In this episode I talk with Stephen K Hayes, martial arts master and ex security advisor to the Dalai Lama.

We discuss Stephen’s early interest in the martial arts and his journey to Japan in search of the Ninja.

We learn about his training and relationship with the iconoclastic sensei Masaaki Hatsui, and how it was the Stephen first met the Dalai Lama.

Stephen then gives a detailed analysis of the Dalai Lama’s skill in social engagements, as well as the lessons learned serving in the close protection field.

Topics Include:

0:00 - Steve’s Intro

0:30 - A childhood interest in martial arts

03:42 - Stephen’s early spiritual leanings

06:03 - Disillusionment with Episcopal Christianity

07:44 - Stephen’s take on reincarnation

11:34 - University experiences studying theatre and speech at Miami University

14:24 - Learning Tang Su Do and opening his first school

16:30 - Stephen’s incongruence with the 70s American martial arts scene

18:06 - Why Stephen describes himself as an oddball guy

20:46 - Travelling to Japan and searching for the Ninja

27:50 - Meeting Masaaki Hatsumi

34:18 - Fame and fortune as a martial arts author

37:43 - Hatsumi’s dojo schedule and curriculum

39:28 - The essence of what Stephen learned from Hatsumi

43:16 - Travelling to Tibet in search of the dob-dob fighting monks

47:28 - Meeting the Dalai Lama in New Dehli

50:01 - Intelligence and spiritual transmission

53:43 - The Dalai Lama’s emotional impact on Stephen

57:29 - Stephen’s role as a security advisor to the Dalai Lama

59:56 - The Dalai Lama’s skill in social engagements

1:06:32 - Western attitudes vs pre-invasion Tibet

1:09:23 - What Stephen learned from the Dalai Lama

1:13:58 - Final words of advice

To find more about Stephen, visit: http://www.stephenkhayes.com/

For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com

Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James