Best Nisei Podcasts (2024)

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Mollii Khangsengsing – Tuff Love Fitness – Ep186 49:41

29m ago49:41

49:41

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 bel…

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#136: Sons of Hawaii, Part II 22:52

2h ago22:52

22:52

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Danny Inouye wanted to be a doctor when he grew up - specifically, he wanted to be a surgeon. When he was a senior in high school he was a Red Cross volunteer. When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor he saw the planes flying over Honolulu and rushed to an aid station where he treated civilians in…

1
Eric Oram – Modern Wing Chun – Ep185 1:09:47

1d ago1:09:47

1:09:47

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, Kara…

1
#135: Sons of Hawaii, Part I 32:33

5h ago32:33

32:33

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here A native of Kauai who put his live on the line to serve his country as a member of the 100th Infantry Battalion, and who then dedicated the remainder of his life serving Hawaii, first as a state legislator, then a US representative, and finally a US Senator, Spark Matsunaga earned his epitaph as …

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David Kurzhal – Viking Samurai – Ep184 1:02:19

1d ago1:02:19

1:02:19

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 rec…

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#134: Tales from Punchbowl, Part VII 20:49

4d ago20:49

20:49

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here This week we get the first Nisei General Officer in both the Army National Guard and the Army Reserves and a humble Medal of Honor recipient who didn't tell his family about the medal (or his battlefield promotion and two subsequent promotions). This week's Ghosts of Pacific are: 1. Army Brigadie…

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Episode 50: Kathleen Clair, Juan T. Trippe's Executive Assistant for 32 Years (1948-1980) 1:16:40

12d ago1:16:40

1:16:40

Send us a text In this episode we explore the life of Kathleen Clair, executive assistant to Pan Am founder and chairman Juan T. Trippe for over 32 years from 1948 to 1980. We will also hear a personal and private memories of Mr. Trippe and Kathleen. We are joined by two special guests that knew Kathleen well: Wendy Trippe Barr, the granddaughter o…

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Tony Caro – Martial Arts, Pop Culture & more – Ep183 1:09:08

8d ago1:09:08

1:09:08

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 developme…

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Fariborz Azhakh – Team Karate – Ep182 46:32

15d ago46:32

46:32

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 J…

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Darryl Vidal – Vidal Kenpo – Ep181 59:44

22d ago59:44

59:44

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 recogn…

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Ron Shuali – Breaking The Bullying Circle – Ep180 1:07:23

29d ago1:07:23

1:07:23

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…

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Karen Eden Herdman – I Am a Martial Artist – Ep179 50:34

1M ago50:34

50:34

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, Kar…

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#133: Tales from Punchbowl, Part VII 26:59

2M ago26:59

26:59

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Today's episode covers the lives of eight men named Nakada. The first seven were all brothers who served in the Army in World War II - the most of any family in the United States. The final Nakada, Captain Pershing Nakada, was the senior Nisei officer and only Nisei commander in the 442nd Regimen…

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John Giordano – Nisei Gōjū-ryū – Ep178 48:55

1M ago48:55

48:55

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’…

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Chuck Johnson – Quiet Flame – Ep177 59:47

2M ago59:47

59:47

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…

1
Episode 49: Edith Head, A Hollywood Legend 1:21:37

2M ago1:21:37

1:21:37

Send us a text In this episode we explore the life of legendary Hollywood costume designer Edith Head who designed uniforms for Pan American World Airways introduced in 1975 and used until the early 1980s. Then we will be joined by actor Susan Claassen who plays the Hollywood legend in her one-woman production called A CONVERSATION WITH EDITH HEAD.…

1
Jeff Patterson – The Yielding Warrior – Ep176 40:58

2M ago40:58

40:58

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jeff Patterson, a multifaceted individual who wears many hats: martial artist, author, entrepreneur, father, husband, adventurer, and mentor. Growing up in a small town in Oregon, Jeff’s love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for fishing, BMX, motorcycles, and baseball. After high school, Jeff jo…

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John Will – Redcat Academy – Ep175 1:00:09

