Welcome to V5000, where deep thought meets deep recovery - and the truth hits harder than a rear naked choke. In this episode, Nick and Jesse reflect on the philosophical battlefield of aging, injury, and what it really means to stay in the fight. If you're looking for a quick fix, this isn’t it. This one’s for the thinkers, the grinders, the disciplined few still showing up when the crowd’s gone home.
They dive into the science and soul behind recovery metrics like HRV (heart rate variability), bone density, sleep cycles, overtraining, and the cost of ego lifting. It’s modern health seen through the lens of ancient discipline - with a side of wearable tech and real-world jiu-jitsu.
But it doesn’t stop at the body. The conversation wanders, like any good philosophical journey, into the illusion of scarcity, broken healthcare, wealth inequality, the automation age, and the bureaucratic chokeholds that hold us all back. This is an episode for anyone wrestling with what it means to live well in a rapidly changing world.
Watch, reflect, adapt. Welcome to the evolution.
⏱ TIMESTAMPS
[00:00] Intro
[05:23] Jessa’s NYC training tour & what HRV actually means
[12:47] Ego lifting, lasting injuries & Peter Attia’s hard truths on aging
[24:15] Bone density, DEXA scans & jiu-jitsu longevity
[30:55] Outro + the coming singularity, AI, bureaucracy, and healthcare collapse
Welcome to another deep-dive from Vitruvian 5000 — this episode, "Self-Love, Surfing, and Letting Go," hosted by Nick & Jesse with special guest Jared Watson of The Dirty Heads, is a raw exploration of what it means to truly be present in your life.
Like modern-day philosophers riding the waves of consciousness, the guys dig into self-worth, the emotional alchemy of plant medicine, the healing power of surfing, the psychedelic chaos of modern life, and the art of truly letting go.
Jared opens up about his journey through addiction and self-healing via Iboga, a powerful plant medicine, and the spiritual and physical discipline of martial arts. From the grind of tour life to embracing simplicity and presence, this one’s a ride.
This is a conversation about embracing suffering, escaping hustle culture, and finding peace not through control — but through surrender.
Whether you’re into philosophy, spirituality, surfing, psychedelics, or just trying to make sense of this mad world — this one’s for you.
[00:00] Intro
[05:23] Assassin's Creed, gaming and creativity
[12:47] Storytelling, music, and creating worlds
[24:15] The power of surfing to heal the mind
[30:55] Letting go, psychedelics, and self-acceptance
[47:22] The Iboga experience: ego death and rebirth
[1:12:33] Self-love is the only way out
[1:27:10] Social media, dopamine loops, and digital noise
[1:39:20] Creativity, art, and the next Dirty Heads album
[1:52:45] Outro — surfing, Japan, and future plans
What It Actually Means to Be Free" isn’t just a question - it’s a confrontation. In this deeply introspective episode of Vitruvian 5000, Nick and Jesse pull back the curtain on the programming, trauma, and invisible frameworks that shape how we live, think, and move through the world.
With the soul of modern-day philosophers and the edge of two men who’ve seen behind the curtain, they explore the psyche, spiritual freedom, religious trauma, ego dissolution, and how presence-not productivity-is the key to liberation.
They don’t preach. They provoke.
They don’t hand you answers. They hand you a mirror.
👇 Timestamps
[00:00] Intro
[05:23] The Illusion of Belonging & Religious Programming
[12:47] Psychedelics, Ego Death & the Mirror
[24:15] Presence, Trauma & What Freedom Actually Is
[30:55] Outro & What’s Next
🎙 Welcome to "Vitruvian 5000" – Ep 132: The Mafia, Martial Arts, and Making Art in NYC
In this raw and revelatory episode, Nick and Jesse sit down with special guest Luigi Scarcella Perino, a full-contact karate champion, artist, and co-founder of the cult martial arts brand Half Sumo.
