Episode 1001 - Hosting Guest Instructors

SUMMARY

In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, Andrew, Abbey, and Craig discuss the intricacies of hosting guest instructors in martial arts schools. They explore the importance of connection within the martial arts community, strategies for creating seminar schedules, and the selection process for instructors. The conversation also delves into student engagement, financial considerations, and how to compensate guest instructors fairly. The episode emphasizes the value of collaboration and community in enhancing the martial arts experience for both students and instructors.

TAKEAWAYS

• Hosting guest instructors can foster community and connection.

• Creating a seminar schedule requires thoughtful planning and consideration.

• Instructor selection is based on personal connections and trust.

• Student engagement is crucial for the success of seminars.

• Financial considerations play a significant role in hosting events.

• Compensation for guest instructors can vary based on agreements.

• Profit sharing can incentivize instructors to promote their seminars.

• Offering a variety of seminars can cater to diverse student interests.

• Building relationships with guest instructors can lead to lasting friendships.

• The martial arts community thrives on collaboration and shared experiences.

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Episode 1000 - Recorded LIVE!

Join Jeremy and Andrew as they discuss some important milestones for the podcast and bring on a TON of guests. Also included are audio submissions from around the world and a touching In Memoriam for those that have passed.

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Episode 999 - 2025 State of the Martial Arts

In this episode, we’re bringing you Jeremy’s 2025 State of the Martial Arts and what we could do to move forward.

Martial Arts, just like any other sport, is not perfect. That’s the very reason why we need to recognize and accept that as a fact so we can improve it for generations of Martial Artists to come. In this episode, Jeremy talks about where he thinks Martial Arts world is and what we could do to move forward. Listen to learn more!

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Episode 998 - Mr. Chris Rickard

SUMMARY

In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, host Andrew Adams interviews Chris Rickard, who shares his journey into martial arts, his experiences with different schools, and his involvement with Whistlekick. The conversation covers reflections on the impact of martial arts in Chris's life. In this conversation, Chris Rickard shares his journey through martial arts, discussing the challenges he faced, the importance of teaching, and how his experiences have shaped him both as a martial artist and a teacher. He reflects on the role of curriculum in martial arts training, the transition to teaching, and the impact of family on his martial arts journey. Chris also emphasizes the significance of community engagement through tournaments and the motivation that keeps him training. He concludes with thoughts on future aspirations and encourages others to find their path in martial arts.

TAKEAWAYS

• The importance of finding the right fit in martial arts schools.

• Chris's journey into martial arts began in the mid-90s.

• He started listening to podcasts to connect with his interests.

• Chris's daughter inspired him to explore martial arts again.

• The significance of community in martial arts training.

• Chris's experiences in different martial arts styles shaped his journey.

• He emphasizes the value of personal growth through martial arts.

• College presented new challenges for Chris's training.

• Finding a new dojo felt like coming home for Chris.

• Teaching martial arts requires a different skill set than practicing it.

• Having a clear curriculum can enhance the learning experience for students.

• Patience and self-awareness are crucial in both teaching and martial arts.

• Community engagement through tournaments can foster a sense of belonging.

• Motivation to train often comes from personal growth and helping others.

• Transitioning to teaching martial arts can be a rewarding experience.

• Family involvement in martial arts can create lasting bonds.

• Exploring different styles can lead to finding the right fit for individuals.

• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to long-term success in martial arts.

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Episode 997 - Teaching "Non" Martial Arts Skills

SUMMARY

In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, Andrew, Craig, and Victor discuss the importance of teaching non-martial arts activities in martial arts schools. They explore how creative events, games, and community-building activities can enhance the martial arts experience for students, helping them develop essential life skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. The conversation highlights the value of integrating fun and engaging activities into martial arts training, emphasizing that these experiences contribute to a well-rounded education beyond just physical techniques. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of teaching social self-defense skills alongside traditional martial arts training. They explore how performance anxiety can affect both children and adults, and how creating a supportive environment can help students build confidence. The conversation also touches on engaging non-traditional students through themed events and the benefits of using technology to streamline student sign-ups. Finally, they emphasize the importance of empowering others within the martial arts community to share their passions and skills.

TAKEAWAYS

• Teaching non-martial arts activities can enhance martial arts training.
• Creative events can build community and engagement among students.
• Life skills such as balance and coordination are essential for all ages.
• Fun activities help students develop confidence and social skills.
• Martial arts schools can offer more than just traditional training.
• Community events can connect students with shared interests.
• Games can teach valuable lessons about resilience and teamwork.
• Performance activities can help students overcome fear of public speaking.
• Engaging students in fun ways can foster a love for martial arts.
• Students may face physical altercations, but everyday stressors are more common.
• Learning social self-defense is crucial for students' overall development.
• Performance anxiety is a significant challenge for both children and adults.
• Creating a supportive environment helps students build confidence.
• Themed events can attract new students and foster community building.
• Streamlining the sign-up process can enhance student engagement.
• Empowering others in the school can lead to a more vibrant community.
• It's never too late to start martial arts training.

