

Kel shares personal insights about the role of play in movement and the transition from self-critical motivations to a more compassionate approach. Craig and Kel discuss the impact of mental health struggles and how this shaped their training philosophy, shifting focus toward longevity and joy in movement. The role of organizations like Parkour Earth is also examined, highlighting the importance of global representation and grassroots involvement in shaping the future of the discipline.

Takeaways

Nonhuman animals in movement — They provide perspective and humility to human practice.

Cultural and environmental influence — Regional differences shape distinct movement styles in Parkour.

Play as a foundation — Movement should be guided by joy and curiosity, not just performance.

Mental health and movement — Training can transition from self-loathing to self-compassion.

Role of global organizations — Community engagement is crucial for creating representative bodies.

Training longevity — A sustainable approach balances physical and emotional well-being.

The role of ambassadors — Advocacy and representation strengthen global networks in Parkour.

Resources

Parkour Earth — An international body aiming to represent and advocate for the Parkour community globally.

(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 drives personal growth and the mindset necessary to embrace challenges in physical and mental practices?

A journey of self-improvement unfolds through insights on goal-setting, risk assessment, and personal evolution.

"Through parkour, I've been able to open up my perspective on life a ton and it's created so many different opportunities." ~ Seth Ruji (20:04)

The conversation centers on personal growth, emphasizing mental and physical discipline. Topics include the importance of structured training plans, the mindset needed to assess and embrace risks, and the influence of high-stakes challenges on personal development. Seth highlights how parkour fosters self-awareness, teaching individuals to recognize his limits and set realistic, achievable goals.

The discussion also explores broader life themes, such as balancing professional ambitions with personal well-being, maintaining discipline amidst challenges, and the joy of continuous improvement. Insights are drawn from parkour and professional experiences, underscoring the interplay between mental resilience and physical achievement.

Takeaways

Luck and preparation — Success often arises from seizing opportunities through meticulous preparation.

Self-identified risk — Parkour teaches recognizing and respecting personal limits to improve safely.

Goal flexibility — Goals should be ambitious but adjustable to maintain growth and motivation.

Balancing roles — Managing competing priorities like professional work and personal interests is essential for sustainable success.

Mindset evolution — Personal and professional experiences contribute to a broader perspective on life and goals.

Continuous learning — Breaking down challenges into smaller, manageable steps aids consistent progress.

Resources

Swift Movement Studio — A parkour and movement training facility in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Now Habit — A book on overcoming procrastination through practical strategies for effective goal setting.

(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 challenges and opportunities in advancing Parkour as a sport, a community activity, and a professional field?

The conversation explores the evolution of Parkour and its integration into schools and professional spaces.

"The idea is we want a place that they can be creative, and not just be forced to do [movement] by the book. Maybe they could build stuff, maybe they can make new challenges." ~ Robbie Corbett (1:24)

The discussion begins with reflections on the creation of a pop-up Parkour playground tailored for schools. Emphasis is placed on designing spaces that encourage creativity and adaptability, offering both basic and advanced challenges. Robbie shares experiences working with equipment manufacturers and schools, highlighting the importance of lesson plans and collaborative design to maximize the utility of these spaces.

The conversation then shifts to broader topics, such as the evolution of Parkour as a sport and its interaction with other industries like film, Ninja Warrior, and tag. Challenges include appropriation of Parkour concepts without acknowledgment and competition from larger organizations like FIG. Despite these issues, the conversation recognizes the diversity and creativity within the Parkour community, showcasing its potential to innovate through unique events and grassroots gatherings.

Takeaways

Designing adaptable spaces — School playgrounds and pop-up structures can encourage creative movement and multi-age participation.

Challenges in recognition — Parkour faces appropriation from industries and organizations, hindering its independent growth.

Opportunities in collaboration — Collaboration with schools and communities can enhance Parkour's accessibility and value.

Creativity in competition — Events like jams and non-traditional gatherings showcase the sport's diversity.

The struggle with governance — FIG’s control over competitions creates barriers for Parkour's self-regulated development.

Community engagement — Bridging small, insular groups could foster a more unified and collaborative environment.

Resources

World Freerunning and Parkour Federation (WFPF) — A global organization promoting Parkour through events and certifications.

