The Ageless Warrior Lab
Dave Meyer | Host, Ageless Warrior Lab podcast | Co-founder and CEO of Food System Innovations and Humane American Animal Foundation
David Meyer is a pioneering American Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, and accomplished non-profit founder and Philanthropist.
David co-founded and served as CEO of Adopt-a-Pet.com for two decades, turning it into the world’s largest nonprofit homeless pet adoption website and helping save millions of animals, before its acquisition by Mars Inc.
Today, David leads Food System Innovations and Humane America Animal Foundation, leading in farm animal welfare and the protein transition movement. He frequently advises U.S. lawmakers on these issues, and has raised and deployed over $160 million in philanthropic capital as part of his work in the nonprofit space.
In his athletic career, David has risen to the highest ranks of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). He earned his black belt from Rigan Machado in 1996 and ranked among the first Americans (“the Dirty Dozen”) to do so. He was the first American to medal at the black belt level at the BJJ World Championships in Brazil in 1998, and continues to compete, winning world championship titles in his age division.
As a martial artist and instructor, he taught at UCLA, Steven Seagal’s Tenshin Dojo, and developed globally used grappling curricula with John Will, including customized material for Chuck Norris’s UFAF association.
Meyer also played a critical role in post-Katrina animal rescue, co-authored key books on BJJ and pet care, and co-founded a Haiti orphanage for children with HIV, exemplifying a lifetime of impactful leadership in both martial arts and philanthropy.
David resides in the San Francisco Bay, and continues to coach BJJ athletes while actively managing Food System Innovations and Humane America Animal Foundation.
The Ageless Warrior Lab
Ageless Wisdom: Martial Arts, Mindfulness, and Mastery with Dan Millman | Ep. 5
Step into a transformative conversation between BJJ Black Belt David Meyer and world-renowned author and spiritual teacher Dan Millman, best known for "Way of the Peaceful Warrior." In this episode of the Ageless Warrior Lab, discover how martial arts, mindfulness, and self-awareness can unlock your true potential—no matter your age or background.
Dan Millman shares his journey from world champion gymnast to bestselling author, revealing the winding path of turning passion into purpose. Learn why self-knowledge, service, and adaptability are the real keys to a meaningful career and life. The discussion dives deep into the power of being present, the role of ego, and how to manage stress through simple yet profound practices like mindful breathing.
Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or seeker of wisdom, this interview is packed with actionable insights on:
- Finding your calling and making a living from what you love
- The importance of staying physically and mentally agile as you age
- How martial arts and sports teach us about life, fear, and resilience
- The paradox of ego and the art of expanding your circle of compassion
- Practical tips for mindfulness, stress management, and daily presence
Don’t miss Dan’s personal stories, practical advice, and the six words that can change your life: “Here and now, breathe and relax.”
This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, with music kindly provided by Robel Borja.
👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with legends in martial arts, personal growth, and wellness.
Links From The Show:
Dan Millman
https://www.peacefulwarrior.com/
Way of the Peaceful Warrior
No Ordinary Moments
Carlos Castaneda
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Castaneda
Jack Lalanne
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_LaLanne
The Need to Win
https://www.wisdom2be.com/gems-poetry-wisdomstories/the-need-to-win-by-chuang-tzu
Thomas Merton, the Way of Chuang Tzu
https://www.ndbooks.com/book/the-way-of-chuang-tzu/
Harbin Hot Springs Watsu
https://harbin.org/body-work/in-water/
Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A
This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.
