The Self-Initiative Project

The Self-Initiative Project, Podcast 17, Meditations on Learning to Fight and Self-Defense

Jesse Walker of Rough Hands, in Louisville, KY and I talk about approaches to learning to fight and self-defense both in terms of finding a school that works for you and trying to be a better coach. We talk about fighting in the context of self-defense and fighting for your life in this episode.

We discuss the very things you think that may keep you from starting to take classes are the exact reasons why you should start; and we talk about honesty in training as well as teaching, and the importance of a school's culture.

Lots of points are made during this podcast including the fact that in order to be really be good at self-defense you have to be a student of violence; and hopefully, through your training, you are better prepared to deal with any violence that may happen out on the streets. Jesse stresses the importance of principles over techniques; and he talks about how learning to fight can be actually be just like swimming...

Get used to being uncomfortable and go train!

Sit back. Relax. And listen.

The Self-Initiative Project, Podcast 15, Knife Use in Self-Defense

Nathan TwoEagles-Downing, from Silverline Knife Designs, talks about the use of knives in self-defense and some points to consider before you opt to incorporate a knife into your self-defense toolset.

We talk about Nathan's journey into knife making, his training preferences, the times he has been on the receiving end of a blade, the mindset of someone intent on using a knife, and some commonalities between carrying knives and carrying firearms for self-defense.

You should listen whether you are already carrying knives or are considering carrying a knife for self-defense purposes.

Sit back. Relax. And listen.

The Self-Initiative Project, Podcast 13, The Importance of Mindset

Likely the shortest podcast we will ever do, it is still an important concept to talk about and for you to think about.

Grit. Mettle. Perseverance. Indomitable spirit. Never give up.

Your attitude and mindset can make the difference between success and failure. Get it in your head that you will not give up and that you will succeed and you will. Picture success and you'll succeed. Picture failure and you will fail.

In self-defense, mindset can mean the difference between going home safe or getting hurt or even worse.

This episode we discuss the importance of having a no quit, never give up mindset and how that will impact the outcome of anything you take on. Your success and even your life will depend on it.

Short and sweet.

Sit back. Relax. Listen.

The Self-Initiative Project, Podcast 12, Krav Maga and What to Expect

This episode has been a long time coming. We talk about the self-defense system of Krav Maga ("contact combat").

I give you a little of my history with Krav; and then we talk about the things you need to know and take into consideration. Meant to be more of a primer, we give a basic overview of what Krav Maga is, the things you can expect as you move through the system, what classes can be like, gear you are going to need along your journey, and more.

I also make mention of and thank those individuals and some of the instructors that have made a difference to me in my journey in self-defense.

Thanks for listening.