Episode 1062 - Master Jenny Pless

SUMMARY

In this engaging conversation, Jeremy Lesniak interviews Master Jenny Pless, a seasoned martial artist and instructor, who shares her journey from starting martial arts in Malaysia to teaching in the United States. Master Pless discusses her philosophy on teaching, the importance of discipline, and the challenges of working with children and seniors.

 She emphasizes the life lessons learned through martial arts, the significance of competition, and her commitment to community service, particularly in supporting veterans. The conversation highlights the transformative power of martial arts in personal development and community building.

TAKEAWAYS

• Martial arts is more than just physical training; it's a way of life.

• Teaching children requires a balance of discipline and fun.

• The journey of martial arts is ongoing, even after achieving black belt status.

• Community service is an integral part of being a martial artist.

• Competition in martial arts helps build character and resilience.

• Martial arts can be adapted for all ages, including seniors.

• Encouragement and support are crucial for children's development in martial arts.

• Discipline in martial arts translates to discipline in life.

• Martial arts training fosters self-confidence and personal growth.

• The impact of martial arts extends beyond the dojo into the community.

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Episode 1061 - 2025 Uechi Con-versations Part 1

EDITORS NOTE: There was an issue with the audio. We cleaned it up as best we could and felt that, even though it’s not the best audio, the content and message given during their interviews warranted being released, even if with not so stellar audio. We thank you for understanding.

 

SUMMARY

This part 1 conversation was recorded at the 2025 Uechi-Con, in Manchester NH and was with students that tested for their Master level ranks within their organization. They explore the profound impact of martial arts training on individuals' lives, emphasizing the sense of community, personal growth, and the importance of maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning.

 

The participants share their experiences of how martial arts has provided them with a constant in their lives, helped them navigate challenges, and fostered a supportive environment for improvement and camaraderie. The discussion also touches on the themes of addiction, intent, and the generational transfer of knowledge within the martial arts community.

 

Guests include: Michael Demers (Kudan), Neil Stone (Kudan), Freddy Cicerchia (Kudan), Robert Beal Jr. (Kudan), Jen Patashnick (Hachidan), Matthew Saindon (Hachidan), and John Mahaney (Hachidan).

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Life is unpredictable, and martial arts provides a constant.

• The dojo atmosphere fosters community and personal growth.

• Training helps clear the mind and relieve stress.

• Martial arts can be seen as a healthy addiction.

• The skills learned in the dojo translate to everyday life.

• Intent in training impacts behavior outside the dojo.

• Prioritizing training is essential amidst life's challenges.

• Learning is a lifelong journey, both in and out of martial arts.

• Mistakes are part of the learning process.

• Generational knowledge transfer enriches the martial arts community.

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Episode 1060 - Sensei Derek Wayne Johnson

SUMMARY

In this engaging conversation, Jeremy Lesniak is joined by Sensei Derek Wayne Johnson who explores the rich landscape of martial arts, touching on the cultural significance of Texas as a martial arts hub, the evolution of training styles, and the profound impact of instructors on students' lives.

They delve into the philosophy of martial arts as a language, the connection between martial arts and film, and the legacy of iconic figures like Mr. Miyagi. The discussion also highlights the importance of community and the future of martial arts in a modern context, emphasizing the need for practical application alongside theoretical knowledge.

TAKEAWAYS

• Texas is a significant hub for martial arts.

• Martial arts can be viewed as a language with accents.

• Training in different styles enriches martial arts experience.

• The role of a sensei is crucial in a student's journey.

• Martial arts can profoundly impact personal development.

• The connection between martial arts and film is deep and meaningful.

• Instructors often embody the spirit of martial arts.

• The evolution of martial arts reflects changes in society.

• Community support is vital for martial arts schools.

• Practical application of techniques is essential for mastery.

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Episode 1059 - Past Guest Panel Discussion

In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, host Jeremy Lesniak welcomes back three past guests, Shihan Grant Campbell (#124), Shihan Christine Bannon-Rodrigues (#26) and Master Chris Rappold (#950), to discuss the evolution of martial arts, the impact of technology on training, and the importance of relationships in coaching.

The conversation explores how communication and collaboration have changed within the martial arts community, the role of technology in enhancing training, and the significance of fostering trust and overcoming self-doubt among athletes. The guests share their insights on the current state of martial arts and how it has transformed over the years, emphasizing the need for adaptability and support in the journey of martial artists.

TAKEAWAYS

• The level of competition in martial arts has significantly increased due to technology.

• Communication among martial artists has improved, fostering collaboration.

• Technology has changed the way martial artists train and learn.

• Building relationships with students is crucial for effective coaching.

• Self-doubt is a common experience among athletes, regardless of their level.

• Surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can enhance performance.

• The importance of trust between coaches and athletes cannot be overstated.

• Online training has become a valuable tool for martial artists.

• Maintaining original intentions can help overcome challenges in training.

• The evolution of martial arts requires adaptability and openness to new methods.

