Everyday Martial Artist

Tammy McCracken is a self-defense professional, psychotherapist, and international instructor whose work lives at the powerful intersection of violence dynamics, trauma recovery, and transformational leadership. She is the Founder and CEO of 500Rising, an organization built from decades of experience in both mental health and self-defense. Through 500Rising, Tammy provides education and instructor training across North America and Europe, with a strong focus on empowering women and girls through realistic, experience-based learning. Tammy is also the founder of Kore Self-Defense & Krav Maga in the Northern Virginia and DC Metro area, where she serves as program advisor, teaches general training classes, and directs the instructor college training program. Her leadership extends internationally as a core member of the renowned Violence Dynamics teaching team established by Rory Miller. She is a certified Conflict Communication Instructor, Situational Awareness Specialist, Krav Maga Instructor, scenario development trainer, and facilitator. As a psychotherapist specializing in acute and complex trauma recovery, Tammy has worked with both survivors of violence and perpetrators, giving her a rare and deeply informed perspective that shapes how she teaches self-defense and develops instructors. She earned her Expert Rank in Krav Maga in Israel through Krav Maga Global, becoming the third woman in North America to achieve that rank and the first fully certified female instructor on the East Coast within the organization. In addition to her hands-on training and clinical work, Tammy has authored numerous articles, developed a self-defense course for The Great Courses, contributed a chapter to Rory Miller’s most recent book, and appeared on multiple podcasts sharing her expertise. In this episode, we explore the realities of violence, the psychology behind conflict, the responsibility of instructors, and how true empowerment is built through both competence and compassion. Please welcome my guest today… Tammy McCracken. 500 Rising – Home Krav Maga Northern Virginia | Self-Defense | Kore Self Defense Events Calendar – KMG – Krav Maga Global

My guest today is Professor Gabe Reynaga, a lifelong martial artist whose journey began at just nine years old, and more than four decades later, he’s still competing, teaching, and making history. By the age of seventeen, Gabe was already competing at the adult level, quickly rising to the top of the sport karate world and earning four world titles. At just twenty years old, he joined the legendary Paul Mitchell Karate Team, one of the most elite teams in martial arts, and opened his first karate school that same year. Under his leadership, his students went on to capture multiple international championships. He earned his 4th degree black belt in karate and was later inducted into the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame by Chuck Norris himself. Widely regarded as one of the greatest sport karate competitors of all time, his accomplishments alone would secure his legacy, but his journey was far from over. In 2009, he expanded into MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Between 2012 and 2014, he stepped into the cage for three professional MMA bouts, winning his final fight by first-round TKO in just 45 seconds… at the age of 42. As his jiu-jitsu career progressed, he became a dominant force on the IBJJF circuit. From blue belt onward, he claimed title after title across Texas. At purple belt, he won both his weight class and the open division. In 2017, he earned his brown belt and immediately made history, winning gold at his first Pan American Championship, followed by another gold at Master’s Worlds later that same year. He was awarded his black belt on the podium. As a black belt, he continued to excel on the world stage, earning gold in his division, a No-Gi World bronze medal, and a Pan American silver. His career spans decades, disciplines, and continents, and his impact on martial arts continues to grow. Please welcome to the show – Gabe Reynaga! Takedown City Wrestling & Jiu Jitsu Academy San Antonio, Texas

My guest today is a lifelong martial artist, instructor, and historian dedicated to preserving one of the most important lineages in modern martial arts history. Greglon Lee is the son of James Yimm Lee — a highly respected martial artist, author, and close friend and training partner of Bruce Lee. Growing up in Oakland, California, Greglon was immersed in the martial arts culture that surrounded Bruce Lee during his formative years in America, witnessing firsthand the early development of ideas that would later evolve into Jeet Kune Do. Drawing from personal experience, firsthand stories, and decades of training, Greglon offers a rare and authentic perspective on Wing Chun, early Jun Fan Gung Fu, and the philosophical evolution of Bruce Lee’s martial approach. Today, as a teacher, speaker, and co-author of The Dragon and the Tiger, he continues to share the lessons, history, and philosophy passed down from his father and Bruce Lee — ensuring that this influential chapter of martial arts history is accurately remembered, preserved, and understood. Please welcome my guest today, Greglon Lee. Amazon.com: Remembering the Master: Bruce Lee, James Yimm Lee, and the Creation of Jeet Kune Do: 9781583941485: Campbell, Sid, Lee, Greglon Yimm: Books Amazon.com: The Dragon and the Tiger, Volume 1: The Birth of Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do: 9781583940891: Campbell, Sid, Lee, Greglon Yimm: Books Amazon.com: The Dragon and the Tiger, Volume 2: The Untold Story of Jun Fan Gung-fu and James Yimm Lee: 9781583941188: Campbell, Sid, Lee, Greglon Yimm: Books

