

Everyday Martial Artist
Brian Doucette
Every week we will chat with a different martial artist and hear their story.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 26, 2024 • 50min
Mollii Khangsengsing – Tuff Love Fitness – Ep186
Mollii Khangsengsing is a lifelong athlete who knows firsthand how physical activity can transform lives. After migrating to the U.S. as a child, she quickly adapted to a new culture and language through her passion for sports and fitness.
With 18 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training, Mollii made history as the first Laotian female black belt in the discipline. In 2019, she co-founded Tuff Love Fitness, a nonprofit based in Oakland, CA, dedicated to providing free and affordable self-defense, martial arts, and fitness programs to low-income and vulnerable communities throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
Mollii is also the visionary behind Sweaty Betties, one of the world’s first women’s BJJ organizations. For over a decade, she organized free weekly women’s classes and grappling camps across the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Maui, and Costa Rica, empowering women through martial arts.
When she’s not on the mats, you can find Mollii enjoying a hearty bowl of ramen or scaling the nearest coconut tree.
Please join me in welcoming today’s guest, Mollii Khangsengsing!
Home | Women’s Self Defense | Tuff Love Self-Defense Program | United States
Lone Wolf and Cub – Season 1 Episode 01 | Martial Arts | Adventure – Ninja vs Samurai (youtube.com)

Sep 19, 2024 • 1h 10min
Eric Oram – Modern Wing Chun – Ep185
In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, we are honored to welcome Eric Oram, a true authority in the martial arts world with over 45 years of experience. Eric is one of the leading experts in Wing Chun Kung Fu, with an impressive background that spans multiple martial arts styles including grappling, kickboxing, kali/escrima, Jeet Kune Do, Karate, and both Asian and European weaponry.
Since 1985, Eric has shared his knowledge of Wing Chun with a wide range of students, from the general public to elite law enforcement agencies such as the police, FBI, Delta Force, and Navy SEALs. He’s also worked with professional athletes, including members of the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Arizona Cardinals.
Eric’s expertise has made him a sought-after trainer for Hollywood actors, helping stars like Robert Downey Jr., Orlando Bloom, Jake Gyllenhaal, Tobey Maguire, Gerard Butler, John Saxon, and Christian Bale prepare for their roles. His experience as a fight choreographer includes major films like Sherlock Holmes 1 & 2, Iron Man 3, and The Avengers.
In addition to his martial arts achievements, Eric has contributed to various martial arts and fitness publications, and he’s also an accomplished screenwriter and musician. On top of all that, he is a dedicated husband and father.
Join us as we delve into Eric’s incredible journey, his passion for martial arts, and his unique experiences in the entertainment industry.
Si-fu Eric Oram (sifuericoram.com)
Eric Oram – IMDb

Sep 12, 2024 • 1h 2min
David Kurzhal – Viking Samurai – Ep184
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a true multi-talented force in the martial arts and entertainment world. David Kurzhal is a lifelong martial artist, natural bodybuilder, actor, screenwriter, and a YouTube sensation. You may recognize him from films like The Last Kumite, Warrior Island, and Bloodstorm.
He’s also making waves in the ring, having recently signed with Official Celebrity Boxing, with an exciting upcoming match against none other than ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley.
David’s popular YouTube channel, Viking Samurai, features in-depth interviews with legends from the action and martial arts world, including Scott Adkins, Sheldon Lettich, Don ‘The Dragon’ Wilson, and many more.
Please join me in welcoming my guest, Mr. David Kurzhal
Viking Samurai – David Kurzhal’s official website. (thevikingsamurai.com)
Frank Dux: Real Kumite or Fake Fighting Fantasy? (youtube.com)
David Kurzhal – IMDb

