Everyday Martial Artist

Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Karen Eden Herdman, a multi-ethnic 7th degree Grandmaster of Tang Soo Do. Karen is celebrated in the martial arts community for her inspirational writing. Her work has been featured in every major martial arts magazine worldwide, and she has graced the covers of six. A journalist by profession, Karen has worked for NBC and FOX affiliates, with liv...

John Giordano’s life story is one of incredible transformation. He overcame the stigma of childhood sexual abuse, homelessness, and severe addiction to become a renowned addiction expert with 39 years of sobriety. He founded his own holistic treatment center with just $300, which he later sold for $45 million. Currently, John is the co-owner of JC’s Recovery House, a published author o...

Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Chuck Johnson, a versatile martial artist, actor, stuntman, and motion capture artist based in Tokyo, Japan. Chuck’s martial arts journey began at age 15 when he became the Michigan State Junior Olympic Tae Kwon Do Champion in both sparring and forms, just six days after earning his black belt. After moving to Tokyo, he started working as a bo...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jeff Patterson, a multifaceted individual who wears many hats: martial artist, author, entrepreneur, father, husband, adventurer, and mentor. Growing up in a small town in Oregon, Jeff’s love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for fishing, BMX, motorcycles, and baseball. After high school, Jeff joined the Marine Corps, after that becoming t...

Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of John Will, a martial arts veteran who has been training since his school years. His passion for martial arts has taken him around the globe, culminating in his triumph at the first World Pencak Silat Championships in Jakarta in 1982, where he won the Gold medal. John is also the founder, publisher, and editor of Australia’s premier martial a...

In this episode, we’re joined by Keith Martin-Smith, a seasoned content strategist, book coach, and ghostwriter who also dedicates himself to men’s coaching. With over 30 years of experience in martial arts, Keith is an ordained Zen priest and the founder of Integrated Martial Arts in Boulder, Colorado. Keith is an accomplished author of five books, including “The Heart of Zen” a...

David Meyer has been a dedicated practitioner of martial arts for over five decades. His diverse training includes styles such as Jiu Jitsu and White Lotus Kung Fu. From 1984 to 1987, David taught Jiu Jitsu at Steven Seagal’s Tenshin Dojo, and from 1980 to 1985, he served as the head Jiu Jitsu instructor at UCLA. Remarkably, David won the first-ever BJJ competition held in the US in 1994. In...

Bram Frank brings over five decades of expertise in martial arts to our conversation. As a first-generation personal student of the late Grandmaster Remy Presas, the founder of Modern Arnis, Bram has deep-rooted knowledge and experience in this discipline. In 2007, Bram was honored as Weapons Instructor of the Year by the Black Belt Hall of Fame, and in 2008, Action Martial Arts Magazine and its M...

Welcome to today’s episode, where I’m thrilled to introduce a remarkable guest: Yasin Seiwasser. With over 35 years of martial arts expertise and three decades dedicated to mastering mind-body techniques like meditation, mental training, and breathing, Yasin’s journey is truly inspiring. A former German MMA champion who set the world record for the fastest knockout in a title fight, and a Eu...

Join us today as we dive into the extraordinary life of Mike Stone, a true legend in the world of martial arts. Born and raised in Hawaii, Mike excelled in various sports as a student and went on to serve in the Army after high school. Mike’s unparalleled success in Karate began with his dominance in major tournaments during his prime. Remarkably, he never lost a single black belt match or k...

Graciela Casillas is a pioneering athlete and martial artist, renowned for her undefeated records in both boxing and kickboxing. She made history as the first athlete, male or female, to hold two world championships simultaneously in martial arts and boxing. A dedicated advocate for women’s self-defense, Graciela’s expertise extends beyond the ring. She is a certified NRA weapons instr...

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Keith Vargo, a distinguished writer, fighter, and martial artist based in Tokyo, Japan. For 17 years, Keith was a contributing editor for Black Belt magazine, where he penned the beloved monthly column “Way of the Warrior.” His work has also been featured in FightSport magazine, Karate/Kung-fu Illustrated, Sports World Japan, Maxfighting.com...