2M ago1:00:09

1:00:09

Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of John Will, a martial arts veteran who has been training since his school years. His passion for martial arts has taken him around the globe, culminating in his triumph at the first World Pencak Silat Championships in Jakarta in 1982, where he won the Gold medal. John is also the founder, publisher,…

1
#132: Tales from Punchbowl, Part VI 31:56

3M ago31:56

31:56

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here After losing a leg, two fingers, and the site in one eye, Ken Otagaki tries to return to his life before the war, hopes that his girlfriend will still be there for him, and tries to figure out how to support himself despite his severe injuries. This week's Ghost of Pacific is Army Corporal Dr. Ke…

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Episode 48: The Archer's...A Family of Aviators 1:13:02

3M ago1:13:02

1:13:02

Send us a text In this episode we celebrate the Archer’s...a family of aviators. 89-year-old Pan Am Captain Stu Archer joined the airline in 1965 as an engineer after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Stu began flying the 727 and then was promoted to captain on the 747 and later Airbus A300 and A310. He stayed with Pan Am until 1991 and then went on t…

1
Keith Martin-Smith – Integrated Martial Arts – Ep174 57:30

3M ago57:30

57:30

In this episode, we’re joined by Keith Martin-Smith, a seasoned content strategist, book coach, and ghostwriter who also dedicates himself to men’s coaching. With over 30 years of experience in martial arts, Keith is an ordained Zen priest and the founder of Integrated Martial Arts in Boulder, Colorado. Keith is an accomplished author of five books…

1
#131: Tales from Punchbowl, Part V 25:15

3M ago25:15

25:15

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Ken Otagaki grew up poor on a sugar cane plantation on Hawaii's Big Island, but after seeing how oppressed his father was by the overseers, he vowed that he would make his own way in the world and, despite cultural and familial expectations, he would not follow in his father's footsteps. In his e…

1
David Meyer – BJJ – Ep173 1:10:47

3M ago1:10:47

1:10:47

David Meyer has been a dedicated practitioner of martial arts for over five decades. His diverse training includes styles such as Jiu Jitsu and White Lotus Kung Fu. From 1984 to 1987, David taught Jiu Jitsu at Steven Seagal’s Tenshin Dojo, and from 1980 to 1985, he served as the head Jiu Jitsu instructor at UCLA. Remarkably, David won the first-eve…

1
#130: Tales from Punchbowl, Part IV 34:33

3M ago34:33

34:33

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here We recently lost another pioneer of the space race so the episode begins with a eulogy for astronaut Bill Anders, who took one of the most famous photographs in history, and ends with the life of Isaac Akinawa, arguably the most respected medic in the 100th Infantry Battalion. This week's Ghosts …

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Bram Frank – Modular Training – Ep172 1:47:09

3M ago1:47:09

1:47:09

Bram Frank brings over five decades of expertise in martial arts to our conversation. As a first-generation personal student of the late Grandmaster Remy Presas, the founder of Modern Arnis, Bram has deep-rooted knowledge and experience in this discipline. In 2007, Bram was honored as Weapons Instructor of the Year by the Black Belt Hall of Fame, a…

1
#129: Tales from Punchbowl, Part III 30:05

3M ago30:05

30:05

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Young Oak Park was likely the first (maybe the second) Korean American officer in the US Army and was assigned to the 100th Infantry Battalion in World War II, mainly because the army didn't know where else to put a non-Japanese Asian officer. He distinguished himself with the 100th and when war …

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Yasin Seiwasser – Be Water – Ep171 58:51

3M ago58:51

58:51

Welcome to today’s episode, where I’m thrilled to introduce a remarkable guest: Yasin Seiwasser. With over 35 years of martial arts expertise and three decades dedicated to mastering mind-body techniques like meditation, mental training, and breathing, Yasin’s journey is truly inspiring. A former German MMA champion who set the world record for the…

1
#128: Nisei Linguists, Part II 29:49

4M ago29:49

29:49

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Much of what the Nisei linguists did during World War II remained classified for decades after the war. Eventually, their stories came out and as more people learned of their great efforts to defeat the Axis powers, monuments and memorials spring up honoring their service. The Ghosts of the Pacif…

