A Black Belt Way of Life

Fresh off a 22-second head kick knockout in Karate Combat, Mr. William Findley joins the BBWOL podcast studio remotely from Eddie Alvarez's Underground King's MMA school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. William started Taekwondo at the age of 4 with his parents by his side. The support from his parents and many years of Taekwondo training, support, and aspirations led to a 2023 National Heavyweight Gold Medal and an invitation to the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. When there, William learned of the inner workings of the academy program and realized their ideas did not co-align with his. That is when Kombat Taekwondo began, and William made the jump to the cage. Successfully winning his first 3 professional matches, representing the United States with pride all over the world, he made a huge decision to take his training to the next level. Joining former UFC champion Eddie Alvarez and his team. William understood the sacrifice. Traveling an hour going to and from the gym. With a "warrior mindset" and a dream of becoming the best, or in his words, "dominate", the future is bright for William. Always carrying his flag, his family name, and the Taekwondo torch proud every time he steps into the arena.Make sure to follow BBWOL and the @taekwonsymbiote !!!Instagram - https://taekwonsymbiote/Underground Kings MMA - https://newtownpi.comBlack Belt Way of Life PodcastYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Taekwondo shoes - use promo code BBWOL at check out for a discount - https://kickfit.usNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Mrs. Mildred Andaluz is a Certified Life and Confidence Coach under the ACSTH (Approved Coach Specific Hours) with a master's degree in Counseling. Mrs. Andaluz is also the assistant community school director in the public Queens High School System. Her most important job and title is that of being a loving wife and amazing mother to your 3 beautiful children. During the pandemic, with the world in a massive pivot, Mrs. Andaluz decided to take her love for helping others to a new level. Inspired by her children, who were involved in travel athletics, she found life coaching as a way to help not only others but also her own children through the ups and downs of competitive sports. Sports is a microcosm of the big picture we call life, but can be used as a tool to build and create successful individuals. With the proper coaching, this is where someone like Mrs. Andaluz can help. Let's face it, kids do not always take to their parents' or coaches' opinions. At times, the delivery is not "proper" in their mind. This is where a coach, like Mrs. Andaluz, serves as a buffer to get that child or adult on the right track.For everything regarding our guests, podcast, producers, and sponsors, click below.Mrs. Mildred AndaluzInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/confidence_life_coach_Gmail - lifecoachmildred@gmail.comA Black Belt Way of Life PodcastYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Taekwondo shoes - use promo code BBWOL at check out for a discount - https://kickfit.usNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Founded in 2010 by Master Joseph Lupo Jr., the New York Black Belt Center has stood the tests of time for 15 years. Like anything in life, in order to succeed, it takes a village. Two of the most loyal and committed contributors to the success of the New York Black Belt Center have been Master's John Rodriguez and Chet Bridgewater. Both 5th-degree black belts and the highest-ranking students of the school. Masters John & Chet are the only students of the school to have opened their own locations under the name New York Black Belt Center, in Corona and Westchester, respectively.The trials and tribulations of running a business of any kind is no mystery. Covid was not easy, but we as a Wolfpack unit have persevered. We have stood the tests of time. The beauty of it, we have done it together while staying true to the art of Taekwondo. This special roundtable episode talks about a foundation that was laid in blood, sweat, and tears. This very foundation is the blueprint for a never-ending future to the New York Black Belt CenterFor everything BBWOL, New York Black Belt Center, & Press Record Studios click below. ⬇️A Black Belt Way of Life PodcastYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Taekwondo shoes - use promo code BBWOL at checkout out for a discount - https://kickfit.usNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Melvy Alvarez, a second-generation taekwondo practitioner and athlete, has represented the United States of America at every world-class level. To say you were a 10x National Team Member and an International Champion is no easy feat. But without the support and inspiration from his mother, Master Marina Aguero, a former National Team member from Argentina, and his teammates at the Connecticut Taekwondo Academy, none of this would've