Episode

#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
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3:00:42
Published: Sun Dec 06 2020
Description

John Clarke is a BJJ black belt and MMA coach. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: - Theragun: https://theragun.com/lex to get 30 day trial - Magic Spoon: https://magicspoon.com/lex and use code LEX to get free shipping - Eight Sleep: https://www.eightsleep.com/lex and use code LEX to get $200 off - Cash App: https://cash.app/ and use code LexPodcast to get $10 EPISODE LINKS: Broadway Jiu Jitsu website: https://www.broadwayjiujitsu.com Broadway Jiu Jitsu instagram: https://www.instagram.com/broadwayjiujitsu Please, Allow Me podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/please-allow-me/id1531735873 Please, Allow Me instagram: https://www.instagram.com/please_allow_me_podcast/ PODCAST INFO: Podcast website: https://lexfridman.com/podcast Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lwqZIr Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2nEwCF8 RSS: https://lexfridman.com/feed/podcast/ YouTube Full Episodes: https://youtube.com/lexfridman YouTube Clips: https://youtube.com/lexclips SUPPORT & CONNECT: - Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcast - Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lexfridman - Twitter: https://twitter.com/lexfridman - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexfridman - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexfridman - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LexFridmanPage - Medium: https://medium.com/@lexfridman OUTLINE: Here's the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time. (00:00) - Introduction (08:25) - The great American road trip (25:54) - Martial arts and philosophy (28:55) - Real vs fake success on Instagram (39:40) - The brutal honesty of Mike Tyson (44:26) - Breaking your opponent in wrestling (52:32) - Genghis Khan (1:03:38) - It's okay to change your mind (1:08:15) - Why do politicians become inauthentic (1:14:52) - Greatness requires sacrifice (1:17:36) - Whiplash (1:25:44) - Relationships (1:31:21) - Greatest fighters of all time (1:39:02) - Greatest fight of all time (1:53:25) - Khabib Nurmagomedov (1:55:13) - Can Conor McGregor beat Khabib Nurmagomedov? (2:09:29) - Conor vs Khabib 2 (2:16:05) - Will there always be war? (2:17:41) - Future of civilization (2:19:52) - Kids (2:26:37) - The meaning of a "like" on social media (2:35:34) - Starting a podcast (2:54:16) - Book recommendations (2:57:46) - Keeping the independence of solitude

Chapters
Joe Rogan thanks his sponsors, including Theragun, Magic Spoon, eight sleep, and Cash App, and discusses his preference for interviewing guests with interesting philosophies beyond just being great fighters or athletes.
00:00 - 02:20 (02:20)
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Joe Rogan, Podcasts
Summary

Joe Rogan thanks his sponsors, including Theragun, Magic Spoon, eight sleep, and Cash App, and discusses his preference for interviewing guests with interesting philosophies beyond just being great fighters or athletes. He also acknowledges the positive impact martial arts have had on his personal growth.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The podcast contains advertisements from various sponsors, including TheraGun, Magic Spoon, Cash App, and A-Sleep.
02:21 - 08:54 (06:33)
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Sponsorships
Summary

The podcast contains advertisements from various sponsors, including TheraGun, Magic Spoon, Cash App, and A-Sleep. The episode promotes these brands' offerings, such as handheld percussive therapy devices, healthy cereals, cash transfer apps, and mattress covers with dynamic cooling and heating capabilities.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker reminisces on the importance of staying with his gym members and reflects on the flexibility of a free-spirited lifestyle.
08:54 - 13:45 (04:51)
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Lifestyle
Summary

The speaker reminisces on the importance of staying with his gym members and reflects on the flexibility of a free-spirited lifestyle.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
Reflecting on life's mundane experiences with friends or strangers is amplified in places like old Boston and New England cities, where the charm and authenticity cannot be replicated in modern gastropubs or superhighways.
13:45 - 20:07 (06:22)
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City life
Summary

Reflecting on life's mundane experiences with friends or strangers is amplified in places like old Boston and New England cities, where the charm and authenticity cannot be replicated in modern gastropubs or superhighways. The speaker argues that while nostalgia for the past exists, true charm is difficult to replicate in the present day.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker talks about the benefits of traveling and getting to know people from other cultures, as well as the dynamics of relationships when traveling with someone else.
20:08 - 23:17 (03:09)
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Travel
Summary

The speaker talks about the benefits of traveling and getting to know people from other cultures, as well as the dynamics of relationships when traveling with someone else.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
In this episode, the speaker reflects on the connection between martial arts and philosophy, discussing how the practice of fighting can lead to deep introspection and existentialism.
23:17 - 30:58 (07:41)
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Martial Arts
Summary

In this episode, the speaker reflects on the connection between martial arts and philosophy, discussing how the practice of fighting can lead to deep introspection and existentialism. They also share a personal experience of self-doubt before a martial arts competition.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
A discussion on the value of striving to be the best at a new endeavor, even if you may not succeed, and respecting those who put in the effort to improve.
30:58 - 36:06 (05:07)
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Self-Improvement
Summary

