Best Nisei Podcasts (2024)

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

1d 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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#133: Tales from Punchbowl, Part VII 26:59

5h 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…

1
Chuck Johnson – Quiet Flame – Ep177 59:47

1d 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…

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

1h ago1:21:37

1:21:37

Send us a Text Message. 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 ED…

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Jeff Patterson – The Yielding Warrior – Ep176 40:58

1h 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

3d 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

5d 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 Ghosts of Arlington is Army Corporal Dr.…

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

6d ago1:13:02

1:13:02

Send us a Text Message. 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 …

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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

20d 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 …

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

1M 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

28d 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 …

1
Yasin Seiwasser – Be Water – Ep171 58:51

1M 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

2M 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

1M ago

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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

2M 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 …

1
Graciela Casillas – Shen Chun Do – Ep169

2M ago

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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

2M 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…

1
Keith Vargo – – Author & Fighter – Ep168

2M ago

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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

3M 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…

1
Dan Millman – Peaceful Warrior – Ep167 53:12

3M 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 …

1
#124: Go For Broke, Part II 31:11

3M 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…

1
Catherine “Cat” Miller – Fit 15 – Ep166 56:42

3M 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,…

1
#123: Go For Broke, Part I 32:14

3M 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

3M 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

3M ago57:11

57:11

Send us a Text Message. 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, Airbour…

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

3M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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,…

1
Dan Clark – Nitro – Ep159 42:39

5M 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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#118: Ernie Pyle's War, Part VI 37:52

5M ago37:52

37:52

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here After retuning to Italy from his R&R, Pyle gets a tip from a pre-war friend - who also happens to be the senior US Army air forces commander in the Mediterranean - that he should return to London because the long awaited invasion of western Europe is going to happen sooner rather than later. It's…

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Episode 46: Capt. Mike Bannister, Chief Pilot of British Airways Concorde 57:57

4M ago57:57

57:57

Send us a Text Message. In this episode we welcome back to the program Captain Mike Bannister, the chief pilot of British Airways' Concorde fleet from 1995 to 2003. He is also the author of a recently published book titled Concorde. This book is available through your favorite bookstore or online retailer. Also coming out to great fanfare in 2023 w…

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Dave Crull – BJJ Executive – Ep158 1:04:13

5M ago1:04:13

1:04:13

Meet Dave Crull, a multifaceted individual with a rich tapestry of experiences. Dave’s journey encompasses roles as a devoted husband, a nurturing father, a retired corporate executive, a proud US Marine, a podcast luminary, and a dedicated martial artist. Throughout his professional life, Dave excelled in corporate finance, leveraging his strategi…

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#117: Ernie Pyle's War, Part V 35:30

5M ago35:30

35:30

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here The US invades Sicily, and just like he was for North Africa, Pyle was there to bring the news of the front back to the home front. But just as it does for everyone, Pyle's combat experiences begin to take a toll on his well being so he agrees to take a break, return to the US, and get some rest …

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Ron Thomas – Cobra Kai – Ep157 58:27

5M ago58:27

58:27

Welcome to today’s episode featuring the multi-talented Ron Thomas. Ron is not just a martial artist; he’s an accomplished athlete, actor, motivational speaker, coach, and author. Ron’s journey in competitive sports began at an astonishingly young age of 3, with swimming marking the initiation of his career. Throughout his competitive endeavors in …

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Lee Wedlake – KenpoTV – Ep156 49:43

5M ago49:43

49:43

Join us in this episode as we delve into the rich martial arts journey of Mr. Lee Wedlake, who has been an integral part of the martial arts community since 1967. With a passion for Kenpo, he has authored and published nine insightful books on the subject. For 11 years, Mr. Wedlake served as Ed Parker’s representative in the Midwest and played a cr…

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Dale Dugas – Praying Mantis Acupuncture – Ep155 1:09:42

6M ago1:09:42

1:09:42

Meet Dale Dugas, a multi-talented individual with a diverse skill set. Beyond being a skilled martial artist and accomplished author, Dr. Dugas holds a Florida license as an Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. His expertise extends to being a fully trained Chinese Herbalist. Dr. Dugas’s journey in the field of Chinese Medicine be…

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Episode 45: National Airlines 1:39:05

5M ago1:39:05

1:39:05

Send us a Text Message. Pan American World Airways acquired National Airlines in 1980 and preserving the history of National is now the responsibility of the Pan Am Museum and we take this duty seriously. In this episode we explore the fascinating history of National Airlines. Then we will be joined by four veterans of National Airlines: Captain Ro…

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#116: Ernie Pyle's War, Part IV 28:22

6M ago28:22

28:22

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here With the Allied invasion of Africa on, Ernie Pyle's fame back in the US as "the only reporter to bring the war home to us" begins to grow. In just six month's time his column is pick up by more than one hundred additional newspapers and his daily readership increases by nearly six and a half mill…

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Chuck Sullivan – IKCA – Ep154 1:05:15

6M ago1:05:15

1:05:15

In February 1959, Chuck Sullivan embarked on a martial arts journey under the guidance of Ed Parker, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to the discipline. His commitment and skill were recognized when he became the fourth person to attain a black belt from Mr. Parker in February 1962. Notably, in September 1981, he achieved the remarkab…

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Michael “Tunes” Antunes – Eddie and The Cruisers – Ep153 1:02:08

6M ago1:02:08

1:02:08

On this episode, we’re thrilled to have Michael “Tunes” Antunes as our guest. Not only is he a skilled martial artist, but he’s also a versatile actor and musician. Hailing from a musical family in New Bedford, Mass. Michael took the stage at the young age of 13, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. During the 1960s, he showcased his saxo…

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#115: Ernie Pyle's War, Part III 28:21

6M ago28:21

28:21

I'd love to hear your thoughts - send me a text here When World War II begins in Europe, Pyle is desperate to cover and is allowed to go to London during the Blitz where he covers one of the largest incendiary raids of the war - instead of taking shelter in a basement he stands out on a balcony! When the US enters the war, he returns to England and…

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