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Episode 996 - Mr. Noah Dever

SUMMARY

In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, Andrew interviews Noah Dever, who shares his journey into martial arts, influenced by his family and personal experiences. Noah discusses his early start in martial arts, the impact of his family's involvement, and his transition from student to teacher. He reflects on the challenges and joys of teaching physical education, drawing from his own experiences as a student. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, emotional growth, and the unique dynamics of training within a family. In this conversation, Noah Dever discusses the integration of martial arts and education, emphasizing the importance of teaching life skills and creating inclusive programs for students of all abilities. He reflects on his experiences as a PE teacher and martial arts instructor, highlighting the impact of mentorship on his teaching philosophy. Noah shares his aspirations for the future, including the desire to own a dojo and pursue a PhD in education, while advocating for the accessibility of martial arts for everyone.

TAKEAWAYS

• His father’s positive experience in martial arts encouraged Noah's training.

• Noah's family, including siblings, all became involved in martial arts.

• Training with siblings can be both fun and challenging.

• Noah's mother, a physical therapist, provided valuable insights for teaching.

• He transitioned from being a student to a teacher at a young age.

• Noah emphasizes the importance of understanding students' emotions.

• Teaching physical education allows Noah to connect with students on a personal level.

• Noah's journey reflects the significance of mentorship in martial arts.

• Teaching martial arts is about imparting life skills.

• Discipline is about doing what needs to be done, even when you don't want to.

• Creating routines helps students feel safe and comfortable.

• Adaptive programs are essential for inclusivity in martial arts.

• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping teaching styles.

• Games in PE and martial arts help navigate social interactions.

• It's important to hold firm boundaries while being empathetic.

• Teaching is about providing a community for students.

• Everyone deserves the opportunity to earn a black belt.

• Future goals include owning a dojo and educating future teachers.

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Episode 995 - Martial Arts Organizations: The Ins & Outs

SUMMARY

In this episode, Andrew is joined by Jenni Nather and Craig Wharem and they discuss the various aspects of martial arts organizations, including their benefits and drawbacks. They explore the importance of community, the legitimacy that associations can provide, and the cultural impact of being part of a group. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with associations and the value of mutual respect among instructors.

TAKEAWAYS

• The camaraderie among school owners can enhance the testing experience.

• Associations may provide legitimacy to martial arts training.

• It's important for students to see their instructors learning from others.

• Joining an association should serve the needs of the school.

• The culture of a school is influenced by its associations.

• Not all associations require payment or strict adherence to rules.

• Rigid structures in associations can hinder personal growth.

• Community events can enhance the martial arts experience.

• Success in martial arts does not solely depend on being part of an association.

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Episode 994 - Mr. Kim Hoang

SUMMARY In this engaging conversation, Jeremy and Kim Hoang explore the intersections of podcasting, martial arts, and personal growth. Kim shares his journey from being bullied as a child to finding confidence through martial arts and acting. They discuss the importance of cultural representation in media, the impact of 'The Karate Kid' on his life, and the evolving landscape of opportunities for diverse actors in Hollywood. The conversation highlights the significance of following one's passion and the collaborative spirit within the podcasting community. In this conversation, Kim Hoang shares his journey through martial arts, the impact of his mother's encouragement, and his transition into acting. He discusses the importance of martial arts in his life, the challenges of being typecast as a martial arts actor, and his desire to be recognized as a versatile actor. Additionally, he reflects on the creative outlet that podcasting provides and the responsibility that comes with it. The conversation highlights the intersection of martial arts, acting, and personal growth. TAKEAWAYS • The beauty of podcasting and martial arts lie in collaboration, not competition. • Confidence gained from martial arts can translate to other areas of life. • Cultural representation in media is crucial for future generations. • 'The Karate Kid' served as a pivotal inspiration for many martial artists. • Overcoming bullying through martial arts can lead to personal empowerment. • Diversity in film is improving, but there's still work to be done. • The journey of a podcaster is intertwined with personal growth and self-discovery. • Community support can significantly impact one's journey in the arts. • Acting is a powerful form of expression that can resonate with audiences. • He wants to be known as an actor that does martial arts. • Forms can save your life one day. • Podcasting started as a creative outlet during the pandemic. • He values the power and responsibility of being a podcaster. • Kim's journey reflects resilience and personal growth. • He emphasizes the importance of community in martial arts. • Creative expression is vital in both martial arts and acting.

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