SUMMARY In this conversation, Sifu Michael Garner shares his extensive journey through martial arts, military service, and various roles in security and law enforcement. He discusses the influence of his upbringing, experiences with violence, and the importance of self-defense training. Sifu Garner also delves into his teaching philosophy, the unique aspects of Kajukenbo, and his aspirations for the future of his martial arts school. In this conversation, he also discusses his journey in martial arts, emphasizing the importance of overcoming excuses, the growth of his school, and the unique gender dynamics within his classes. He highlights the significance of empathy in teaching, especially for students with traumatic backgrounds, and the need for instructors to adapt their methods based on individual student needs. The discussion also touches on the evolution of martial arts, the role of ego, and the necessity of maintaining an open mind in training. Sifu Garner concludes with a call for continuous learning and adaptation in martial arts practice. TAKEAWAYS • Martial arts can be a lifelong journey of learning and growth. • Military training significantly shapes one's approach to martial arts. • Experiences with violence can lead to a desire for self-defense knowledge. • Teaching martial arts is about empowering others to protect themselves. • Kajukenbo combines various martial arts styles for practical self-defense. • Personal experiences in martial arts can lead to deeper insights and humility. • The importance of community and support in martial arts training. • Understanding the dynamics of violence is crucial for security roles. • Martial arts training can help in high-stress situations, like in healthcare. • Building a martial arts school requires dedication and adaptability. • Overcoming excuses is crucial for personal growth. • Starting small can lead to significant expansion. • Gender dynamics in martial arts can shift with the right approach. • Empathy is essential in teaching, especially for trauma survivors. • Understanding individual student needs enhances teaching effectiveness. • Ego can hinder the evolution of martial arts practices. • Martial arts should be adaptable and fluid, not rigid. • Open-mindedness in training leads to better outcomes. • Context is vital for effective martial arts instruction. • Continuous learning is key to being a successful instructor. This episode is sponsored by Kataaro. Please check out their site at www.kataaro.com and use the code WK10 to save 10% off your first order. And be sure to ask them about a wholesale account for school owners!