My guest today is a lifelong martial artist whose journey into self-defense began not with trophies or titles, but with necessity, responsibility, and a deep desire to protect others.

Born in Lafayette, Louisiana in 1987, Addison Plaisance is a true child of the ’90s—raised on Power Rangers, Ninja Turtles, and the belief that real strength comes from discipline, purpose, and service. His childhood was far from easy. Growing up with an abusive older brother, Addison learned early how to de-escalate danger, remain calm under pressure, and shield the people he cared about. Those formative experiences shaped his view of martial arts—not as a tool for dominance, but as a path toward peace and responsibility.

At just 13 years old, Addison began training at Silver Dragon TaeKwonDo Academy in Morgan City, Louisiana under Master Raymond Rutledge and Master Brian Rutledge. There, he learned far more than techniques. Master Ray instilled resilience, humility, and the importance of keeping one’s guard up—physically and spiritually.

By age 18, Addison earned his 1st-degree black belt before heading to Louisiana State University, where he continued training, led the LSU TaeKwonDo club, competed in national qualifiers, and expanded his knowledge through Judo. Along the way, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and a Master’s in Plant Pathology.

His career eventually brought him to Fargo, where he managed greenhouses for NDSU and unexpectedly stepped into one of his most meaningful roles—becoming a devoted single father.

Years later, while simply driving around in search of an arcade, fate intervened. Addison and his daughter discovered Red River Traditional TaeKwonDo, and just like that, he found himself back where he belonged—training, assisting, and giving back to the martial arts community.

Today, Addison teaches a dedicated Friday sparring class, not for money or recognition, but because he believes service is the highest calling. As he reminds his students—and himself—the “Do” in TaeKwonDo is the Way: the way we live, the way we serve, and the way we strive to become better human beings.

Please welcome my guest today, Addison Plaisance.

Addison PLAISANCE | Bioinformatician | Master of Science | North Dakota State University, Fargo | NDSU | Department of Plant Pathology | Research profile

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