🎙️ UK Karate Podcast – Season 2 Episode 12 | In Conversation with WTKO Chief Instructor Richard Amos SenseiWelcome back to the UK Karate Podcast!In Season 2, Episode 12, we’re honoured to sit down with Richard Amos Sensei, Chief Instructor of the World Traditional Karate Organisation (WTKO). Known globally for his precision, exceptional technical skill, and decades of dedication to traditional Shotokan Karate, Amos Sensei joins us for a deep, insightful conversation you won’t want to miss.In this episode we discuss:🥋 His journey from the UK to Japan and training at the JKA Hombu Dojo🥋 Lessons learned from senior Japanese instructors🥋 The evolution of traditional Karate and its modern challenges🥋 Technical insights into kihon, kata, and kumite🥋 The mission and growth of the WTKO worldwide🥋 Advice for instructors, students, and future generations of KaratekaWhether you are a karate student, instructor, Shotokan practitioner, or simply passionate about martial arts history and development, this episode delivers real depth, inspiration, and expert knowledge.🔔 Subscribe for more interviews, technical breakdowns, and UK martial arts conversations:👉 UK Karate Podcast – new episodes every week👍 Like, comment, and shareFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcastInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/Online Karate Magazine:https://budomindset.comWTKO:https://www.wtko.org/Karate IKIGAI Academyhttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/karate-ikigai-academy-intl/id6473020461Let us know your thoughts, questions, or your experience training under Richard Amos Sensei or within the WTKO.Let us know your thoughts, questions, or your experience training under Richard Amos Sensei or within the WTKO.#Karate #ShotokanKarate #WTKO #RichardAmos #KaratePodcast

UK Karate Podcast – Episode: Hayden MeredithInterview | Shotokan & Kase Ha Journey

In this episode of the UK Karate Podcast, we sit down with Sensei Hayden Meredith,a dedicated karateka whose martial arts journey began back in 2012 at just 12years old. From his early days training in Shotokan Karate mixed with freestylekickboxing influences, to earning his 1st Dan black belt at 16, Hayden sharesthe ups and downs of his journey through multiple martial arts styles — judo,boxing, kung fu, and kickboxing — before finding his home in Kase Ha Shotokan.

💬 Hayden talks openly about thechallenges of switching clubs, the politics of martial arts associations, andhow finding supportive instructors shaped his development. Now a Sandan (3rdDan), Hayden runs his own successful club (founded in 2019), teaches across theUK, and hosts his popular Sunday Budo Sessions — online and in-person seminarsthat bring karateka from different styles together.

🔥 Whether you’re a karate student,instructor, or lifelong martial artist, you’ll find inspiration in Hayden’sstory of resilience, community, and passion for continuous learning.

📺 Subscribe for more in-depthinterviews with instructors, competitors, and martial artists shaping thefuture of UK Karate.

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🎥 John O’Neill , A Lifetime in Karate, from Liverpool to the World Stage 🥋

From a 13-year-old beginner in Liverpool to an international karate champion, coach, and mentor — this is the incredible journey of John O’Neill.

Starting his martial arts journey in Wado Ryu Karate, John quickly showed his dedication and passion for the art, earning his 1st Kyu before transitioning to Shotokan Karate under Sensei Tony Chin. Training six days a week, his hunger for growth took him to the legendary Red Triangle Dojo in Everton — a true test of spirit, discipline, and humility.

Over the years, John evolved from a determined young fighter into one of the UK’s most accomplished karateka. His achievements include:
🥇 3x Red Triangle Individual Kumite Champion
🥋 5x KUGB National Team Champion
🏆 KUGB Shotokan Cup U21 Champion
🥈 European Silver Medalist (Finland)
🥉 World Bronze Medalist (Japan)
💪 Represented England and Great Britain for over a decade, competing across Europe, Japan, and Russia.

John was also honoured to demonstrate alongside Sensei Enoeda at the Budokan in Japan and at the KUGB Nationals in Birmingham — a moment that became Sensei Enoeda’s final demonstration.

After a 15-year break from competition, John returned with the HDKI (Hinzen Do Karate International) at age 50 — winning gold at the HDKI Nationals in the Veteran Kumite event and later securing a World Bronze Medal at the 2024 WUKF Championships in Dundee. 🥉

Today, John leads Aigburth Shotokan Karate (ASK) in Liverpool, inspiring a new generation of karateka. Under his guidance, ASK students have topped national medal tables and joined national squads, carrying forward his spirit of dedication, humility, and perseverance.

