Everyday Martial Artist

My guest today is a true martial arts veteran and a leading voice in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—Stephan Kesting. With a martial arts career spanning several decades, Stephan holds black belts in multiple disciplines and has devoted much of his life to the study, practice, and teaching of BJJ. His highly respected platform, Grapplearts.com, is a go-to resource for students around the world looking for clear, practical instruction on grappling and self-defense. Known for his analytical approach and real-world focus, Stephan emphasizes techniques that work not only in sport but in real-life self-defense situations. His insights are drawn from years of hands-on experience across various martial arts systems. Stephan has been featured in publications such as Black Belt Magazine, Ultimate Grappling, Tapout Magazine, and Ultimate Athlete, and he’s contributed as a writer to many of them as well. In addition to his writing and instructional content, he’s a popular guest on martial arts podcasts and the host of his own: The Strenuous Life BJJ Podcast. Outside the gym, Stephan is also an author. His latest book, “Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic,” explores survival, mindset, and the human spirit—showing there’s much more to him than just martial arts. Please welcome to the show: Stephan Kesting. Self Defense Tutorials – Learn self-defense quickly and efficiently Home – Grapplearts Roadmap for BJJ Book – Grapplearts Amazon.com: Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic eBook : Kesting, Stephan: Kindle Store

Today’s guest has dedicated over five decades to the martial arts and has become a true pioneer in the world of self-defense. Mark Shuey began his martial arts journey in the Chuck Norris System over 50 years ago, earning his black belt in 1978. Just one year later, in 1979, he began teaching—and he hasn’t stopped since. Mark holds advanced black belt rankings in Tang Soo Do, Tae Kwon Do, and Hapkido, and was promoted to 7th degree black belt in 1999. Originally from the San Fernando Valley in Southern California, Mark relocated to Lake Tahoe in 1976, where his passion for teaching and innovation flourished. In 2003, Mark was inducted into the prestigious Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame—an honor reserved for some of the most influential figures in martial arts. But Mark’s impact doesn’t stop there. He is also one of the founders of Cane Masters and The American Cane System, groundbreaking programs that combine traditional martial arts techniques with the practical use of a walking cane as a self-defense tool. Please welcome to the show—a martial artist, innovator, and teacher—Mark Shuey. American Cane System – The American Cane System (TACS) Mark Shuey Cane Kata 2000 Cactus Classic Karate Tournament Brand Campaign – Service – Les Schwab Tires

My guest today is a true martial artist in every sense of the word. Michael Miller has been training in American Kenpo for over 35 years and currently holds the rank of 6th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Dave Hebler. His lineage and dedication are impressive, with extensive training under martial arts icons including Grandmaster Robert Pick, Grandmaster Rainer Schulte, and Master Sean Kelley. Michael’s martial arts journey is wide-ranging and well-rounded. He was an undefeated amateur boxer during his college years and wrestled competitively from grades 5 through 12. A lifelong student of combat, he’s also cross-trained in the Joe Lewis Fighting System (directly under the legendary Joe Lewis), Modern Arnis (with Tim Hartman), the Superfoot System (under Bill “Superfoot” Wallace), and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu under multiple instructors. Since 2005, Michael has owned and operated Miller’s Kenpo Karate Dojo in Bradford, Pennsylvania, where he teaches full-time. His impact extends far beyond his hometown—he has led martial arts, boxing, and self-defense seminars across the United States and in Germany. Michael was featured in The Journey: Book 3 (2019), written by none other than Tom Bleecker—who was also the very first guest on this podcast. In addition to his martial arts credentials, Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Writing from the University of Pittsburgh and is the author of six books, blending his passion for martial arts with the written word. Please welcome to the show, a fighter, teacher, writer, and lifelong student—Michael Miller. HOME | michaelmiller Facebook – Miller’s Kenpo Karate Watch Showdown (1993) – Free Movies | Tubi

