In this episode of the Krav Maga Worldwide Podcast, host Joel Ellenbecker sits down with Deputy Chief Instructor CJ Kirk to dive into Krav Maga’s principle-based approach to self-defense.

Key highlights include:

• The inspiration behind CJ’s Kravology article, Krav Maga’s Blueprint: Operating in Chaos Through Simplicity.
• Why principle-driven training is more effective than memorizing techniques.
• The biggest misconceptions and critiques of Krav Maga—what skeptics get wrong about self-defense training.
• How stress, adrenaline, and chaos impact decision-making in real-life attacks.
• Real-life success stories of students using Krav Maga to protect themselves.
• The value of scenario-based training and why it’s essential for real-world readiness.

This episode is packed with insights that challenge misconceptions and reinforce why Krav Maga remains one of the most effective self-defense systems on the planet.

In this episode of the Krav Maga Worldwide Podcast, host Joel Ellenbecker is joined by Ken Richstad, owner and head instructor of Krav Maga Raleigh, to explore his incredible journey within the Krav Maga community. From his early inspiration sparked by the Ninja Turtles to founding a thriving school in Raleigh, North Carolina, Ken shares how his path unfolded in unexpected ways.

Key highlights include:

• Ken’s martial arts beginnings and his move to Los Angeles to train at the Krav Maga Worldwide headquarters.
• His transition from teaching karate to becoming a certified Krav Maga instructor and school owner.
• The challenges and triumphs of building Krav Maga Raleigh, including navigating business hurdles and fostering a vibrant community.
• Insights into the benefits of being a Krav Maga Worldwide licensee and the power of mentorship, collaboration, and leadership within the network.
• Ken’s reflections on the transformative principles of Krav Maga and how they apply to life beyond self-defense.
• A glimpse into Ken’s experiences with advanced training, such as the KMW Handgun Expert course, and his dedication to continuous growth.

Tune in to hear Ken’s inspiring story, practical wisdom, and how Krav Maga has shaped his life and career. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or curious about starting your own Krav Maga journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Join Joel Ellenbecker and CJ Kirk as they delve into goal setting and preparation for 2025. This episode unpacks the importance of aligning your goals with your values, understanding the "why" behind them, and leveraging strategies like SMART and "SMARTy" goals for success. Joel and CJ also explore how these concepts apply to Krav Maga instructors, students, and school owners, emphasizing personal growth, community impact, and monetization strategies. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned instructor, this conversation will inspire you to create an intentional and impactful plan for the upcoming year.

Key Highlights:

• Setting Goals with Purpose: Why understanding the “why” behind your goals is crucial for success.
• "SMARTy(e)" Goals Framework: Beyond SMART—adding ethos to ensure your goals align with your principles.
• Personalized Goal Coaching: How asking powerful questions helps students and instructors achieve clarity and motivation.
• 2025 Planning Tips: Strategies to balance professional, personal, and Krav Maga-specific goals.
• Exciting Opportunities Ahead: A sneak peek at Krav Maga Worldwide’s 2025 calendar, including courses, certifications, and seminars.
• Building Community Trust: The role of credibility and relevant skills in strengthening student-instructor relationships.
• Actionable Retention Strategies: Ways to create new opportunities for students while boosting their long-term engagement.

Tune in now to start shaping your goals and building your path for a powerful new year.

In this episode of the Krav Maga Worldwide Podcast, Joel Ellenbecker and CJ Kirk explore the art and science of teaching Krav Maga, touching on what sets Krav Maga Worldwide apart and the unique approach needed to train and empower effective instructors.

Key Highlights:

• The Path to Becoming an Instructor: Discussing the process from student to teacher and the challenges in learning to effectively transfer skills and knowledge.
• Maintaining Standards in Teaching: How ongoing training, feedback, and certification help ensure Krav Maga instructors deliver a consistent, high-quality learning experience.
• The Importance of Accessibility and Advocacy: Insights on why good instructors advocate for students’ safety by simplifying defenses and ensuring techniques work for all body types.
• System-First Approach: Why Krav Maga is built around core principles that prioritize simplicity and instinctive reactions for real-world situations.

Tune in to hear how Krav Maga Worldwide continues to build a strong foundation of knowledgeable, skilled, and service-oriented instructors committed to keeping students safe.

Join us with this episode's guest and youth program expert, Trea Drake.

Join us with Kelly Campbell as our guest for this episode, diving into concepts like learning philosophy and the process of effective training.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of The Krav Maga Worldwide Podcast, your ultimate destination for everything Krav Maga! In our inaugural episode, we proudly introduce the latest additions to the leadership team at Krav Maga Worldwide (KMW), Joel Ellenbecker and CJ Kirk. These dynamic leaders bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and passion to the Krav Maga community.

In this episode, you will:

• Meet Joel Ellenbecker and CJ Kirk
• Explore Their Over 40 Years Combined Experience with KMW
• Hear Their Vision for the KMW Community
• Understand Industry Challenges
• Learn How to Contribute to Upcoming Content

Keep your pants on and get ready for an engaging and informative journey into the world of Krav Maga!