62 episodes

This podcast is devoted to martial art women who make a difference! Host, Andrea F. Harkins, interviews fascinating martial art woman all over the world to explore their journeys as they navigate through life, difficulties, distractions and obstacles but emerge renewed, capable, and strong thanks to martial arts. Andrea is an author, columnist, blogger, podcaster and martial artist. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

The Martial Arts Woman Podcast Andrea Harkins

    • Society & Culture
    • 5.0 • 18 Ratings

This podcast is devoted to martial art women who make a difference! Host, Andrea F. Harkins, interviews fascinating martial art woman all over the world to explore their journeys as they navigate through life, difficulties, distractions and obstacles but emerge renewed, capable, and strong thanks to martial arts. Andrea is an author, columnist, blogger, podcaster and martial artist. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    Cristine Pyle - No Limits, No Excuses

    Cristine Pyle - No Limits, No Excuses

    When Cristine was 14 years old, she suffered an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) hemorrhage in her brain. To save her life, the neurosurgeon removed 6 cm of her motor cortex. She was not supposed to survive. The doctors told her family she would be bedridden and probably never walk or talk again.

    Fast forward to today. How did Cristine go from that devastating diagnosis to becoming a martial art
    champion? It’s a story you need to hear. It will inspire you to see your own life in a new light. Listen in to Cristine's story and be inspired to overcome the obstacles that stand in your way, whatever they may be.




    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    • 41 min
    Denise Plowman - Lead by Example

    Denise Plowman - Lead by Example

    Denise leads by example! Her Kenpo training began in 1994 at the Boise Kenpo Karate school. Today, she holds a 6th-degree black belt. Her 1st-degree rank was significant, as she was the first woman to be promoted to a black belt in a Kenpo organization in the state of Idaho at that time. She later took over this school, which she operated for many years until a promotion at her day job at the Veterans Health Administration required extensive travel. Denise retired from the V.A. after a 37 year long career serving mostly in upper management positions. She shares about her initially difficult transition to retirement until she began to fill her time with what she loves - martial arts, family, and even pickleball. She is active in the Kenpo Women's Symposium, where she promotes women in martial arts. We discuss extensively all the benefits of martial arts outside the physical practice, including communication and learning to overcome failure. If you're looking for a role model and someone who leads by example, you will find it in Denise.

    Denise's info and links:  

    International Women of Kempo (formerly the Kempo Women's Symposium: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kenpowomenssymposium

    Andrea's info and links:

    www.themartialartswoman.com (blog and book info here)

    Thank you for listening! xoxo








    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    • 59 min
    Barbara White - We Battle and Persevere

    Barbara White - We Battle and Persevere

    Barbara White, a long time martial art woman, shares about her martial art journey and her loving relationship with her husband, Bob White, who recently passed away. He was her husband and best friend as well as a well-known martial artist in the martial art community. I also learned that Barbara has been a nurse for 40 years which allowed her to care for her husband! What a giver! Barbara is the creator of a beautiful martial art symposium for martial art woman and gives back back in many ways including a yearly martial art camp for abused children. She is warm, loving, and caring. Most of all, she is truly a blessing beyond imagination.

    Barbara's links and Info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kenpowomenssymposium

    Andrea's links and Info:

    www.themartialartswoman.com

    https://themartialartswoman.com/inspiring-books/




    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    • 40 min
    Audrey Hussey - Tenacious Martial Art Entrepreneur

    Audrey Hussey - Tenacious Martial Art Entrepreneur

    Audrey Hussey is a super fit conscientious high achiever type martial artist! That's a mouthful, but I think when you hear her talk about her martial art journey you will agree that she has a spunk and spirit that outshines many. From learning a martial art alongside some of her kids (and she has 6 kids, btw), to coming to a near screeching halt when she saw the perfect and affordable location for her martial art school, you get the sense that Audrey does not easily give up. Personally, she exudes commitment and dedication to excellence in martial arts. Her previous experiences in body building and powerlifting contribute to her strong physicality and mindset. Plan to be be inspired as Audrey walks you through her martial art journeys and milestones and shares how she turned an empty space connected to a gas station into a successful martial art school. Today, at 57 years old, Audrey strives to be the absolute best that she can be. Trust me, she is fierce in her commitment to martial arts but what truly propels her forward is her tenacity and ability to push through difficult moments knowing that she will find a solution somewhere, somehow.

