Episode 1099 - 2026 State of the Martial Arts
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
In this episode, we’re bringing you Jeremy’s 2026 State of the Martial Arts Address and what we could do to move forward. Join our EXCLUSIVE newsletter to get notified of each episode as it comes out!
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Episode 1098 - Larry Tatum
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this conversation, Larry Tatum shares his extensive journey in martial arts, spanning over 60 years. He discusses how he began his training at a young age, the impact of Ed Parker's Kenpo school on his life, and the importance of respect and discipline in martial arts. Tatum emphasizes the role of martial arts in personal growth, teaching, and embracing reality, while also highlighting the significance of communication in teaching martial arts effectively. In this conversation, Jeremy Lesniak and Larry Tatum delve into the intricacies of teaching martial arts, exploring the cultural...
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Episode 1097 - Are All Martial Artists Outcasts
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this episode, Andrew Adams and Jeremy Lesniak explore the perception of martial artists as societal outcasts. They discuss the unique aspects of martial arts training that can be seen as strange by outsiders, the sense of community and belonging that practitioners find within their training, and the evolving perception of martial arts in society. The conversation emphasizes the importance of individuality and self-expression in martial arts, and how being an outcast can be empowering rather than negative. TAKEAWAYS Martial arts can be perceived as strange by outsiders. Many...
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Episode 1096 - Sabrina Bliem "The Karate Shrimp"
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this episode, Sabrina Bliem, aka The Karate Shrimp, shares her transformative journey into martial arts, starting at age 41, and how it became a vital outlet during challenging times. She discusses her transition into the online martial arts community, the challenges she faced, including dealing with a stalker, and how these experiences shaped her relationship with martial arts. Sabrina emphasizes the importance of creating a conducive training environment at home and shares her insights on maintaining consistency in practice, even amidst life's challenges. In this conversation, she...
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Episode 1095 - Martial Arts from a Trauma Informed Space: Part 2
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this Part 2 conversation, Andrew Adams and Paul Coffey discuss martial arts from a trauma-informed perspective, emphasizing the importance of understanding the physical and psychological aspects of self-defense. They explore various techniques that can be used to de-escalate situations without resorting to violence, highlighting the distinction between ceremonial and non-ceremonial violence. The discussion also covers the need for martial arts instructors to adapt their teaching methods to accommodate students with trauma backgrounds, ensuring a safe and supportive learning...
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Episode 1094 - Coach Ken Dunbar
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this engaging conversation, Coach Ken Dunbar and Jeremy Lesniak explore the intersection of traditional martial arts and modern combat sports, discussing the influence of pop culture, personal journeys in martial arts, teaching philosophies, and the importance of adaptability in training. They delve into the challenges of authority in martial arts instruction and the evolution of training methods, emphasizing the need for a balance between tradition and innovation. In this conversation, Coach Dunbar shares his journey through martial arts, discussing the evolution of training...
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Episode 1093 - Martial Arts from a Trauma Informed Space: Part 1
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this episode, Andrew is joined by Paul Coffey and they discuss the importance of teaching martial arts from a trauma-informed perspective. They explore the nuances of class planning, the distinction between soft and hard skills, and how to effectively navigate violence and nonviolence in martial arts education. The conversation emphasizes the need for sensitivity and understanding when working with students who may have experienced trauma, and the importance of effective communication in creating a safe learning environment. In this conversation, Paul Coffey discusses the...
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Episode 1092 - Tyler Duda
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
In this conversation, Tyler Duda shares his journey in martial arts, discussing the transition from running a commercial studio to a more laid-back club environment. He reflects on the challenges of navigating relationships with students and instructors, the importance of teaching and learning, and the personal growth he experienced through martial arts. Tyler emphasizes the significance of doing things the right way and maintaining respect in the martial arts community. He emphasizes the importance of teaching, personal growth, and building a positive school culture. He discusses the...
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Episode 1091 - Martial Things with Sensei Ando
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this engaging conversation, Andrew Adams and Sensei Ando explore the multifaceted world of martial arts, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, the challenges faced by students, and the role of instructors in guiding their students. They discuss the significance of tailoring techniques to individual needs, the misconceptions surrounding the best martial arts, and the impact of music in training environments. The dialogue culminates in a reflection on the responsibilities of teachers to provide meaningful experiences that prepare students for real-life situations. ...
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Episode 1090 - Dan Bernardo
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
SUMMARY In this conversation, Dan Bernardo shares his experiences as a martial arts instructor, discussing the challenges and rewards of teaching Tai Chi to elderly students, the balance of multiple teaching roles, and the evolution of virtual training in martial arts. He reflects on the integration of diverse practices, such as calligraphy and archery, into his martial arts philosophy, emphasizing the importance of depth over breadth in training and the personal growth that comes from teaching. He also discusses the personal journey of becoming a martial artist, the significance of personal...
info_outlineToday we get some time with Mr. Donavan Barrett, a WTF taekwondo practitioner from the gulf coast of Florida. Mr. Barrett is an exceptional kicker with amazing flexibility and a great passion for the martial arts. We first met him on social media and after a lot of conversation, we selected him as one of our Brand Ambassadors. While we do what we can to help our partners, we're not talking to Mr. Barrett (or Mr. Donavan as he's called in his dojang) because of our relationship with him. Rather, we think he's an exceptional martial artist with great stories and a passion for sharing his passion. It doesn't take long in the episode for you to understand just how much this young man loves what he does.
Mr. Donavan talks extensively about the inspiration he takes from martial arts idols and pioneers such as Chloe Bruce, Ronda Rousey and Bill Wallace. As with most of our guests, he opens up about who he is and the impact martial arts has had on his life. His strength of character is certainly admirable and his self-confidence and willingness to share openly is worth noting. This is likely to be an episode that inspires others for some time.
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For full show notes please visit http://www.whistlekickmartialartsradio.com/051-donavan-barrett/