The Shintaro Higashi Show

After years of insightful conversations, debates, and plenty of laughs, Peter is saying goodbye to the podcast as he moves forward in his career after completing his higher education. In this special episode, we take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on our best moments, lessons learned, and what’s next for Peter. Join me in wishing him the best, and let’s celebrate everything he’s brought to th...

AI is rapidly changing the way we train, learn, and analyze Judo. Peter breaks down the fundamentals of AI, how machine learning can enhance coaching, and its potential applications in skill development. Shintaro explores practical uses, from video analysis to training optimization, while discussing AI’s limitations and ethical concerns. They also touch on the future of AI in Judo, including data-...

In this episode, Shintaro and Peter dive into the role of weight training for grapplers, especially when dealing with injuries. Shintaro shares his personal experiences managing knee and shoulder issues while maintaining a consistent lifting routine. They discuss modifications for common lifts, strategies for working around injuries, and the importance of balancing weight training with grappling p...

The ecological approach to coaching has sparked intense debates in the grappling community. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter break down what the ecological approach really means, how it differs from traditional coaching methods, and whether it’s truly the best way to train. They explore the balance between structured instruction and discovery-based learning, discussing how different learning st...

Grappling in Japan has a rich and diverse history, spanning judo, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and even sumo. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter dive into the unique structures of these grappling disciplines in Japan, discussing their training systems, cultural differences, and how jiu-jitsu is rapidly growing as a hobbyist sport. Shintaro shares insights from his recent seminar in Okinawa and...

Large language models like ChatGPT are transforming the way we interact with AI. Peter explains its inner workings, how it understands language through probabilities, and its applications across various domains. Shintaro brings relatable scenarios, exploring AI's practical uses, its limitations, and ethical concerns like bias and transparency. They also touch on the future of AI, from prompt e...

Grappling is much more than perfect throws or traditional techniques. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter discuss rethinking training methodologies, from static uchikomi to positional and grip fighting. They address the criticisms of traditional approaches, explore the ecological training model, and share how tailored drills can accelerate learning and creativity. This episode offers valuable insi...

Shintaro and Peter explore the dynamics of organizing Judo events, reflecting on the challenges and benefits of building a thriving judo community. They discuss the importance of dojo collaborations, creative ways to host training sessions, and nurturing a supportive environment for all practitioners. From Judo field trips to inter-gym partnerships, this episode is packed with insights for anyone...

In this episode, Shintaro learns about peer review from Peter. They tackle common misconceptions, explain how peer review parallels qualifying rounds for Judo competitions, and discuss the strengths and flaws of the system. From navigating PubMed to addressing the challenges of reviewer anonymity, this episode offers an engaging and accessible take on an often misunderstood topic. Whether you're a...

Shintaro recently caught some strays from the popular video “ The Lies Behind Judo Basics ”. In this episode, Shintaro gives his real first-time reactions to the video. Shintaro shares his thoughts on the nuances of teaching traditional Judo basics versus practical competition techniques, while Peter adds context about cultural differences in teaching and training approaches. They discuss the valu...

The new IJF rule set has sparked significant debate in the Judo community, with controversial changes and intriguing predictions about the sport's future. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter talk about the details of the rule updates, including the return of Yuko scoring, adjustments to head safety rules, and the evolving stance on leg grabs. Shintaro shares insights from his commentary experience...

In this episode, Shintaro shares his experience at the Tokyo Grand Slam, where he was one of the IJF commentators. From meeting Olympic champions to exploring the nuances of Japan’s Judo culture, Shintaro reflects on his growing role as a commentator and influencer in the Judo community. Meanwhile, Peter catches us up on his PhD journey, including passing his thesis proposal and attending the pres...

In this episode, Peter and Shintaro shift gears from grappling to dive into Peter’s current main focus: earning a PhD. They explore what it means to pursue a PhD, the challenges faced by doctoral students, and how this journey parallels competition in sports like judo. Using vivid analogies and insights, they discuss the structure of PhD programs, the peer review process, and the impact of publish...

