Living Martial Arts

Alfie Lewis talks to the Dark and the tall Master

Along with the tall Master, we chat with Master Alfie Lewis about all things martial arts. As mentioned in my blog, I challenge anyone to find another person who is close to the level of passion that Master Alfie Lewis has for martial arts—not just his love and knowledge of his art but his extensive knowledge of other martial arts, too.

I love seeing Alfie's 'Keep History Alive posts' on Facebook. He features many old-school martial arts practitioners from various disciplines.

He's also in the process of writing a book. I'm sure it will be a great read, and I can't wait. 

We had a great catch-up talking about our favourite topic. I hope you enjoy the chat as much as we did.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

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Sandy Holt is a nice guy. I met him many years ago at an event in the north of the UK, and I felt like I’d known him for years.  After so many years, it was great to catch up with him again. I’m happy to say that sandy is still that nice guy I met many years ago and he continues to inspire me and many others by how he continues to live his martial arts journey.

Sandy Holt is the Founder of Bolton Thai-Boxing Club, which was established in 1983. The Club has gone from strength to strength. His fighting career has been a successful one, gaining Titles such as the British Lightweight, British All Styles, and WMTA (World Muay Thai Association) European Superfeatherweight Thai-boxing Champion.

He's also responsible for projects like Northwest England U.K. Kick Drugs. I'm a member of the U.K. "Bully Free Zone" Anti Bullying Scheme in Schools & Colleges. Other Accomplishments of my career include T.V. appearances on programmes such as You Bet, Live TV (Motormouth), James Whale, Dear Nick, Big Breakfast, Look North West, Vanessa Feltz Chat Show, and Kilroy. Granada TV is doing a Press-up Challenge. He is honoured to have commentated on many TV Shows, including Sky TV Thai-Boxing, Channel 5 “Night of Combat” (with Malcolm Martin), and many UK & International DVD & Video Fight Night Commentary. U.B.C. Thailand, Muay-Thai TV Live at Thepasit Stadium in Pattaya. He’s also honoured to have assisted Master Sken in Volumes 1 & 2 in the Hayashi Martial Arts Videos, Which have been Distributed Internationally.

I hope you enjoy our chat as much as I did.

The link below lets you learn more about Sandy Holt and Bolton Thai Boxing.

https://thaiboxing.co.uk/about-bolton-thai-boxing-club/

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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Michael Goodison talks to The Dark Master.

Michael Goodison is a writer and a fighter. In his book Muay Thai: Peace, At Last, he documents his travels to Thailand. He is fighting an ever-present disinterest in the Western way of life.

We talk about his journey, how he ended up in the spirit of Muay Thai, and some of the other challenges he outlines in his book.

You can check out his book here: https://amzn.eu/d/00hkUO4o

I hope you enjoy our chat.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/living-martial-arts-1629450

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Jamie Clubb Talks to The Dark Master

Jamie is the author of 'When Parents Aren't Around,' recognized as the most comprehensive guide to children's self-protection, and has established an excellent reputation for informed and evidence-based self-protection training.

Jamie Mentions Mary Stevens, a former school teacher and Oxford University graduate who owns and runs Athena School of Karate. She also played a large part in helping to develop the program. Mary is a published children's author and leader in women's self-defense. Both are based in Oxfordshire.

Animal Instincts is the result of five years of planning and development. Please follow us to stay up to date on offers and information about the forthcoming launch!

I hope you enjoy our chat.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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Natalie Jurado is a Magnesium Expert on a mission to spread awareness about this often-overlooked mineral. You see, it wasn’t that long ago that she spent most of her days constantly anxious, stressed and overwhelmed. Despite living a healthy lifestyle: eating organic foods, exercising and using healthy products, she was still dealing with health issues.

Her doctors kept encouraging her to use prescription meds, but she was concerned about all the side effects. Instead, she started a journey to heal herself naturally. She spent thousands of dollars and years of her life looking for a solution to the crippling anxiety, chronic pain and devastating insomnia that was stopping her from living the life she craved.

She started using magnesium daily on her skin, and her life changed! She began feeling calm and centred, had tons of energy, slept restfully through the night and felt years younger.

She reclaimed her life and wants others to have the same freedom and vitality she enjoys now. Her mission is to share this miracle mineral with the world so they can be their most vibrant, healthy and energetic selves.

Magnesium is responsible for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle recovery. Deficiency is strongly correlated with symptoms including anxiety and depression, insomnia, chronic headaches and more.

