Raising WarriorsIn this episode of The Iron Perspective, JD Denham sits down with Elan and his son, Mike a father-and-son duo from Gracie Barra Costa Mesa for an authentic talk about discipline, manhood, and the power of martial arts to shape strong families. From Elan’s journey into jiu-jitsu to Mike’s perspective as a 20-year-old entrepreneur raised under old-school values, this conversation dives into faith, family, and the lessons that define men of integrity.
They discuss what’s missing in modern masculinity, how jiu-jitsu builds humility and confidence, and why parenting with presence and discipline matters more than ever. From fatherhood and mentorship to social media, depression, and detachment in today’s youth, this episode challenges listeners to rise up to lead, to teach, and to live by example.
Chapters:
00:00 – The State of Masculinity in Today’s World
02:31 – Father & Son: Elan and Mike Join the Show
06:48 – Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu: Humility, Discipline & Confidence
11:32 – Fathers, Boundaries & The Missing Masculine Role
15:34 – Coaching the Strong and the Timid
20:28 – Jiu-Jitsu vs. Traditional Sports: Confidence That Lasts
23:32 – The Father-Son Bond & Lessons That Stick
28:13 – The Lost Art of Manhood in a Modern World
31:31 – Social Media, Disconnection & The Decline of Real Interaction
37:32 – Teaching Respect: Eye Contact, Handshakes & Character
40:28 – The Role of Mentorship & Molding Young Men
44:19 – Influences, Fathers & Learning from Giants
54:44 – Marriage, Parenting & Building a Family That Lasts
1:00:16 – Great Men Help Other Men Succeed
Follow JD:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jd_denham_fit
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JD-Denham/61563578940850/
Peptides: https://www.warrior-makers.com
Fitness & Diet: https://www.jddenhamfit.com
Follow Elan & Mike:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gbcostamesa
Website: https://www.gbcostamesa.com/
Intro Music: Pennywise – Let Us Hear Your Voice