1
Mike Stone – Be Your Best – Ep170

4M ago

—

Join us today as we dive into the extraordinary life of Mike Stone, a true legend in the world of martial arts. Born and raised in Hawaii, Mike excelled in various sports as a student and went on to serve in the Army after high school. Mike’s unparalleled success in Karate began with his dominance in major tournaments during his prime. Remarkably, …

1
#127: Nisei Linguists, Part I 37:02

4M ago37:02

37:02

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Recognizing the importance of trained and competent linguists, during World War II, the US Army's Military Intelligence Service trained foreign language speakers to help with the war effort. Many were Japanese speakers and most of those were Nisei. These Nisei were the only Japanese Americans to …

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Graciela Casillas – Shen Chun Do – Ep169

4M ago

—

Graciela Casillas is a pioneering athlete and martial artist, renowned for her undefeated records in both boxing and kickboxing. She made history as the first athlete, male or female, to hold two world championships simultaneously in martial arts and boxing. A dedicated advocate for women’s self-defense, Graciela’s expertise extends beyond the ring…

1
#126: Go For Broke, Part IV 37:38

4M ago37:38

37:38

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here No one believed in them when the unit was first stood up, but after a short time in combat, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team proved their mettle and soon had commanders at the army and corps level negotiating for their service. Because of this, they left Italy for France, saved a cut off battalio…

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Keith Vargo – – Author & Fighter – Ep168

4M ago

—

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Keith Vargo, a distinguished writer, fighter, and martial artist based in Tokyo, Japan. For 17 years, Keith was a contributing editor for Black Belt magazine, where he penned the beloved monthly column “Way of the Warrior.” His work has also been featured in FightSport magazine, Karate/Kung-fu Illustrate…

1
#125: Go For Broke, Part III 32:32

4M ago32:32

32:32

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here Thanks in part to the 100th Infantry Battalion blowing all their doubters's expectations out of the water during their training, FDR and the War Department decided to stand up another segregated Nisei unit - the 442nd Regimental Combat Team - made up of Nisei volunteers from Hawaii and the mainla…

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Dan Millman – Peaceful Warrior – Ep167 53:12

4M ago53:12

53:12

Join me as we delve into the fascinating life of Dan Millman, a multifaceted individual whose journey encompasses triumphs in athletics, academia, and the art of living. Hailing from Los Angeles, Dan’s early years were marked by a diverse array of interests, from martial arts to modern dance, trampoline to gymnastics. His prowess on the mat and in …

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#124: Go For Broke, Part II 31:11

5M ago31:11

31:11

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here After Pearl Harbor, many Nisei were kicked out of the military. All those that were retained were sent to Hawaii. A few new Japanese Americans were allowed to enlist, but most were deemed as "enemy aliens" by recruiting boards. By 1943, all new Nisei recruits were barred from entry. Those few tha…

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Catherine “Cat” Miller – Fit 15 – Ep166 56:42

5M ago56:42

56:42

Meet Catherine Miller, a dedicated martial artist with nearly four decades of experience under her belt. Achieving her 5th Degree Black Belt in 2015, Catherine’s journey in martial arts has been one of passion and commitment. From 1996 to 2000, she was an active competitor on the NASKA circuit, showcasing her skills in various disciplines. Notably,…

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#123: Go For Broke, Part I 32:14

5M ago32:14

32:14

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here After the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, an irrational fear struck the United States that its relativly small population of Japanese immigrants and the native born US citizen children of those immigrants posed a threat to national security. They made up too much of the population on Hawaii to do…

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Al Dacascos – Wun Hop Keun Do – Ep165 1:17:22

5M ago1:17:22

1:17:22

On this week’s episode we delve into the life and legacy of a true martial arts icon. Meet Al Dacascos: an acclaimed author, revered teacher, podcast host, and a martial artist whose journey began at the tender age of 11. In the annals of martial arts history, Al Dacascos stands as a pioneer. In 1969, he forged his own path by founding Wun Hop Keun…

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Episode 47: The "Nisei" Stewardesses of Pan Am 57:11

