“A black belt means I never quit.”
 “We may not speak the same language, but we can all speak martial arts.”
 “BKF wasn’t Kenpo — it was the first real MMA school.”
 “Fear is natural. The trick is to understand it, not run from it.”
 “Relaxation under pressure — that’s the highest skill.”
 “We started with 30 students. Only two made it. That’s what being a black belt means.”
 “Martial arts begins as movement but ends as self-discovery.”
 “At BKF, we don’t just build fighters — we build families.” 

--KC Jones

Welcome back to another episode of the Black Belt Podcast. I’m your host, Harinder Singh, and today I have the honor of sitting down with Master KC Jones – martial artist, leader, and CEO of the Black Karate Federation.

KC’s journey spans from training in the late 60s and 70s under the pioneers of the BKF, to leading it today as a community-driven organization that has shaped generations of martial artists. We dive into the birth of one of the first true mixed martial arts schools, the paramilitary training culture that forged champions, and the civil rights roots that gave BKF its spirit of equality and resilience.

This conversation goes deep into fluidity vs. rigidity, overcoming fear, and why the true mark of a black belt is simple: never quitting. We explore how martial arts teaches us to breathe under pressure, relax when the world tenses up, and transform from mastering techniques to mastering ourselves.

Whether you’re new to martial arts, a lifelong practitioner, or simply seeking wisdom to navigate life, KC’s calm, authentic voice brings lessons of discipline, humility, leadership, and service that transcend the dojo.

“Don’t take the fight where you’re best. Take it where the gap in skill is the greatest.”

“There are laws of physics even BJJ cannot overcome.”

“Fluid BJJ is a play on words. It’s about movement, adaptability, and training every day—especially in the water.”

“Before you can be a good teacher or businessman, you must be a good student of martial arts.”

• Karel “Silver Fox” Pravec

Welcome to the Black Belt Podcast, I am your host Harinder Singh.  In this powerful episode of the Black Belt Podcast, I sit down with a living legend of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karel "Silver Fox" Pravec. 

He is one of the most respected figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—A pioneer of BJJ in the United States, Silver Fox has been training with Renzo Gracie since the early 1990s and has spent decades refining a unique and deeply insightful approach to martial arts, training, and life.

From his foundational Taekwondo beginnings to his immersive time training in the famed “Blue Basement,” Silver Fox brings unmatched experience and clarity on what it means to be a lifelong martial artist. 

Known for his calm demeanor, razor-sharp technical insights, and a fluid, pressure-responsive style, Silver Fox is the embodiment of efficiency over force. He is the founder of Silver Fox BJJ Academy in New Jersey, author of the book Fluid BJJ: Scrawny “Middle Aged” Guy’s Guide to Getting Submissions, and the creator of a global online presence that includes his Silver Fox BJJ YouTube channel and app.

What sets him apart is not just his technical ability, but his deep understanding of how people learn, how the body and mind integrate under pressure, and how to evolve your game without destroying your body. In this conversation, we go beyond technique—we enter the realm of mindset, mastery, energy efficiency, longevity, mentorship, and lifestyle.

If you're a martial artist of any kind—whether you train BJJ or not—this episode is a masterclass in learning how to train smart, think clearly, and lead with wisdom.

You’ll hear battle-tested wisdom, practical advice, and timeless perspective on how to train smart, evolve continuously, and uplift others along the way.

“This journey didn’t begin with fight promotion—it began with the love of the arts, and it continues because of it.”

“Mastery is when you’re unconsciously competent—your body knows before your mind can think.”

“We didn’t just build champions—we built humans. And you can feel the difference when they walk into the room.” – Scott Coker

Welcome to a very special episode of the Black Belt Podcast. I’m your host, Harinder Singh, and today I’m joined by a true pioneer, visionary, and martial artist—Scott Coker.

You may know him as the founder of Strikeforce, the former president of Bellator, or the man who helped shape the careers of some of the greatest fighters in the world. But what sets Scott apart is not just what he built—it's how he built it.

At his core, Scott is a martial artist. A student and teacher who carries the legacy of Ernie Reyes, a master of building not just champions, but character. From training in Korea to creating global fight organizations, from discovering legends like Daniel Cormier and Ronda Rousey to launching his latest venture, “Fight Night,” Scott’s journey is a masterclass in authenticity, intuition, and martial arts spirit.

In this conversation, we dive into:

• The philosophy behind building warriors from the ground up.
• The subtle art of talent identification and what it means to feel someone's greatness before the world sees it.
• The return to grassroots martial arts through “Fight Night” in San Jose.
• The evolving culture of combat sports—from rings to cages, from Muay Thai to MMA.
• And most importantly, what it really means to live, breathe, and walk the path of martial arts—on and off the mat.

