Everyday Martial Artist

In today's episode, I'm honored to sit down with Dr. Zibin Guo — a unique and inspiring figure whose life's work bridges martial arts, medical science, and cultural understanding. Dr. Guo is not only a seasoned martial artist and author but also a renowned professor of Medical Anthropology at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. ... Zibin Guo – Adaptive Tai Chi – Ep225

My guest today brings over three decades of martial arts experience to the conversation. Angus Rogers began his training journey in the early 1990s, officially diving in with commitment in 1995. By 1999, he had earned his black belt—a milestone that marked the beginning of a lifelong passion. After a brief hiatus following the retirement ... Angus Rogers – Heads Of The Valleys Tang Soo Do – Ep224

Brian Doucette is an East Coast Canadian rocker with deep roots in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and now calls Edmonton, Alberta home. A passionate and prolific musician, he has released five full-length studio albums, with a sixth currently in production. His latest release, Not Careful Enough, dropped in March and continues to showcase his ... Brian Doucette – Recording Artist – Ep223

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we're joined by a true innovator in the world of martial arts and combatives—Guru Roger Agbulos. With a martial journey that began in 1990, Roger has spent over three decades honing his craft and sharing it with others. Specializing in combatives and self-defense, he has earned international recognition ... Roger Agbulos – Lameco Astig – Ep222

Joseph Rae's martial arts journey began in 1993 at the Roanoke Bujinkan Dojo in Virginia. Just five years later, in 1998, he earned his Shodan—marking a major milestone in his commitment to the Bujinkan tradition. In 1999, Joseph enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he went on to serve with distinction for 22 and a ... Joseph Rae – Buchanan Onmitsukage Ninpo Dojo – Ep221

James Turner – Kickboxing Champion, Actor, and Author Today's guest is a true powerhouse in the world of martial arts—an accomplished athlete, actor, and author whose dedication and talent have earned him recognition across multiple disciplines. James Turner is a decorated kickboxer, currently holding the IKTA European, International, and Golden Warrior Championships in the Light ... James Turner – Kickboxing Champion – Ep220

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we're joined by a true martial arts veteran and passionate teacher — Mr. James Theros. Mr. Theros began his martial arts journey back in 1976 and has dedicated nearly five decades to training, teaching, and preserving traditional Korean martial arts. Since 1995, he has owned and operated Level ... James Theros – Level 10 Kung Fu – Ep219

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we're joined by a true pioneer in the world of mixed martial arts — former UFC Lightweight Champion Sean Sherk. Sean began wrestling at just seven years old, racking up an incredible 400+ matches over the course of 11 years. His competitive spirit and discipline laid the perfect ... Sean Sherk – The Muscle Shark – Ep218

Born and raised in Chicago, Daniel Pesina has been immersed in martial arts for over five decades. With a career that spans film, video games, and live instruction, he's best known for his iconic roles as Johnny Cage, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Reptile in the original Mortal Kombat games. Beyond the gaming world, Daniel appeared as ... Daniel Pesina – Mortal Kombat – Ep217

Mark Larson's martial arts journey is one of passion, perseverance, and global impact. From excelling in high-level athletics—playing ice hockey in both the USHL and NCAA—to immersing himself in the world of martial arts, Mark's path has been anything but ordinary. He began with Wing Chun and Goju-ryu karate before finding his true calling in ... Mark Larson – MN Aiki Shuren Dojo – Ep216

Today's guest is a true icon in the world of martial arts and tactical training. Avi Nardia is a world-renowned martial artist with decades of experience teaching across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. He is the founder and head instructor of KAPAP (Krav Panim El Panim), a practical self-defense system rooted in real-world applications, blending ... Avi Nardia – KAPAP/Krav Maga – Ep215

Dan Blizniak began his martial arts journey over two decades ago in Dayton, Ohio. Early in his training, he purchased a Brazilian Cherry bokken for class, but it wasn't long before his roots in woodworking—passed down from his father, a skilled carpenter from Buffalo, New York—sparked a new path. Driven by curiosity and craftsmanship, Dan ... Dan Blizniak – Blizniak's Bokken – Ep214