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Episode 1058 - Sensei Christian Wedewardt

SUMMARY

In this conversation, Sensei Christian Wedewardt discusses with Jeremy the evolution of karate, focusing on his journey from competition to practical karate. They explore the influence of mentorship, the importance of kihon, and the role of motivation in martial arts.

 

Sensei Wedewardt shares his teaching philosophy, the impact of seminars, and the significance of tradition in karate. The conversation also touches on the importance of teaching children and building character through martial arts, concluding with a call to make karate attractive for future generations.

TAKEAWAYS

• Sensei Wedewardt emphasizes the importance of mentorship in martial arts.

• Kihon should be viewed as a tool for practical application.

• The transition from competition to practical karate can be transformative.

• Motivation and success are key components in teaching martial arts.

• Teaching philosophy should focus on principles rather than imitation.

• Seminars can create light bulb moments for participants.

• Practical karate aims to make techniques applicable in real-life situations.

• Children's karate should focus on personal growth and teamwork.

• Tradition in karate should evolve to remain relevant.

• Karate can serve as a management and leadership program for youth.

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Episode 1057 - U.S. National Karate Team?

SUMMARY In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, Jeremy Lesniak and Andrew Adams discuss the issue of martial artists claiming to represent 'Team USA' without proper authority. They explore the implications of such claims, the importance of honesty in representation, and the need for clarity regarding the structure and authority of martial arts teams. The conversation emphasizes the value of integrity within the martial arts community and the potential negative impact of misrepresentation.

 TAKEAWAYS

• The misuse of 'Team USA' claims can mislead the public.

• Honesty in team representation is crucial for integrity.

• Martial artists should clarify their authority and scope.

• Misrepresentation can harm the reputation of martial arts.

• The desire for recognition can lead to inflated claims.

• It's important to acknowledge the hard work of martial artists.

• Teams should include their organizational name in titles.

• Open tryouts across states lend credibility to teams.

• The martial arts community should strive for transparency.

• Misleading claims can create division within the martial arts community.

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Episode 1056 - Mr. Paul Coffey

SUMMARY

In this conversation, Mr. Paul Coffey shares his extensive journey in martial arts, emphasizing the importance of being a well-rounded martial artist rather than just focusing on one style. He discusses his experiences with teaching, particularly in non-traditional environments such as rehab facilities and shelters, and how his past experiences have shaped his teaching philosophy.

 

Mr. Coffey advocates for a philosophy in motion approach, where the focus is on personal growth and helping others overcome their struggles. He also highlights the significance of continuous learning and adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse students.

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Mr. Coffey was more interested in being a martial artist and less interested in being a Kempo artist.
• Mr. Coffey has conquered demons and hopes he can also teach other people how to conquer demons.
• He teaches philosophy in motion, and the student brings the philosophy.
• Your past does not define your present or your future.
• There is a martial art for everybody, and if you don't like it, give yourself permission to leave.
• Learning martial arts is the best and the worst thing that can happen to you.
• He wants to help those people who are disenfranchised.
• He wants to focus on soft techniques to make them effective.

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Episode 1055 - Martial Arts Equipment: The Good & the Bad

SUMMARY

In this episode of Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio, hosts Jeremy Lesniak and Andrew Adams discuss the pros and cons of various types of martial arts training equipment, including kicking shields, focus mitts, paddles, and more.

 

The conversation also touches on the significance of safety, technique, and the psychological aspects of training with different equipment. The hosts conclude by suggesting future discussions on innovative training tools and techniques.

TAKEAWAYS

• Training tools are common for martial arts practice.

• Using a variety of equipment can benefit students' training.

• Kicking shields allow for powerful strikes but can be cumbersome.

• Board breaking can boost confidence but carries injury risks.

• Focus mitts enhance accuracy and technique during drills.

• Heavy bags provide a realistic striking experience.

• Upright bags offer maneuverability for dynamic training.

• Cleaning training equipment is crucial for hygiene.

• Innovative tools can enhance training effectiveness.

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Episode 1054 - Mr. Mark Ceaser

SUMMARY

In this episode, Mark Ceaser shares his extensive journey through martial arts, detailing his beginnings, transitions between styles, and the cultural differences he has encountered. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance in overcoming personal challenges, including health issues and the loss of loved ones.

 

Mark also discusses his experiences with weapons training, competition, and the significance of community in martial arts. He concludes with a heartfelt message about the need to preserve traditional martial arts and the importance of personal growth and harmony.

 

TAKEAWAYS

• Mark Ceaser considers his martial arts instructor a brother.
• His journey in martial arts began after a life-threatening encounter.
• Perseverance is key in both martial arts and life.
• Cultural differences in martial arts training can be eye-opening.
• Transitioning between martial arts styles requires discipline and focus.
• Weapons training enhances understanding of martial arts techniques.
• Competition experiences can be both challenging and rewarding.
• Mark is being inducted into the Pennsylvania Karate Hall of Fame.
• The importance of community and knowledge sharing in martial arts.
• Personal growth and harmony are essential in martial arts practice.

Check out this episode!