been possible.Melvy does not hesitate to remind the audience of those who helped and supported him. His humility knows no bounds. The character instilled in Melvy by his parents at a young age shaped him into the man he is today. Melvy's story is one of faith above everything and following the groundwork laid out by his mother. A former resident athlete who still competes, a college student at UConn, and now a business owner, Melvy's maturity has enabled him to balance life. He is inspirational to the Taekwondo community. A person who all young athletes can follow and admire.Subscribe below and check out everything BBWOLMr. Melvy Alvarez - Connecticut Taekwondo AcademyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamcta/A Black Belt Way of Life PodcastYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.us Kickfit Taekwondo shoes - use promo code BBWOL at check out for a discount - https://kickfit.us New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.orgSpecial shout-out to the following amazing individuals follow them on InstagramMarlen Arevalo - @marlonaarevaloMarcus Bennett - @_marcusbennett_Ian Hong - @Ianjhong_Xavier Hong - @xavier_s_hongKingsheup & Charlie Hong - @team_hong2 @charztographyLorenzo Pragano - @lorenzo.praganoRenata & Anthony Pragano - @renata.rosa.507Anna Mcgrade - @anna_mcgrade44David Yehenara - @sirmuhuCarlos Campos Castro - @_los.c17Team CTA - @teamcta

Master James Thorsten was born in Korea and came to the United States as a young child through adoption in 1976. Being a Korean American raised in the Bronx was not easy. Master Thorsten quickly needed to learn how to defend himself and have the confidence to survive the tough streets of the Bronx. His adopted family decided to give him a sense of culture. Master Thorsten began taking Taekwondo lessons at the world renowned Tiger Kim Taekwondo studio in the Bronx. Despite his Taekwondo training, there was still a lack of confidence, and also a fear of getting in trouble with the New York Police Department, since cops were not seen as friends or allies during that time . That fear of cops all came to an end with a chance encounter with a police officer who just wanted to speak to a young Master Thorsten.This encounter became Master Thorsten's inspiration to become a cop. As a police officer, Master Thorsten still trained in various styles of martial arts, but his true love and passion was always for Taekwondo. He achieved his rank of Master under Grandmaster YH Park. Master Thorsten's pursuit of serving the community led to the start of the NYPD Taekwondo Team alongside Lieutenant John Connolly. NYPD Taekwondo has become a place where law enforcement officers, who are current Taekwondo practitioners, can continue their training and compete under the NYPD Taekwondo Team banner. Through grants from the NYPD, children of all ages can train for free. Master Thorsten truly lives a life of service, even through his retirement. For everything BBWOL, NYPD Taekwondo, Press Record Studios and more, click below:NYPD TaekwondoFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561925888388Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nypdtaekwondo/A Black Belt Way of Life PodcastYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Martial Arts Shoes - Promo Code BBWOL at check for a 10% discount - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Grandmaster Michael Yuhasz, owner of Adirondack Taekwondo in Clifton Park, NY, his Taekwondo journey in the early 1980s with the love of comic books. Working as a dishwasher in a local restaurant, his first paycheck was spent in a comic book shop with issues of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. These comics led Grandmaster Yuhasz into a Taekwondo school and inspired him to become a Taekwondo student, black belt, school owner, and now a 7th Degree Kukkiwon certified Grandmaster. Fast forward, still an avid collector of comic books with a network of connections in the comic book world, a day of comic book reading with his son gave Grandmaster Yuhasz the inspiration to start a comic book for his son. A character based on his love and passion for Taekwondo. The Straight Edge character was created initially for his son, not the public. Years later, the passion never wavered; it only intensified, with the help of some amazing individuals in the comic industry, Straight Edge and the Black Belt Adventures was created for the public with a successful sell out of its first run print. The comic book universe has just seen the beginning of Straight Edge, The Taekwondo world now has its first superhero!For everything BBWOL, our producers, our guest, and our sponsors click below :Adirondack Taekwondo - https://adirondacktkd.comStraight Edge and the Black Belt Adventures - https://straightedgecomic.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556531613065Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/p/Cju_Ja3gx9g/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linkYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Martial Arts Shoes - Promo Code BBWOL at check for a 10% discount - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