A discussion on the value of striving to be the best at a new endeavor, even if you may not succeed, and respecting those who put in the effort to improve.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The podcast host talks about Conor McGregor's complex personality, which has both violent and kind traits, and the challenge of preserving his fire in the early days of his career.
36:06 - 40:55 (04:49)
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Conor McGregor
Summary

The podcast host talks about Conor McGregor's complex personality, which has both violent and kind traits, and the challenge of preserving his fire in the early days of his career.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker discusses the joy of mastering skills in wrestling and judo to be able to successfully dominate your opponent, admitting that many people feel the same way but are uncomfortable admitting it.
40:56 - 49:25 (08:28)
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Sports
Summary

The speaker discusses the joy of mastering skills in wrestling and judo to be able to successfully dominate your opponent, admitting that many people feel the same way but are uncomfortable admitting it.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker reflects on the importance of surrendering one's pride and nationalism for survival, having integrity and staying by one's principles or community, especially in a time where social media has created a sense of separation from human contact.
49:25 - 1:00:57 (11:31)
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Beliefs, Community
Summary

The speaker reflects on the importance of surrendering one's pride and nationalism for survival, having integrity and staying by one's principles or community, especially in a time where social media has created a sense of separation from human contact.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The conversation explores how politicians can prioritize political calculations over basic human rights issues, and the importance of public figures evolving while holding power.
1:00:57 - 1:08:57 (07:59)
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Politics
Summary

The conversation explores how politicians can prioritize political calculations over basic human rights issues, and the importance of public figures evolving while holding power.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The host discusses the changing nature of politics and how it affects people's personalities and relationships with others, citing examples such as politicians' previous part-time jobs and the Clintons' perceived inauthenticity over time.
1:08:57 - 1:16:55 (07:58)
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Politics
Summary

The host discusses the changing nature of politics and how it affects people's personalities and relationships with others, citing examples such as politicians' previous part-time jobs and the Clintons' perceived inauthenticity over time.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
In a conversation about following one's passion, the host discusses the idea of putting aside other responsibilities or societal norms to fully commit to pursuing a dream, using the movie Whiplash as an example.
1:16:55 - 1:22:38 (05:42)
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Pursuing Passion
Summary

In a conversation about following one's passion, the host discusses the idea of putting aside other responsibilities or societal norms to fully commit to pursuing a dream, using the movie Whiplash as an example.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
This podcast explores societal pressure to be in a relationship vs. finding a relationship organically.
1:22:38 - 1:26:12 (03:34)
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Relationships
Summary

This podcast explores societal pressure to be in a relationship vs. finding a relationship organically.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
Comedian CK talks about the fulfillment of missing someone in a relationship, and the importance of continuously working on a relationship to keep it fresh.
1:26:13 - 1:31:32 (05:18)
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relationships
Summary

Comedian CK talks about the fulfillment of missing someone in a relationship, and the importance of continuously working on a relationship to keep it fresh.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
A retired MMA fighter was threatened and challenged by a Macedonian warrior during a dinner for Alexander the Great, and the importance of a fighter's opponent's strength at the time of the fight is discussed.
1:31:33 - 1:36:08 (04:34)
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MMA
Summary

A retired MMA fighter was threatened and challenged by a Macedonian warrior during a dinner for Alexander the Great, and the importance of a fighter's opponent's strength at the time of the fight is discussed.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The podcast discusses the importance of a larger sample size when evaluating the greatness of MMA fighters, as well as the significance of the fighters' distance manipulation in fights.
1:36:09 - 1:42:12 (06:02)
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MMA
Summary

The podcast discusses the importance of a larger sample size when evaluating the greatness of MMA fighters, as well as the significance of the fighters' distance manipulation in fights.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
A coach provides insights on a fighter's performance and shares the importance of sticking to strategies, emphasizing head movement, and downloading information round by round.
1:42:12 - 1:48:02 (05:50)
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coach
Summary

A coach provides insights on a fighter's performance and shares the importance of sticking to strategies, emphasizing head movement, and downloading information round by round.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker reflects on a special moment in his combat sports career, where two underdogs went to war and put on a remarkable performance, despite it not being financially successful or widely watched.
1:48:03 - 1:53:06 (05:03)
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Combat Sports
Summary

The speaker reflects on a special moment in his combat sports career, where two underdogs went to war and put on a remarkable performance, despite it not being financially successful or widely watched.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker expresses his lack of understanding of how individuals from different cultures and families can have different values, and how that can overshadow financial gain in the world of fighting.
1:53:06 - 1:57:51 (04:44)
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MMA
Summary

