Thursday, April 9, 2026

Episode 1117 - Martial Things with Andrea Harkins


SUMMARY

In this episode, Andrea Harkins and Andrew Adams engage in a free-flowing conversation about martial arts, social media, and the importance of community engagement. They discuss the evolution of Andrea's social media presence, particularly on TikTok and Facebook, where she poses thought-provoking questions to the martial arts community. The conversation also delves into the role of competition in martial arts, the definition of greatness, and the importance of motivation and inspiration in the martial arts journey. In this conversation, they delve into the multifaceted world of martial arts, discussing personal experiences, the significance of history, and the evolving nature of training. They also explore the importance of individual journeys in martial arts, the relevance of the belt system, and the value of personal growth over competition. The dialogue emphasizes that martial arts can serve various purposes beyond fighting, including self-awareness and confidence building.

 

TAKEAWAYS

  • Social media can be a powerful tool for community engagement.
  • Posing questions can spark meaningful conversations in martial arts.
  • Competition is not a requirement for being a great martial artist.
  • Greatness in martial arts is subjective and personal.
  • Motivation and inspiration are key to encouraging others in martial arts.
  • Engaging with different opinions can broaden perspectives.
  • Martial arts can be pursued for various personal reasons.
  • Martial arts can be a personal journey rather than just a fighting art.
  • Understanding the history of martial arts can enhance appreciation but isn't essential for practice.
  • Competition can provide valuable pressure testing for skills learned.
  • The belt system in martial arts is often misunderstood and varies by school.
  • Martial arts training can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
  • The reasons for training in martial arts can change over time.

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Monday, April 6, 2026

Episode 1116 - Taqqee Khabir


SUMMARY

In this conversation, Taqqee Khabir shares his journey into martial arts, influenced by his father's background and his own experiences with competition and injury. He discusses the importance of personal growth, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned through various martial arts disciplines. The conversation highlights the significance of mindset and adaptability in overcoming obstacles and pursuing one's passion for martial arts. He shares his transformative journey from chronic pain to healing through martial arts and yoga. He discusses the influence of his parents on his approach to natural healing and the importance of movement for health and longevity. Taqqee emphasizes the significance of teaching and sharing knowledge with others, highlighting the ripple effect of positive influence in the community. His story illustrates the power of resilience, personal growth, and the impact of martial arts on mental and physical well-being.

 

TAKEAWAYS

  • Taqqee's early exposure to martial arts came from watching kung fu movies with his father.
  • His father emphasized education over fighting, leading Taqqee to explore martial arts on his own.
  • Taqqee faced bullying in school, prompting his father to teach him self-defense techniques.
  • His first formal training was in Taekwondo and Hapkido, where he learned foundational skills.
  • A pivotal moment in Taqqee's journey was a cage fight that highlighted gaps in his training.
  • He adopted a growth mindset after realizing the need to learn grappling arts like judo and jiujitsu.
  • Taqqee's experiences in competition taught him the importance of strategy and adaptability.
  • Injury from training led to significant health challenges, prompting a reevaluation of his approach to martial arts.
  • Taqqee's resilience and determination to continue practicing martial arts define his journey.
  • He emphasizes the importance of seeking alternative solutions to health issues rather than rushing into surgery.
  • He found inspiration in martial arts and natural healing practices.
  • The importance of understanding pain as a messenger was emphasized.
  • Taqqee avoided opioids and focused on natural healing methods.
  • He discovered yoga and chiropractic care as effective treatments.
  • He experienced a shift from personal recovery to community impact.
  • He encourages others to let their passion shine and help others.

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Thursday, April 2, 2026

Episode 1115 - Quitting Your Martial Arts School: The Aftermath


SUMMARY

This episode is a follow up to episode 1107 (Leaving Your School: Why, When & How). Hosts Jeremy Lesniak and Andrew Adams delve into the aftermath of leaving a martial arts school. They explore the emotional struggle of such a decision, the impact on relationships with instructors and peers, and the importance of communication during the departure process. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's reasons for leaving and navigating the social dynamics that follow. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the broader implications of leaving a martial arts community.

 

TAKEAWAYS

·         Leaving a martial arts school can be an emotional experience.

·         The aftermath of leaving involves more than just the instructor.

·         Personal experiences shape how one navigates relationships after leaving.

·         Communicating reasons for leaving should be handled with care.

·         It's important to maintain integrity when discussing past experiences.

·         Friendships may change or end after leaving a school.

·         The reasons for leaving can affect how others perceive the situation.

·         Not all departures are on good terms; some may involve conflict.

·         It's crucial to respect others' training experiences and choices.

·         Freedom in martial arts includes the right to choose where and how to train.