Melody Johnson is a lifelong martial artist, educator, and one of the true pioneers in children’s martial arts development. With more than three decades of experience researching childhood development as it relates to sports, coaching, and parenting, she has helped shape how martial arts schools around the world teach, coach, and support young students. Her groundbreaking work began with the creation of the Little Ninja Preschool Martial Arts program, a curriculum that has since been implemented in thousands of schools worldwide. Building on that foundation, she went on to revolutionize the children’s martial arts space through the development of the age-specific SKILLZ curriculums and drills—programs now used in over 1,000 martial arts schools across more than two dozen countries, setting a global standard for excellence in child development through martial arts. Beyond curriculum design, she is a highly sought-after consultant, educator, and speaker. She shares her expertise through initiatives such as SKILLZ University, the Certified Pediatric Ninja Specialist program, and dynamic seminars focused on teaching, coaching, and parenting—helping instructors better understand how kids learn, grow, and thrive both on and off the mat. Her own martial arts journey began in 1987. She holds a 7th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo under former guest of the show “Super” Dan Anderson, a 5th Degree Black Belt in the ATA, and is an ATA World Champion in forms. She currently resides in St. Petersburg, Florida with her family, and her son—who continues to inspire her daily mission to help children reach their full potential through martial arts and life. Please welcome my guest today, Melody Johnson. SKILLZ Program – SKILLZ Child Development Center

My guest today is a lifelong martial artist whose journey into self-defense began not with trophies or titles, but with necessity, responsibility, and a deep desire to protect others. Born in Lafayette, Louisiana in 1987, Addison Plaisance is a true child of the ’90s—raised on Power Rangers, Ninja Turtles, and the belief that real strength comes from discipline, purpose, and service. His childhood was far from easy. Growing up with an abusive older brother, Addison learned early how to de-escalate danger, remain calm under pressure, and shield the people he cared about. Those formative experiences shaped his view of martial arts—not as a tool for dominance, but as a path toward peace and responsibility. At just 13 years old, Addison began training at Silver Dragon TaeKwonDo Academy in Morgan City, Louisiana under Master Raymond Rutledge and Master Brian Rutledge. There, he learned far more than techniques. Master Ray instilled resilience, humility, and the importance of keeping one’s guard up—physically and spiritually. By age 18, Addison earned his 1st-degree black belt before heading to Louisiana State University, where he continued training, led the LSU TaeKwonDo club, competed in national qualifiers, and expanded his knowledge through Judo. Along the way, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and a Master’s in Plant Pathology. His career eventually brought him to Fargo, where he managed greenhouses for NDSU and unexpectedly stepped into one of his most meaningful roles—becoming a devoted single father. Years later, while simply driving around in search of an arcade, fate intervened. Addison and his daughter discovered Red River Traditional TaeKwonDo, and just like that, he found himself back where he belonged—training, assisting, and giving back to the martial arts community. Today, Addison teaches a dedicated Friday sparring class, not for money or recognition, but because he believes service is the highest calling. As he reminds his students—and himself—the “Do” in TaeKwonDo is the Way: the way we live, the way we serve, and the way we strive to become better human beings. Please welcome my guest today, Addison Plaisance. Addison PLAISANCE | Bioinformatician | Master of Science | North Dakota State University, Fargo | NDSU | Department of Plant Pathology | Research profile Social Media Destruction: Plaisance, Addison: 9781796073751: Amazon.com: Books

