Steven Franz has dedicated nearly five decades to the study, practice, and preservation of traditional Okinawan karate. A Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt) in Shorin Ryu Shorinkan and a longtime student of Eddie Bethea Kyoshi, Steven has built a lifelong commitment to authentic training, disciplined instruction, and practical martial arts. In 1991, Steven founded Franz … Steven Franz – Franz Karate – EP285
With more than three decades dedicated to the study, competition, teaching, and leadership of the martial arts, Mr. Steve Cooper has built an impressive legacy within the American Kenpo community. A 9th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo, Steve began his martial arts journey in 1990 under Mr. Steve Spry before continuing his training with … Steve Cooper – United Kenpo Karate Studios – EP284
Bradley Anderson has dedicated much of his life to preserving and teaching the traditional Japanese martial arts, following a path that took him from rural Minnesota to the training halls of Japan and back again. Growing up in Hawley, Minnesota, Bradley developed an early interest in martial arts that eventually led him halfway around the … Bradley Anderson – Agassiz Dojo – EP283
Before martial arts changed his life, Jerry Trimble was a shy, anxious teenager who struggled with bullying, fear, and self-doubt. What began as a search for confidence at the age of 13 became the foundation for one of the most remarkable careers in martial arts history. Nicknamed the “Golden Boy,” Jerry quickly rose through the … Jerry Trimble – Golden Boy – EP282
Marc MacYoung has spent a lifetime studying violence, not as a sport or a theory, but as a reality. A longtime martial artist, security professional, author, and educator, his unique perspective was shaped by growing up in gang-infested neighborhoods of Los Angeles, where understanding violence was often a matter of survival rather than choice. His … Marc MacYoung – Martial Mechanics – EP281
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, … Katie Stensgard – GRIT & GRACE – EP280
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. … Joseph Herreman – Dynamic Martial Arts – EP279
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 … Dave Thompson – Kenpo – EP278
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 … Dan Severn – The Beast – EP277
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 … Bruce Hoyer – Next Edge Academy – EP276
