Everyday Martial Artist

John Borter has been training in martial arts for over 30 years, earning black belt ranks in five different systems, including a 6th-degree black belt. While his expertise spans multiple disciplines, he is best known for his dedication to reviving and preserving Irish stick fighting—the traditional martial art of Ireland. As the founder of the Whiskey Stick Faction, John has played a key role in teaching and promoting Bataireacht, the art of combat with the Irish shillelagh. Through seminars, workshops, and structured training, he has helped bring this nearly lost fighting system back into the spotlight, blending historical techniques with modern applications for self-defense. In addition to Irish stick fighting, John teaches martial arts, self-defense, knife, tomahawk, and Kubotan to hundreds of students each year. He is also the creator of the ABC Women’s Self-Defense Program, a renowned system taught in 12 countries, and has served as a training consultant for law enforcement. Get ready for a deep dive into the rich history, techniques, and resurgence of Irish stick fighting! Please welcome John Borter! Doyle Irish Stick Fighting | Whiskey stick faction

Nelson Nathaniel Jr. brings over 36 years of experience in martial arts, holding four black belts. His journey has been one of resilience, overcoming homelessness to dedicate his life to martial arts. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of working alongside legends such as Chuck Norris, Shannon Lee, and former guest Carmichael Simon. For over five years, Nelson has been the proud owner of the Austin Karate Center, where he continues to share his passion and expertise. Beyond martial arts, he is also an accomplished audio engineer and music producer, recording audiobooks for martial artists. His talents extend to the film industry, where he has worked as a stuntman and actor on both small and major productions. A true artist at heart, Nelson has a deep love for dance and movement. Looking ahead, he has ambitions to write his autobiography and develop a film script. Join me as we dive into his incredible journey! Please welcome my guest, Nelson Nathaniel Jr. Austin Karate Center

With over 40 years in the martial arts, Dr. Steve Pearlman is a highly respected author, instructor, and thought leader in the martial arts community. He is the author of The Book of Martial Power: The Universal Guide to the Martial Arts, which has been translated into three languages and sold tens of thousands of copies worldwide. His upcoming book, On Martial Theory, is set to release in March 2025, alongside the launch of Martial Theory University. Beyond his work as an author, Dr. Pearlman has contributed extensively to the martial arts world. He has written numerous articles for Black Belt and Inside Kung Fu, founded the Saratoga Martial Arts Festival, and hosts his own podcast. His expertise has also been sought outside the martial arts community—he has served as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on sexual assault prevention for the U.S. Army, worked as a martial arts consultant for The Smithsonian Institution, and produced online sexual assault prevention programming that has reached over two million people. Dr. Pearlman’s approach focuses on the universal principles that connect all martial arts, emphasizing combative and anatomical insights that transcend individual styles. His seminars not only teach techniques but also provide practical, applicable knowledge that practitioners can incorporate into their own training. Outside of his professional achievements, Dr. Pearlman is a devoted father and a passionate foodie. Please welcome my guest today, Dr. Steve Pearlman! Home | Praxis Self-Defense and Martial Arts – steve@praxismartialarts.com Saratoga Martial Arts Festival The Book of Martial Power: Pearlman, Steven J.: 9781585679447: Amazon.com: Books The Critical Thinking Institute

Since 1968, David Humes has dedicated his life to martial arts, training under esteemed instructors like Tom Meyers in Erie, PA, and even working with the legendary Billy Blanks. At just 17 years old, he took a bold leap and opened his own martial arts school in 1974, beginning a lifelong journey of teaching and inspiring others. A devoted family man, David is the proud father of eight children—all black belts—four of whom have followed in his footsteps as instructors. Join me as we dive into his incredible journey, his passion for teaching, and the legacy he’s built. Please welcome my guest, David Humes!

Art Camacho – Director, Producer, Actor, and Stuntman Today’s guest is a powerhouse in the action film industry. Art Camacho is an accomplished film director, producer, actor, and stuntman with a career spanning decades. He began his journey producing and directing commercials before transitioning into the world of action cinema, where he made his mark directing, choreographing, and producing high-energy films. You might recognize some of his directing work, including Recoil, Confessions of a Pit Fighter, Assassin X, and more. As an actor, he’s appeared in films such as Chinatown Connection, The Power Within, Tiger Heart, and Little Bigfoot 2. Over the years, he has collaborated with industry legends like Scott Adkins, Dolph Lundgren, and Steven Seagal. In 2017, he shared his journey in his autobiography, A Filmmaker’s Journey, offering a behind-the-scenes look at his life and career. Join me in welcoming the talented and versatile Art Camacho! Art Camacho – IMDb Art Camacho: A Filmmaker’s Journey: Camacho, Art, Matsuda, Michael: 9781548967451: Amazon.com: Books Watch The Camacho Experiment – Free TV Shows | Tubi Art Camacho (@officialartcamacho) • Instagram photos and videos