From the shadowy docks of Naples to the vibrant streets of New York, this conversation explores the deep roots of Sicilian identity, the global reach of organized crime, and the battle of self-expression through martial arts and art.
🔍 We touch on everything from the Camorra and corruption in modern Italy to Brooklyn’s gritty past, New York’s alchemical energy, and how creative resistance blooms where dreams are threatened.
Luigi also shares the story behind Half Sumo, the philosophy of martial artistry, and what it means to live like a modern-day warrior in a world built to break you.
⏱ TIMESTAMPS:
01:00 Welcoming Luigi from Messina
02:46 The Unique Charm of Sicily
03:11 Life in New York vs. Sicily
07:08 Cultural Differences and Traditions
15:24 The Entrepreneurial Spirit
35:37 The Mafia's Influence in Italy
42:21 Mafia's Influence on Infrastructure
46:17 Personal Family History and World War Stories
50:48 The Evolution of the Italian Language
55:27 Renaissance Artists' Wild Lives
59:13 Journey into Martial Arts and Art
01:01:14 The Birth of Half Sumo
01:10:27 Half Sumo's Unique Products
In this episode of Vitruvian 5000 Jesse Viola and Nick Gullo go deep - real deep - into the machinery of the mind, asking one central question: what happens when you stop letting your thoughts own you?
We unravel the subconscious stories that chain us to suffering - imposter syndrome, validation-seeking, identity, fear, ego, anxiety - and shine a light on the radical (but accessible) act of awareness. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why do I think the way I think?”, this episode is a mirror.
🔥 Topics we explore:
The illusion of reality and waking up from mental autopilot
Why transformation isn’t a summer project - it’s a life practice
How childhood conditioning drives adult ambition
Meditation, emotional scaffolding, and why we subconsciously block our own happiness
Why your triggers are mirrors
The power of compassion - for others, sure. But most importantly, for yourself
⚡ This is not a self-help seminar. This is soul excavation in real time.
You won’t find gurus here - just two humans trying to cut through the noise and touch something real.
📍Subscribe for more unscripted conversations about consciousness, culture, identity, and inner freedom.
This is Vitruvian 5000. And the message is simple: Wake. Up.
00:00 Understanding the Power of Thought
00:56 Emotional Wellness and Lifestyle Changes
02:36 The Subconscious and Self-Worth
03:18 Meditation and Mindfulness
06:07 Breaking Free from Mental Barriers
08:51 The Illusion of Reality
19:27 Infinite Possibilities and Consciousness
24:16 Different Life Experiences and Norms
24:45 Confronting Personal Beliefs
25:10 Economic Conditions and Peace
25:47 Material Wealth vs. Happiness
26:47 Setting Personal Goals
30:34 Seeking Validation
40:54 Compassion and Self-Reflection
46:08 Upcoming Conversations and Reflections
🚪 What if shame is the only thing keeping you stuck? In this episode of V5000, Jamie, Jesse, and Nick dive deep into the psychology of shame, self-judgment, and breaking free from limiting beliefs.
We explore:
🔹 Why shame locks us into destructive cycles (and how to break free)
🔹 Sex, taboo, and societal conditioning: Where do our beliefs really come from?
🔹 Can we reprogram our emotions? The science of rewiring the mind-body connection
🔹 Turning judgment into self-acceptance: The paradox of inner freedom
🔹 AI, love, and the future: What happens when people fall in love with chatbots?
🔹 Enjoyment as the ultimate path to self-mastery
From deep philosophy to raw personal experiences, this episode challenges everything you think you know about shame, pleasure, and freedom.
⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Understanding the Role of Shame in Bad Habits
00:46 The Power of Enjoyment in Singing and Life
02:18 The Connection Between Mental State and Performance
04:12 Introducing Jamie and the Philosophy of David Deutsch
05:12 Diving into the Taboo Topic of Sex
07:21 The Historical and Cultural Context of Sex
11:30 Personal Struggles and Perspectives on Sex
15:52 Exploring Emotional Inquiry and Its Benefits
30:08 The Overwhelming Impact of Modern Pornography
30:49 Adapting to New Technologies and Self-Control
31:58 The Role of Shame in Our Behaviors
35:48 The Mind-Body Connection and Emotional Storage
52:08 Exploring the Concept of Love and Relationships
57:36 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
🚀 What does it take to succeed? And at what cost?
In this episode of V5000, Jesse and Nick dive deep into the paradox of obsession, ambition, and happiness- because if winning the game means losing yourself, is it really a win?
We explore:
🔹 The thin line between discipline and self-destruction
🔹 Does trauma fuel success? (And if so, can you do it without the baggage?)
🔹 The science of obsession: Why high achievers often share traits with sociopaths
🔹 Zen, The Tao, and Alan Watts: Can we achieve more by forcing less?
🔹 The dark side of ambition: What happens when success isn’t enough?
🔹 How to harness obsession without burning out
🔹 Does peace = happiness? And if so, why does it feel so damn elusive?
This episode is part philosophy, part psychology, part science, and 100% a mind-bender.
If you've ever wondered whether you need to suffer to succeed, this one's for you.
⏱ Timestamps
00:07 The Entrepreneurial Mindset
02:45 Brian Johnson's Documentary and Discipline
07:02 The Psychology of High Achievers
13:57 Balancing Success and Happiness
19:42 The Philosophy of Self-Mastery
28:50 Reprogramming Your Psyche for Happiness
31:53 Practical Ways to Live a Better Life
33:24 The Science of Success and Happiness
36:55 Facing the Ego: The Hard Truths
41:14 The Illusion of Success and Societal Constructs
47:40 The Power of Being Present
54:45 Different Paths to Self-Mastery
In this episode, Jesse and Nick dive deep into a conversation about resistance—why we fight reality, why it exhausts us, and how surrendering to the natural flow of life (a.k.a. "The Tao") can transform your experience.
⚡ Key Themes in This Episode:
Why resistance is the root of suffering
The paradox of control vs. surrender
How to recognize when you're fighting reality (and what to do instead)
The dark night of the soul in business, relationships, and life
Lessons from entrepreneurs, quantum physics, and ancient philosophy
The illusion of self: Are you your thoughts, or something more?
This isn't just some feel-good, spiritual fluff—this is a real, raw, and practical discussion on how to actually navigate the highs and lows of life without losing your mind. If you’ve ever felt like you're swimming upstream and getting nowhere, this one's for you.
📌 Timestamps:
00:39 Embracing the Flow of the Tao
05:10 The Paradox of Goal Setting
08:36 The Journey of Entrepreneurship
15:44 The Future of Publishing and AI
22:30 The Vedantic Approach to Awareness
32:25 The Mind's Eye: Perception and Reality
35:05 The Power of Self-Exploration
44:20 Understanding Anger and Fear
51:14 The Holographic Universe Theory
54:35 Practical Applications of Mindfulness
57:17 Entertainment and Reflections
Welcome to V5000, the podcast where we trade the noise of modern life for something a little closer to wisdom. In this episode, Jesse and Nick go deep into The Tao of Life—how to stop fighting the current and learn to flow with it. If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you're running on autopilot, this one’s for you.
🔹 What is the Tao? And why has it been guiding humanity for thousands of years?
🔹 The illusion of free will—are you really making your own choices?
🔹 How modern life keeps us dysregulated and how to break free from the cycle
🔹 The power of non-negotiables: habits that anchor you instead of drowning you
🔹 Why sitting still feels like failure (but might be exactly what you need)
This episode isn’t just philosophy—it’s a call to action for anyone looking to break free from the chaos and actually live. Let’s ride the waves instead of drowning in them.
⏳ Timestamps
[00:00] Intro – What is the Tao and why should you care?
[05:23] The illusion of free will: Are you actually in control?