 Flex Theory is an athletic development and rehabilitation program that combines explosive strength, mobility, and flexibility. But before Mr. Andre Victorian could put these concepts together, he endured all of life's hardships. Through the loss of his business and marriage, Andre needed to pivot. He knew what he was strong at and what he did well as a successful high-level Taekwondo athlete. He dove deep into what made the greatest athletes great in any sport. A self proclaimed science and math nerd, he broke down the concept of "flexibility" into its simplest form. Once simplified, he was able to spread his knowledge and create the business he owns today, Flex Theory. He has been instrumental in the advancement of athletes in all different types of disciplines, from taekwondo to hockey to football to soccer. He has also helped ex-athletes and everyday people live a more productive and pain free lifestyle through his program.    Learn about the man behind this incredible program. Flex Theory can change your life for the better and get you to the pinnacle of sport where you desire to be. For everything BBWOL, click the links below:Flex Theory - https://www.skool.com/theflextheorymethod/aboutAndre Victorian - https://www.instagram.com/flextheory/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@FlexTheoryMethod/videosFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlexTheoryYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Martial Arts Shoes - Promo Code BBWOL at check for a 10% discount - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.orgUSA Masters Team - https://usamastersteam.org

Master DS Lee, son of Texas Taekwondo pioneer Grandmaster Chang Lee, has dedicated his life to advancing the art and sport of Taekwondo. As the president of USA Taekwondo’s Texas State Association, one of the largest and most competitive regions in the country, Master Lee continues a legacy built on discipline, service, and leadership.   Growing up, watching his father struggle and then succeed by opening up Chang Lee's Taekwondo in 1980 in Mesquite, Texas, gave him the motivation to overcome any obstacle. A past high-level competitor, he won national championships, competed at the Olympic team trials, represented the USA on the collegiate national team, and was victorious in Pro-TKD. Once retired, he turned his attention to becoming a high-level coach, putting an athlete on the United States Olympic team and many athletes on all levels of the USA national team.  Master DS Lee has never hesitated to share his knowledge to not only grow USA Taekwondo's pipeline but also give back to the older athletic community by becoming its first-ever head coach for the USA Masters Team. In the words of USA Masters Team Captain Trinity Tongg Osborn, Coach Lee is a "true gem" to the Taekwondo world. For everything BBWOL, click below -Chang Lee's Taekwondo CenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ChangLeesTaekwondoCenterInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/changleestkd/Texas State Taekwondo - https://www.txtkd.orgYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Martial Arts Shoes - Promo Code BBWOL at check for a 10% discount - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.orgUSA Masters Team - https://usamastersteam.org

Born and raised in Queens, New York, Chris Megaloudis has lived every side of the world’s game. Growing up in a soccer family, alongside his older brother Mike, the sport was a way of life in the Megaloudis household. His father, Mike Sr., served as his first coach and set the foundation for Chris to follow his own passion for the game.From playing on the streets of Astoria to competing in arenas around the world, Chris chased inspiration from legends like Ronaldo Nazário. The posters on his wall became fuel for a dream that turned into reality. He worked his way through local clubs, into Major League Soccer with the New York Red Bulls, and onto the international stage with the Puerto Rican National Soccer Team.Today, Chris has transitioned into a successful coaching career. He is a professional coach with the Long Island Rough Riders of USL Division 2 and also coaches at the collegiate level with the Molloy University Men’s Soccer Team. Beyond the professional ranks, he continues to dedicate himself to youth development, previously with the Auburndale Soccer Club and now with the Massapequa Soccer Club.For Chris, coaching is about more than training athletes. It is about teaching the game the right way, educating parents, and instilling the same love and passion that shaped his own journey. His mission is to give back to the sport that gave him everything and to help the next generation of players chase their dreams. Head Coach Chris Megaloudis - https://www.instagram.com/chrismega23/Molloy Mens