5M ago57:11

57:11

Send us a text The Pan Am Museum Foundation recognizes the month of May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and in this episode we explore the history of Pan Am’s “Nisei” Stewardesses with Dr. Christine R. Yano, retired professor of anthropology at the University of Hawai’I and author of the book, Airbourne Dreams…

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René Dreifuss – Radical MMA – Ep164 1:51:00

5M ago1:51:00

1:51:00

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of martial arts with René Dreifuss, the visionary founder and head coach of Radical MMA. René’s journey in combat sports began as an active MMA fighter in the vibrant New York Area scene. With nearly half a century of martial arts experience under his belt, René boasts instructor ranks in multiple style…

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#122: Tales from Punchbowl, Part II 35:21

5M ago35:21

35:21

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here The military veterans interred at Punchbowl are as varied as the Hawaiian Islands themselves. In fact, their final resting place is about the only thing today's ghosts - the father of tiki culture, an college football legend, the first Chinese-American fighter pilot, and Barak Obama's grandfather…

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Thomas Ran Garver – Ways To Die In Tokyo – Ep163 55:18

5M ago55:18

55:18

Join us in this episode as we delve into the fascinating life of Thomas Ran Garver, a multitalented individual residing in Tokyo. Hailing from Northern California, Garver wears many hats – a lawyer, an author, and a martial artist. His journey into the heart of Japan began with a year-long study abroad program during his college days, fueled by his…

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#121: Tales from Punchbowl, Part I 34:41

6M ago34:41

34:41

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here The military veterans interred at Punchbowl are as varied as the Hawaiian Islands themselves. In fact, their final resting place is about the only thing today's ghosts - an astronaut, an Olympic silver medalist turned professional wrestler turned Bond villain, a horticulturalist turned Sinaloa ca…

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John Bedore – USA Spirit – Ep162 52:03

5M ago52:03

52:03

Join us for an insightful interview with the multifaceted John Bedore. From his roles as a Martial Artist, Musician, Singer, and Minister of Worship Arts to his tenure of 15 years at Hope Lutheran Church in Fargo, ND, John’s journey is as diverse as it is inspiring. With the release of two Christian CDs under his belt John is an accomplished musici…

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#120 - Ernie Pyle's War, Part VIII 30:29

6M ago30:29

30:29

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here This week, everyone's worst fears come true and Ernie Pyle's luck runs out. He lands with the Marines on Okinawa, a short time after the start of the bloodiest battle of World War II, but all of the 100,000 Japanese defenders had moved inland and did not oppose the landing. After a few uneventful…

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Ron Balicki – Ep161 1:22:59

6M ago1:22:59

1:22:59

Join us as we delve into the fascinating journey of Ron Balicki, a Chicago native whose path led him through diverse roles and experiences. From his formative years in Chicago to his pivotal role as a Cook County Deputy Sheriff for four years, Ron’s dedication was evident. During his tenure, he played a crucial part in the development of S.O.R.T. –…

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Don Culp – Shizen-do – Ep160 53:43

6M ago53:43

53:43

Join us today as we delve into the extraordinary life of Mr. Don Culp, a titan in the world of martial arts with nearly five decades of experience. With an impressive resume boasting a 9th-degree black belt and the title of USA Master Boxer, Don’s expertise extends far beyond the dojo. As a certified personal trainer, he’s dedicated to helping othe…

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#119: Ernie Pyle's War, Part VII 42:45

6M ago42:45

42:45

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here This week, war correspondent Ernie Pyle hits the beach in Normandy France just one day after the D-Day invasion, sees the allies break out of the Normandy peninsula after six weeks of hard fighting, is on hand for the liberation of Paris, and decides he has had enough of war. But try as he might,…

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Dan Clark – Nitro – Ep159 42:39

6M ago42:39

42:39

Join us for an inspiring episode as we delve into the multi-faceted world of Dan Clark. Renowned as a martial artist, athlete, author, speaker, coach, podcast host, actor, and much more, Dan’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. His athletic career kicked off on the football field, representing San Jose State University before making his mark w…

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