In this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores the deep connection between primal instinct, spirit animals, and living in balance with nature — and what modern society has lost along the way.

We begin by discussing coaching, lived experience, and why true wisdom comes from embodiment rather than theory. From there, the conversation moves into the symbolic power of animals, particularly big cats, and how spirit animals can represent instinct, identity, and inner strength. Michael shares personal experiences with the tiger as a recurring symbol in his life, dreams, and visions, and how this energy shaped the philosophy and symbolism behind The Life Dojo.

Guest Marcus Edwards adds his own story, reflecting on the lion as a symbol of lineage, strength, and identity. Together, we explore why apex predators cannot be controlled, what humanity can learn from nature’s balance, and how modern civilisation has disconnected us from instinct, resilience, and self-regulation.

The episode also examines humanity’s fractured relationship with animals, food, health, and the natural world — from the ethics of zoos and industrial food systems to why indigenous cultures often remain healthier despite having less “technology.” We discuss spirit animals as sources of personal strength, adaptability, and awareness, and why imbalance in nature often mirrors imbalance in human behaviour.

As a result, this conversation becomes a call to stop living like passive herd animals and start thinking, moving, and acting with the awareness of an apex predator — grounded, disciplined, observant, and in control.

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In this short episode, Michael is joined by Joe Watkins and Marcus Edwards for a direct and uncompromising conversation about performance, mental strength, and why most modern approaches are failing men.

We break down why mindset alone isn’t enough, why grind culture burns people out, and how treating humans like machines destroys long-term performance. Drawing from combat sports, psychology, physiology, and lived experience, the conversation explores what actually builds resilience when pressure is real.

We discuss discipline, nervous system regulation, dopamine, stress, purpose, and the role of meaning and spirituality in performance — especially when physical and mental ability are already high. When everyone at the top is strong, fast, and mentally tough, something deeper becomes the deciding factor.

This episode cuts through the noise and challenges surface-level motivation culture. It’s for fighters, athletes, and men who want real strength — not just performance on the outside, but stability, clarity, and longevity.

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In this episode of The Life Dojo, Michael David Climmer explores how social media has shifted from a tool for connection into a system of validation, performance, and distraction — and how this shift is quietly reshaping masculinity, relationships, and human behaviour.

We examine how online personas, attention-seeking behaviour, and constant comparison pull men away from purpose and instinct. From dating apps and OnlyFans to influencer culture and performative confidence, the conversation questions whether modern platforms are weakening a man’s drive to pursue real connection, real challenge, and real growth.

Guest Marcus Edwards joins the discussion as we explore how ego, narcissism, and validation-seeking are amplified online, blurring the line between healthy self-belief and destructive self-obsession. We also look at how trends, music, outrage culture, and algorithm-driven content reinforce negative cycles rather than encouraging discipline, responsibility, and clarity.

In addition, the episode questions what happens when privacy disappears, when attention becomes currency, and when life only feels “real” if it’s posted online. From social media detoxes to the impact on dating, creativity, and mental health, this conversation challenges listeners to reflect honestly on how these platforms shape their thoughts, emotions, and identity.

The episode concludes by asking a simple but powerful question:

Is social media bringing us together — or pulling us further away from who we truly are?

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https://thelifedojo.com