Soccer - https://molloylions.com/sports/mens-soccerLong Island Rough Riders - https://liroughriders.comAuburndale Soccer Club - https://www.auburndalesoccerclub.orgMassapequa Soccer - https://www.massapequasc.comFor everything BBWOL click below YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty -  https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Martial Arts Shoes - Promo Code BBWOL at check for a 10% discount - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Born with a tremendous amount of energy and a love for movement, topped with inspiration from the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and Ninja Turtles, Eleni Koutsilianos desire to become a martial artist started at a very young age. Her Taekwondo journey began at the age of 8. However, it was not easy for a kid born fully deaf in her right ear and partially deaf in the left ear. A lack of confidence because of her disability did not help. Taekwondo gave her the confidence she much needed. She turned her disability into her own personal superpower. Her lack of hearing built, as she put it, a "hyper focus". She took this heightened sense of awareness into the competition ring and never looked back, becoming a 5x USA National Team member and International Champion. Today, her love for Taekwondo and teaching led her to becoming the owner and Master Instructor of Pulse Taekwondo in Astoria, Queens, while also pursuing a degree to become a Physical Education teacher and a career in the movie industry by way of stunt work. Eleni is a real life Taekwondo wonder woman!"Pulse Taekwondo (Master Eleni Koutsilianos): pulsetkd.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/PulsetkdcenterYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/ElenilianosInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/pulsetkdcenterFor everything A Black Belt Way of Life, click belowWatch on YouTube: A Black Belt Way of LifeListen on Spotify: A Black Belt Way of Life Apple Podcasts: A Black Belt Way of Life Amazon Music: A Black Belt Way of LifeShow Producer: Press Record StudiosShow Sponsor: Joseph Ferone RealtyOfficial Apparel Partner: Best Martial Arts Kickfit Martial Arts Shoes. Use Promo Code BBWOL for 10% off: kickfit.usNew York Black Belt Center: nybbc.org

Adam Flohr is a Krav Maga martial artist training out of the California Defence Academy in Murrieta, California. A self described art and media guy with the gift of gab, he grew tired of feeling helpless in negative confrontations. He searched for the "toughest" form of self-defense to give him that self confidence he aspired to attain. Through learning Krav Maga, an Israeli Military self-defense system, he not only found what he was looking for, he started the "Strip Mall Sensei" YouTube channel documenting his martial arts journey. With over 25 thousand followers, his media & art experience along with his Martial Arts journey is on display for all to follow and be inspired by. Follow Strip Mall Sensei at:Strip Mall Sensei official YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/@stripmallsensei?si=EIsQNYZywvf4deKpCalifornia Defence Academy - https://cadefenseacademy.com/MDS North America - https://mdsnorthamerica.com/For everything BBWOL click below YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - https://joseph-ferone.tmt.realty.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usKickfit Martial Arts Shoes - Promo Code BBWOL at check for a 10% discount - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Inspired by action movie stars like Jet Li and Jackie Chan, Sensei James Luk's mom knew Martial Arts was the perfect activity to keep a young kid safe and off the streets. Born into the projects of Woodside, Queens, learning how to defend yourself was a necessity. 15 minutes away the Shotojuko Dojo in Astoria, Queens was where his Martial Arts would begin. Under the tutelage of Sensei Kai Leung, James Luk would flourish into an accomplished Martial Artist on the mat and off the dojo tatami. A National Champion in Kata & Weapons, James Luk learned that "medals do not define us", becoming a true Martial Artist like his sensei was the correct path to live by. He has been blessed to be able to pass on the art to his children, especially his daughter who is now a high level competitor. This inspired James to jump back into the competition arena after an extended time away. What he found was immediate success. Success that has now turned into him leading the USA Masters Team Karate movement for the World Masters Games in Kansai Japan taking place in 2027. For everything A Black Belt Way of Life, click below - YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=694b07f440014ac9Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - https://joseph-ferone.tmt.realty.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usShotojuko Dojo information - https://shotojuku.com/Follow the Black Belt Way of Life podcast on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565583651797Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbeltwayoflife/Learn more about the New York Black Belt Center: https://nybbc.org/Subscribe to the New York Black Belt Center YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRk9IlttzWlGyA6fHjHOmRA

