In this episode of “My Empty Hands,” host Reggie Darden interviews Mark Gallagher. They discuss their respective martial arts backgrounds, with a focus on Kempo. The conversation covers how they got into the art, their philosophies on training, and their experiences with competition and teaching.

Discussion Points:

[50:07 ] A lightning round where Mark shares his favorite techniques, forms, and inspirations.

[00:24 ] Introduction to the guest, Mark Gallagher, and the podcast, “My Empty Hands.”

[00:55 ] Reggie shares his background in Kempo, Capoeira, Muay Thai, Hapkido, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

[02:02 ] Mark talks about his start in martial arts in 1991 at the age of 10, inspired by media like the Ninja Turtles.

[03:53 ] Reggie shares how the movie The Perfect Weapon inspired him to start Kempo.

[07:31 ] Mark describes Kempo as a sophisticated, modern, and open martial art.

[13:27 ] Mark discusses his experience competing as an orange belt.

[19:05 ] The conversation shifts to kickboxing and the importance of consistent training.

[47:46 ] Mark shares that he has been teaching martial arts since 1995 and that it is the only job he has ever had.