[12:47] How modern life hijacks our attention and keeps us stuck
[24:15] The wisdom of surfing, jiu-jitsu, and learning to flow with life
[30:55] Outro – Next time is next time. Now is now.
🔴 What does true happiness mean? Is it about success, travel, or something deeper? In this episode, we dive into self-discovery, meditation, jiu-jitsu, travel, and personal growth—unpacking what it really means to live freely and find peace in an ever-moving world.
🌎 In This Episode:
✔️ The Meaning of Freedom & Happiness – Why we seek liberation from our own minds
✔️ Travel & Self-Discovery – Exploring Spain, Italy, and Barcelona as potential homes
✔️ Jiu-Jitsu as a Tribe – How training in Valencia, Barcelona, and Palermo creates instant community
✔️ Meditation & Awareness – The key to mental clarity, mindfulness, and detaching from negative thoughts
✔️ The Power of Being Present – How flow state, music, and martial arts teach us about life
✔️ Why Happiness Is Internal – The sunshine analogy and learning to let go of mental noise
🔮 This conversation blends travel, philosophy, sports, and mental clarity in a way you won’t hear anywhere else!
📩 Subscribe & Hit the Bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode!
#Mindset #SelfDiscovery #JiuJitsu #Meditation #Happiness #PersonalGrowth #TravelPodcast #Philosophy #MentalClarity #Mindfulness #Valencia #Barcelona #FirstDownDawgs
01:18 Travel Tales: Exploring Spain
06:11 The Jiu Jitsu Community Connection
18:32 The Essence of Happiness and Inner Peace
27:27 The Power of Letting Go
30:10 Understanding the Patterns of the Mind
33:38 The Art of Guitar and Mindfulness
39:52 The Journey to Happiness
41:33 Morning Meditation Routine
44:55 Strengthening the Observer
49:36 The Eternal Awareness
53:17 Wrapping Up and Recommendations
We spend our whole lives chasing something we think will make us happy—only to find out we’ve been running in circles. In this episode of the Vitruvian 5000 Podcast, Nick and Jesse break down the biggest lie we tell ourselves about happiness, the cultural programming that keeps us in a state of dissatisfaction, and the hidden forces shaping our desires.
From the impact of modern sexuality and relationships to the way technology is rewiring our minds, this conversation dives deep into the existential questions we avoid asking. Are we truly free? Or are we just playing out roles written for us by society?
Prepare for a mind-bending conversation on attachment, contentment, and the philosophies that might just set you free.
📌 Episode Timestamps:
00:00 The Rise of Sex Robots
04:43 Cultural Reflections on Sex and Society
12:47 The Impact of Porn on Modern Relationships
18:56 Exploring Japan: Future Travel Plans
23:49 Cultural Norms and Relationships
26:45 Zen and the Art of Acceptance
28:54 Navigating Modern Discontent
30:45 The Power of Inward Focus
34:08 The Journey to Contentment
44:55 Freedom Through Detachment
In this episode of Vitruvian 5000, hosts Jesse & Nick discuss the importance of self-awareness and comfort in solitude, sharing personal insights and experiences from Nick's recent trip to Sicily.
They delve into the significance of understanding one's patterns, heritage, and the transformative power of resilience amidst challenges—including reflections on family history, relationships, and personal growth.
Tune in for an introspective conversation on cultivating internal peace and the continuous journey of self-discovery.
00:29 Revisiting Sicily: A Personal Journey
03:56 The Mafia's Impact on Family
10:00 Contemplating Life in Palermo
16:53 Reflections on Impermanence and Resilience
25:48 Reflecting on Historical Hardships
29:27 The Journey of Self-Discovery
34:13 The Path to Self-Mastery
39:17 The Journey of Personal Growth
44:15 Balancing Life and Training
47:46 Future Plans and Reflections
What does it mean to truly thrive? In this reflective and philosophical episode, Nick and Jesse delve into the timeless pursuit of longevity, exploring the interplay between physical health, emotional resilience, and mental clarity—the three pillars of a fulfilling life.