    Audrey's links and info:


    Village Martial Arts - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/villagemartialartstsd
    Village Martial Arts - Website: https://www.villagetsd.com/

    Andrea's links and info:


    The Martial Arts Woman book:https://www.amazon.com/Martial-Arts-Woman-Motivational-Stories/dp/1544916213
    Martial Art Inspirations for Everyone book: https://www.amazon.com/Martial-Inspirations-Everyone-Andrea-Harkins/dp/150297830X
    How to Start Your Own Martial Art Program book: https://www.amazon.com/How-Start-Your-Martial-Program/dp/1511795263
    The Martial Arts Woman Podcast (on any major podcast platform and here): https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins




    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    • 50 min
    Stephanie Dunham - Making a Positive Difference For Others

    Stephanie Dunham - Making a Positive Difference For Others

    This exceptional woman, Stephanie Dunham, faced childhood trauma and torment for years, but today finds healing in martial arts. She is a black belt who teaches her own program a couple of times a week, and on the side, helps other women heal from their tragedies and is involved in a ministry to combat sex trafficking. Amazing, right? She is a reminder that we can all make a positive difference in the world through our words, thoughts and actions. She decided to not be a victim, but instead, a leader of positive change. We should all aspire to do the same!

    Stephanie's Links & Info:


    Self-Defense Company: https://kintsugicompany.com/
    Martial Arts: https://yaokimartialarts.com/
    Sex Trafficking Ministry: https://zoe-delaware.org/



    Andrea's Links & Info:


    Blog: www.themartialartswoman.com -
    Cool merch (limited time):   https://amzn.to/3Ny9r98
    Books: http://themartialartswoman.com/inspiring-books/

    (or on amazon)










    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    • 33 min
    Jane Larkin-Meiser - Positive Martial Artist and Friend

    Jane Larkin-Meiser - Positive Martial Artist and Friend

    Jane and I became friends a few years ago after she invited me to be a co-host on her podcast, The Java Buzz Morning Talk Show. Since then, I learned that Jane is a true friend to many. She is selfless in many ways and reaches out to those who need encouragement, a smile or just a quick hello. Aside from this, she is an accomplished martial artist, a business owner, and a positivity enthusiast. Her down to earth personality is a shining light in a difficult world and I truly admire her for always striving to make a positive difference. Today, Jane shares the ups and downs of her childhood, her martial art training and accomplishments, her unique work history (some cool jobs!) and her side businesses. Most of all, she will inspire you with her personality and wisdom on this episode of The Martial Arts Woman Podcast.

    Jane's Links and Info:


    The Java Buzz Morning Talk Show: https://www.facebook.com/thejavabuzz (Jane, Andrea & Restita)
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janie.larkinmeiser
    The Budo Rinku/American Martial Arts Renmei: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093555600115&mibextid=ZbWKwL
    Side by Side Marketing and Website Design: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093555600115&mibextid=ZbWKwL

    Andrea's Links and Info:


    The Martial Arts Woman book: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Martial-Arts-Woman…/dp/1544916213⁠
    Martial Art Inspirations for Everyone book: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Martial-Inspirations…/dp/150297830X⁠
    How to Start Your Own Martial Art Program book: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/How-Start-Your…/dp/1511795263⁠


    The Martial Arts Woman Merch!: https://www.amazon.com/shop/andreaharkins/list/22BXER332IMZZ?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfandreaharkins_CW2F6C8X79DFYNCAM42D






    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-harkins/support

    • 43 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
18 Ratings

18 Ratings

MamaSllyBrtc ,

Fun and Engaging

I really enjoy learning about other women in the martial arts! This podcast is perfect for me because I am woman, and a martial artist! Thanks!

Petra2611 ,

Very enjoyable!

I found this podcast about a month ago and am enjoying it so much! Starting Krav Maga at age 50, I went through a period of strong self doubt, especially in relation to age. I struggled with the decision to keep going. Hearing these stories has inspired me too keep at it! I’m a fit and healthy 54 year old, so no excuses to stop now. I have plenty of fight still in me. Thank you, Andrea and thanks to your guests! I’m enjoying listening to all the different stories and perspectives. Who knows, maybe I’ll even make it to Black Belt some day. :)

Rob (Chicago) ,

A Refreshing Change

A diamond in the rough, this podcast brings a much needed change of view to the world of martial arts podcasts. Insightful and always worth listening to.

Top Podcasts In Society & Culture

Inconceivable Truth
Wavland
Soul Boom
Rainn Wilson
Stuff You Should Know
iHeartPodcasts
This American Life
This American Life
Unlocking Us with Brené Brown
Vox Media Podcast Network
Fallen Angels: A Story of California Corruption
iHeartPodcasts