My guest today is a lifelong martial artist whose journey began more than six decades ago and ultimately led him to develop one of the most recognizable branches of American Kenpo in the Midwest. Sr. Grandmaster Tom Saviano first stepped onto the mats in the mid-1960s, beginning his training in Goju-Shorei Karate before later studying under the legendary Grandmaster John McSweeney, one of Ed Parker’s original black belts and a key figure in bringing Kenpo to the Midwest. Under McSweeney’s guidance, Tom earned his black belt and developed a deep understanding of principle-based, practical self-defense. In 1984, he founded Saviano’s White Tiger Kenpo Karate in Addison, Illinois. The White Tiger Kenpo system blends the directness of Japanese and Okinawan karate with the fluidity and circular motion of Chinese martial arts. Over the past four decades, Tom has refined this system, promoted generations of black belts, and built a cohesive curriculum known for its efficiency, adaptability, and real-world effectiveness. Tom has been inducted into multiple Martial Arts Halls of Fame and has led countless seminars while cultivating a community rooted in discipline, respect, and personal growth. What began in a small training space has grown into a lasting legacy that continues to influence martial artists across the Midwest and beyond. Beyond the dojo, Tom’s life experience includes work in radio and television, as well as time spent working at a California winery, adding unique perspective to a career defined by learning, adaptability, and service. Please welcome my guest today, Sr. Grandmaster Tom Saviano. White Tiger Fitness Center | martial arts | 823 S Rohlwing Rd, Addison, IL 60101

Today’s guest is a lifelong athlete whose competitive spirit carried him from the wrestling mats of small-town North Dakota to the bright lights of the UFC Octagon. Chris Tuchscherer was raised in Rugby, North Dakota, where he built his foundation in wrestling, a discipline that would shape not only his athletic career, but his approach to life. After a standout high school run, he continued competing at North Dakota State University before transferring to Minnesota State University Moorhead, where he became a two-time NCAA Division II All-American. That same relentless drive propelled him into mixed martial arts. Known to fans as “The Crowbar,” Chris became a feared heavyweight with crushing wrestling, unshakable toughness, and a reputation for outworking anyone standing across from him. His impressive professional career earned him a spot on the sport’s biggest stage, where he competed in the UFC against some of the division’s most formidable names. Beyond the cage, Chris has remained deeply invested in the growth of combat sports in his home state. He founded Crowbar MMA and promoted regional MMA events in North Dakota, events I was lucky enough to be involved with as a judge. But stepping away from fighting didn’t mean stepping away from competition. Staying true to his blue-collar roots, Chris shifted gears, literally, into IMCA dirt track racing, where he now brings the same intensity and passion he once showed in the cage. Alongside racing, he runs his agricultural businesses and remains closely connected to the communities that shaped him. A wrestler.A fighter.A racer.A businessman.A husband and a father. Please enjoy my interview with my friend Chris Tuchscherer.

For more than three decades, Jonathan has dedicated his life to helping people of all ages cultivate calm, confidence, and connection — not only through martial arts training, but through a deeply integrated approach to personal development. His acclaimed Life Ki-do system blends the principles and movement of Systema, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tai Chi, Tang Soo Do, and practical self-defense, creating a holistic method that develops physical skill, emotional resilience, and inner balance. Jonathan is a certified Systema instructor under Vladimir Vasiliev and began his martial arts journey as a child, training in wrestling, Tang Soo Do, and Tae Kwon Do. He continued into adulthood with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Systema, Tai Chi, and Boxing, shaping a lifelong path rooted in adaptability, flow, and purpose. Beyond the mats, Jonathan is the author of several Amazon best-selling books, including River Flow: A Simple Path to Live Your Best Life, The Circle of Confidence: Six Steps to a Strong Calm You, and Meditation Flow: Melt Your Stress – Quiet Your Mind – Elevate Your Spirit, as well as the award-winning Life Ki-do Parenting: Tools to Raise Happy, Confident Kids from the Inside Out. Through his teaching, writing, and martial arts practice, Jonathan’s mission remains simple yet profound — to help others find their flow, live with intention, and embody true strength through inner calm. Please welcome my guest today — Jonathan Hewitt. Martial Arts School Near Me in Westlake | Life Ki-do Martial Arts Amazon.com: Jonathan Hewitt: books, biography, latest update The Spiritual Ninja Podcast – YouTube

Kim Bowser is a world-class martial artist, elite competitor, and respected instructor who has earned her place among the top female black belts in her division. Throughout her career, she has compiled an extraordinary list of achievements, including 7 European titles, 5 Pan Championships, and 3 No-Gi World Championships, cementing her reputation as one of the elite athletes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Known for her sharp technical precision, competitive mindset, and relentless work ethic, Kim is equally respected for her leadership and mentorship, guiding and inspiring students both on and off the mats. Beyond Jiu-Jitsu, Kim is a devoted mother to four boys, ranging in age from sixteen to twenty-six. When she’s not training, teaching, or competing, she enjoys running, lifting, tackling puzzles, and traveling. Please welcome my guest today — Kim Bowser. Kimberly Bowser (1) Instagram Winning With The Spider Guard by Kimberly Pruyssers – BJJ Fanatics