Master Marc Zirogiannis is a World Taekwondo International Referee and the Founder/Editor-in-Chief of Taekwondo Life Magazine. His journey in Taekwondo began in the early 1980s, following his older brother into martial arts. This led him to YH Park Taekwondo. Grandmaster Park, one of the first to open a Taekwondo school in Long Island, New York, was a former USA National Team and Olympic Coach who is considered a pioneer in Taekwondo in the United States. Competition in the sport of Taekwondo did not bring him much success. Coaching the sport of Taekwondo was not his thing. But he loved the martial art of Taekwondo. All he needed was someone to believe in him, and this came from his Grandmaster's son Master Edward Park. Master Park encouraged him to become a referee. In life, we just need one person to believe in us. Master Zirogiannis has not looked back since. Starting at local Taekwondo events gave him the confidence to pursue international status in sport Taekwondo. No simple task, as it takes years of experience and education to become certified as an IR. He took his love for everything Taekwondo and Martial Arts to the world of print, starting his publication, Taekwondo Life Magazine. Already a contributing writer for Taekwondo Times, under the direction of Grandmaster Park, Taekwondo Life Magazine was born. Covering all things Taekwondo, martial arts, and movies. Being a referee is no simple task, at times the most underappreciated at the tournament, and often the blame for a loss. Throughout all that, Master Marc Zirogiannis never loses the principles of fairness and always prioritizes the safety of athletes. For more info, click into the bio below for everything BBWOL 🥋YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=a50b88d80b184358Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Podcast Producers - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.com/Official Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferoneny?msockid=15a1f336eb646c6127ffe692ea7d6d3eOfficial Apparel - Best Martial Arts/Mooto USA - https://bestma.us/Kickfit Taekwondo shoes - 10% discount at checkout - Promo code BBWOL - https://kickfit.us/New York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org/Y.H. Park Taekwondo - https://yhpark.com/Taekwondo Life Magazine - https://tkdlifemagazine.com/

Born into a Taekwondo family, Tim Thackrey’s life has always revolved around discipline, resilience, and personal transformation. But his early years as an athlete were anything but golden — until everything clicked. Surrounded by the right people, Tim rose from underdog status to become a USA National Team Member, Olympic Training Center resident, and Pan American Games gold medalist.After retiring from competition, Tim channeled his energy into building champions — co-founding the performance powerhouse The Juice Compound, where he now helps athletes of all levels unlock their full potential through elite nutrition and mindset coaching. In this episode, Tim shares:• How he overcame years of early defeat in Taekwondo• What it took to reach the Olympic Training Center• The philosophy behind The Juice Compound• Why systematic nutrition and support builds winners• How mindset and lifestyle are as important as performanceWhether you’re an athlete, coach, or entrepreneur — this is a conversation about winning in life, not just in sport.For everything, BBWOL, click below ⬇️⬇️⬇️Podcast Producers - Press Record Studios -https://pressrecordstudios.com/Official Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone of Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel - Best Martial Arts/Mooto USA - https://bestma.us/Kickfit Taekwondo shoes - 10% discount at checkout - Promo code BBWOL - https://kickfit.us/Coach Tim Thackrey - https://www.timthack.com/Follow the Black Belt Way of Life podcast on:YouTube - https://youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflife?si=cSPlm4RDJwn1XC4NSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP...Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/.../9d3.../a-black-belt-way-of-lifeApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/.../a-black-belt.../id1769633501Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565583651797Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbeltwayoflife/Learn more about the New York Black Belt Center: https://nybbc.org/Subscribe to the New York Black Belt Center YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRk9IlttzWlGyA6fHjHOmRA