Episode Title: Exploring Katori Shintō-ryū with Paul Frank Today, I'm joined by Paul Frank, the chief instructor of Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū at the Budo Society. With a martial arts journey that began in 1982, Paul holds a 3rd Dan in Aikido and ranks in Karate and Tae Kwon Do, along with experience in iaido. ... Paul Frank – Ep213

Today's guest, Vlad Koulikov, began his martial arts journey at the renowned Sambo 70 academy, one of the most prestigious training institutions in the world. His early success in competition includes earning gold and silver medals in two All-Soviet Cups. After moving to the U.S., Vlad continued to make his mark, medaling in three U.S. ... Vlad Koulikov – Sambo Fusion – Ep212

In this episode, we welcome Jesse Jackson Jr., a man whose life journey spans martial arts, activism, politics, and media. Jesse has studied multiple martial arts disciplines, including Tae Kwon Do and Kung Fu. As a teenager, he and his brother played an active role in supporting their father's civil rights efforts. During the 1984 ... Jesse Jackson Jr – Jhoon Rhee TKD – Ep211

In this episode, we're joined by Rodger Martin, a dedicated martial artist with nearly 30 years of experience. Over the years, Rodger has competed in both MMA and boxing, showcasing his skills in the ring. Beyond competition, Rodger played a key role as the fight choreographer and featured actor in the short film One Last ... Rodger Martin – Bad Ace Martial Arts – Ep210

My guest today is a true martial arts veteran with over 50 years of experience. A 7th-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, he spent two decades running two of the largest martial arts schools in the country, teaching over 800 students each week, while also co-managing 11 other schools in the San Jose and ... Tom Callos – Ultimate Black Belt Test – Ep209

John Borter has been training in martial arts for over 30 years, earning black belt ranks in five different systems, including a 6th-degree black belt. While his expertise spans multiple disciplines, he is best known for his dedication to reviving and preserving Irish stick fighting—the traditional martial art of Ireland. As the founder of the ... John Borter – Irish Stick Fighting – Ep208

Nelson Nathaniel Jr. brings over 36 years of experience in martial arts, holding four black belts. His journey has been one of resilience, overcoming homelessness to dedicate his life to martial arts. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of working alongside legends such as Chuck Norris, Shannon Lee, and former guest Carmichael Simon. ... Nelson Nathaniel Jr – Austin Karate Center – Ep207

With over 40 years in the martial arts, Dr. Steve Pearlman is a highly respected author, instructor, and thought leader in the martial arts community. He is the author of The Book of Martial Power: The Universal Guide to the Martial Arts, which has been translated into three languages and sold tens of thousands of ... Steve Pearlman – Bok of Martial Power – Ep206

Since 1968, David Humes has dedicated his life to martial arts, training under esteemed instructors like Tom Meyers in Erie, PA, and even working with the legendary Billy Blanks. At just 17 years old, he took a bold leap and opened his own martial arts school in 1974, beginning a lifelong journey of teaching and ... David Humes – Humes Martial Arts – Ep205

Art Camacho – Director, Producer, Actor, and Stuntman Today's guest is a powerhouse in the action film industry. Art Camacho is an accomplished film director, producer, actor, and stuntman with a career spanning decades. He began his journey producing and directing commercials before transitioning into the world of action cinema, where he made his mark ... Art Camacho – Living The Dream – Ep204

Today's guest is the incredible Shihan Michelle Gay, a 6th-degree black belt and six-time World Oyama Knockdown Champion. She has claimed numerous North American Open Tournament titles in both Kata and Kumite, solidifying her legacy as a martial arts legend. In 2001, Michelle won the Canadian Kyokushin Knockdown Division, and in 2002, she earned 2nd ... Shihan Michelle – Self Offense – Ep203

Today's guest is Matthew Lee, a certified 4th Degree Black Belt with over 15 years of martial arts experience. Matthew has an impressive martial arts career, highlighted by numerous accolades, including being a Junior Nationals Gold Medalist, a Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington Gold Medalist, as well as competing and coaching at the national level. He ... Matthew Lee – Lee's Black Belt Academy – Ep202

