SUMMARY

In this episode, Jeremy and Andrew discuss the evolving reasons for martial arts training, emphasizing the importance of soft skills, community, and emotional resilience. They explore how societal trends have shifted perceptions of martial arts, moving beyond self-defense to focus on personal growth and community building. The conversation highlights the value exchange in martial arts training and the necessity for schools to provide compelling reasons for students to engage in their programs. They explore the evolving landscape of martial arts, emphasizing the importance of redefining success beyond physical skills. They discuss the shift towards non-physical benefits, such as mindfulness and community, and how these elements can enhance the martial arts experience. The conversation highlights the need for instructors to communicate these benefits effectively to attract and retain students, ultimately fostering a more supportive and engaged martial arts community.

TAKEAWAYS

• The reasons people train in martial arts have evolved over time.

• Community and emotional resilience are key benefits of martial arts training.

• Traditional martial arts offer more than just physical benefits.

• Meditation can be a significant aspect of martial arts practice.

• Youth programs teach discipline and focus that benefit adults too.

• Performance anxiety is a common struggle that martial arts can help address.

• Martial arts training provides a sense of belonging and community.

• The value exchange in martial arts is crucial for student retention.

• Schools must compete with various activities for students' time and money.

• Success in martial arts is often misdefined by physical outcomes.

• Non-physical benefits are becoming increasingly important in martial arts training.

• Martial arts can serve as a healthier coping mechanism for stress.

• Traditional martial arts can adapt to meet various personal needs.

• Effective marketing should highlight the holistic benefits of martial arts.

• Students should recognize the value of their training beyond physical skills.

• Instructors must balance physical training with emotional and mental support.

• Engaging students in mindfulness practices can improve retention and satisfaction.

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SUMMARY

In this episode, Andrew Adams speaks with John Borter about his journey in martial arts, starting from his late entry into Taekwondo to his current focus on Irish stick fighting. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from student to instructor, the differences between various martial arts styles, and the cultural aspects that influence Irish stick fighting. Borter shares insights from his experiences, including teaching at Wally J's 90th birthday celebration and the unique principles that differentiate Filipino martial arts from Irish stick fighting. In this conversation, John Borter discusses the rich history and cultural significance of Irish stick fighting, tracing its roots back to centuries of occupation and oppression in Ireland. He explains how the British penal laws impacted the Irish population and led to the development of stick fighting as a means of self-defense and community expression. Borter highlights the Shillelagh as a traditional weapon and its evolution over time. He also emphasizes the role of social media in reviving interest in Irish stick fighting and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Doyle system for future generations.

TAKEAWAYS

• John Borter started martial arts at 28 due to work schedule.
• Borter gravitated towards Hapkido for its joint locking techniques.
• He trained with Professor Wally J in Small Circle Jiu Jitsu.
• Borter transitioned to Irish stick fighting after closing his school.
• The transition from student to instructor was natural for him.
• Borter emphasizes the differences between Filipino and Irish stick fighting.
• He believes that each martial art has unique principles and techniques.
• Cultural aspects play a significant role in Irish stick fighting.
• Irish history is marked by centuries of occupation and cultural suppression.
• The British penal laws severely restricted the rights of Irish Catholics.
• Irish stick fighting evolved as a response to oppression and cultural loss.
• Faction fights were a form of social expression and community bonding.
• The Shillelagh is a traditional Irish weapon made primarily from blackthorn.
• Blackthorn is favored for its durability and historical significance in stick fighting.
• Social media has played a crucial role in reviving interest in Irish stick fighting.
• Maintaining the integrity of the Doyle system is essential for its legacy.
• Future growth of Irish stick fighting is expected while preserving its core traditions.

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In this episode, we're bringing you Jeremy's 2026 State of the Martial Arts Address and what we could do to move forward.

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