971 episodes

whistlekick Martial Arts Radio is the only bi-weekly podcast devoted to the traditional martial arts in all forms. We dig into what makes martial artists tick, their history and experience… and tell some great stories in the process. It’s all about bringing martial artists together and learning from one another. Our guests include the famous and the unknown, from taekwondo, karate, hapkido, capoeira, kungfu, FMA, HEMA and everything else you can imagine.

whistlekick Martial Arts Radio whistlekick Martial Arts Radio

    • Sports
    • 4.9 • 166 Ratings

whistlekick Martial Arts Radio is the only bi-weekly podcast devoted to the traditional martial arts in all forms. We dig into what makes martial artists tick, their history and experience… and tell some great stories in the process. It’s all about bringing martial artists together and learning from one another. Our guests include the famous and the unknown, from taekwondo, karate, hapkido, capoeira, kungfu, FMA, HEMA and everything else you can imagine.

    Episode 902 - Mr. Tim Roettiger

    Episode 902 - Mr. Tim Roettiger

    SUMMARY In this episode, Jeremy discusses with Mr. Tim Roettiger his journey into martial arts, his training experiences, and the popularity of Jeet Kune Do. They also delve into the debate between the originalist and concept approaches in Jeet Kune Do, as well as the legacy of Bruce Lee. In this conversation, Mr. Roettiger discusses his approach to martial arts training and teaching, specifically in the context of Jeet Kune Do. He emphasizes the importance of learning techniques and applying them situationally, rather than focusing on memorizing forms. He also highlights the limitations of defined martial arts styles and the need for adaptability and variation within training. He discusses the balance between high volume training and practicality, as well as the value of individuality in martial arts. He also emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness, continuous learning, and the transition from being a warrior to a sage in martial arts. TAKEAWAYS *Mr. Roettiger's journey into martial arts started later in life, but he has always had an interest in athletic pursuits. *He trained with a Jeet Kune Do instructor who emphasized simplicity and functionality. *He now runs his own martial arts school, Red Tiger Martial Arts, and trains students in an eclectic approach, incorporating elements from various styles. *The popularity of Jeet Kune Do is debated, with some arguing that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai are more popular, while others believe that traditional martial arts styles still remain popular. Focus on learning techniques and applying them situationally, rather than memorizing forms. *Recognize the limitations of defined martial arts styles and embrace adaptability and variation within training. *Balance high volume training with practicality and focus on combinations and footwork. *Embrace individuality in martial arts training and teaching, allowing students to develop their own strengths and styles. *Be open-minded and continuously learn from others, avoiding the insecurity of resisting outside training. *Value character and morality in martial arts, striving to be a sage rather than just a warrior. *Teach non-violence and conflict resolution as important aspects of self-defense.

    • 1 hr 3 min
    Episode 901 - Pressure Testing without Injury

    Episode 901 - Pressure Testing without Injury

    SUMMARY
    In this episode, Jeremy and Andrew discuss the concept of pressure testing in martial arts training. They explore different levels of training, the importance of pressure testing, and the challenges it presents. They also discuss the value of controlled training, building trust in techniques, and balancing speed and power. The hosts emphasize the need to reduce the risk of injury and set parameters for training. They suggest using protective equipment, creating scenarios for pressure testing, and maintaining safety in training. They also discuss the role of competitions and the importance of overcoming fear and building confidence. The episode concludes with a reminder to gradually increase speed and force while identifying and working on individual limitations.
    TAKEAWAYS
    *Pressure testing is an important aspect of martial arts training to ensure techniques work in self-defense situations.
    *Training should be conducted at different levels, balancing speed and power, to gradually build skills and confidence.
    *Safety is crucial in pressure testing, and protective equipment can be used to reduce the risk of injury.
    *Creating scenarios and setting parameters for training can help simulate real-world situations and improve performance.
    *Overcoming fear and building confidence are essential in pressure testing, and competitions can be valuable for testing skills.

    • 27 min
    Episode 900 - The Origins of Master Hopkick Audiobook

    Episode 900 - The Origins of Master Hopkick Audiobook

    It's not every day that a podcast reaches 900 episodes! For this special occasion we have gathered a number of whistlekick friends together and did a readthrough of "The Origins of Master Hopkick" book. This is likely the largest episode project that whistlekick has undertaken and we hope that you enjoy it!

