For transcriptions and more detailed shownotes, please go to: https://swordschool.shop/blogs/podcast/episode-218-physics-rainbows-and-3d-printing-with-stephan-eickelmann 

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Dr Stephan Eickelmann is the founder, president and head instructor of Schildwache Potsdam and a key organiser behind events such as Swords of the Renaissance (where you'll find Guy every year) and the International Torneo di Spada League. Alongside Stephan’s work in historical martial arts, he is a physicist with a PhD in experimental soft matter and interface physics, and a university researcher and teacher.

Stefan discovered historical martial arts during his PhD, and was drawn to its flat hierarchies, research driven mindset and emphasis on shared inquiry. His approach to teaching focuses on enabling independent thinking rather than transmitting authority. He is also involved in equipment design, open source safety development and building inclusive, responsibility driven club and event cultures.

We chat about how historical fencing is where teaching, making, research, safety and community all come together.

Our conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing traditional martial arts practices with modern safety and inclusivity. We discuss the impact of how small gestures, like painting nails and club t-shirts, create a more relaxed and inclusive environment in class.