In 1991 Grandmaster Joseph Lupo Sr. alongside Grandmaster Moonsung Lee, opened the Moon S. Lee Taekwondo Institute in Whitestone, Queens, New York. Before the school was even officially open, a young teenage girl would walk in with her father to get some info on the new school in the neighborhood. Upon speaking to GM Joe, a decision was made immediately that this was where she wanted to continue her Taekwondo training. Quickly bonds were formed, Taekwondo families created, passion for the art was ingrained in our hearts through blood, sweat, tears, and wacks with the bamboo stick. Through rigorous training Alana learned how to handle her toughest opponent, life. Thirty Four years later, now a 4th Degree Master in the art, Alana Bari is kicking and punching and practicing the art she fell in love with from Grandmaster Joseph Lupo Sr.'s teachings, a man that inspired her and a generation of Martial Artists. For everything BBWOL, click the links below -YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=3a391a3d9829475bAmazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Production Company - Press Record Studios -https://pressrecordstudios.comOfficial Apparel Company - Best Martial Arts/Mooto USA - https://bestma.usOfficial Show Sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone - Weichert Realty - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferoneny?msockid=15a1f336eb646c6127ffe692ea7d6d3eKickFit Taekwondo Shoes - https://kickfit.us - Use code BBWOL at checkout for a discountNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Born in New York, raised in California, now based out of Georgetown, Texas, Master Cy Zamani has passed his fair share of ups and downs in life. The one constant that has always pulled him through the hardest of moments is Taekwondo. From the tragic loss of his father, and later his daughter, to a cancer diagnosis, the positivity that Taekwondo brought out in his life pulled him through. Three decades of Taekwondo competition helped Cy Zamani battle his toughest tests, inside and outside the ring. Now he pays it forward to the future generations of athletes in Taekwondo. His story is one of perseverance and loyalty to his craft. For everything, A Black Belt Way of Life click the links belowYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=d9af64eb3587433dApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - https://www.zillow.com/profile/josephferonenyOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Master Carlos Villanueva, a 4th Dan Black Belt certified under the Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo) and the New York Black Belt Center, has been a lifelong Taekwondo practitioner under his father, Master Luis Villanueva. Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, his culinary career brought him to the lights of New York City. Here, he found a second home under Master Joseph Lupo Jr. and Master John Rodriguez at the NYBBC. It was a very patient and thorough search for the right Taekwondo school. But once found, he knew he had found the right spot in the Team Wolfpack community. It was not easy; the NYBBC's style of training is very tough both on the mind and physically. At 250 lbs, Carlos knew he had to make a change, not only to better his Taekwondo performance in competition, but for himself, for the betterment of his life. As a certified executive chef, he could use his extensive culinary skills to match his high-level Taekwondo work ethic to kick-start his weight loss and do all this while being a Type 1 diabetic. He made it happen with no easy task, but with a traditional old-school Taekwondo mindset where giving up is not an option. This episode was filmed live at the New York Black Belt Center during the East Coast USA Masters Team seminar. With a live studio audience present and eager to ask Master Carlos about his tremendous journey. For everything A Black Belt Way of Life Podcast click belowYouTube -  http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=636d70b999654b20Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeProducers - http://pressrecordstudios.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usOfficial Sponsor - https://joseph-ferone.tmt.realty.comKickfit Taekwondo shoes - use promo code BBWOL at check out for a discount - https://kickfit.usNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

Sensei Kai Leung, a world-recognized Shotokan Karate Instructor, immigrated to the United States in the early 1960s. A seasoned Goju-Ryu Karate competitor and instructor, Leung's life changed when he met the late Toyotaro Miyazaki, who brought traditional Shotokan Karate to New York. Leung quit his New York City schoolteacher job and closed his Shotokan Karate dojo in Whitestone, Queens, to work alongside Sensei Miyazaki at the Shotojuku Dojo in Astoria, Queens. Sensei Miyazaki's impact on Sensei Leung's life was profound, forging a relationship that became the catalyst for his expertise in the history of not only his martial art but all other martial arts that originated from the Asian continent. Sensei Leung talks to us about the "true meaning" of martial arts in a literal, figurative, and spiritual way, delving into the connections across