In today’s episode, I’m honored to sit down with Dr. Zibin Guo — a unique and inspiring figure whose life’s work bridges martial arts, medical science, and cultural understanding. Dr. Guo is not only a seasoned martial artist and author but also a renowned professor of Medical Anthropology at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. His academic career includes teaching at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Medical School and the New England School of Acupuncture. His work specializes in Applied Medical Anthropology, with a powerful focus on enhancing health and well-being among vulnerable and underserved communities — particularly veterans living with disabilities. Through a culturally grounded, person-centered approach, Dr. Guo has pioneered programs that integrate martial arts philosophy and practice into therapeutic settings. We discuss his groundbreaking work with the Adaptive Tai Chi program, an innovative approach to improving mobility, mental health, and overall quality of life for those with physical limitations. His new book, Adaptive Tai Chi: Creating Empowering Movement for All Abilities, will be released on July 1st, offering a comprehensive guide to this transformative practice. Whether you’re a martial artist, healthcare professional, or someone passionate about community wellness, you’ll find deep insight and inspiration in Dr. Guo’s story and mission. Please welcome my guest today, Dr. Zibin Guo. Adaptive Tai Chi: An Accessible Practice for Empowering Body and Mind – 9781645472735 Adaptive Tai Chi International – Creating and promoting specialized Tai Chi programs to improve health and quality of life for people with disabilities. Zibin Guo, PhD | University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Shaolin Si-Temple (1983) Theme Song Jet li

My guest today brings over three decades of martial arts experience to the conversation. Angus Rogers began his training journey in the early 1990s, officially diving in with commitment in 1995. By 1999, he had earned his black belt—a milestone that marked the beginning of a lifelong passion. After a brief hiatus following the retirement of his instructor, Angus returned to training in 2006 with a renewed sense of purpose. Since then, he’s not only continued to evolve as a martial artist but has become a dedicated teacher, sharing his knowledge for nearly 25 years. As the owner and lead instructor of Heads of The Valleys Tang Soo Do, based in South Wales, UK, Angus has built a strong and growing community. Nearly a decade ago, he opened his full-time studio, and in 2022, expanded with a second location. His leadership has inspired a new generation—several of his black belt students have gone on to open schools of their own. But Angus’s journey isn’t limited to martial arts. He’s also a former music teacher and musician, having played in various bands over the years—adding a creative and rhythmic layer to his already dynamic background. Join us as we talk about his martial arts philosophy, teaching journey, and how Tang Soo Do continues to shape lives in his community. Please welcome my guest today, Angus Rogers. Recipes Do Not Make Delicious Meals Book | Heads Of The Valleys Heads of the Valleys Tang Soo Do | Martial Arts | Brynmawr, Ebbw Vale NP23 4BS, UK Tongan Ninja (2002) Full Movie https://www.youtube.com/@HOVTangSooDo

Brian Doucette is an East Coast Canadian rocker with deep roots in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and now calls Edmonton, Alberta home. A passionate and prolific musician, he has released five full-length studio albums, with a sixth currently in production. His latest release, Not Careful Enough, dropped in March and continues to showcase his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and gritty rock energy. Brian has toured extensively, performing across Canada and in multiple locations throughout the United States, building a loyal fanbase along the way. Outside of music, Brian has spent nearly 15 years immersed in the world of martial arts. He trains recreationally in MMA, with a consistent focus on kickboxing and Muay Thai. More recently, he’s been dedicating himself to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has also studied Modern Arnis and Krav Maga. A true artist with a fighter’s spirit—please welcome my guest today, Brian Doucette. New Music – Brian Doucette Music https://www.youtube.com/@BrianDoucetteMusic

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we’re joined by a true innovator in the world of martial arts and combatives—Guru Roger Agbulos. With a martial journey that began in 1990, Roger has spent over three decades honing his craft and sharing it with others. Specializing in combatives and self-defense, he has earned international recognition for his unique ability to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. His teachings have resonated with a wide range of practitioners—from traditional martial artists to military personnel and law enforcement professionals. Roger is the chief instructor of Lameco Astig, a science-based combatives system rooted in the Filipino martial art of Lameco Eskrima. The system is known for its no-nonsense approach, focusing on balance, economy of motion, and non-telegraphic striking—all designed to perform under pressure in real-world, high-stress situations. He has taught seminars and workshops around the world, with stops across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Greece, Belgium, Serbia, and the Philippines—just to name a few. Whether you’re a martial artist looking to enhance your practical skills or someone curious about self-defense that works in the real world, this episode is packed with insight and actionable wisdom. Please welcome my guest today—Guru Roger Agbulos. Lameco Astig

