In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, I chat with Tony Pacenski, a lifelong martial artist, world-class instructor, entrepreneur, innovator, and airman whose influence in the martial arts community spans more than three decades.

Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tony began his Gracie Jiu-Jitsu journey in 1995, setting him on a path from local training halls to international recognition as one of the most respected American-born practitioners of the art.

Tony holds an extraordinary list of accomplishments and ranks, including:

Beyond his personal mastery, Tony has made a lasting impact on the global Jiu-Jitsu community. As a co-founder of the Jiu Jitsu Global Federation, alongside Master Rickson Gracie and Professor Carlos Gama, he has been instrumental in preserving the art’s combat principles, spirit, and philosophy for future generations.

Tony is also the creative mind behind the Tatame Air training surface, a groundbreaking advancement in mat technology that has elevated safety and performance for martial artists worldwide.

Known for his articulate instruction, vast historical knowledge, and engaging seminar presence, Tony has become a teacher of teachers, inspiring martial artists everywhere to pursue both technical excellence and personal growth through Jiu-Jitsu.

Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with the one and only “Little” Tony Pacenski.

TONYPACENSKI.COM

tatameair.com

Amazon.com : Tony Pacenski

Jiu Jitsu Global Federation | Jiu Jitsu Global Federation

Today’s guest is a lifelong martial artist, active MMA fighter, and dedicated recovery and performance coach whose mission is to help combat athletes stay healthy, train smarter, and perform at their peak.

Adam Snyder is the founder of The Fight Science Collective and the creator of the Fight Science Operating System, a comprehensive, data-driven approach designed to elevate an athlete’s performance while minimizing injury and burnout. Through his work, Adam empowers martial artists and fighters to train harder, recover faster, and ultimately stay on the mat for life.

Outside the gym, Adam is just as dynamic, living with his partner Alexandra and their three cats, balancing fight science with a love for Star Wars, high-energy EDM, and plenty of caffeine.

Please welcome my guest today… Adam Snyder.

Instagram

(12) The Fight Science Collective – YouTube

The Fight Science Made Simple Podcast

Fight Science Operating System | Martial Arts Coaching

Keith Kelly is a 8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo whose martial arts journey began at 16 years old at the South Second Street Youth Center in Plainfield, New Jersey, under the instruction of Joe Tucker.

As a young red belt, he entered the AAU Karate circuit in 1979 and quickly made an impression—earning an invitation to try out for the National AAU Karate Team. After receiving his black belt in early 1980, he continued his training under Grandmaster Ki Chung Kim and Master Tony Alvarez, sharpening his technique and preparing for the highly competitive tournament scene that lay ahead.

Through the early 1980s, Keith—alongside teammates Mark Williams and future Olympic gold medalist Herb Perez—became a dominant force on the circuit. Together, they captured an estimated 80 championships, including major victories at the prestigious All American Open at Madison Square Garden and podium finishes at the AAU Taekwondo Nationals, where Keith earned both gold and silver medals.

But Keith’s legacy stretches far beyond competition. Since 1989, he has dedicated himself to teaching Taekwondo through after-school and Saturday programs, helping students build discipline, confidence, and character—skills that extend well beyond the dojang.

Now approaching retirement from his long career as a public school teacher, Keith has embraced a new creative path as an author. He has written seven children’s books, each inspired by the core principles and life lessons of Taekwondo.

Please welcome my guest today — Keith Kelly.

Peace Comes to Ajani

Jess Gerrity is a New Zealander-turned-Saitama local whose journey has taken her deep into the heart of Japan’s traditional martial arts culture.

Born in Auckland, she first visited Japan as a university student and quickly became captivated by the country’s urban design and public transportation systems. That spark of fascination eventually led her to earn a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and make the move to Japan—now more than 22 years ago.

Jess began her life in Japan as an English teacher, but her path soon shifted toward media. Over the last two decades, she has built a diverse career as a TV personality, writer, narrator, and tourism ambassador, appearing regularly on Japanese television, radio, and in print.

At the center of her life, however, is her devotion to kyūdō, Japanese archery. A 3rd dan practitioner in All Japan Kyudo Federation and a beginner in Heki ryu Insai ha, Jess is a contributing writer for Kyudo Nippon and Budo Japan, and serves as Chief Editor of Kyudo World Magazine. Her martial arts practice extends far beyond the bow, with studies in naginata, kyujutsu, and sports yabusame—horseback archery.

And through it all, she still balances life as a wife and mother of three.

Please welcome my guest today, Jess Gerrity.

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Jessica TV – YouTube

In this episode, we sit down with James McSweeney, an internationally recognized martial artist, fighter, and coach whose career has spanned more than two decades at the highest levels of combat sports.

James is a 6-time World Muay Thai Champion, 3-time World MMA Champion, and a veteran of some of the biggest promotions in the world — including the UFC, ONE Championship, K-1, and Glory Kickboxing.

Born and raised in the UK, James’s journey has taken him around the globe — from the fight camps of Thailand to the gyms of Australia, and now to Dallas, Texas, where he serves as Co-Owner and Head of Operations at McSweeney MMA & Performance.

With ten gym locations across the Dallas area, James continues to shape the next generation of fighters while helping everyday students build strength, discipline, and confidence both on and off the mats.

Outside the gym, James is a devoted husband of 15 years, a proud father, and even runs his own farm — proving that his drive for excellence extends far beyond the cage.

Please welcome my guest today — James McSweeney.

Home – McSweeney MMA

Home – Lonestar Fight League

Francisco Casaroti is a lifelong martial artist, teacher, and cultural ambassador with nearly three decades of experience in the Afro-Brazilian art of Capoeira.