Parkour Certification — Provides training for coaches and athletes, ensuring safety and skill progression.

MoveNYC — A unique event blending competitions, workshops, and communal activities for Parkour practitioners.

(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

The journey from New Jersey to Asheville reveals how a Parkour athlete reshaped his movement training in the wilderness.

Ryan Mallon is a parkour athlete, coach, rock climber, and general outdoorsman. His personal journey includes being an American Parkour sponsored athlete, and an APK ambassador. He’s coached state champion and regional-placing gymnasts, and has competed in World Chase Tag USA. More recently, Ryan spends much of his time in the beautiful mountains outside of Asheville, North Carolina, hiking, climbing, and photographing nature.

"[Impact is a complicated subject.] I think the best way I can whittle that down—and I think a lot of people tend to agree with this—is bringing things to the public attention always is a double edged sword. […] The more places people know about, and can spread out to, will lessen impact in a singular spot." ~ Ryan Mallon (30:00)

The conversation explores how movement disciplines like Parkour can integrate with natural landscapes. Starting from structured training in a gym, the discussion transitions to adapting techniques for outdoor environments, particularly in North Carolina's mountainous regions. Topics include the creative process of identifying and utilizing natural challenges for training and the unique perspective gained from exploring untouched environments.

It also touches on ecological concerns and the impact of human activity on natural spaces. Ryan emphasizes a balance between sharing access to beautiful, lesser-known locations and ensuring minimal ecological disruption. Discussions about coaching and community-building underline the value of teaching methodologies that empower others while cultivating personal growth through exploration.

Takeaways

The adaptability of Parkour — Techniques evolve from structured environments to embrace natural challenges.

Coaching as a skill — The ability to break down movements to foundational levels is key to being an effective coach.

Integrating outdoor exploration — Wilderness exploration can serve as a dynamic training ground, blending movement disciplines with nature.

Ecological awareness — Balancing public access with conservation is critical in managing natural spaces responsibly.

Personal evolution through movement — Training in nature fosters growth, creativity, and resilience.

Building community — Combining technical skills and shared experiences strengthens connections among practitioners.

Resources

Ryan Mallon @ryanmallonpk

American Parkour — A community and resource hub for Parkour enthusiasts.

Gaia GPS — A mapping and GPS navigation app used for planning explorations.

World Chase Tag — A competitive tag event that highlights agility and strategy.

Leave No Trace — An organization promoting responsible outdoor practices.

Blue Ridge Mountains — The geographical area central to the speaker's exploration and training.

(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 problem-solving and creativity play in the intersection of programming, parkour, and personal growth?

The discussion reveals how creativity and self-discipline shape one's approach to challenges in life and movement.

"Sometimes the right thing to do is to walk away from the problem or to recognize that it's not the right time or you're not in the right place for it." ~ James Adams (14:39)

The conversation explores the intersection of programming, parkour, and personal growth, highlighting the common thread of problem-solving. A discussion unfolds about how programming serves as a versatile tool, akin to a multipurpose screwdriver, allowing for efficiency and creativity in tackling challenges. This framework extends to parkour, where physical and mental obstacles mirror problem-solving in technical domains.

The social dynamics of parkour play a significant role in fostering confidence and personal development. The practice’s non-competitive, collaborative nature offers opportunities for self-improvement and resilience. Topics of balance and burnout emerge, with reflections on the importance of stepping back when challenges become overwhelming. Additionally, James shares insights into his Parkour Clinic project, which provides free sports therapy consultations, blending his technical expertise and passion for movement.

Takeaways

Programming as a tool — Provides efficiency and a creative outlet for problem-solving.

Social aspects of parkour — Enhances confidence and creates a supportive community.

Importance of stepping back — Recognizing when to pause instead of pushing forward on challenges.

Combining interests — Merging technical skills and physical movement to create unique solutions.

Parkour’s mental impact — Encourages resilience and a problem-solving mindset in both physical and abstract contexts.

Non-competitive environments — Cultivates collaboration and individual growth.

Parkour Clinic project — Offers free, remote sports therapy consultations, focusing on conversation-based solutions.

Resources

Parkour Clinic — Offers free online sports therapy sessions.

James’s Blog — Personal blog discussing various topics, including programming and 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