Sep 5, 2024 • 1h 9min
Tony Caro – Martial Arts, Pop Culture & more – Ep183
Today on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Tony Caro, a prolific writer and martial artist. Tony is the author of “Tragedy Man: A Horror Anthology” and has just released a brand new collection of short stories titled “Dreaded Invocations.”
In addition to his impressive writing career, Tony is making plans to dive back into feature film development. With over 25 years of martial arts experience under his belt, including training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Jeet Kune Do, Tony brings a unique perspective to both his creative and physical pursuits.
Join us as we explore Tony’s journey through the worlds of horror fiction, film, and martial arts. Please welcome my guest, Mr. Tony Caro.
Amazon.com: Dreaded Invocations: Terrifying Horror Tales to Utter in Hushed Tones eBook : Caro, Anthony M.: Kindle Store
Michael Mann & James Caan: Thief #1980s #crime #action #film #cinema#podcast #ozark #breakingbad (youtube.com)
TonyMCaro (@tonymcaro) | TikTok

Aug 29, 2024 • 47min
Fariborz Azhakh – Team Karate – Ep182
Today’s guest, Fariborz Azhakh, was inspired by Bruce Lee at a young age and began his lifelong journey in martial arts. Originally from Iran, he moved to the United States at the age of 14 and has since dedicated over 45 years to studying martial arts. His training includes learning from esteemed figures such as Steve Sexton, Grand Master Ji Han Jae, and past show guests David Meyer and Ron Balicki.
Fariborz founded ‘Team Karate Center’ with a vision of fostering teamwork between instructors and students, allowing each individual to discover and develop their unique style within the traditions of Hapkido.
Please join me in welcoming Mr. Fariborz Azhakh.
Team Karate Centers | Karate/ Martial Arts/ Kickboxing/ MMA Classes
PKTV 00082981 000247062 (youtube.com)
Amazon.com: Fariborz Azhakh: books, biography, latest update

Aug 22, 2024 • 60min
Darryl Vidal – Vidal Kenpo – Ep181
Today’s guest is Darryl Vidal, a martial artist with over 45 years of experience. Based in Murrieta, CA, Darryl has been teaching Karate for more than 30 years and is also the founder and head of the Murrieta Stick Fighting Club.
In 2012, Darryl received the highest honor in martial arts, being promoted to the level of Grandmaster.
You might recognize his name from the original Karate Kid movie and the Cobra Kai series, where he portrayed one of the tournament fighters and also as Pat Morita’s stunt double performing the iconic crane technique.
Join me in welcoming Mr. Darryl Vidal to the show!
Catalog – City of Murrieta (rec1.com) – Register for classes here
Amazon.com: Darryl Vidal: books, biography, latest update
Darryl Vidal (@rockbreakerboy) • Instagram photos and videos
Buy MindCraft–The Educational Singularity • Darryl Vidal

Aug 15, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ron Shuali – Breaking The Bullying Circle – Ep180
Meet Ron Shuali, the “Messiah of the Mind” and “Behavior Master.”
Once a victim of bullying who later became a bully himself, Ron has transformed his experiences into a mission to empower families and organizations. Through his transformational trainings, Ron equips people with practical tools to effectively stop bullying.
Ron’s keynotes, workshops, and assemblies are packed with laughter and insight, leading audiences to those unforgettable “ah-ha” moments. He’s the creator of the internationally acclaimed Yogarate (a blend of yoga and karate) and the Behavior Mastery systems.
With a Master’s in Education, Ron is also a best-selling author, motivational speaker, and—most importantly—he’s funny. His diverse background in martial arts, yoga, reiki, professional wrestling, and improv brings a unique mix of humor and education to his work, focusing on mindfulness and fostering connections with others and their inner child.
Join me as I welcome today’s guest, Mr. Ron Shuali.
Ron Shuali early childhood keynote speaker for schools and organizations (ronspeak.com)
Discover Ron Shuali’s Latest Book | Classroom Management & Bullying Solutions (ronspeak.com)
BTBC (breakingthebullyingcircle.com)
Ron Shuali early childhood keynote speaker for schools and organizations (ronspeak.com) (Free ebook)