Joseph Rae’s martial arts journey began in 1993 at the Roanoke Bujinkan Dojo in Virginia. Just five years later, in 1998, he earned his Shodan—marking a major milestone in his commitment to the Bujinkan tradition. In 1999, Joseph enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he went on to serve with distinction for 22 and a half years. During his military career, he was primarily a small arms and crew-served weapons instructor and also taught defensive tactics—bringing his martial discipline and experience to bear in real-world applications. Joseph opened a small private dojo in Chesapeake, Virginia, in 2004, continuing to train and guide others even while serving. In 2006, he made the journey to Japan to test for his Godan (5th-degree black belt), a significant achievement in the Bujinkan system. He would later return to live in Japan from 2017 to 2018, further immersing himself in the culture and traditions of the art he has dedicated much of his life to. After retiring from the Navy in 2021, Joseph transitioned to a new form of service—becoming a deputy sheriff in Virginia. In 2022, he opened his first public dojo, offering students the benefit of his decades of experience in both martial arts and tactical instruction. Please welcome my guest today, a dedicated martial artist, veteran, and public servant—Joseph Rae. https://www.facebook.com/KarasukageDojo Navy veteran dedicated to duty and discipline Bujinkan na NHK

James Turner – Kickboxing Champion, Actor, and Author Today’s guest is a true powerhouse in the world of martial arts—an accomplished athlete, actor, and author whose dedication and talent have earned him recognition across multiple disciplines. James Turner is a decorated kickboxer, currently holding the IKTA European, International, and Golden Warrior Championships in the Light Heavyweight Division. And the journey doesn’t stop there—this June, he’s stepping into the ring to compete for the WPKO World Title. With an extensive martial arts background, James holds black belt-level rankings in several disciplines, showcasing his lifelong commitment to mastery and excellence. In 2022, James co-authored the book “Full Contact Kickboxing: A Complete Guide to Training and Strategies,” offering an in-depth look at the techniques and mindset needed to succeed in the ring. His achievements were further recognized in 2023 when he was inducted into the UK Martial Arts Hall of Fame, receiving the prestigious “Legend in the Martial Arts” Award. Beyond the ring, James is making moves in the world of film. He is currently starring in his first leading role in the upcoming martial arts action crime drama, “The Butterfly.” James also holds a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in Sports Science, blending academic knowledge with real-world combat experience. Please join me in welcoming an incredible athlete, rising actor, and martial arts legend—James Turner. James Turner – IMDb Full Contact Kickboxing: A Complete Guide to Training and Strategies: Dumas, Andy, Turner, James A: 9780719841392: Amazon.com: Books Absolute MMA | MMA | UNIT 1A Rosevear industrial Estate, Bugle, Saint Austell PL26 8PJ, UK

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we’re joined by a true martial arts veteran and passionate teacher — Mr. James Theros. Mr. Theros began his martial arts journey back in 1976 and has dedicated nearly five decades to training, teaching, and preserving traditional Korean martial arts. Since 1995, he has owned and operated Level 10 Martial Arts College in Indianapolis, Indiana — a respected school known for its disciplined yet welcoming approach to martial arts education. Known as The Ambassador of Korean Kung Fu, Mr. Theros has traveled extensively throughout the United States, as well as to China and Korea, to study under some of the most respected masters in the world. His dedication to cultural accuracy and martial excellence has earned him a reputation as a global advocate for the Korean martial arts tradition. In addition to his teaching, Mr. Theros is an accomplished martial arts writer. He contributes regularly to Tae Kwon Do Times Magazine, and in July 2014, he was honored as the magazine’s cover feature — a testament to his influence in the martial arts community. He’s also a published author, with three books to his name, including the well-regarded “Korean Kung Fu: The Chinese Connection.” His writing bridges history, technique, and personal insight, offering readers a deeper understanding of martial arts philosophy and lineage. And the journey doesn’t stop there — he’s currently working on his fourth book. Please join me in welcoming my guest today, an inspirational figure in the world of martial arts — Mr. James Theros. Level 10 Martial Arts College – YouTube https://www.ltkfa.com