In this episode of Everyday Martial Artist, I chat with Tony Pacenski, a lifelong martial artist, world-class instructor, entrepreneur, innovator, and airman whose influence in the martial arts community spans more than three decades. Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tony began his Gracie Jiu-Jitsu journey in 1995, setting him on a path from local training halls to international recognition as one of the most respected American-born practitioners of the art. Tony holds an extraordinary list of accomplishments and ranks, including: 5th-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 4th-degree Black Belt in Gunji Taiho Jutsu 2nd-degree Black Belt in Kodokan Judo 1st-degree Black Belt in Luta Livre Shodan in Kendo Additional rankings in Yoshitsune Combat Ju-Jitsu and Aikido Beyond his personal mastery, Tony has made a lasting impact on the global Jiu-Jitsu community. As a co-founder of the Jiu Jitsu Global Federation, alongside Master Rickson Gracie and Professor Carlos Gama, he has been instrumental in preserving the art’s combat principles, spirit, and philosophy for future generations. Tony is also the creative mind behind the Tatame Air training surface, a groundbreaking advancement in mat technology that has elevated safety and performance for martial artists worldwide. Known for his articulate instruction, vast historical knowledge, and engaging seminar presence, Tony has become a teacher of teachers, inspiring martial artists everywhere to pursue both technical excellence and personal growth through Jiu-Jitsu. Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with the one and only “Little” Tony Pacenski. TONYPACENSKI.COM tatameair.com Amazon.com : Tony Pacenski Jiu Jitsu Global Federation | Jiu Jitsu Global Federation

Today’s guest is a lifelong martial artist, active MMA fighter, and dedicated recovery and performance coach whose mission is to help combat athletes stay healthy, train smarter, and perform at their peak. Adam Snyder is the founder of The Fight Science Collective and the creator of the Fight Science Operating System, a comprehensive, data-driven approach designed to elevate an athlete’s performance while minimizing injury and burnout. Through his work, Adam empowers martial artists and fighters to train harder, recover faster, and ultimately stay on the mat for life. Outside the gym, Adam is just as dynamic, living with his partner Alexandra and their three cats, balancing fight science with a love for Star Wars, high-energy EDM, and plenty of caffeine. Please welcome my guest today… Adam Snyder. Instagram (12) The Fight Science Collective – YouTube The Fight Science Made Simple Podcast Fight Science Operating System | Martial Arts Coaching The Strength & Conditioning Code

Keith Kelly is a 8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo whose martial arts journey began at 16 years old at the South Second Street Youth Center in Plainfield, New Jersey, under the instruction of Joe Tucker. As a young red belt, he entered the AAU Karate circuit in 1979 and quickly made an impression—earning an invitation to try out for the National AAU Karate Team. After receiving his black belt in early 1980, he continued his training under Grandmaster Ki Chung Kim and Master Tony Alvarez, sharpening his technique and preparing for the highly competitive tournament scene that lay ahead. Through the early 1980s, Keith—alongside teammates Mark Williams and future Olympic gold medalist Herb Perez—became a dominant force on the circuit. Together, they captured an estimated 80 championships, including major victories at the prestigious All American Open at Madison Square Garden and podium finishes at the AAU Taekwondo Nationals, where Keith earned both gold and silver medals. But Keith’s legacy stretches far beyond competition. Since 1989, he has dedicated himself to teaching Taekwondo through after-school and Saturday programs, helping students build discipline, confidence, and character—skills that extend well beyond the dojang. Now approaching retirement from his long career as a public school teacher, Keith has embraced a new creative path as an author. He has written seven children’s books, each inspired by the core principles and life lessons of Taekwondo. Please welcome my guest today — Keith Kelly. Peace Comes to Ajani

