In this episode of Quality Values, I sit down with Daniel Strauss, better known as the Raspberry Ape, to talk about jiu-jitsu, strength, and why the body is best understood as a system—not a set of muscles. Daniel is a BJJ black belt, strength coach, and the creator of the Wrist Strength Program, known for his legendary grip and creative training methods.
We dive into his strength-building journey, his unconventional tools and training style, his views on performance vs. recovery, and his long-term vision for training well into old age—all while staying natty, grounded, and ridiculously strong.
⏳ [00:00] Intro – Discussing a new tool for heel hook resilience
⏳ [01:25] Daniel’s grip strength system & why grip = longevity
⏳ [06:07] From 70kg to 90+kg: building mass without breaking down
⏳ [10:06] His chaotic-but-consistent training style explained
⏳ [13:30] Can anyone match his grip? How he handles elite strength
⏳ [16:35] PEDs in BJJ: Daniel’s natural athlete philosophy
⏳ [18:15] Business, branding & the rise of “The Raspberry Ape”
⏳ [23:16] Values that drive his work: curiosity, creativity, longevity
⏳ [25:09] Training older athletes—what changes and what doesn’t
⏳ [27:30] Nutrition & ingredient quality vs. macro goals
⏳ [30:04] Psychedelics, breathwork & altered states of perception
⏳ [35:14] Grounding routines, dogs, and walking in the woods
⏳ [43:42] The Wrist Program – from performance to recovery
⏳ [51:14] Memory training, nervous system theory & visualization
⏳ [56:16] Building a community & legacy beyond strength
⏳ [01:00:14] Weapons training and new fascinations
Daniel’s IG: @raspberry_ape
Daniel’s Podcast: The Raspberry Ape Podcast
Follow his training library & courses via his link in bio
💬 Whether you’re a martial artist, trainer, or just someone curious about unconventional strength and long-term training, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.
👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & COMMENT: What’s your favorite unconventional training tool? Let’s talk grip, wrist, and real strength below ⬇️
🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts
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