different styles from various parts of the world. He has trained countless fighting champions, Hollywood actors, and award-winning musicians, but he maintains a humble decorum even with his success as a coach and competitor. Sensei Kai Leung is a "True Martial Artist" who continues to teach his craft every day while keeping the legacy of Master Miyazaki alive and strong.For everything A Black Belt Way of Life, click the links belowYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=d9af64eb3587433dApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeBBWOL Show Producer - Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.comShow Sponsor - https://joseph-ferone.tmt.realty.comOfficial Apparel Company - https://bestma.usNew York Black Belt Center - https://nybbc.org

When most young kids in the 1980s wanted to be Ralph Macchio (Daniel LaRusso) from the Karate Kid movies, Eric Ruiz wanted to be Mr. Miyagi, a teacher of martial arts. As a teenager, he started learning Taekwondo. Once he gained his footing and built a strong foundation, he began learning other forms of martial arts. Black belts in Taekwondo & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (under Professor Rob Gutierrez), Eric has also achieved rank in Jeet Kune Do, Jun Fan Gung Fu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and Combat Submission Wrestling under Sensei Erik Paulson. Eric understood that to be a good and real teacher of the arts, he needed to immerse himself into the competition world. To teach fighting, one must have fight experience is his mindset. How can you know if a technique works, if you've never used it or been hit by it, was the question he asked himself. This approach set the groundwork for the opening of his school, Ringsport Muay Thai, located in Whitestone, Queens, New York. A trainer to champions in MMA and Muay Thai is his greatest accomplishment, in his opinion. He is humble in his talk of being a champion professional Muay Thai fighter, having spent time in Thailand. Molding martial artists is his passion. Molding them through real life and in-ring experience. A model that many instructors should follow in their pursuit of teaching excellence. Follow us on social media and wherever you consume your podcasts. YouTube - https://youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflife Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=151905d467424ed2 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-life Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501 Official show sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone - Weichert Realty - Joseph Ferone - Real Estate Agent in Flushing, NY - Reviews | Zillow Official show apparel - Best Martial Arts/MOOTO USA Ringsport Muay Thai - https://www.ringsportthaiboxing.com/ A Black Belt Way of Life is produced by Press Record Studios - https://pressrecordstudios.com/

Before she became one of the most fearsome Taekwondo competitors on the planet, Grandmaster Mechelle Smith began Taekwondo in 1979 as an introverted teenager training at Grandmaster Les Zampino's school, the Northeast Taekwondo Academy in Rotterdam, NY. Training during a time when women were few on the training floor, she persisted and took the leap into competition, losing every tournament over the next two years.Smith persevered, becoming a national champion and a potential team member for the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, Korea, but a controversial decision robbed her of that opportunity.Again, Smith refused to back down and returned to training. Her new attitude earned her a Gold medal at the 1992 Pan American Championships and a massive victory over the reigning Olympic gold medalist from Korea, cementing her as one of the greatest athletes to ever compete for the USA.With an impressive competition resume, she opened MW Taekwondo in 1998 to teach the next generation of martial artists "her way" against a male-dominated industry. Twenty-five years later, she is the National Team Coach for the AAU, and at 60 years old, Grandmaster Smith stepped back onto the mats one more time to win gold medals at the Masters Games in Italy and Korea.Master Joseph Lupo Jr. chats with this phenomenal fighter, coach, and teacher to share her stories and experiences with the world and prove why it's never too late to put on the uniform. Follow us on social media and wherever you consume your podcasts.YouTube - https://youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=151905d467424ed2Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Official show sponsor - Mr. Joseph Ferone - Weichert Realty - Joseph Ferone - Real Estate Agent in Flushing, NY - Reviews | ZillowOfficial show apparel - Best Martial Arts / MOOTO USAUSA Masters Team - https://usamastersteam.orgUSA Masters Team donation link - Support Our Coaches and Make a Difference!A Black Belt Way of Life is Produced by Press Record Studios - Press Record Studios | Your Content Creation Destination At The Landing 251