    • 3 hr 7 min
    Episode 899 - 2 Schools of Thought: All Together or Segmented Classes

    Episode 899 - 2 Schools of Thought: All Together or Segmented Classes

    SUMMARY
    In this episode, Jeremy and Andrew discuss the two schools of thought when it comes to teaching martial arts: having all students learn everything in a school versus allowing them to pick and choose specialized classes. They explore the pros and cons of each approach, including the importance of focus and prioritization, the role of the instructor in determining curriculum, and the challenges of separate rankings for different arts. They emphasize the need for instructors and students to align their goals and evaluate teaching methods to ensure they are achieving their martial arts goals.
    TAKEAWAYS
    *There are two schools of thought when it comes to teaching martial arts: having all students learn everything in a school or allowing them to pick and choose specialized classes.
    *Separate classes can provide focus and prioritization, allowing students to train in the areas they are most interested in.
    *Instructors play a crucial role in determining the curriculum and should consider the goals of their students when designing classes.
    *Separate rankings for different arts can be beneficial, but it is important to ensure that students are still exposed to and progressing in all areas of martial arts.
    *Both instructors and students should regularly evaluate their teaching methods and class choices to ensure they are aligned with their martial arts goals. 

    • 23 min
    Episode 898 - Grandmaster Steve DeMasco

    Episode 898 - Grandmaster Steve DeMasco

    SUMMARY Grandmaster Steve DeMasco shares his journey in martial arts and the importance of humility and service as an instructor. He emphasizes the need for instructors to prioritize the well-being and growth of their students. DeMasco also discusses the dangers of ego in martial arts and the impact of personal experiences on shaping one's philosophy. He highlights the transformative power of martial arts and the importance of respect, self-discipline, and self-improvement. DeMasco encourages instructors to reflect on their own actions and to strive for continuous improvement in their teaching. In this conversation, Grandmaster DeMasco shares his experiences and insights on maintaining philosophy and control, the impact of childhood experiences, studying psychology, finding purpose in psychology, the pain of self-reflection, being the person you needed, the impact of training philosophy, discovering Kempo, being the black sheep of an organization, cross-training in Kung Fu, studying Chinese martial arts, being invited to China, and final thoughts on the effect we have on others. TAKEAWAYS *Instructors should prioritize humility and service, putting the well-being and growth of their students first. *Ego can be detrimental in martial arts, and instructors should strive to maintain humility and avoid inflating their own importance. *Personal experiences and mentors play a significant role in shaping an instructor's philosophy and approach to teaching. *Martial arts have the power to transform lives, instilling respect, self-discipline, and self-improvement. *The landscape of martial arts instruction is changing, with a greater emphasis on transparency and the need for continuous improvement.

    • 1 hr 6 min
    Episode 897 - Can you learn martial arts from books?

    Episode 897 - Can you learn martial arts from books?

    SUMARY
    In this episode, Jeremy and Andrew discuss the controversial topic of learning martial arts from books. They explore the value of books in martial arts education and the shift towards learning from recordings. They share an example of someone learning a form from a book and emphasize the importance of learning from various resources. The hosts also address different perspectives on learning from books and encourage listeners to support Whistlekick.
    TAKEAWAYS
    *Books can be a valuable resource for learning about martial arts, providing education, philosophy, and context for training.
    *Learning from books may not be the same as learning in-person, but it can offer depth of context and nuance.
    *There is no specific technique or practice within martial arts that should not be learned from a book.
    *A good martial artist utilizes various resources, including books, classes, videos, and personal practice.

    • 20 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
166 Ratings

166 Ratings

kansaskenpo ,

Honest perspectives

Hello Sir, I have been listening for quite some time now. You are my favorite martial arts podcast. I am a Kenpo practitioner for the past 17 years and I really enjoy your interviews, thoughts and rapid fire questions. Keep up the good work. I will keep listening . Ms Higgs from Ks

Chickles72 ,

Great Podcast

I am rather new to the world of martial arts and I stumbled onto this podcast and I am so grateful! The guests and discussions have enriched my study and my approach to karate.

Jsblum ,

Great way to find a community in the martial arts

One of the weird things about training in the martial arts is that because there are so many, the chances of meeting another martial artist of the same style and who shares the same practices you do (that didn’t go to your school or have the same instructor) can sometimes be challenging, especially in some parts of the world and with less mainstream styles. Plus, there can be a lot of petty, unnecessary squabbling between styles that divides, rather than unites us (those of you who remember the style wars in the early 90s when UFC was just beginning may well remember one public example; in some ways, little has changed). All this is ironic, since when it comes to the general public, we’re pretty much all the same. So the great thing about this show (and Whistlekick as a entity in general) is that there is something for everyone, as their mission is to unite rather than divide, question rather than grandfather in, respect tradition but not be bound by it. I have listened to the show for years, not just for the quality of the topics and diversity of the guests, but for myriad ways in which it has provided food for thought and ways to think about and enhance my own practice. Give it a listen! You will find a whole community waiting for you.

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