Outside the dojo, John works for the NHS as a Violence Reduction Specialist, holding a BSc (Hons) degree and consulting in his area of expertise. He is married to Paula, with two sons, Connah and Patrick, both sharing the family’s karate legacy.

🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more inspiring martial arts stories, interviews, and training insights.
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🥋 Ken Hori – A Karate Journey Through Decades | Shotokan Karate Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Ken Hori Sensei, Chief Instructor of Cambridge Karate Dojo and senior instructor within JKA WF England, to hear his remarkable karate journey spanning over 35 years. From his early days at Cambridge University Karate Club to training with legends like Sensei Enoeda, Nishiyama, Mori, Mikami, and Naka, Ken shares a story of passion, perseverance, and lifelong learning.

📖 Ken Hori’s Karate Journey

Phase 1 (1987–1990): The Beginning

• Started karate while studying Maths at Cambridge University.

• Trained under Eric Pich, graded by Bob Poynton, with Sensei Enoeda visiting termly.

• Became Men’s Captain, achieved Shodan in record time, and represented Cambridge with BUSA medals.

• Toured the USA, training with Nishiyama, Mori, Mikami, and Enoeda.

Phase 2 (1990–1994): Tokyo Years

• Returned to Japan as a young salaryman.

• Trained at a JKA dojo in Tokyo before work commitments took over.

Phase 3 (1994–1998): London Years

• Posted to London, trained with KUGB, and earned Nidan with Sensei Enoeda.

Phase 4 (1998–2004): Back to Cambridge

• Resumed training with Cambridge University Karate Club.

• Became Captain again, won numerous national medals, and earned Sandan in 2001.

• Represented Cambridge at Sensei Enoeda’s memorial service.

Phase 5 (2005–2019): JKA England Years

• Joined Oasis Shotokan Karate Club under Sensei Ohta.

• Became an assistant instructor, national squad coach, and international competitor.

• Progressed to Godan and continued winning medals nationally and internationally.

Phase 6 (2014–Present): Cambridge Karate Dojo

• Founded Cambridge Karate Dojo, now one of the largest in the city with nearly 150 members.

• Continued teaching through lockdowns with 179 Zoom sessions.

Phase 7 (2021–Present): JKA WF England

• Co-founded Japan Shotokan Karate England (JSKE) with Roy Tomlin.

• Joined JKA WF England under Sensei Kawasoe.

• Expanded to 9 clubs and 350+ members, regularly attending international gasshuku.

• Achieved Rokudan, Instructor A, Examiner B, and Referee B licences in 2024.

• Trains regularly with Sensei Kawasoe, Sensei Shimizu, and Sensei Naka.

✨ Episode highlights:

• Balancing elite academics, career, and karate.

• Insights from training with legendary Shotokan masters.

• Building Cambridge Karate Dojo and helping karate flourish in the UK.

• How to train “tsuyoi karate” — strong karate — focusing on power, balance, and spirit.

🎧 Whether you’re a student of Shotokan karate, a martial artist, or someone inspired by discipline and dedication, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration.

👉 If you enjoy the episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with karateka and martial arts leaders!

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🎙️ Welcome to the UK Karate Podcast – Episode with Dean Hodgkin 🥋🇬🇧Welcome to the UK Karate Podcast, where we explore the journeys of karateka from all backgrounds, sharing real stories, insights, and experiences from across the karate world. This is a non-political, passion-driven platform that shines a light on the martial artists who’ve helped shape—and are still shaping—the art we love.

In this special episode, we sit down with Dean Hodgkin, a true legend in English karate. Dean was a key figure in the iconic KUGB team that famously defeated Japan at the 1990 Shoto World Championships in Sunderland—clinching the final match in dramatic fashion. Dean went on to become a WSKA World Champion (individual and team), a winner of the prestigious JKA Nakayama Cup, and remains one of the most respected names in the sport.

In this episode, Dean opens up about:

- His early days in karate

- What it was like to compete at the highest level

- That legendary win over Japan

- Lessons learned from the top

Whether you’re a lifelong karateka or just curious about the martial arts world, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

🟥 Subscribe, like, and hit the bell to keep up with future episodes, and join us as we continue to document the untold stories of UK karate.