Shintaro just returned from an international seminar trip in the Netherlands and Germany. In this episode, Shintaro recounts the challenges of organizing international seminars, navigating new countries, and sharing his Japanese-style judo with enthusiastic European practitioners. From the unique Dutch judo culture to logistical hurdles like finding reliable transportation, this episode offers a m...

The Las Vegas World Judo Championships Veterans was an incredible display of skill, resilience, and the enduring love for judo. In this solo episode, Shintaro Higashi dives into his key takeaways from the event, from the unique dynamics across age divisions to standout performances by seasoned athletes. He discusses the challenges older competitors face, the surprising level of technique on displa...

Shintaro welcomes Sensei Seth, a popular martial arts YouTuber, to discuss Seth’s journey from spinning kicks and the Bottle Cap Challenge to becoming a sumo national champion and one of the top martial arts influencers on YouTube. The episode dives into the unique aspects of sumo, its transferable lessons to judo, and the challenges of creating engaging content. Seth and Shintaro also explore sum...

In this episode, Shintaro and Peter discuss how to keep randori safe. They explore key principles of self-preservation, fostering a safe training environment, and the role of instructors in maintaining controlled practice intensity. Shintaro shares insights on how to tailor training based on skill level, weight differences, and individual goals, emphasizing why a balanced approach is essential to...

In this episode, Shintaro and Peter tackle one of the most frequently asked questions in the martial arts world: "What am I doing wrong?" Drawing from personal experiences and examples, they explore the critical importance of context and detail in asking meaningful questions. Shintaro shares insights from recent seminars and how asking well-formed questions is essential for receiving practical and...

Shintaro recently participated in special training sessions with the Olympic Wrestling Gold Medalist Rei Higuchi as the translator, and shares this incredible experience with Peter. They dive deep into the technical side of wrestling, highlighting the unique challenges and nuances of grappling terminology across languages. Shintaro recounts how the session was not just about technique, but also ab...

After a 14-year absence, certain prestigious tournaments, including the All Japan Open Championship, are experimenting with reintroducing leg grabs. Shintaro and Peter discuss this groundbreaking rule change, potential IJF adoption, and what this means for judo practitioners globally. They also explore how this rule change might attract more wrestlers and Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes to Judo espec...

In this episode, Shintaro sits down with long-time judo competitor and coach, Ramon Hernandez, to discuss the evolving landscape of USA Judo. They dive into Judo politics, including the removal of Joe Ragan from the board, USA Judo elections, and the financial challenges facing the sport in the United States. Ramon shares his thoughts on the need for better support for athletes, the role of market...

In this episode, Shintaro sits down with Matthew Parker to dive deep into the inner workings of USA Judo. Matthew, a former national team member and current candidate for USA Judo’s at-large board position, offers a unique perspective on the organization's challenges and future. They discuss the fragmented state of USA Judo, the need for improved coaching development, athlete support, and fundrais...

In this episode, Shintaro is joined by the legendary Jimmy Pedro, a two-time Olympic medalist and world champion in Judo, to discuss his campaign for the USA Judo Board. Jimmy opens up about his extensive experience as a coach and businessman, emphasizing the urgent need for structural reform in USA Judo. They explore topics ranging from developing future athletes and expanding judo in schools to...

In this special extra episode, Shintaro sits down with Nicole Stout, a four-time national champion and USA Judo board member. Nicole opens up about her fight for transparency and reform within USA Judo's leadership, offering an inside look at boardroom conflicts and governance issues affecting athletes. From advocating for athletes’ funding and transparency to addressing conflicts of interest on t...

In this episode, Shintaro sits down with two-time Olympian and Grand Prix medalist Colton Brown to discuss the important issues that are on the ballot in the upcoming USA Judo election. They dive deep into the various challenges facing USA Judo and the importance of athlete representation. Colton offers candid insights on how the board operates, the ongoing political tensions within the organizati...