This conversation takes you on a journey through self-awareness, the importance of movement (both physical and spiritual), and how to balance the paradox of "just keep moving" with the power of stillness. Along the way, the duo shares personal anecdotes, insights from thought leaders like Peter Attia, and practical advice on living with intention.
Are you chasing external validation, or are you cultivating a life aligned with your true self? Tune in and reflect on what it means to live with purpose.
⏳ Timestamps
02:09 Exploring Brighton and Surroundings
04:16 BMW Motorcycle Adventure
12:27 Reflections on Solitude and Routine
20:37 The Nuances of Zen and Desire
24:39 Health and Longevity
28:39 Emotional and Cognitive Health
34:06 The Importance of Flexibility
37:09 Movement and Meditation
43:14 Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations
Dive into the depths of human psychology, identity, and the ego as Nick and Jesse unpack the stories we tell ourselves and the subconscious impressions that shape our lives. From the transformative power of surrender to the intersection of psychedelics, meditation, and self-awareness, this episode is a journey toward breaking free from our own mental constructs.
Discover how childhood wounds, societal expectations, and the need for control influence our behaviors and relationships. Through deeply personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, Nick and Jesse explore how to heal, embrace pure awareness, and live with peace and liberation.
This conversation touches on:
The neuroscience of ego and the Default Mode Network
Tools like psychedelics and mindfulness for introspection
How to clear deep-seated emotional impressions
Finding joy and peace by surrendering the illusion of control
🌟 Whether you're navigating your own path toward enlightenment or just curious about what makes us tick as human beings, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode of Vitruvian 5000, hosts Jesse and Nick delve into the essence of living in the present moment, using experiences from their personal lives such as dealing with chronic pain and practicing Zen awareness.
The discussion spans across various topics including the importance of posture, the impact of technology on our attention span, the evolutionary perspective on human behavior, and the potential future impact of artificial intelligence.
Through reflective anecdotes and philosophical explorations, they emphasize the significance of being present and mindful in a world full of distractions.
00:38 In-Depth Discussion: Shoulder and Neck Issues
02:02 Personal Experiences: Dealing with Pain
06:40 Evolution and Human Nature
12:05 Mindfulness and Zen Training
15:42 The Struggle to Be Present
17:48 Finding Peace in the Present Moment
19:26 The Challenge of Pure Awareness
23:30 The Impact of Technology on Presence
26:36 The Evolutionary Dilemma
30:25 The Future of AI and Humanity
35:10 Concluding Thoughts on Zen and Awareness
Welcome to The Modern Philosopher Podcast, where Nick and Jesse pull apart the intricate threads of life’s stories, illusions, and truths. In this thought-provoking episode, they explore the ancient metaphor of the snake in the road and what it reveals about human perception, fear, and the power of storytelling. Together, they dive into: -How stories shape our reality and why we cling to illusions. -The cultural and personal impact of archetypes like the "hero" and "strongman." -Meditation as a tool for untangling the mind’s deceptions. -The ultimate realization: most of life’s snakes are just ropes. -Through modern-day philosophy, candid conversation, and a touch of humor, Nick and Jesse challenge listeners to question the stories they tell themselves and explore the art of living in the present. Timestamps: [00:00] Intro: Setting the Tone for Deep Thinking [05:23] The Snake in the Road: A Life-Altering Metaphor [12:47] Archetypes and Their Grip on Humanity [24:15] Meditation: The Path to Seeing Clearly [30:55] Outro: Finding the Rope in the Snake
Welcome to Mind Over Matter, where Jesse and Nick dive deep into what it really means to push through life's toughest challenges. From samurai mentalities (yes, you read that right) to testing the limits of perseverance, this episode is packed with raw honesty, sarcastic humor, and a dose of reality checks. Jesse shares his silver-medal-winning journey in competitive Jiu-Jitsu (and his ongoing battle with blind spots), while Nick dissects how tiny life adjustments can have massive impacts—both on the mat and off. Oh, and there’s some Harrison Ford elevator talk.
