Arlene Limas is a pioneering martial artist and leader whose career has helped reshape combat sports, self-defense, and personal empowerment.

She began training at just five years old in Shaolin kung fu before transitioning to tae kwon do, where she quickly rose to the highest levels of international competition. In 1988, at the Seoul Olympic Games, she made history — becoming the first American and the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in tae kwon do as the sport made its Olympic debut.

Over the course of her competitive career, Arlene earned national titles, Pan-American titles, World University honors, and World Championship golds. She was later inducted into the Tae Kwon Do Hall of Fame and recognized as one of the greatest taekwondo athletes of the 20th century.

After retiring from elite competition, she turned her focus toward leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. She opened her own martial arts school, breaking barriers for women in instruction and leadership roles, and continued championing empowerment through training.

Today, she serves as the CEO of PAVE Prevention, where she works with organizations to promote personal safety, healthier workplace culture, and empowered performance through evidence-based, trauma-informed programs.

In this episode, we talk about Olympic history, breaking barriers, leadership beyond the mat, and how martial arts can be a vehicle for lasting cultural change.

Please welcome my guest today, Arlene Limas

Arlene Limas Bio | PAVE Prevention

PODCAST | PAVE Prevention