Everyday Martial Artist

Brian Doucette

Every week we will chat with a different martial artist and hear their story.

  1. 5d ago

    Katie Stensgard – GRIT & GRACE – EP280

    Katie Stensgard is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai competitor whose inspiring journey into martial arts is a testament to resilience, determination, and the ability to embrace new challenges. What began as a way to rebuild her life following a difficult divorce has evolved into a passion that has transformed not only her own life, but also the lives of her four children, all of whom have trained alongside her. A single mother of four, Katie has quickly established herself as a successful competitor on both the grappling mats and in the ring. In 2024, she captured the IBJJF Purple Belt World Master’s Championship in the Master 3 Middleweight division while also earning a bronze medal in the Absolute division. She is also an IBJJF Pan American Purple Belt medalist and a Muay Thai champion, winning the 2024 TBA Classic Class C Light Welterweight title while compiling an undefeated 2–0 amateur record. Katie’s remarkable story reached a wider audience through the documentary Grit & Grace, which premiered at the Fargo Theatre and is now streaming on BEK TV. The film highlights her journey as a mother, athlete, and martial artist, showcasing the perseverance and grit that have carried her through life’s challenges. Away from competition, Katie enjoys traveling, camping, mountain biking, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. She also cares for a lively household full of pets and has a well-known appreciation for a good serving of loaded mac and cheese. Whether competing at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, stepping into the Muay Thai ring, or inspiring others through her example, Katie Stensgard continues to demonstrate that it’s never too late to discover a new passion and redefine what’s possible. Please enjoy my interview with Katie Stensgard! GRIT & GRACE Fargo Mixed Martial Arts Gym – Academy of Combat Arts

  2. Jul 9

    Joseph Herreman – Dynamic Martial Arts – EP279

    Joseph Herreman has dedicated more than 25 years to the study, instruction, preservation, and promotion of traditional martial arts, establishing himself as one of the Northern Plains’ most respected martial arts instructors and school owners. His martial arts journey began in 1999 under the guidance of Hanchi Julio “Mutch” Usera in Rapid City, South Dakota. While earning a degree in biology at South Dakota State University, Joseph founded the SDSU Jujitsu Club, transforming a small practice group into a thriving collegiate martial arts organization. After relocating to Sioux Falls, he opened Dynamic Martial Arts in 2007. Over the years, the academy has grown into one of the region’s premier multi-disciplinary martial arts schools, offering instruction in Bujin Ki Ryu Jujitsu, Matsumura Shorin Ryu Karate, Kobudo, Iaido, Kenjutsu, Tai Chi, HEMA Longsword, self-defense, and law enforcement defensive tactics. Through his longtime instructor, Julio Usera, Joseph was introduced to the late Ken Penland and later to George Alexander Hanshi, further expanding his training in Okinawan Kobudo, Japanese sword arts, and Matsumura Shorin Ryu Karate. His dedication led to earning Menkyo Okuden, a full instructor license, in Kamagata Ryu Kenjutsu. Joseph holds advanced black belt ranks in numerous martial arts, including Rokudan in both Bujin Ki Ryu Jujitsu and Shorinji Ryu Jujitsu, along with advanced ranks in Taiho Jutsu, Matsumura Kobudo, Matsumura Shorin Ryu Karate, and Eishin Ryu Iaido. Before becoming a full-time martial arts instructor, Joseph spent years teaching high school physics and chemistry. That scientific background continues to influence his approach to martial arts instruction, emphasizing biomechanics, practical application, and pressure-tested fundamentals. Beyond the dojo, Joseph is an author, media producer, and the founder of BudoTV, a streaming platform dedicated to preserving and sharing traditional martial arts knowledge. He also organizes major regional events, including the Sioux Falls Open Martial Arts Tournament and the Tourney of Blades, bringing together practitioners from traditional martial arts, HEMA, and weapons-based disciplines throughout the Midwest. Committed to honoring tradition while embracing effective modern instruction, Joseph continues to help develop skilled martial artists while preserving the history, culture, and values that define the martial arts. Please enjoy my interview with Joseph Herreman! DYNAMIC MARTIAL ARTS OF SIOUX FALLS – Dynamic Martial Arts of Sioux Falls SIOUX FALLS OPEN MARTIAL ARTS TOURNAMENT – Home BudoTV SIOUX FALLS TOURNAMENT OF BLADES – Home

