Everyday Martial Artist

In February 1959, Chuck Sullivan embarked on a martial arts journey under the guidance of Ed Parker, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to the discipline. His commitment and skill were recognized when he became the fourth person to attain a black belt from Mr. Parker in February 1962. Notably, in September 1981, he achieved the remarkable rank of 7th degree under Mr. Parker’s tut...

On this episode, we’re thrilled to have Michael “Tunes” Antunes as our guest. Not only is he a skilled martial artist, but he’s also a versatile actor and musician. Hailing from a musical family in New Bedford, Mass. Michael took the stage at the young age of 13, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. During the 1960s, he showcased his saxophone talents with various...

In the realm of martial arts, Dave Kovar stands out as the renowned “Teacher of Teachers” on a global scale. As an 8th-degree Black Belt continuously advancing in his martial arts journey, Kovar has devoted his life to the discipline, achieving Black Belt proficiency in 10 distinct martial art styles. Beyond personal accomplishments, he has successfully cultivated an exceptional team o...

Loren Avedon embarked on his acting journey at the tender age of 5, initially captivating audiences as the iconic milk-mustached kid in numerous Carnation Milk commercials. His entry into the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) came courtesy of his role as a Pepsi/Slice Black belt in a striking advertising campaign. The turning point in Avedon’s career occurred at a Los Angeles Karate School, where fa...

Tom Jordan’s journey unfolds from his beginnings as a martial arts instructor to a multi-faceted career path. Initially dedicating a decade to martial arts instruction, he later transitioned to higher education. After earning a master’s degree in counseling psychology, Tom embarked on his second career as a mental health and addictions counselor. Currently, he is embarking on his third...

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary journey of John Chung, a martial arts luminary and a 1984 graduate of Wake Forest University. With a martial arts teaching career spanning back to 1972, John’s expertise has earned him a well-deserved place in the prestigious Black Belt Hall of Fame. John’s remarkable achievements extend globally. His prowess is highlighted by securing w...

In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Jerry Beasley, a distinguished individual whose multifaceted career spans education, authorship, teaching, and martial arts expertise. Jerry’s academic journey led him to earn a doctorate in Education Administration from Virginia Tech, laying the foundation for his impactful career. Renowned as an accomplished author, teacher, and mart...

In this episode, we dive into the dynamic and multifaceted career of Erik Betts, a seasoned professional in the realms of martial arts, production, writing, acting, and stunt coordination. With an impressive resume boasting nearly 1000 projects, Erik has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Join us as we explore his journey, from being the original double for the Red and Green Ran...

Donald is a lifelong martial artist and cybersecurity risk manager. He has trained in numerous martial arts over the years including Kenpo, Tae Kwon Do and Jiu-jitsu He started training at 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu in Phoenix and received his black belt in 2021. He plans on opening his own school in Denton Texas in 2024. He has been married for 16 years and has two wonderful kids. Please enjoy his sto...

In this episode, I am joined by a seasoned martial artist and author with an impressive 54-year journey in Karate, having dedicated 42 years to teaching in Calgary. As the coach of the Karate All Styles team for an impressive 17 years, my guest’s expertise extends far and wide. In 1990 and 1991, he clinched the title of Canadian Masters Champion, marking a significant achievement in his illu...

Introducing our guest on today’s episode, TJ Williams, hailing from the Niagara Falls, NY. TJ is not only an independent professional wrestler but also a certified Group Fitness Instructor, a seasoned martial artist, and a passionate podcaster. With a martial arts journey spanning an impressive 27 years, TJ currently holds the rank of a 5th Degree Black Belt in the Chuck Norris System. As th...

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Michelle Manu, a globally recognized 10th Degree Black Belt and dedicated instructor in the ancient Hawaiian cultural practice and martial art, Lua. As the sole high-ranking female teacher of Lua, Michelle proudly holds the distinction of being the only public representative of Hawaiian Woman Warriors in over two centuries. Her journey, marked by exceptio...

Lynn grew up in Centerview, CA , near Compton and Carson, and was a member of the Bloods gang. He credits his mother and Football for saving him from that life. He played Football for Kansas University and was the 5th pick of the for the LA Rams and also played for the San Diego Chargers. In 1992 he attended a try-out for the tv series American Gladiators and was cast as Sabre a character he portr...

