In this episode of the INSIDE USA JUDO Interview Series, host Hannah Martin sits down with Dr. Jean Kanokogi for an inspiring and powerful conversation. Together, they dive into the legacy of her mother, Rusty Kanokogi, the groundbreaking force behind women’s judo, and explore Jean’s book Get Up and Fight.

Jean also opens up about her own journey of resilience, her commitment to carrying Rusty’s mission forward, the evolution of women’s judo, and the impactful work of the Women’s Sports Foundation.

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In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, host Hannah Martinsits down with Malia Manibog, one of the brightest rising stars on the tatami.

With international medals already under her belt and a reputation for fierce determination, Malia Manibog shares her journey of judo, She opens up about balancing school and judo, international travel, and reflects on what drives her to keep chasing bigger goals.

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In this episode, host Hannah Martin welcomes a true powerhouse in American judo — Heidi Moore! 🇺🇸 A 6th-dan black belt, certified athletic trainer, and 11-time Senior National medalist, Heidi has represented Team USA across the globe.

Since 1999, she’s been the driving force behind Denver Judo as Executive Director and head instructor, all while serving as coach of the U.S. Paralympic Judo Team at four consecutive Games — London, Rio, Tokyo, and Paris! 🥋🌍

We talk about Heidi’s incredible journey through the sport, what it means to build an inclusive judo community, her experience coaching at the highest level, and the lessons she’s learned on and off the tatami.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or judo fan, this episode is full of wisdom, leadership, and heart.

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In this episode, host Hannah Martin sits down with one of the USA’s most exciting young talents — Christopher Velazco, currently ranked No. 2 in the world in juniors at -60kg!

We dive into Christopher’s judo journey growing up in a judo family, what it’s like being coached by his Olympian father, his mindset heading into major international competitions, and of course — his thrilling rivalry with fellow junior standout Jonathan Yang. 🔥

Whether you’re a young judoka, a coach, or just a fan of the sport, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and motivation!

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In this episode of HAJIME: Inside USA JUDO, host and former National Team Member Hannah Martin sits down with Kristin El Idrissi, former Kata National Champion, mother of two, and longtime contributor to the U.S. judo community.

Kristin shares the unique story of how her judo journey evolved—from competitive athlete to discovering her passion for kata, the formal demonstration of judo techniques that emphasizes precision, tradition, and connection. She opens up about the mental and physical benefits of kata, especially in her life as a busy mom balancing family, training, and mentorship.

Whether you're new to judo, a lifelong competitor, or someone curious about kata’s role in personal growth, this episode offers something meaningful for everyone.

👉 Tune in for a deep dive into Kristin’s story, the evolution of women in judo, and how kata can be a lifelong path for judoka of all ages.

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🎙️ Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode with Nina Cutro-Kelly

In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, host Hannah Martin—recently retired USA Judo National Team athlete—sits down with longtime teammate Nina Cutro-Kelly, a 2020 Olympian and 5x Pan American Championship Medalist.

From career highlights to laugh-out-loud moments on and off the mat, Nina shares her journey through elite competition, the keys to her longevity in the sport, and what keeps her rooted in the judo community. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or fan, you won't want to miss this candid and inspiring conversation.

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In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, host Hannah Martin—recently retired USA Judo National Team athlete—sits down with Dr. Chris Round, a 4th-degree black belt in judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, and international-level coach. With a PhD in Environmental Science and Policy, Chris brings a rare combination of academic insight and elite-level judo experience.

Chris has trained alongside members of four Olympic teams and provided scouting services for the 2016 Olympic Games, the 2019 World Championships, and the 2022 Pan American Teams. Now coaching at High Noon Judo, he shares his knowledge with the next generation of athletes.

In this powerful conversation, Chris opens up about his journey through judo as an autistic athlete and coach—offering a deeply personal and inspiring perspective on how the sport has shaped his life, his coaching style, and his mission to create inclusive, high-level training environments.

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In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, Hannah Martin sits down with Carrie Chandler, 2005 Pan American Champion (-52kg), former world No. 9, and owner of Chandler Judo Academy. Carrie has seamlessly transitioned from an elite competitor to a highly respected coach, guiding athletes on the international stage. Most recently, she’s served as a coach for Team USA at the 2024 Cadet World Championships, Senior World Championships, and Pan American Championships.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, this conversation highlights the impact of strong female leaders in judo. Carrie shares her journey from the tatami as a fierce competitor to shaping the next generation of judoka, offering insights into coaching at the highest level and her passion for growing the sport.

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In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, Hannah Martin sits down with Maurice Allan, Head Coach and Owner of Sport Judo. Maurice has an incredible martial arts legacy—he represented the UK in freestyle wrestling at the 1976 Olympics, won gold at the 1975 World Sambo Wrestling Championships, and is a multiple-time national champion in both judo and wrestling. Most recently, he was awarded his 9th Dan—congratulations, Maurice!

With a lifetime dedicated to combat sports, Maurice shares his experiences as an athlete and coach, his philosophy on training, and the lessons he's learned throughout his remarkable career.

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Inside USA Judo Interview Series with Hannah Martin | Featuring Jim Hrbek

In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, Hannah Martin sits down with Jim Hrbek, who was recently awarded his 9th Dan—one of the highest honors in judo.

Jim shares unforgettable coaching moments as the owner and head coach of Universal Judo in San Antonio, Texas, and reflects on his incredible judo journey,

With an impressive coaching resume, Jim has been:

Past U.S. Olympic Coach (1988, 1992)

World Judo Team Coach (Seniors: 1984, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1997; Juniors: 2002, 2004; Cadets: 2009, 2013)

Sambo World Team Coach (2011)

Tune in to hear his thoughts on judo, his philosophy as a coach, and the lessons he's learned throughout his decades-long career.

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