Jess Gerrity is a New Zealander-turned-Saitama local whose journey has taken her deep into the heart of Japan’s traditional martial arts culture. Born in Auckland, she first visited Japan as a university student and quickly became captivated by the country’s urban design and public transportation systems. That spark of fascination eventually led her to earn a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and make the move to Japan—now more than 22 years ago. Jess began her life in Japan as an English teacher, but her path soon shifted toward media. Over the last two decades, she has built a diverse career as a TV personality, writer, narrator, and tourism ambassador, appearing regularly on Japanese television, radio, and in print. At the center of her life, however, is her devotion to kyūdō, Japanese archery. A 3rd dan practitioner in All Japan Kyudo Federation and a beginner in Heki ryu Insai ha, Jess is a contributing writer for Kyudo Nippon and Budo Japan, and serves as Chief Editor of Kyudo World Magazine. Her martial arts practice extends far beyond the bow, with studies in naginata, kyujutsu, and sports yabusame—horseback archery. And through it all, she still balances life as a wife and mother of three. Please welcome my guest today, Jess Gerrity. Instagram Jessica TV – YouTube

In this episode, we sit down with James McSweeney, an internationally recognized martial artist, fighter, and coach whose career has spanned more than two decades at the highest levels of combat sports. James is a 6-time World Muay Thai Champion, 3-time World MMA Champion, and a veteran of some of the biggest promotions in the world — including the UFC, ONE Championship, K-1, and Glory Kickboxing. Born and raised in the UK, James’s journey has taken him around the globe — from the fight camps of Thailand to the gyms of Australia, and now to Dallas, Texas, where he serves as Co-Owner and Head of Operations at McSweeney MMA & Performance. With ten gym locations across the Dallas area, James continues to shape the next generation of fighters while helping everyday students build strength, discipline, and confidence both on and off the mats. Outside the gym, James is a devoted husband of 15 years, a proud father, and even runs his own farm — proving that his drive for excellence extends far beyond the cage. Please welcome my guest today — James McSweeney. Home – McSweeney MMA Home – Lonestar Fight League

Francisco Casaroti is a lifelong martial artist, teacher, and cultural ambassador with nearly three decades of experience in the Afro-Brazilian art of Capoeira. Born and raised in Brazil, Francisco’s journey through movement, rhythm, and expression began at a young age — shaping not only his martial path but also his understanding of community and culture. In addition to Capoeira, he is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor representing the prestigious Roger Gracie Academy in North Dakota, carrying forward a legacy built on technical precision, respect, and discipline. Francisco has taught and performed around the world — from the streets of Brazil to the studios of London, where he spent 15 years teaching, and even as far as Beijing, China. His work has taken him across Europe as well, leading workshops and masterclasses in France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway. He is also a co-founder of Grupo Capoeira Arte — an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural and social impact of Capoeira on a global scale. When he’s not on the mat, Francisco brings his creative vision to the classroom as a Design Professor at the University of Jamestown in North Dakota, blending artistry, movement, and education into every aspect of his life. Please welcome my guest today — Francisco Casaroti. Capoeira Arte – Est. 29 April 2000 Mestre Bimba – Capoeira Online

Kenn Scott is an accomplished actor, martial artist, filmmaker, and author whose passion for the martial arts and storytelling has taken him from the dojo to the bright lights of Hollywood. Born in New York and raised in North Carolina, Kenn followed his dreams west to Los Angeles, where his talent and determination led him to one of the most iconic roles of the 1990s — portraying Raphael in the original live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films. Beyond his work in the Turtles franchise, Kenn starred in the international martial arts cult hit Showdown and went on to appear in and direct numerous film and television projects. Throughout his career, he’s had the honor of working alongside some of the most respected names in the industry, including Pat Johnson, Cynthia Rothrock, Billy Blanks, Art Camacho, Gary Daniels, and Jeff Imada. A lifelong martial artist with over 45 years of training, Kenn’s background spans Goju-ryu, Shaolin Kung Fu, American Kenpo, Tai Chi, Muay Thai, Lima Lama, Isshin Ryu, and more. His deep experience both in front of the camera and on the mat has given him a unique perspective on discipline, creativity, and perseverance. Kenn is also the author of the Amazon Top Pick Teenage Ninja to Mutant Turtle: Becoming the Reel Raphael, where he shares his journey from a young martial artist in North Carolina to embodying one of pop culture’s most beloved heroes. Please welcome my guest today — Mr. Kenn Scott. Kenn Scott Author | Home Kenn Scott – IMDb