  3. Jul 2

    Dave Thompson – Kenpo – EP278

    Dave first stepped onto the mat in 1967 at just eight years old, beginning his training in Judo before finding his true home in Kenpo Karate under the instruction of Paul Dye. What makes his story especially unique is his unwavering loyalty to his teacher. From his first day of Kenpo training in 1972 through every rank advancement, including testing for both brown belt and black belt under the legendary Ed Parker, Paul Dye has remained his only instructor. When Dave Hebler’s school closed due to Hebler’s growing responsibilities as a personal bodyguard for Elvis Presley, training continued in Paul Dye’s now-famous garage dojo. That humble training space became the foundation for a remarkable martial arts career that continues to this day. As a competitor, Dave built an impressive tournament résumé, capturing eight consecutive Long Beach Internationals Self-Defense Championships, earning multiple national titles, and winning championships in the United Kingdom in fighting, kata, and self-defense competition. In 1986, he began teaching out of his own garage dojo, where he has spent decades developing students and preserving the traditions of Kenpo Karate. His commitment to quality instruction has produced numerous black belts and positively impacted generations of martial artists. Beyond the dojo, Dave built successful careers as a butcher, meat manager, and later as a safety consultant in the offshore oil industry. He is also a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life has been guided by faith, family, and martial arts. When he’s not teaching or working, he enjoys spending time with his family at their river house along the Colorado River. Whether boating, riding Sea-Doos, exploring the desert in a sandrail or his trusty 1999 Toyota 4Runner, fishing, or simply gathering around a late-night fire pit, the river is where family and relaxation come together. More than fifty years after beginning his journey, Dave continues to train, teach, and inspire others while carrying forward the lessons passed down from his instructor and the legacy of Ed Parker’s Kenpo Karate. Please join me in welcoming Dave Thompson. Hot Boyz (1999) Full Movie

  4. Jun 25

    Dan Severn – The Beast – EP277

    Dan “The Beast” Severn is one of the most influential figures in the history of mixed martial arts. A UFC Hall of Famer, legendary wrestler, professional wrestling champion, coach, promoter, and educator, Dan helped build the foundation of modern MMA during the sport’s earliest years. Making his UFC debut in 1994, Severn quickly became one of the most dominant competitors of the era. Known for his relentless wrestling style and incredible physical presence, he became the only triple-crown champion in UFC history, capturing multiple tournament championships along with the UFC Superfight Championship. His success inside the Octagon helped establish wrestling as one of the most effective disciplines in mixed martial arts. Long before his MMA career, Dan compiled an extraordinary amateur wrestling résumé. He was a two-time high school national champion, a 13-time National AAU Wrestling Champion, a 1984 U.S. Olympic alternate, and later earned induction into the Arizona State University Wrestling Hall of Fame. His wrestling journey took him across the globe, competing and winning championships throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Beyond MMA, Severn also made a significant impact in professional wrestling, becoming an NWA World Heavyweight Champion and competing for organizations around the world. Throughout his career, he has trained athletes, mentored future champions, promoted combat sports events, and worked with law enforcement and military professionals on combatives and defensive tactics. Please enjoy my interview with Dan “The Beast” Severn! Dan Severn – Dan Severn is a legend to MMA fighters Dan and Don’s Toxic Masculinity Podcast – YouTube The Realest Guy in the Room: The Life and Times of Dan Severn: Severn, Dan, Douglass, Ian, Cornette, Jim: 9781644677872: Amazon.com: Books Dan Severn – IMDb

  5. Jun 18

    Bruce Hoyer – Next Edge Academy – EP276

    Bruce Hoyer has dedicated more than two decades to the study, practice, and teaching of martial arts, building a reputation as both a highly respected coach and lifelong student of combat sports. A 3rd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 2nd Degree Black Belt in Combat Hapkido, Level 2 Coach in Combat Submission Wrestling, and Gold Level Boxing Coach through USA Boxing, Bruce has trained extensively in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, mixed martial arts, boxing, and Muay Thai since beginning his martial arts journey in 2000. Following the closure of Action MMA in Sioux Falls in 2008, Bruce founded Next Edge Academy with a vision of continuing the growth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, and MMA in the region. Under his leadership, the academy has developed numerous athletes who have gone on to compete at the highest levels of professional combat sports, including the UFC, PFL, Bellator MMA, and WWE. As a competitor, Bruce captured the IBJJF No-Gi World Championship at purple belt in 2009. His coaching philosophy emphasizes concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving, helping students develop skills that extend beyond technique alone. In addition to coaching athletes, Bruce has worked extensively with law enforcement professionals, helping officers develop practical and effective control tactics rooted in real-world application. Outside of martial arts, Bruce enjoys studying languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic, and pursuing his passion for aviation. His personal journey has also been shaped by adversity, having lost sight in one eye following a football injury as a teenager, an experience that helped forge the resilience and determination that continue to define his approach to life and martial arts. Please enjoy my interview with Bruce Hoyer Home – Next Edge Academy – Sioux Falls Boxing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Lilly’s Big Flip: A Story About Courage and Friendship – Kindle edition by Hoyer, Olivia. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