Ted Pryor is a true Renaissance man: a martial artist, actor, author, and businessman with an extraordinary story. During his martial arts career, Ted held the title of WKA Super Middleweight World Champion from 1982 to 1987. He competed extensively across Asia, Europe, and the United States, earning a reputation as a kickboxing phenomenon. As ... Ted Pryor – 3X World Champ – Ep201

Mark Dacascos: Actor, TV Personality, and Martial Artist Born in Hawaii, Mark Dacascos is a versatile performer known for his roles on both the big and small screens. Over the years, you've seen him in hit TV shows like The Crow: Stairway to Heaven, The Legend of Bruce Lee, Stargate Atlantis, Mortal Kombat: Legacy, Agents ... Mark Dacascos – Only The Strong – Ep200

Kendra Mahon is a highly accomplished martial artist and fitness professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry. She is a two gold stripe black belt in Kung Fu and an expert fitness trainer. Kendra is the founder of the Global Kung Fu Alliance and has earned prestigious accolades, including being named Canada's ... Kendra Mahon – Kung Fu Kendra – Ep199

Charles Johnson's journey in the sport of fencing began in 1984 at the age of 34. Over the past 40 years, he has worn many hats in the fencing world: competitor, instructor, organizer, and leader. During his competitive years, Charles participated in numerous local and national tournaments, establishing himself as a dedicated athlete. He also ... Charles Johnson – Fencing – Ep198

In this episode, I'm joined by the inspiring Cliff Kinchen, a Detroit native, martial artist, retired U.S. Air Force veteran, and holder of an MBA with a concentration in Strategic Leadership. Cliff's martial arts journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Between 1994 and 2003, he achieved championships across multiple disciplines, including Amateur Kickboxing, Judo, Boxing, ... Cliff Kinchen – Kiddie Kai – Ep197

Today's guest is Corey Green, a martial artist with an impressive 40 years of experience spanning nine martial arts styles. For the past 27 years, Corey has specialized in teaching Shito-Ryu Karate, bringing his passion and expertise to countless students. In 1998, Corey founded his internationally certified karate school, which has since become a beacon ... Corey Green – Green's Karate – Ep196

This week, we welcome an extraordinary martial artist and academic, Jamie Seabrook. Jamie has been training in Kenpo Karate since 1985 and holds the impressive rank of 9th-degree black belt. His martial arts journey doesn't stop there: Since 1995, Jamie has run his own martial arts school in London, Ontario. With classes seven days a ... Jamie Seabrook – American Kenpo – Ep195

Today's guest is none other than Doug Marcaida, a world-renowned expert in edged weapons. Doug is a US military contractor, martial arts instructor, and knife designer for FOX Knives Italy. His deep expertise has made him a trusted instructor for military, law enforcement, and security professionals, offering specialized training in weapon awareness and tactical use. ... Doug Marcaida – It will KEAL – Ep194

Today's guest, Duval Hamilton, is a 4th dan black belt in Kyokushinkai Karate and a highly respected martial artist known for his depth of skill and experience across multiple disciplines. Born and raised in New York City, Duval's passion for martial arts sparked early, starting with Kung Fu and Tae Kwon Do. Under the guidance ... Duval Hamilton – DALLAS KYOKUSHIN – Ep193

Today's guest, Rick Roufus, began his martial arts journey at just 5 years old. Rising quickly through the national point karate circuit, Rick made his professional debut as a kickboxer in his late teens. Early in his career, Rick competed under full-contact rules, where leg kicks, elbow strikes, and knee attacks weren't permitted. Despite these ... Rick Roufus – The Jet – Ep192

Today's guest, Jayne Storey, is a seasoned martial artist with over 30 years of experience. She is also an accomplished author and keynote speaker. Jayne has spent more than a decade dedicated to developing The Chi Performance Method, a unique system crafted for elite athletes and performers in sports and the arts. This method empowers ... Jayne Storey – Chi Performance – Ep191