Geo Corvera is a veteran fight choreographer, stunt coordinator, action designer, and stuntman whose passion for martial arts began at a young age. Born in El Salvador and raised in the Washington, D.C. area of Virginia, Geo quickly made a name for himself on the competition circuit, earning Top 10 NASKA and NBL rankings in forms, weapons, and sparring. In 2000, he made the move to Hollywood, launching what would become a remarkable career in film, television, and streaming. Since then, he’s worked on over 170 productions, including major projects for both Marvel and DC Comics, as well as a long list of other hit series and films. His incredible work has earned him recognition from the Screen Actors Guild, winning Outstanding Performance Awards for Iron Man and Pirates of the Caribbean. He’s also received nominations from MTV and the Taurus World Stunt Awards for Best Fight in The Rundown. Not just a behind-the-scenes talent, Geo has also appeared on screen in popular shows like Cobra Kai, The Vigilante, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and many more. When he’s not performing or designing action, you’ll find him training and sharing his knowledge with others. Please welcome my guest today — Geo Corvera. Geo Corvera – IMDb

Chris Kent has over five decades of experience in the martial arts and is recognized worldwide as one of the foremost authorities on Jeet Kune Do. In 1973, he became the youngest, and final, member admitted into Dan Inosanto’s legendary “Backyard JKD” group during Bruce Lee’s lifetime. He went on to study with and assist Guro Inosanto for more than 13 years, refining his skills and traveling nationally and internationally as Inosanto’s personal assistant for seminars and public demonstrations. In 1982, he became one of the first students to be awarded the prestigious title of Full Instructor under Inosanto. Known as a “teacher of teachers,” he’s dedicated to developing instructors who share the same passion and authenticity for JKD that Bruce Lee inspired. His recent book, Liberate Yourself! – How to Think Like Bruce Lee, along with its companion workbook, explores how individuals can apply the principles of self-actualization that Bruce Lee lived by to their own lives. He has shared his expertise in Hollywood, professional sports, and beyond. I could keep going — but let’s jump in. Please welcome my guest, Chris Kent. Chris Kent Jeet Kune Do | liberation catalyst (1) Facebook chris kent (jkd4life) – Profile | Pinterest Chris Kent Jeet Kune Do – YouTube Chris Kent’s ’15 Second Martial Arts Coach’ – YouTube Chris Kent’s “Think Like Bruce Lee” – YouTube (1) Instagram Amazon.com: Chris Kent: books, biography, latest update

Dana Hee is a martial artist, motivational speaker, commentator, and author who has dedicated more than four decades to the martial arts. Rising from an unstable and traumatic childhood, she used martial arts as a path to transformation, ultimately winning Olympic Gold in 1988. Her success opened the door to Hollywood, where she performed stunts in blockbuster films such as Batman Forever, Charlie’s Angels, Terminator 2, Independence Day, Spider-Man 2, The Avengers, and many more. In the early 2000s, she shifted her focus to motivational speaking, inspiring audiences around the world with her story of resilience and courage. She is also the author of One Step with Courage: The Story of My Life from Olympic Gold Medalist to Hollywood Stuntwoman. Please welcome my guest today… Dana Hee. Dana Hee – IMDb One Step with Courage: The Story of My Life from Olympic Gold Medalist to Hollywood Stuntwoman: Hee, Dana: 9798647506559: Amazon.com: Books

Robert Drysdale is a world-renowned martial artist, fighter, coach, commentator, author, and academy owner. Born in Utah to a Brazilian mother and an American father, his family moved to Brazil when he was just six years old. In 1998, during his late teens, Robert discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the Quatro Tempos Academy—a decision that would shape the course of his life. His talent and dedication quickly led him to the top, earning multiple national and world titles. In 2005, he became only the second American to win an IBJJF black belt world championship. Returning to the United States in 2008, Robert pursued academic studies while training alongside legends like Randy Couture and Wanderlei Silva. That same year, he made his amateur MMA debut with Tuff-N-Uff, winning his first fight before going pro in 2010. In 2012, Robert founded Zenith Jiu-Jitsu in Las Vegas, a school that has since been voted “Best in Vegas” three times. Beyond the mats, he is also an acclaimed author—his book The Rise and Evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is considered essential reading for practitioners and fans alike. Please welcome my guest today, Robert Drysdale. Home – Zenith Jiu Jitsu by Robert Drysdale Zenith Jiu Jitsu