Episode 1099 - 2026 State of the Martial Arts

In this episode, we’re bringing you Jeremy’s 2026 State of the Martial Arts Address and what we could do to move forward.

 

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Episode 1098 - Larry Tatum

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 significance of techniques, the ethical responsibilities of instructors, and the personal growth that comes from teaching. Tatum shares insights from his extensive experience, emphasizing the importance of understanding the emotional and ethical dimensions of martial arts. He also discusses his journey as a writer, highlighting the therapeutic aspects of reliving experiences through storytelling. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the spiritual dimensions of teaching and the profound impact it can have on both instructors and students.

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Larry Tatum has over 60 years of martial arts experience.

• His journey began with judo and transitioned to Kenpo at age 15.

• Martial arts provided him with discipline and improved his academic performance.

• The culture at Ed Parker's school emphasized respect and acknowledgment.

• Training involved sparring with older, more experienced practitioners.

• Martial arts teaches students to embrace reality and break down emotional walls.

• Teaching should focus on communication and understanding beyond physical techniques.

• Larry emphasizes the importance of parables in teaching martial arts.

• He believes that martial arts can help individuals find their place in society.

• Cultural significance in techniques teaches ethical behavior.

• The more you teach, the more you learn.

• Martial arts instruction requires ethical responsibility.

• Teaching is not just about physical skills; it's about emotional understanding.

• Promoting students too quickly can hinder their journey.

• Writing about teaching is a therapeutic process.

 

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Episode 1097 - Are All Martial Artists Outcasts

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 martial artists embrace their identity despite societal norms.
• The commitment to martial arts often leads to a sense of community among practitioners.
• Injuries and physicality in martial arts can create a unique bond among practitioners.
• The perception of martial arts has evolved over time, becoming more mainstream.
• Soft skills are increasingly valued in martial arts training.
• Martial artists often feel a sense of belonging within their training community.
• The concept of being an outcast can be empowering for martial artists.
• Martial arts training can provide a sense of identity and purpose.
• Criticism from others often stems from their own insecurities.

 

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Episode 1096 - Sabrina Bliem "The Karate Shrimp"

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 emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated training space, the value of consistency, and overcoming the stigma associated with solo training. She discusses how personal experiences and challenges have shaped her approach to training and teaching, highlighting the significance of sharing stories and building an online community. Sabrina also reflects on rediscovering her passion for martial arts and the impact of being authentic and vulnerable in her content creation.

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Sabrina started karate at age 41 as a coping mechanism.
• She found a supportive community in martial arts.
• The online space can be liberating when starting out.
• Facing fears is a recurring theme in her journey.
• Dealing with online negativity is part of making an impact.
• Training at home requires creating a conducive environment.
• Consistency can be achieved through small, manageable steps.
• Five minutes of training is better than none.
• It's important to prioritize mental health and well-being.
• Solo training can be just as valuable as in-person training.
• Overcoming stigma around online and solo training is essential for personal growth.
• Rediscovering passion for martial arts can come from being authentic and vulnerable.
• You are stronger than you think, and resilience from martial arts translates to life.

To connect with Sabrina Bliem:
https://youtube.com/@thekarateshrimp
https://www.instagram.com/thekarateshrimp
https://www.facebook.com/thekarateshrimp
https://www.thekarateshrimp.com/

 

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Episode 1095 - Martial Arts from a Trauma Informed Space: Part 2

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 environment. They delve into the complexities of violence, self-defense, and the importance of realistic training in martial arts. They discuss the different types of violence, the necessity of teaching practical self-defense techniques, and the significance of training in everyday clothing to prepare students for real-life scenarios. The conversation emphasizes the need for martial arts instructors to create a safe learning environment while also encouraging problem-solving skills in their students.

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Martial arts can be approached from a trauma-informed perspective.
• Physical techniques can be adapted for students with trauma.
• Non-ceremonial violence requires more responsibility from martial artists.
• Ceremonial violence in the dojo differs from real-world situations.
• Space and separation are crucial in self-defense scenarios.
• Understanding the difference between strikes and pushes is important.
• Instructors should present material that meets students' needs.
• Crisis intervention techniques can be effective in self-defense.
• Teaching should focus on de-escalation and control rather than aggression.
• Training in street clothes can be very different and should be practiced.

 

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Episode 1094 - Coach Ken Dunbar

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 methods, the importance of community, and the balance between traditional and modern martial arts. He emphasizes the need for respect and discipline in training environments and reflects on the cultural aspects of MMA and traditional martial arts. He also highlights the significance of adapting techniques and fostering a supportive atmosphere for students.

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Personal experiences shape one's martial arts journey.
• The need for flexibility in teaching methods.
• Authority in martial arts can hinder personal growth.
• Creating a supportive learning environment is crucial.
• Self-study can be a valuable part of martial arts training.
• The significance of mentorship in martial arts.
• Understanding the difference between tradition and combat effectiveness.
• The evolution of teaching styles over time.
• The impact of pop culture on martial arts participation.
• Family discussions about world events shaped Ken's perspective.
• Ken emphasizes the importance of pressure testing in martial arts.
• He believes traditional martial arts can learn from modern combat sports.
• Ken's journey includes starting a fight team in his parents' yard.
• Ken's community grew during the COVID-19 pandemic despite restrictions.
• He advocates for the evolution of martial arts techniques over rigid traditions.
• Teaching respect and discipline is crucial in martial arts.
• MMA training often lacks the culture of respect found in traditional martial arts.
• Building a supportive community enhances the training experience.
• Discipline in martial arts goes beyond traditional practices.
• Finding the right school can change your life.
• Progress comes from addressing weaknesses in training.
• A supportive environment fosters resilience and accountability.

 

To connect with Coach Dunbar:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/GlacierCombatArts
Website: Martial Arts Home - Glacier Combat Arts
Youtube: (252) Glacier Combat Arts - YouTube
IG: https://www.instagram.com/glaciercombat

 

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Episode 1093 - Martial Arts from a Trauma Informed Space: Part 1

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 importance of crisis intervention and soft skills in martial arts, particularly for vulnerable populations. He emphasizes the need for instructors to build trust with their students, create a safe training environment, and understand the significance of intention in martial arts practice. The discussion also highlights the necessity of teaching nonviolent techniques for self-defense and the critical role of listening to students to address their unique needs and traumas.

 

TAKEAWAYS

 

·         Teaching from a trauma-informed perspective is essential.

·         Nonviolent individuals can learn to navigate violent situations.

·         Soft skills in martial arts are crucial for effective teaching.

·         Class planning should consider the audience's background.

·         The distinction between soft and hard skills is important.

·         Trauma can affect how individuals respond to violence.

·         Effective communication is key in trauma-informed teaching.

·         Crisis intervention is essential before physical conflict occurs.

·         Soft skills can help mitigate damage while protecting oneself.

·         Building trust with students is crucial for effective teaching.

·         Instructors must listen to both verbal and non-verbal cues from students.

·         Creating a safe training environment is vital for trauma-informed practices.

·         Intention in martial arts training can change the perception of techniques.

·         Every trauma is valid; do not compare traumas.

·         Teaching nonviolent techniques can empower students who have experienced trauma.

·         Instructors should express boundaries clearly to foster a safe space.

·         Listening to students can reveal their unspoken needs and concerns.

 

 

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