Brett Chan's illustrious career has evolved into directing, where his expertise continues to shine. He has been entrusted with leading several high-profile projects, including 16 and Foxhunt. Renowned globally as one of the top stunt coordinators, fight choreographers, and 2nd unit directors, Brett's incredible creativity, strong work ethic, and 40 years of experience in martial ... Brett Chan – Warrior – Ep190

Join us as we sit down with Celeste Myers, also known as “Profesora Azul” in the Capoeira community. With over 20 years of experience, Celeste's journey began in gymnastics and sports before pursuing a B.A. in music. She went on to teach music and math in public and private schools for over a decade. Celeste ... Celeste “Azul” Myers – Only The Strongest – Ep189

Rob Ingram has been immersed in martial arts for over 27 years, achieving a 3rd-degree black belt in karate, a 3rd-degree black belt in Lissajous-Do, and a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As a fighter, Rob boasts an impressive record, going 6-0 as an amateur boxer and 4-2 as an amateur kickboxer. He spent two ... Rob Ingram – McDojoLife – Ep188

Today, we have a true martial arts legend on the show: Mr. Eric Lee. Born in China, Eric's martial arts journey began under the influence of his father, who also studied the art. Throughout his career, he has trained with some of the most respected martial artists in the world, including Master Wen Mei Yu, ... Eric Lee – King of Kata – Ep187

Mollii Khangsengsing is a lifelong athlete who knows firsthand how physical activity can transform lives. After migrating to the U.S. as a child, she quickly adapted to a new culture and language through her passion for sports and fitness. With 18 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training, Mollii made history as the first Laotian female ... Mollii Khangsengsing – Tuff Love Fitness – Ep186

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we are honored to welcome Eric Oram, a true authority in the martial arts world with over 45 years of experience. Eric is one of the leading experts in Wing Chun Kung Fu, with an impressive background that spans multiple martial arts styles including grappling, kickboxing, kali/escrima, Jeet ... Eric Oram – Modern Wing Chun – Ep185

Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a true multi-talented force in the martial arts and entertainment world. David Kurzhal is a lifelong martial artist, natural bodybuilder, actor, screenwriter, and a YouTube sensation. You may recognize him from films like The Last Kumite, Warrior Island, and Bloodstorm. He's also making waves in the ring, having recently signed ... David Kurzhal – Viking Samurai – Ep184

Today on the podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Tony Caro, a prolific writer and martial artist. Tony is the author of “Tragedy Man: A Horror Anthology” and has just released a brand new collection of short stories titled “Dreaded Invocations.” In addition to his impressive writing career, Tony is making plans to dive back into ... Tony Caro – Martial Arts, Pop Culture & more – Ep183

Today's guest, Fariborz Azhakh, was inspired by Bruce Lee at a young age and began his lifelong journey in martial arts. Originally from Iran, he moved to the United States at the age of 14 and has since dedicated over 45 years to studying martial arts. His training includes learning from esteemed figures such as ... Fariborz Azhakh – Team Karate – Ep182

Today's guest is Darryl Vidal, a martial artist with over 45 years of experience. Based in Murrieta, CA, Darryl has been teaching Karate for more than 30 years and is also the founder and head of the Murrieta Stick Fighting Club. In 2012, Darryl received the highest honor in martial arts, being promoted to the ... Darryl Vidal – Vidal Kenpo – Ep181

Meet Ron Shuali, the “Messiah of the Mind” and “Behavior Master.” Once a victim of bullying who later became a bully himself, Ron has transformed his experiences into a mission to empower families and organizations. Through his transformational trainings, Ron equips people with practical tools to effectively stop bullying. Ron's keynotes, workshops, and assemblies are ... Ron Shuali – Breaking The Bullying Circle – Ep180

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 ... Karen Eden Herdman – I Am a Martial Artist – Ep179

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 ... John Giordano – Nisei Gōjū-ryū – Ep178

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 ... Chuck Johnson – Quiet Flame – Ep177

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 ... Jeff Patterson – The Yielding Warrior – Ep176

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 ... John Will – Redcat Academy – Ep175