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In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with the incredible Chrissie Howard – a passionate martial artist, dedicated instructor, and inspiring voice in the karate community.Chrissie shares her personal journey in karate, from her early beginnings to becoming a respected figure both on and off the tatami. We dive into her experiences as a competitor, her approach to teaching, the challenges she’s overcome, and the impact karate has had on her life.🔥 Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist, a beginner, or someone who just loves hearing stories of dedication and growth, this episode has something for you!📲 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on future episodes!Socialshttps://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/🎧 Also Available on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9fTKxDY0EFsanYHy#KaratePodcast #ChrissieHoward #MartialArts #KarateJourney #Inspiration #PodcastInterview #WomenInMartialArts

David Sensei started karate in January 1991at Newark SKC under Sensei Darren Taggart. Took his first Kyu grading with Sensei Bob Rhodes and competed at the Lincoln Open as a red belt, earning runner-up. Trained 3+ times weekly, inspired by Newark and Grantham dojos. Failed Shodan in 1994, but passed under Sensei Enoeda in Rhyl, May 1994—first black belt for my senseis. Earned Nidan in 1997. Competed until 2000, with a final silver medal in 2007. Returned in 2019 when my son Taylor started training. Joined Shotokan Connect in 2021, passed Sandan, and trained at JKA Hombu Dojo in Japan. Now teaching and pursuing Kyu examiner status. Reflecting on training, competitions, and the joy of helping others grow.https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9fTKxDY0EFsanYHy?si=dc29b3ac15e74d97🥋 Share your karate story below!📩 Subscribe for more!#KarateJourney #ShotokanKarate #BlackBelt #Kumite #ShotokanConnect

An inspiring podcast interview with Fran Charlton, 4th Dan martial artist, Whose incredible journey transforms a tumultuous upbringing into a powerful Budo Mindset. Born into a creative yet chaotic family marked by narcissism, abuse, and neglect, Fran found strength through martial arts starting at age 11. From karate competitions to embracing aikido, overcoming malnutrition, and navigating an unexpected pregnancy, Fran’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery. Now a sports and injury therapist and founder of Budo Mindset, Don’t miss this captivating tale of healing and empowerment!🎧 Listen to the full episode:🔗 https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/🔗https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/🔗https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9fTKxDY0EFsanYHy?si=9ce13abe24504a4f🔗 https://budomindset.com/In this episode, Fran discusses:• Starting karate at 11 and her journey through competition, aikido, and kung-fu• Overcoming physical and mental burnout to embrace self-care• Earning three university degrees and launching a sports therapy career• Rapid recovery from hip surgery to achieve her 4th Dan in 2020• Founding Budo Mindset and running Hagfors Chōwa Karate Club in SwedenSubscribe for more inspiring stories of martial arts and personal growth! 🥋✨#MartialArts #BudoMindset #FranCharlton #Karate #PodcastInterview #Inspiration #wtko #shotokan

Join us for an in-depth interview with Scott Langley, 7th Dan Shotokan Karate master, founder of Hombu Dojo Karate International (HDKI), and bestselling author of Karate Stupid and A Sustainable Karate-ka. Starting martial arts at age five with jujutsu and transitioning to karate in North Yorkshire, Scott’s path led him to Japan, where he became the fifth non-Japanese to graduate the gruelling JKS Instructors’ Course. In this conversation, Scott shares his experiences training under legendary sensei's, insights on building a sustainable karate practice, and the challenges of balancing tradition with modern martial arts.🌟 Highlights include Scott’s reflections on his time in Japan, the dimensions of karate, and his vision for fostering community in the martial arts world.👉 Subscribe for more inspiring martial arts content!🔔 Hit the bell icon to stay updated.💬 Tell us in the comments: What’s your biggest takeaway from Scott’s journey?📌 Follow Scott Langley: https://hombudojokarate.com/📌 Check out Scott’s books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Karate-Stupid-Scott-Langley/dp/178301346X📌Boken-Sha Quality Gi's: https://boken-sha.com/📌Budo Mindset Magazine: https://budomindset.com/📌 Connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/📌 Connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/#ScottLangley #ShotokanKarate #MartialArts #KarateInterview #HDKI

Join us for an inspiring and action-packed conversation with Sensei John Gardiner, a martial arts legend and esteemed karate instructor! In this episode of UK Karate Podcast, we dive deep into Sensei Gardiner’s incredible journey— from his time as a British Champion to coaching alongside the renowned Ticky Donovan.With decades of experience in kata, kumite, and innovative training techniques, Sensei John shares his wisdom on mastering the mindset needed to excel in martial arts and beyond.Expect practical tips, motivational insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to train champions. Whether you’re a martial artist, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you ready to step up your game. Don’t miss it!