  6. Jun 11

    Miguel Ibarra – YAMABUSHI JUJUTSU – EP275

    Hanshi Miguel Ibarra is a lifelong martial artist, educator, and retired law enforcement professional whose experience spans both traditional martial arts and real-world self-defense. He served more than 25 years with the New York City Probation Department, working in specialized assignments including the Warrant Squad, Gang Suppression Unit, Intelligence Unit, and as a Defensive Tactics and Firearms Instructor. In the martial arts community, Miguel is known for his expertise in Daito-Ryu Aikijujutsu and traditional jujutsu systems. In 1982, he founded Yamabushi Ryu, an organization dedicated to practical self-defense and the preservation of classical martial principles. Over the years, he has trained under respected instructors and taught seminars throughout the United States and internationally. In addition to his martial arts and law enforcement background, Miguel holds degrees in psychology and counseling from Fordham University, bringing a well-rounded perspective to training, personal development, and self-protection. Please enjoy my interview with Miguel Ibarra! Yamabushi Jujutsu Aikijutsu Ryu – Home

  7. Jun 4

    Kaitlin Young – Striking Viking – EP274

    Kaitlin Young is one of the true pioneers of women’s mixed martial arts. Long before women’s MMA received mainstream attention, she was helping build the sport through her performances inside the cage and her contributions behind the scenes. Kaitlin began her martial arts journey at age 14 in Taekwondo, eventually earning her black belt before finding her passion in Muay Thai. Her training led her to the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy, where she transitioned into mixed martial arts and quickly established herself as an aggressive, exciting, and highly respected competitor. In 2007, she announced her arrival on the national stage by winning the HOOKnSHOOT Women’s Grand Prix with three knockout victories in a combined time of just 1 minute and 45 seconds. The remarkable performance immediately cemented her status as one of the sport’s top rising stars. Over a professional career spanning more than 15 years, Kaitlin competed for some of the biggest organizations in the world, including EliteXC, Invicta Fighting Championships, RIZIN, and the Professional Fighters League. Along the way, she faced many of the most recognizable names in women’s MMA, including Gina Carano, Liz Carmouche, Amanda Nunes, Julia Budd, and Kayla Harrison. Beyond her accomplishments as a fighter, Kaitlin also played a key role in the growth of women’s MMA as a matchmaker for Invicta FC, helping create opportunities and pathways for future generations of athletes. After officially retiring from professional competition in 2023, Kaitlin left behind a legacy defined by toughness, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to martial arts. In this episode, Kaitlin shares stories from her martial arts journey, discusses the evolution of women’s MMA, reflects on some of the biggest moments of her fighting career, and offers insights gained from a lifetime dedicated to combat sports. Please enjoy my interview with Kaitlin Young! Minnesota Top Team – Eagan, MN Kaitlin Young vs Suzi Smith – YouTube Kaitlin Young KICKS Miesha Tate STUPID !!!360p H 264 AAC Female MMA Kaitlin Young -vs- Patti Lee

  8. May 28

    Harry Psaros – From Struggle To Strength – EP273

    Harry Psaros brings a unique blend of professional expertise, martial arts experience, and a deep commitment to serving others. A certified health coach and Executive Neuroscience Account Specialist, Harry has built a career at the intersection of science, performance, and helping people improve their lives. He is also widely known as the “Pitt Guru,” a respected voice in University of Pittsburgh athletics and a senior writer for Pittsburgh Sports Now. A lifelong martial artist, Harry holds a third-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do and has trained in a variety of disciplines, including Western boxing, Panatukan, Aikido, and combatives. His diverse training background has given him a practical perspective on self-defense, personal growth, and the lifelong pursuit of mastery. In this episode, Harry shares his martial arts journey, discusses the lessons he has learned through decades of training, and reflects on how martial arts principles have influenced his professional life, family, and service to others. The conversation also explores leadership, resilience, community involvement, and the importance of using our skills and experiences to make a positive impact on those around us. Beyond his professional and martial arts accomplishments, Harry is deeply involved in supporting autism initiatives, youth programs, and his church community. His guiding philosophy is simple: if you’re breathing air, you should be helping others. Harry is married and the proud father of two sons, Gus and Max. Please welcome my guest today… Harry Psaros Harry Psaros | Empower Your Journey (1) Instagram From Struggle to Strength: A Father’s Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity: Psaros, Harry, Creative, Betterbe: 9781958481257: Amazon.com: Books Harry Psaros (@PittGuru) / X

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4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Every week we will chat with a different martial artist and hear their story.

Information

  • Creator
    Brian Doucette
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    281
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 Everyday Martial Artist
  • Show Website
    Everyday Martial Artist

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