Join me as we delve into the fascinating life of Dan Millman, a multifaceted individual whose journey encompasses triumphs in athletics, academia, and the art of living. Hailing from Los Angeles, Dan’s early years were marked by a diverse array of interests, from martial arts to modern dance, trampoline to gymnastics. His prowess on the mat and in the gym led him to remarkable victories, inc...

Meet Catherine Miller, a dedicated martial artist with nearly four decades of experience under her belt. Achieving her 5th Degree Black Belt in 2015, Catherine’s journey in martial arts has been one of passion and commitment. From 1996 to 2000, she was an active competitor on the NASKA circuit, showcasing her skills in various disciplines. Notably, Catherine held the #1 rank for 18-29 female...

On this week’s episode we delve into the life and legacy of a true martial arts icon. Meet Al Dacascos: an acclaimed author, revered teacher, podcast host, and a martial artist whose journey began at the tender age of 11. In the annals of martial arts history, Al Dacascos stands as a pioneer. In 1969, he forged his own path by founding Wun Hop Keun Do, a fusion of Kajukenbo with elements of...

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of martial arts with René Dreifuss, the visionary founder and head coach of Radical MMA. René’s journey in combat sports began as an active MMA fighter in the vibrant New York Area scene. With nearly half a century of martial arts experience under his belt, René boasts instructor ranks in multiple styles, a testament to his dedication and experti...

Join us in this episode as we delve into the fascinating life of Thomas Ran Garver, a multitalented individual residing in Tokyo. Hailing from Northern California, Garver wears many hats – a lawyer, an author, and a martial artist. His journey into the heart of Japan began with a year-long study abroad program during his college days, fueled by his deep-seated passion for the Japanese langua...

Join us for an insightful interview with the multifaceted John Bedore. From his roles as a Martial Artist, Musician, Singer, and Minister of Worship Arts to his tenure of 15 years at Hope Lutheran Church in Fargo, ND, John’s journey is as diverse as it is inspiring. With the release of two Christian CDs under his belt John is an accomplished musician. John embodies his belief that “The...

Join us as we delve into the fascinating journey of Ron Balicki, a Chicago native whose path led him through diverse roles and experiences. From his formative years in Chicago to his pivotal role as a Cook County Deputy Sheriff for four years, Ron’s dedication was evident. During his tenure, he played a crucial part in the development of S.O.R.T. – the Special Operation Resistance Team...

Join us today as we delve into the extraordinary life of Mr. Don Culp, a titan in the world of martial arts with nearly five decades of experience. With an impressive resume boasting a 9th-degree black belt and the title of USA Master Boxer, Don’s expertise extends far beyond the dojo. As a certified personal trainer, he’s dedicated to helping others achieve their fitness goals. But th...

Join us for an inspiring episode as we delve into the multi-faceted world of Dan Clark. Renowned as a martial artist, athlete, author, speaker, coach, podcast host, actor, and much more, Dan’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. His athletic career kicked off on the football field, representing San Jose State University before making his mark with the LA Rams and venturing overseas to pl...

Meet Dave Crull, a multifaceted individual with a rich tapestry of experiences. Dave’s journey encompasses roles as a devoted husband, a nurturing father, a retired corporate executive, a proud US Marine, a podcast luminary, and a dedicated martial artist. Throughout his professional life, Dave excelled in corporate finance, leveraging his strategic acumen to carve out a successful career pa...

Welcome to today’s episode featuring the multi-talented Ron Thomas. Ron is not just a martial artist; he’s an accomplished athlete, actor, motivational speaker, coach, and author. Ron’s journey in competitive sports began at an astonishingly young age of 3, with swimming marking the initiation of his career. Throughout his competitive endeavors in swimming, golf, and martial arts...

Join us in this episode as we delve into the rich martial arts journey of Mr. Lee Wedlake, who has been an integral part of the martial arts community since 1967. With a passion for Kenpo, he has authored and published nine insightful books on the subject. For 11 years, Mr. Wedlake served as Ed Parker’s representative in the Midwest and played a crucial role on the board of examiners for the...

Meet Dale Dugas, a multi-talented individual with a diverse skill set. Beyond being a skilled martial artist and accomplished author, Dr. Dugas holds a Florida license as an Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. His expertise extends to being a fully trained Chinese Herbalist. Dr. Dugas’s journey in the field of Chinese Medicine began at the prestigious New England School of...