The speaker expresses his lack of understanding of how individuals from different cultures and families can have different values, and how that can overshadow financial gain in the world of fighting. He also shares his thoughts on the potential outcome of a fight between Connor and Khabib or Gagee.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
This podcast discusses whether Conor McGregor can be considered one of the greatest fighters in history, despite critics who argue otherwise.
1:57:51 - 2:01:36 (03:44)
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Conor McGregor
Summary

This podcast discusses whether Conor McGregor can be considered one of the greatest fighters in history, despite critics who argue otherwise. While there may be strong emotions and differing opinions, many acknowledge that he is a true athlete in the world of MMA.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
Nate Diaz's lack of defense against Conor McGregor's X-guard sweep doesn't necessarily prove his high level grappling skills, as Diaz may have simply relied on his superior jujitsu abilities off the bottom.
2:01:37 - 2:06:53 (05:16)
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Conor McGregor
Summary

Nate Diaz's lack of defense against Conor McGregor's X-guard sweep doesn't necessarily prove his high level grappling skills, as Diaz may have simply relied on his superior jujitsu abilities off the bottom. McGregor's base in karate is often overlooked, and his ability to corral and lead his opponents into his striking range has proven successful in the past.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
In this podcast, the speakers discuss how fighting is not just about the particular outcomes of a fight or the skill set matching, but rather about the stories that are constructed around the fighters.
2:06:53 - 2:15:26 (08:32)
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Fighting
Summary

In this podcast, the speakers discuss how fighting is not just about the particular outcomes of a fight or the skill set matching, but rather about the stories that are constructed around the fighters. They also touch on Khabib's image and how Putin has helped in shaping it.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The rapid expansion of technology into underdeveloped parts of the world could lead to accelerated development, but it remains unclear if it will benefit the things that people find valuable.
2:15:26 - 2:22:42 (07:15)
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Technology
Summary

The rapid expansion of technology into underdeveloped parts of the world could lead to accelerated development, but it remains unclear if it will benefit the things that people find valuable. The host believes that bringing people together in a more impactful human way, through in-person interactions, will contribute to the right direction.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
In this episode, the host reflects on the complexities of social media likes and how they don't always represent genuine engagement or support.
2:22:42 - 2:31:59 (09:16)
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Social Media
Summary

In this episode, the host reflects on the complexities of social media likes and how they don't always represent genuine engagement or support. He discusses the possibility of people simply scrolling and liking everything, as well as the phenomenon of individuals presenting a fake positive persona online while being negative in real life.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The desire for success on social media can often lead to a disingenuous representation of oneself or one's views, rather than an authentic expression of who they truly are.
2:31:59 - 2:37:37 (05:38)
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Social Media
Summary

The desire for success on social media can often lead to a disingenuous representation of oneself or one's views, rather than an authentic expression of who they truly are. This paradox highlights the struggle between wanting success and wanting to be true to oneself.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker compares podcasting to having a personal conversation with someone, rather than putting on a display for others, which allows for inside jokes and a more relaxed atmosphere.
2:37:37 - 2:43:04 (05:26)
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Podcasting
Summary

The speaker compares podcasting to having a personal conversation with someone, rather than putting on a display for others, which allows for inside jokes and a more relaxed atmosphere. Podcasting provides an opportunity to have a strong discourse and chat with someone like a bro.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker talks about how having a side hobby that is fulfilling can help to alleviate anxiety and stresses the importance of supporting others, using a conversation with Joe Rogan as an example.
2:43:04 - 2:48:13 (05:09)
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Mental Health
Summary

The speaker talks about how having a side hobby that is fulfilling can help to alleviate anxiety and stresses the importance of supporting others, using a conversation with Joe Rogan as an example.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker discusses the fear of criticism that comes with putting his name on his jiu-jitsu online curriculum.
2:48:13 - 2:52:58 (04:45)
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Advertising
Summary

The speaker discusses the fear of criticism that comes with putting his name on his jiu-jitsu online curriculum. Despite this fear, he believes it is important to advertise his product online.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
The speaker highlights the importance of reading books rather than only reading about them to grasp their true essence, and shares an anecdote about reading Emerson's essay that taught them the value of living life on their own terms.
2:52:58 - 2:58:58 (05:59)
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Reading
Summary

The speaker highlights the importance of reading books rather than only reading about them to grasp their true essence, and shares an anecdote about reading Emerson's essay that taught them the value of living life on their own terms.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast
In this podcast, Lex Friedman talks with John Clark about his journey to find purpose and happiness, the role of Zen in his life, his coaching philosophy, and his thoughts on relationships.
2:58:58 - 3:00:22 (01:23)
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Zen
Summary

In this podcast, Lex Friedman talks with John Clark about his journey to find purpose and happiness, the role of Zen in his life, his coaching philosophy, and his thoughts on relationships.

Episode
#143 – John Clarke: The Art of Fighting and the Pursuit of Excellence
Podcast
Lex Fridman Podcast