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.

Join our EXCLUSIVE newsletter to get notified of each episode as it comes out!
Subscribe — 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 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.

Join our EXCLUSIVE newsletter to get notified of each episode as it comes out!
Subscribe — 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 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/

Join our EXCLUSIVE newsletter to get notified of each episode as it comes out!
Subscribe — whistlekick Martial Arts Radio