 

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Monday, March 30, 2026

Episode 1114 - Dr. Conrad Bui


SUMMARY

In this conversation, Dr. Conrad Bui shares his extensive journey in martial arts, emphasizing the importance of humility, kindness, and continuous learning. He discusses how martial arts create a sense of family and connection, reflecting on his cultural identity and the influence of icons like Bruce Lee. Dr. Bui details his training in various martial arts, including Tae Kwon Do, Jeet Kune Do, Silat, BJJ and Muay Thai, highlighting the significance of longevity in training and the health benefits it brings. His story illustrates the deep connections formed within the martial arts community and the personal growth that comes from embracing this lifestyle. In this conversation, he shares his extensive journey through various martial arts, highlighting the importance of community empowerment and self-defense. He discusses the PRO method of defense, which emphasizes protecting oneself first, and reflects on the philosophy of martial arts as a means of personal growth and connection with others. The conversation concludes with key principles for living a fulfilling life: staying alert, humble, and kind.

 

TAKEAWAYS

  • Martial arts create a sense of family and connection.

  • Continuous learning is essential in martial arts.

  • Cultural identity can be explored through martial arts.

  • Taekwondo is a great introduction to martial arts.

  • Jeet Kune Do emphasizes adaptability and fluidity.

  • Silat offers a unique perspective on martial arts.

  • Family dynamics play a crucial role in martial arts training.

  • Longevity in training leads to better health and recovery.

  • Competing in martial arts can lead to unexpected victories.

  • Training in martial arts fosters community and empowerment.

  • Real-world attack analysis can improve self-defense techniques.

  • The PRO method emphasizes protection, repositioning, and offense.

  • Martial arts training can enhance mental and physical health.

  • Philosophical insights from martial arts can apply to various life aspects.

  • Staying alert, humble, and kind creates a solid foundation for life.

 

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Thursday, March 26, 2026

Episode 1113 - Memories of Dojunim Ji Han Jae: Sin Moo Hapkido Founder


SUMMARY

In this episode, host Jeremy Lesniak chats with Larry Dorsey and Geoff Booth as they reflect on the life and legacy of Ji Han Jae, a legendary figure in the world of Hapkido. They share personal anecdotes and experiences that highlight Ji Han Jae's impact on their lives and the martial arts community. This conversation delves into the life and teachings of a legendary martial arts master, exploring his unique approach to training, his fearless personality, and the profound impact he had on his students. The speakers share personal anecdotes that highlight the master’s wisdom, humor, and the deep respect he commanded. The discussion also touches on the philosophy behind his training methods, the rules he set for his students, and the legacy he left behind as a pioneer in martial arts. The speakers share personal anecdotes, lessons learned, and the values instilled by their mentor, emphasizing the importance of kindness, respect, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge in martial arts. They discuss the challenges of preserving his legacy and the responsibility of the next generation to carry forward his teachings.

 

TAKEAWAYS

  • Respect for instructors is crucial in martial arts training.
  • The martial arts community is built on shared experiences and stories.
  • Capturing the stories of martial artists is essential for preserving history.
  • It's their personality that makes instructors beloved.
  • He was the last of the living founders of any traditional martial art.
  • He never kept a dime; he was always looking after other people.
  • He would crack jokes while breaking you into little pieces.
  • He expected perfection from his students.
  • His training rules were unique and deeply philosophical.
  • He lived a simple life, focused on teaching and passing on knowledge.
  • Meditation was a crucial practice for him for self-discipline.
  • The mentor's spirit and teachings live on through his students.
  • Training six days a week was a fundamental rule.
  • Sharing knowledge freely is essential for growth.
  • The mentor's influence extended globally, spreading Hapkido.
  • The next generation must honor and protect the legacy.

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Monday, March 23, 2026

Episode 1112 - Brittany Searles


SUMMARY

In this conversation, Brittany Searles shares her unique upbringing in the martial arts world, influenced by her parents, both Grandmasters. She discusses the responsibility of martial arts instructors, the environment of training, and how her childhood experiences shaped her resilience and mindset. Brittany reflects on the balance between martial arts and other life experiences, including her teenage years and the impact of family dynamics on her journey. The conversation highlights the importance of confidence, support, and the warrior spirit in both martial arts and life. She delves into the themes of independent thinking, the concept of martial science, and the responsibilities of martial arts instructors. She also explores how personal experiences shape one's approach to martial arts and the importance of teaching with intention and clarity. The discussion also touches on the significance of personal growth and the impact of martial arts on life beyond the dojo, including the launch of new projects and ventures.

 

TAKEAWAYS

  • Instructors have a responsibility to ensure students are mentally stable.

  • Growing up in a dojo creates a unique environment for resilience.

  • The influence of family is crucial in martial arts training.

  • Balance in life is essential for martial artists.

  • Teenage years can challenge commitment to martial arts.

  • Experiences outside of martial arts enrich personal growth.

  • Confidence is built through supportive parenting.

  • Martial arts training can shape one's mindset and character.

  • Life experiences can lead to a return to martial arts.

  • The science of motion is translatable across all movement.

  • You can't know how to go until you know where you're going.

  • It's our responsibility as instructors to guide our students.

  • Martial arts gives you the opportunity to grow and become a better human being.

  • Teaching should focus on the outcome for the student.

 

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Thursday, March 19, 2026

Episode 1111 - Martial Arts Word Association: Road Trip Edition


Another episode of “Martial Arts Word Association” where Andrew gives Jeremy a random word that he could connect to martial arts. All of today’s words are road trip related!

 

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