Restoring magnesium levels can be confusing, leaving people overwhelmed and misinformed. I hope to demystify this mineral and help people make better health choices.

I hope you enjoy our chat.

You can check out Natalie's website here: https://berootedin.com/

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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Karen Findley is a very modest martial artist. I say that because she trained during the tough, brutal years of martial arts. Not only is that a real accomplishment, but the fact that she is a female makes it even more impressive. She’s also very matter-of-fact about her training and achievements and talks as if it was no big deal. Let me tell those who don’t already know that it is a huge deal and that her spirit and will to persevere during those times are awe-inspiring. I’ll leave you to decide, but I’m almost certain you’ll come to my conclusion. The love for her martial journey comes across in our chat, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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Rick Koenig embarked on a remarkable journey when he began martial arts training at 4. Growing up in New Jersey, Rick had a unique upbringing, as their father owned pizzerias, where they actively participated in running and working.

In later years, Rick transitioned into the security world, working at nightclubs in Philadelphia and New Jersey. During this time, Rick had the opportunity to cross paths with notable figures like Paul Wight II and provided security for legendary individuals such as Mike Tyson and Dennis Rodman.

However, life took a challenging turn as Rick found himself entangled in "mob connections," leading him down a troubling path that ultimately resulted in imprisonment alongside his father in the maximum-state security prisons of the Department of Corrections in New Jersey.

Upon Rick's release, he exhibited resilience and determination by purchasing and owning MMA facilities while pursuing a career as a professional fighter in the late 1980s. In 2009, Rick relocated to Branson, Missouri, and opened his MMA school.

In martial arts, Rick played a significant role in training law enforcement personnel and even became a member of the 1% Biker's Club, showcasing his commitment to the craft.

Life dealt Rick further challenges as he faced separation and the heart-wrenching disappearance of his oldest son for two years. Although his son was eventually found, his son's passing under suspicious circumstances cast a shadow of doubt and conspiracy theories.

Rick courageously confronted his struggles with alcohol addiction, triumphing over this formidable adversary. Today, Rick has transitioned into his full-time role at his gym, dedicating his energy to training others and serving as an inspiration, leader, and mentor. His journey is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the unwavering pursuit of a better future.

I hope you enjoy our chat.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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John Hanratty sensei has trained and taught Shotokan karate for over 54 years. He is the Chief Instructor for the Canadian Shotokan Karate Association and the National Coach. He is also past president and current Vice President of the World Shotokan Karate Association.

Hanratty sensei was elected the 3M Coach of the Year in 1989 by Karate Canada and has been nominated for the Air Canada Sportsman Award. He has also received a Distinguished Citizen Award from the City of Calgary for services to sport. He is an internationally ranked official and a top-level NCCP coach.

Hanratty Sensei instructs and conducts seminars throughout North America and Europe and is considered a leading authority on Karate Kata history and application.

You can find out more about Hanratty Sensei by using this link:

https://hanrattykarate.com/

I hope you enjoy our chat.

Please consider buying me a Ko-Fi at https://ko-fi.com/thedarkmaster

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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Mr Lawrence Warry was a student from my early years as a young martial arts teacher. Specific individuals enter your school, and they immediately make a significant impact on everyone within your school, usually without even knowing the impact they’ve made. Lawrence Warry is one of those students who had a significant impact on my school because of his courtesy, humility, and willingness always to do what was asked of him. I loved when he was in class because he was one of those students that made me a better teacher.

It was an absolute pleasure to talk with him about the old days and where his martial arts journey has taken him.

I feel very blessed to have been part of his journey.

I hope you enjoy our chat.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

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Master Mark Hutton is one of those people I love to chat with. He doesn't mince words and shoots straight from the hip; he is just the kind of person I like. Master Hutton is known throughout TKD circles as an inspirational character who practices what he preaches, which is another thing I like about him. I was pleased to catch up with him and chat about all things TKD and why returning to some of the old ways will be necessary. Chatting to him it is clear that he loves to help people and that is the sign of a true martial artist. if you ever get to speak with him, I guarantee you will not be disappointed. However, beware as he tells it like it is.

I hope you enjoy our chat.

I'd be grateful if you could leave a review for the Living Martial Arts podcast using the following links:

Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/living-martial-arts/id1558703179

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3MDv2bt1ORsKpD4158cqLA?si=Q9Klv5iQQhOaXiXwhp-OdA

Podchaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/living-martial-arts-1629450

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