This is more than a conversation. It’s a rare glimpse into the heart and mind of someone who’s helped shape the evolution of modern martial arts, all while staying deeply rooted in the traditional code of the warrior.

 "Survive first, win later. The goal is to stay in the fight." 

 "Martial arts training can be the crucible for developing life skills beyond fighting—mental toughness, social intelligence, and adaptability." 

 "If your goal is longevity, your #1 priority should be injury prevention." 

 "You can’t define someone else’s success—choose your own path in martial arts and life." 

 -Stephan Kesting 

Welcome to the Black Belt Podcast, where we explore the art, philosophy, and evolution of martial arts beyond just technique—diving deep into its impact on mindset, adaptability, and real-world application. 

I’m your host, Harinder Singh, and today’s guest is none other than Stephan Kesting—a Canadian martial artist, educator, and author renowned for his contributions to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and other martial arts. Holding a fourth-degree black belt in BJJ, he has dedicated over 40 years to martial arts training, including disciplines such as Combat Submission Wrestling, Kajukenbo Karate, and various forms of Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Martial Arts. His extensive background also encompasses studies in Judo, Sambo, Kung Fu, Capoeira, and Muay Thai. 

Stephan is the founder of GrappleArts.com and brings a broad perspective on martial arts effectiveness across different contexts—from sport to street to survival. 

In addition to being a world-class instructor, Stephan has a background in outdoor survival training, having completed an unassisted 42-day solo canoe trip covering 1,000 miles through seven river and lake systems, without seeing another human for 21 days. 

“If you define success by achieving specific things on a rigid path, then you set yourself up for disappointment. True success is process-oriented, goal-focused.”

"In a finite game, the purpose is to win. In an infinite game, the purpose is to keep playing.”

"Winning isn’t always the best indicator of success. Performing at your highest level is."

--Herb Perez

"Welcome to The Black Belt Podcast! I’m your host, Harinder Singh, and today we have a truly remarkable episode lined up for you. My guest is none other than Olympic gold medalist, martial artist, strategist, and master coach—Herb Perez.

Herb is a living embodiment of what it means to be a true martial artist—not just in skill, but in mind, heart, and philosophy. He’s a competitor at the highest level, a deep thinker, and a leader who has helped shape the next generation of martial artists and high performers. His journey has taken him from the Olympic podium to coaching, law, business, and now authorship, with his new book, One Champion’s Pathway: A Guide to Personal Success.

In this episode, we go beyond just martial arts and competition. Herb shares the hidden truths behind success, breaking down the infinite game—why mastery isn’t about winning but about staying in the game and continuously evolving. We talk about the power of patience, the difference between performance and results, and how to prepare, read, and manipulate an opponent at the highest levels of competition.

This is an episode about strategy, focus, perseverance, and transformation—a masterclass for martial artists, athletes, coaches, and anyone seeking to unlock their full potential in any field.

So, get ready for some incredible wisdom, and let’s dive into my conversation with the legendary Herb Perez."

"Fear is not my enemy; it is a friend. Fear is only allowing me to see an aspect of myself I was not willing to look at."

"The only moment you can truly live or die is now. So why waste time on the past or worry about the future?"

"When you remember who you are, you don’t need to discover yourself; you just need to align with your spiritual origin."

"Teaching is not a process; it’s instantaneous. You learn in the moment if you are truly present."

"If I become the best I can be now, every moment becomes a miracle."

"Martial arts is life—it’s about who you are when you’re not in the dojo."

"True mastery lies in living honor, integrity, and presence—not in titles or ranks." 

 --- Mike Stone

Welcome to another powerful episode of The Black Belt Podcast! I’m your host, Harinder Singh, and today we have a truly legendary guest joining us—a pioneer, a philosopher, and a living embodiment of the martial arts spirit.  My guest this episode is Mr. Mike Stone.  He is not just a martial artist; he’s an icon whose contributions to the martial arts world have shaped generations. Known for his unmatched competitive record during the "blood and guts" era, Mike has been a trailblazer in sport karate and a voice for the deeper, transformative power of martial arts. His journey spans decades of mastery, from being a champion fighter to becoming a philosopher of life, exploring the realms of mindset, synchronicity, and the universal laws that govern our existence.

In today’s episode, Mike takes us beyond the physical techniques of martial arts and into the spiritual and mental depths that define true mastery. He shares his profound insights on living in the present, integrating fear as a tool for growth, and remembering who we truly are. With his characteristic candor and wisdom, Mike Stone will challenge you to reimagine not just martial arts, but your life itself.