Whether you’re into martial arts, self-reflection, or just appreciate a good laugh, this episode is your ticket to wisdom wrapped in wit. Strap in—this one’s a journey.
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro: Pushing Through Life (and when to stop)
[05:23] Jesse’s Samurai Mindset: Competing for Mental Clarity
[12:47] Blind Spots: Jiu-Jitsu Lessons for Life
[24:15] The Power of Tiny Adjustments (and unexpected gratitude)
[30:55] Outro: Infinite Technology, Harrison Ford, and Les Pauls
Welcome to Vitruvian 5000! In today’s episode, “The Secret of Silence and Self-Awareness,” your hosts Jesse and Nick take you on a mind-bending journey through jiu-jitsu, keto, consciousness, and everything in between.
Tune in as we explore how to stay fit with a practical keto approach, dive into jiu-jitsu training insights from world-class pros, and tackle life’s existential questions—like, what exactly is consciousness?
We even throw in plans for a tropical jiu-jitsu seminar, just to keep it interesting. Expect witty New York commentary, some enlightening tangents, and a bit of soul-searching—all with a side of New York sarcasm, of course.
[00:00] Intro – Another day, another existential crisis
[04:15] The Dominican Republic recap and jiu-jitsu adventures
[16:30] Breaking down keto for sustainable weight loss
[33:45] Jiu-jitsu training insights: Butterfly guard, leg locks, and more
[46:20] Consciousness, self-identity, and the power of silence
[1:10:30] Planning a jiu-jitsu seminar in paradise
[1:20:00] Outro – Until next time!
In this enlightening episode, featuring insights from Dr. Alok Kanojia's discussion with Steven Bartlett on 'Diary of a CEO', we delve into the profound impacts of psychic trauma, the power of mindfulness, and the journey towards emotional wellness.
Discover how unresolved trauma, known as samskaras, shapes our subconscious mind and behaviors, often leading to harmful coping mechanisms. Learn the importance of self-awareness, self-love, and addressing inner blockages through mindfulness.
The conversation extends to exploring fleeting pleasures, the roots of suffering, and the significance of inner dialogue in achieving true confidence and authentic leadership.
By embracing stillness, understanding the ancient wisdom of emotional balance, and rejecting toxic energy, we can unlock the path to inner freedom and genuine happiness.
Join us in this profound exploration of healing and self-understanding in a constantly stimulating world.
00:00 Understanding the Power of Feelings
01:09 The Concept of Psychic Trauma
06:12 Coping Mechanisms and Their Roots
09:10 The Importance of Awareness
21:13 The Journey Inside: Martial Arts and Self-Knowledge
24:08 Understanding Self-Sabotage
27:38 The Inner Critic and Self-Sabotage
29:06 The Struggle with Stillness and Validation
Join Jesse Viola & Nick Gullo on Vitruvian 500 as they examine the influence of cult behavior in politics and business, the idolization of leaders, and the philosophy of embracing discomfort.
Delve into the parallels between political tribalism, income inequality, and the benefits of cross-training in Jiu Jitsu.
Uncover insights on navigating media bias, competition anxiety, and Zen practices for a resilient, self-aware life.
01:59 The Basics of Business Simplified
03:21 The Cult of Politics and Symbols
07:32 The Age of Cults and Social Media
17:58 The Philosophy of Cross Training in Jiu Jitsu
19:01 Personal Growth Through Diverse Training
20:46 The Importance of Facing New Challenges
27:06 The Role of Anxiety in Competition
36:51 Monetizing Martial Arts: The Business Side
38:14 Wrapping Up: Reflections and Recommendations
