He Started Jiu-Jitsu at 42... It Completely Changed His Life Episode XXII

He Started Jiu-Jitsu at 42... What Happened Next Will Change How You See Life | Dewey Doan What if it's never too late to completely change your life? At 42 years old, Dewey Doan stepped onto the mats for the first time. What began as learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu became a journey of purpose, resilience, faith, community, and legacy. In this inspiring episode of the Small Man Podcast, Dewey shares how Jiu-Jitsu transformed every part of his life—from overcoming ego to finding spiritual growth, rebuilding community, and discovering that true success isn't measured by medals or belts, but by the lives you impact. Whether you're a lifelong grappler, just starting BJJ, or simply looking for motivation to become a better human being, this conversation will leave you inspired. This isn't just about Jiu-Jitsu... it's about living a life that matters. 🔥 In This Episode You'll Discover: ✅ Why starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 42 became the best decision of Dewey's life ✅ The three stages every Jiu-Jitsu practitioner experiences: Ego Self-discovery Spiritual growth ✅ Why longevity in Jiu-Jitsu is more valuable than chasing belts ✅ The powerful connection between BJJ, character, and leadership ✅ How Hawaii's martial arts community is breaking barriers and bringing people together ✅ Why kindness, service, and gratitude create a lasting legacy ✅ Dewey's emotional journey from Vietnam to Hawaii—and his mission to give back through Jiu-Jitsu ✅ Leaving corporate life behind to pursue purpose, community, and faith ✅ Raising fearless children through love instead of fear ✅ Why the greatest legacy isn't what you accomplish—it's who you become. ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Meet Dewey Doan 02:10 – Starting Jiu-Jitsu at 42 03:53 – Why Jiu-Jitsu becomes an obsession 04:29 – The three phases of Jiu-Jitsu 05:24 – Lessons from adversity on the mats 06:39 – Character over championships 08:05 – Building unity in Hawaii 09:25 – The spiritual side of martial arts 10:23 – Longevity in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 11:43 – Becoming an elder of the community 12:42 – Lessons from parenting through Jiu-Jitsu 13:52 – How BJJ can change society 14:16 – Hawaii's future in combat sports 16:37 – The worldwide growth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 17:47 – Supporting professional athletes 18:16 – Leaving corporate America 19:06 – Living a life of service 22:54 – Faith and divine purpose 23:10 – Competition and perspective 25:24 – Character before black belt 28:23 – Growing old on the mats together 29:54 – Lifelong friendships through Jiu-Jitsu 31:18 – Childhood in Vietnam 33:21 – Healing through martial arts 35:56 – Giving back to Vietnam 37:20 – Community without borders 38:02 – Dewey's early years 41:39 – Surfing, Hawaii, and living fully 43:14 – Losing everything—and finding purpose 44:43 – Creating Kekoa Collective 49:35 – Why Hawaii's Jiu-Jitsu community is special 51:09 – Love, unity, and open mats 55:38 – What legacy really means 58:55 – Living without fear 61:18 – Raising strong children 62:42 – Gratitude and humble beginnings 63:19 – Living intentionally 64:42 – The mindset that changes everything 💬 If this conversation inspired you... 👍 Like this video 💬 Tell us in the comments: What's the biggest lesson Jiu-Jitsu has taught YOU? 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. 🔔 Subscribe to the Small Man Podcast for inspiring conversations with martial artists, athletes, entrepreneurs, and everyday people living extraordinary lives.