Today’s guest is the incredible Shihan Michelle Gay, a 6th-degree black belt and six-time World Oyama Knockdown Champion. She has claimed numerous North American Open Tournament titles in both Kata and Kumite, solidifying her legacy as a martial arts legend. In 2001, Michelle won the Canadian Kyokushin Knockdown Division, and in 2002, she earned 2nd place and the prestigious Fighting Spirit Award at the Seidokaikan “Knockdown Kings” tournament. On October 9, 2004, she made history by completing 61 consecutive fights against multiple opponents during the groundbreaking “A Woman’s Right to Fight” event in New York City. Beyond her competitive achievements, Michelle is also a Laban Certified Movement Analyst, bringing a unique perspective to martial arts instruction. She is passionate about helping people of all ages and backgrounds discover their inner strength, grace, and power through consistent practice. Join me in welcoming the inspiring Shihan Michelle Gay to the show! Shihan Michelle Ken Wa Kan Self Offense Michelle Gay (@shihanmichelle) • Instagram photos and videos LABAN / BARTENIEFF Institute of Movement Studies – Podcasts — Shihan Michelle Brain Breaks for the Classroom: Help Students Reduce Stress, Reenergize & Refocus: Gay, Michelle: 0078073074747: Amazon.com: Books Beyond Self-Defense: How to Say No, Set Boundaries, and Reclaim Your Agency-An empowering guide to safety, risk assessment, and personal protection: Michelle CMA, Shihan: 9781623179984: Amazon.com: Books Michelle Final – YouTube Ending Sexual Assault – The Best Defense is A Good Offense | Michelle Gay | TEDxCherryCreekWomen

Today’s guest is Matthew Lee, a certified 4th Degree Black Belt with over 15 years of martial arts experience. Matthew has an impressive martial arts career, highlighted by numerous accolades, including being a Junior Nationals Gold Medalist, a Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington Gold Medalist, as well as competing and coaching at the national level. He is the proud Owner and Head Instructor at Lee’s Black Belt Academy in Rogers, MN, where he shares his passion for martial arts with students of all ages. Matthew also holds a BA in Economics and East Asian Languages, bringing a unique perspective to his martial arts philosophy. When he’s not on the mat, Matthew enjoys traveling, CrossFit, cooking, coaching, and cheering for the Oregon Ducks. Please join me in welcoming today’s guest, Mr. Matthew Lee! Rogers Family Taekwondo – Lee’s Black Belt Academy – Rogers, Minnesota

Ted Pryor is a true Renaissance man: a martial artist, actor, author, and businessman with an extraordinary story. During his martial arts career, Ted held the title of WKA Super Middleweight World Champion from 1982 to 1987. He competed extensively across Asia, Europe, and the United States, earning a reputation as a kickboxing phenomenon. As his career evolved, Ted ventured into filmmaking. He founded World Films, Inc., where he served as an executive on notable movies such as The Butcher, The Last Sentinel, and Soft Target. Ted later transitioned into the business world, where he made a monumental impact. He opened 250 educational centers spanning 24 states and 10 countries. In 1999, he founded Children of America, a company committed to providing high-quality childcare and education. Now, Ted is sharing his remarkable story in his new book, Three-Time World Champ: The Death-Defying True Story of a Kickboxer Turned Drug Smuggler… Turned Business Icon. Please welcome my guest today, the incomparable Ted Pryor! Ted Pryor 3X World Champ – Ted Pryor Ted J. Pryor – IMDb Amazon.com: 3X World Champ: The Death-Defying True Story of a Kickboxer Turned Drug Smuggler . . . Turned Business Icon: 9781637745885: Pryor, Ted: Books Ted Pryor (@tedpryorchamp) • Instagram photos and videos

Mark Dacascos: Actor, TV Personality, and Martial Artist Born in Hawaii, Mark Dacascos is a versatile performer known for his roles on both the big and small screens. Over the years, you’ve seen him in hit TV shows like The Crow: Stairway to Heaven, The Legend of Bruce Lee, Stargate Atlantis, Mortal Kombat: Legacy, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Wu Assassins, Iron Chef, Hawaii Five-0, Warrior, and many more. On the silver screen, Mark has starred in unforgettable films including American Samurai, Double Dragon, Brotherhood of the Wolf, John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, and his breakout role in one of my all-time favorite movies, Only the Strong. We were privileged to speak with his father in a previous episode, and now we’re honored to welcome the incredible Mark Dacascos as our guest today! Mark Dacascos – IMDb Only The Strong – Trailer

Kendra Mahon is a highly accomplished martial artist and fitness professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry. She is a two gold stripe black belt in Kung Fu and an expert fitness trainer. Kendra is the founder of the Global Kung Fu Alliance and has earned prestigious accolades, including being named Canada’s top fitness trainer by The Best Calgary and recognized as one of the Top 10 Fitness Trainers in the World. Her diverse client base includes celebrities like Brett Wilson from TV’s Dragon’s Den, top-level executives, tech entrepreneurs, and everyday individuals striving to reach their fitness goals. As a third-generation master in the Ip Man Lineage, Kendra’s martial arts heritage is deeply rooted. Her Sifu, Brian Lewandy, trained under William Cheung, a second-generation master in the Ip Man lineage who famously trained alongside Bruce Lee. In addition to her martial arts and fitness expertise, Kendra is the author of the inspiring book, Push Your Way Through. Please join me in welcoming today’s guest, the extraordinary Kendra Mahon! Kung Fu Kendra Amazon.com: Push Your Way Through: How You Can Use the Ancient Principles of Kung Fu to Get What You Want eBook : Mahon, Kendra: Kindle Store Free Gift – FREE Subliminal Kung Fu Focus Audio