Aug 8, 2024 • 51min
Karen Eden Herdman – I Am a Martial Artist – Ep179
Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Karen Eden Herdman, a multi-ethnic 7th degree Grandmaster of Tang Soo Do.
Karen is celebrated in the martial arts community for her inspirational writing. Her work has been featured in every major martial arts magazine worldwide, and she has graced the covers of six.
A journalist by profession, Karen has worked for NBC and FOX affiliates, with live broadcasts on CNN and reporting for FOX National and Animal Planet.
She is the author of four books and contributes two karate columns each month to MASuccess Magazine and Tae Kwon Do Times. Her poem “I Am a Martial Artist” inspired an entire product line that has achieved global success.
Karen has also appeared in major Hollywood productions, performing stunts in “Sudden Death” with Van Damme and playing a feature role in “Sworn to Justice” alongside Cynthia Rothrock.
In 2000, she partnered with the Salvation Army to establish the largest inner-city martial arts program in the world. She is currently working on expanding this program to Native American reservations, providing training opportunities for youth.
Karen serves as a Warrant Officer in the State Guard and is also a seminary graduate and ordained chaplain.
Please enjoy her story!
(2) Facebook
Will I Ever Feel Happy Again?: These Survivors of Suicide Say Yes!: Karen Eden Herdman, Eden Herdman, Karen Eden Herdman: 9781440163432: Amazon.com: Books
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Tae Kwon Do: Eden, Karen: 9780028623894: Amazon.com: Books
I Am A Martial Artist: Master Karen Eden: 9780978637712: Amazon.com: Books

Aug 1, 2024 • 49min
John Giordano – Nisei Gōjū-ryū – Ep178
John Giordano’s life story is one of incredible transformation. He overcame the stigma of childhood sexual abuse, homelessness, and severe addiction to become a renowned addiction expert with 39 years of sobriety.
He founded his own holistic treatment center with just $300, which he later sold for $45 million. Currently, John is the co-owner of JC’s Recovery House, a published author of three books, an inspirational speaker, and the chaplain for the North Miami Police Department. He is also working on opening another treatment center as part of his “third act.”
John specializes in holistic mental health and trauma recovery. He has appeared on numerous local and national radio and television shows as a respected addiction expert and has contributed to over 80 scientific peer-reviewed research papers.
In addition to his work in addiction recovery, John has been involved in martial arts for over 60 years. He was inducted into the World Martial Arts Congress Hall of Fame in 1996 and is a five-time US National Karate Champion and Metropolitan AAU Judo Champion. He currently holds a 10th Degree Black Belt in Karate, a 1st Degree in Judo, and a 1st Degree in Jiu-Jitsu.
Please enjoy the story of John Girodano!
johnjgiordano – John J Giordano
(5) Sober Life Studios – YouTube
(5) The Pros and Cons of Psychedelic Treatment – YouTube

Jul 25, 2024 • 60min
Chuck Johnson – Quiet Flame – Ep177
Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Chuck Johnson, a versatile martial artist, actor, stuntman, and motion capture artist based in Tokyo, Japan.
Chuck’s martial arts journey began at age 15 when he became the Michigan State Junior Olympic Tae Kwon Do Champion in both sparring and forms, just six days after earning his black belt.
After moving to Tokyo, he started working as a bodyguard, providing protection for celebrities such as Sylvester Stallone, Orlando Bloom, and Jackie Chan.
Chuck’s action career took off in 2004 when he was cast in “Godzilla: Final Wars.” Since then, he has appeared in over 100 films, commercials, and video games across Asia and the United States.
Fluent in both Korean and Japanese, Chuck brings a unique skill set to his acting roles.
Enjoy the inspiring story of Mr. Chuck Johnson!
Actor | Chuck Johnson (chuck-in-action.com)
Stunts | Taekwondo | Minato City |Tokyo | Roppongi (quietflame.org)
36 weapons of the human body (youtube.com)
EASTBOUND TRAFFIC Flows With Behind-The-Scenes Photos From Chuck Johnson’s Feature Directing Debut [EXCLUSIVE] – Film Combat Syndicate