Karen is a martial artist and actress. She was the first woman to hold the title of #1 Women’s Black Belt Forms Champion for the Karate Illustrated Rankings, a title she held again the next year. She was also the first woman to be rated #1 Women’s Black Belt Forms Competitor in the STAR System ratings. She was the first woman to win Grand Champion at the US Open. She is credited with h...

Shaun is a global youth development specialist, who has embraced challenges and overcome social and economic obstacles to become an expert in the youth development field and the dedicated role model that he is today. Domestic violence, homelessness, gang violence and bullying shaped his future in an amazing and most unexpected way. As a child he and his family suffered great tragedies due to domes...

Shannon is an American professional boxer, wrestler, bodybuilder, martial artist and actress. She was the first ever ToughWoman Champion. She was a professional boxer in the IFBA. She has competed on ESPN, starred in 2 pay per views and was featured in Sports Illustrated, Muscle & Fitness and USA Today. She was also a fitness competitor, winning the Fitness America California Pageant and place...

Dustin is a martial artist and podcast co-host who has studied multiple styles over the years. He is married with 3 kids and martial arts is a full family affair. He also loves classic cars and plays guitar. He is currently the co-host of the Formless Podcast! Please enjoy his story. The Formless Podcast on Apple Podcasts The Formless Podcast – YouTube

Deron is an Actor and Sportsman who toured the professional racquetball circuit for three years. In the early 1980’s he was a deputy sheriff with Los Angeles County As an actor he has been in movies such as Enter The Blood Ring, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, Batman Forever, Batman & Robin and more. You also may have seen him on tv series like Walker Texas Ranger, Martial Law, Sliders, Bay...

Gerald is an Actor, Stuntman, Martial Artist, Weapons Designer and US Army Veteran. He was born in Hilo, Hawaii and has been studying martial arts for over 60 years. Throughout his 50 year career in the entertainment business you have seen him in such notable tv series as The Original Kung Fu Series, Knight Rider and Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and more. Also in movies such as The Octagon, My Sci...

Jimmy is a former high school wrestler and teacher who attended UCLA. He was a pro MMA fighter with a record of 5-1 and quit fighting when he was offered the job to host The Discovery Channels “Fight Quest”. He was also a co-host during season 2 and 3 of American Ninja Warrior. He has been a commentator for Bellator, The UFC and Invicta. He was also a commentor on Monday Night Raw for...

Brad is an author, Podcaster and Self Defense instructor. He has been committed to empowering women for more than 20 years through developing and coaching effective self-defense strategies for the non-martial art female. He guides the Women’s Self-Defense Community providing instructors and students with techniques to successfully resist attacks by predatory men. He currently provides executive se...

Juan is an American Tae Kwon Do practitioner. He is a 3-time Olympian and 2 time Silver Medalist. He has also won Gold at the Pan American Games and the World Cup. After leaving the mat he became a coach. He coached the US Olympic Tae Kwon Do team in 2008, 2012 and 2016 and has dedicated his life to the Olympic Movement and the Sport of Tae Kwon Do. He is the founder of Peak Performance Training C...

Tracie is the founder and lead instructor for Play It Safe Defense. She has been a martial artist for 29 years and her program has been taught to hundreds of thousands of children, teens and women since 2003. Her company officially certifies Physical Education teachers to teach self defense in PE classes for California middle & high school students. She is a nationally certified instructor for...

Justin is a retired business executive. Currently he is Senior Instructor at the Mattson Academy of Karate He was a part of the early 70’s movie “Super Weapon” and has been studying martial arts for over 50 years. He enjoys exercise and fitness and is involved in pilates and yoga. He loves spending time with his grand kids. Please enjoy his story! Learn Karate Online | Okinawan M...

Wim has been a full-time personal trainer since 1994 who has also occasionally worked as a bouncer and served in the military. He has authored numerous instructional books and self defense videos. He is the owner of one of the oldest martial arts and self defense blogs and is also a podcaster. He has been training in the martial arts for almost 40 years. He was recommended by previous guest Barry...