My key takeaway is that the essence of martial arts is not just a physical discipline, but a pathway to spiritual and mental growth, fueled by honor, respect, and integrity.  The ultimate journey in life and martial arts is to know oneself, and to start asking, “Who am I?” and start living in alignment with love and light. We dive deep into mindset and synchronicity and discuss how synchronicity and alignment with universal laws can create meaningful transformations.  Mike champions the power of the present moment as the only reality, urging listeners to live fully in the now rather than dwelling on the past or future.  

So, buckle up and get ready for a conversation that will inspire, provoke, and empower. This is an episode you do not want to miss. Let’s dive in!

"Joy is a trainable skill, and like any martial art, it requires practice, especially in the face of discomfort and chaos." 

 "Your obstacles are your greatest teachers. Like the samurai seeking out the master swordsman, life’s challenges are here to test and refine you." 

 "Gratitude cuts through the noise and brings you into the present moment—because the present is all we truly have." 

 "When life puts you in a chokehold, don’t resist—relax, assess, and flow through the problem. That’s the essence of martial arts and life." 

 "Martial arts is self-development. It’s not just about fighting; it’s about learning how to flow with challenges, overcome fear, and find your true self."  

-- Budo Brothers 

My guest this episode are The Budo Brothers.   They are innovators, creators, and lifelong martial artists on a mission to bring the values of martial arts to the world. Founded by Eric Allan and Kyle Mahadeo, the Budo Brothers have built a global lifestyle brand that blends martial arts, personal development, and entrepreneurship. Through innovative products like the Hood Gi, digital seminars, and community initiatives like the Budo Youth Fund, they embody what it means to live the warrior’s way—on and off the mats. 

Driven by authenticity and a passion for self-expression, the Budo Brothers stand out for their unique ability to combine traditional martial arts principles with modern creativity. Whether it’s crafting premium martial arts gear, designing groundbreaking online courses, or inspiring others to find joy in the process, they represent the intersection of discipline, service, and innovation. 

This episode highlights the intersection of martial arts, personal development, and entrepreneurship. It’s about using martial arts as a metaphor for life’s lessons—teaching us to flow through challenges, find joy in the process, and create a life of purpose and abundance. The Budo Brothers inspire us to embrace creativity, give back to the community, and remain authentic in our pursuits.  My Key takeaway is that Joy is like any martial art—it’s something you can train. Even in the face of defeat and depression, joy is a skill you build through gratitude, resilience, and taking small steps forward. It’s about finding your center and flowing with life’s challenges instead of resisting them.  This episode is all about transformation—how martial arts is more than just punching and kicking; it’s a vehicle for growth, creativity, and serving others. The Budo Brothers share their journey of turning passion into purpose, building a brand with heart, and using martial arts as a path to a joyful, abundant life. It’s about living the way of the warrior—not just in the dojo, but in every moment of your life.  The Budo Brothers are more than just a brand; they are a movement. Their mission is to inspire martial artists and non-martial artists alike to embrace the lessons of the arts and use them as tools to overcome challenges, create meaning, and live a life full of joy and abundance.  Tune in for another awe inspiring episode. 

"We know we can't make it; we don’t have the lifespan to know it all. But that’s what makes us warriors—we still choose to walk the path, even knowing we’ll never reach the end.”

“The breath is the bridge—it’s the control point for your body, your spirit, and your mind. Mastering it gives you the reins to navigate any challenge, on or off the mat."

"One of the major speed bumps is the need to do something... the more you seek, the less you find." – Alan Baker

Welcome back, today we have a truly inspiring guest—someone who has been a close friend and a powerful influence on my journey in the martial arts world. Joining me is Sifu Alan Baker. Alan is a professional martial artist, author, and tactical trainer with a deep commitment to the art, the lifestyle, and the warrior mindset.  He's a rare example of a complete martial artist, blending knowledge across styles— His expertise spans Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wing Chun, Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Keysi Fighting Method and more, making him a dynamic instructor with an emphasis on both the art and science of combat.

As the founder of the Atlanta Martial Arts Center, Alan has built a reputation for bridging traditional martial arts, self-defense, and tactical training. In addition to running his academy, Alan is the creator of the Civilian Tactical (SeaTac) Program, designed to bring practical self-defense and personal protection training to civilians. His unique approach has been sought out by law enforcement agencies, military groups, and protection specialists. Alan is not only a martial artist but a lifelong student and advocate of the warrior mindset, integrating practices like Qigong and breath control into his teachings to help individuals develop balance, resilience, and focus.

My Key Takeaway is that it is always about The Journey Over the Destination: Alan emphasizes that martial arts is a lifelong journey, where every accomplishment reveals new levels to explore. He believes in keeping a beginner's mindset, continuously seeking knowledge without the need to "arrive."  We also discuss the value of creating a personalized martial arts “system” for each practitioner, built upon foundational skills but continuously evolving based on individual experiences and needs.  We dive deep into the importance of creating martial arts communities, by creating martial arts academies that are sanctuaries, and places where students can feel safe, supported, and be able to discover their true selves.  In our conversation, we explore how martial arts goes beyond physical training, becoming a bridge to personal empowerment, resilience, and even healing. Alan shares insights into what it means to live with a warrior’s mindset, the importance of the breath as the ‘bridge’ to balance and focus, and how he sees each practitioner’s journey as one of continual adaptation and self-expression.