Born and raised in Brazil, Francisco’s journey through movement, rhythm, and expression began at a young age — shaping not only his martial path but also his understanding of community and culture.

In addition to Capoeira, he is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor representing the prestigious Roger Gracie Academy in North Dakota, carrying forward a legacy built on technical precision, respect, and discipline.

Francisco has taught and performed around the world — from the streets of Brazil to the studios of London, where he spent 15 years teaching, and even as far as Beijing, China. His work has taken him across Europe as well, leading workshops and masterclasses in France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway.

He is also a co-founder of Grupo Capoeira Arte — an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural and social impact of Capoeira on a global scale.

When he’s not on the mat, Francisco brings his creative vision to the classroom as a Design Professor at the University of Jamestown in North Dakota, blending artistry, movement, and education into every aspect of his life.

Please welcome my guest today — Francisco Casaroti.

Capoeira Arte – Est. 29 April 2000

Mestre Bimba – Capoeira Online

Kenn Scott is an accomplished actor, martial artist, filmmaker, and author whose passion for the martial arts and storytelling has taken him from the dojo to the bright lights of Hollywood.

Born in New York and raised in North Carolina, Kenn followed his dreams west to Los Angeles, where his talent and determination led him to one of the most iconic roles of the 1990s — portraying Raphael in the original live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films.

Beyond his work in the Turtles franchise, Kenn starred in the international martial arts cult hit Showdown and went on to appear in and direct numerous film and television projects. Throughout his career, he’s had the honor of working alongside some of the most respected names in the industry, including Pat Johnson, Cynthia Rothrock, Billy Blanks, Art Camacho, Gary Daniels, and Jeff Imada.

A lifelong martial artist with over 45 years of training, Kenn’s background spans Goju-ryu, Shaolin Kung Fu, American Kenpo, Tai Chi, Muay Thai, Lima Lama, Isshin Ryu, and more. His deep experience both in front of the camera and on the mat has given him a unique perspective on discipline, creativity, and perseverance.

Kenn is also the author of the Amazon Top Pick Teenage Ninja to Mutant Turtle: Becoming the Reel Raphael, where he shares his journey from a young martial artist in North Carolina to embodying one of pop culture’s most beloved heroes.

Please welcome my guest today — Mr. Kenn Scott.

Kenn Scott Author | Home

Kenn Scott – IMDb

Geo Corvera is a veteran fight choreographer, stunt coordinator, action designer, and stuntman whose passion for martial arts began at a young age.

Born in El Salvador and raised in the Washington, D.C. area of Virginia, Geo quickly made a name for himself on the competition circuit, earning Top 10 NASKA and NBL rankings in forms, weapons, and sparring.

In 2000, he made the move to Hollywood, launching what would become a remarkable career in film, television, and streaming. Since then, he’s worked on over 170 productions, including major projects for both Marvel and DC Comics, as well as a long list of other hit series and films.

His incredible work has earned him recognition from the Screen Actors Guild, winning Outstanding Performance Awards for Iron Man and Pirates of the Caribbean. He’s also received nominations from MTV and the Taurus World Stunt Awards for Best Fight in The Rundown.

Not just a behind-the-scenes talent, Geo has also appeared on screen in popular shows like Cobra Kai, The Vigilante, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and many more.

When he’s not performing or designing action, you’ll find him training and sharing his knowledge with others.

Please welcome my guest today — Geo Corvera.

Geo Corvera – IMDb

Chris Kent has over five decades of experience in the martial arts and is recognized worldwide as one of the foremost authorities on Jeet Kune Do.

In 1973, he became the youngest, and final, member admitted into Dan Inosanto’s legendary “Backyard JKD” group during Bruce Lee’s lifetime.

He went on to study with and assist Guro Inosanto for more than 13 years, refining his skills and traveling nationally and internationally as Inosanto’s personal assistant for seminars and public demonstrations. In 1982, he became one of the first students to be awarded the prestigious title of Full Instructor under Inosanto.

Known as a “teacher of teachers,” he’s dedicated to developing instructors who share the same passion and authenticity for JKD that Bruce Lee inspired.

His recent book, Liberate Yourself! – How to Think Like Bruce Lee, along with its companion workbook, explores how individuals can apply the principles of self-actualization that Bruce Lee lived by to their own lives.

He has shared his expertise in Hollywood, professional sports, and beyond.

I could keep going — but let’s jump in. Please welcome my guest, Chris Kent.

Chris Kent Jeet Kune Do | liberation catalyst

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chris kent (jkd4life) – Profile | Pinterest

Chris Kent Jeet Kune Do – YouTube

Chris Kent’s ’15 Second Martial Arts Coach’ – YouTube

Chris Kent’s “Think Like Bruce Lee” – YouTube

(1) Instagram

Amazon.com: Chris Kent: books, biography, latest update

Dana Hee is a martial artist, motivational speaker, commentator, and author who has dedicated more than four decades to the martial arts.

Rising from an unstable and traumatic childhood, she used martial arts as a path to transformation, ultimately winning Olympic Gold in 1988.

Her success opened the door to Hollywood, where she performed stunts in blockbuster films such as Batman Forever, Charlie’s Angels, Terminator 2, Independence Day, Spider-Man 2, The Avengers, and many more.

In the early 2000s, she shifted her focus to motivational speaking, inspiring audiences around the world with her story of resilience and courage.

She is also the author of One Step with Courage: The Story of My Life from Olympic Gold Medalist to Hollywood Stuntwoman.

Please welcome my guest today… Dana Hee.

Dana Hee – IMDb

One Step with Courage: The Story of My Life from Olympic Gold Medalist to Hollywood Stuntwoman: Hee, Dana: 9798647506559: Amazon.com: Books