This episode is packed with wisdom, so whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or just beginning your path, get ready to be inspired. Let’s jump in!

"To always be yourself. Have faith in yourself. Don’t look for a successful personality and duplicate it. These are very strong pointers to truth, but they’re dismissed by a lot of people. If you understand this, it makes your life way more exciting and open to learning." – John Little

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Black Belt Podcast, where we explore the bridge between the deep-rooted philosophy of martial arts and its impact on everyday life. Today, I have the honor of sitting down with one of the world's foremost authorities on Bruce Lee – John Little. John is a renowned author and filmmaker, widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities on Bruce Lee’s philosophy, training methods, and personal legacy. He is the only person officially selected by the Bruce Lee estate to review Lee’s private notes and writings, which has allowed him unparalleled insight into the martial artist’s mind. In addition to his extensive work on Bruce Lee, he has authored over 40 books across various topics, including fitness, bodybuilding, and philosophy, blending his expertise in physical training with a deep understanding of personal growth and mastery.

In this episode, we dive into Bruce Lee’s philosophy, and how it extends far beyond martial arts, and its relevance to personal growth, self-expression, and mastery in all areas of life. Whether you’re a martial artist, a student of life, or simply seeking ways to live more fully, this episode is packed with profound insights that will inspire you to reflect on your own journey.

My key takeaway is that Bruce Lee’s art was rooted in philosophy, not just combat. Bruce saw martial arts as a vehicle for self-expression and personal development, with applications far beyond the dojo or ring.  Mr. Little emphasized that Bruce Lee’s Mantra, “Be yourself,” underlines his belief that mastery comes from self-awareness and expressing your own truth rather than imitating others. His path was about breaking free from limitations and conditioning to find true self-liberation.  We discussed the balance between the yin (internal, philosophical aspects) and yang (external, physical practice) of life and martial arts. True mastery involves integrating both aspects into a harmonious flow that extends into all aspects of life.  John explained that the obstacles encountered on the path to mastery – whether in martial arts or life – reveal much about ourselves. The true opponent isn’t always external; it’s often within us, and martial arts helps us confront and transcend our inner limitations.  We dove deep into the importance of passion in pursuing mastery.  Without passion, the journey becomes mechanical and devoid of meaning. True mastery, in any field, requires deep passion and a commitment to growth.  John is a true philosopher who emphasizes that martial arts should inform how we live, make decisions, and navigate the challenges of everyday life with presence and awareness.

Make sure to tune in to this episode and join us on the journey of self-discovery, inspired by the legacy of Bruce Lee and the timeless wisdom of martial arts philosophy.

“Train like a fighter, think like a soldier, fight like a warrior.  I believe confidence has to be done with inoculation.  In martial arts we have stress and aggression drills that inoculate us to pain, it’s like they give us a little bit of poison, and the next night a little more poison, then a year and a half later, when we are in the arena with real fighting, we can perform.  In sparring you have to give students inoculations, it’s got to be done in a logical progression, because if you don’t do it in a logical progression, those students will break.  So first they need to learn defensive maneuvers, then they got to learn how to block and get hit, it’s got to be done in a systematic progression with sparring drills that lead the way.  This is how you build confidence.”—Mike Lee Kanarek

My guest this episode is Mike Lee Kanarek, who is a multi discipline martial arts master.  He is the founder of Haganah, a 6’th degree Black Belt in Joe Lewis Fighting Systems, a 4th Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, a 1’st Degree black belt in Krav Maga, a Brown belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Former Special Forces.  He was inducted into the Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame and was Instructor of the year in 2007.  He is a teacher of teachers and has instructed Special Units in every branch of the US Military.

This episode is all about progressively developing the warrior spirit and trusting yourself in combat.  My key takeaway is that constant growth and evolution is essential to building trust and performing under pressure.  In life and death situations, those who have prepared themselves by testing themselves under pressure, will have the confidence to execute in chaos.  A principles based modular approach that addresses the physical, mental, tactical, and spiritual aspects of an individual is essential for growth and development in combat and in life.  We discuss the importance of integrating fighting training from sports combat with self-defense training to develop a complete martial artist.  Mr. Kanarek is truly a Machine, he has a unique sense of his purpose, and is driven to make the world a safer place by creating warriors on and off the battlefield.  Join me for an amazing episode with a one of a kind martial arts personality.