Rituals of Strength

This week's episode recounts some of the highlights of the life of The Amazing Randi, magician, escape artist, and passionate skeptic. Through the incredible events of his life, it affirms the importance of critical thinking in life.

The idea of "alpha" beings, who achieve and maintain status on dominance hierarchies, was based on faulty science. Despite having been widely and repeatedly disproven, it remains a problematic misconception in popular culture. In this week's episode, we examine where it came from and what issues it spawns.To learn more about my latest book, please visit:https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Aggression-Choosing-Power-Adaptability/dp/B0GMY61B72/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XO9W8QNA9KAX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SFyQG1NZKTL5L0SGAn2mCq8dAEcOxc4-6zmOWXs29GILOOEoURzlX0XXAEkx6bMYWiptSdZGsOj1uEhYyt4axk0deU9NyAPrSuSGZkMm4m9jF6the30LuJ4MdgdBvQ5uWzZy82mcT9siorfcL3DxXDbpf-2WFRi_MiTcpsBGgPblQDvfntSXO4kkwESv_B0TPqdMzWC4ktopWJx7ckza1H_wkTej-1EqeCDTLg__PDM.jXsZVJGA8zRr7GuGupTo3Gcn8KKA9bWbNqAmoaXgIXQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=KEVIN+SECOURS&qid=1776350059&sprefix=kevin+secour%2Caps%2C133&sr=8-1

I had multiple listener questions about how to handle the effects of aggression when you're in the escalation phase.This week, we give you simple, concrete exercises you can practice before, during, and after an aggressive encounter to help control and minimize the effects of stress and the adrenal dump. #KevinSecours #TheCombatProfessor #CombatSystema #IntegratedFightingSystems #Podcast #RitualsofStrength #BeyondAggression #StressManagement #Aggression #martialArts #SelfDefense #ConflictResolution #Management #Deescalation

This week, 6th degree black belt Michael G. Malpass discusses his journey through the art of Burmese Bando, including his professional fight career, winning the nationals, the early days of training, and much more. An insightful peek inside one of the lesser known martial arts.#KevinSecours #Podcast #RitualsofStrength #MikeMalpass #Bando #Burmese #MuayThai #Leithwei #Burma #Fighting #MartialArts #SelfDefense #LawEnforcement #Competiting #Grappling #Nabon #KickBoxing #Boxing

This week, we delve into some specific listener questions about reality-based and scenario-based training, including: How soon can you start implementing it, is there such a thing as too much of it, and what are some of the dangers. If you train any skill that you hope to reproduce reliably under stress, this is an important listen.

In the second half of this interview, Kevin discusses all things martial, with Randel Davis, wing chun and southern kung fu style coach, circular strength enthusiast and all around great human.Randel can be reached at:instagram.com/kfconversations  Or listen to his podcast at:Kung Fu Conversations Podcast - YouTubeKFC T-Shirts & Merchkfconversations-shop.fourthwall.com

In the first of 2 parts, Kevin discusses all things martial with Randel Davis, wing chun coach, adept in numerous southern styles, circular strength enthusiast, and all-around great human.Randel can be reached at:instagram.com/kfconversations Or listen to his podcast at:Kung Fu Conversations Podcast - YouTubeKFC T-Shirts & Merchkfconversations-shop.fourthwall.com

I often reference Ernest Becker's book "The Denial of Death", so I finally give it the attention it is due as a major influence on my thinking. I believe that everyone is primarily motivated by their perspectives on death. Fitness and self-defense enthusiasts dedicate their lives to longevity and safety, in direct relation to their perspective on mortality. I highlight 10 major takeaways from Becker's book and provide some thought exercises for your own exploration.

In this week's episode, we delve into the topic of Kevin's latest book, discussing misconceptions regarding the centrality of aggression in our lives, delving into historic misinterpretations, idealized simplifications, and alternatives that lead to greater adaptability.

In this week's episode, Kevin shares personal tips and practices that have simplified the integration of mindfulness and meditation into his daily routine. integrating

In this week's episode, Kevin discusses his personal experience with cold exposure therapy in the martial arts, discussing the myths, misconception, scientific over-reach and the down right cultish, and gives you a simple, progressive program for introducing the benefits of cold water training into your life.

This week, we delve into some of the writing of former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt as they pertain to ideas of resilience and service.

This week, Kevin goes deep into the topic of when, where, and how to touch in both self-defense and intervention. These are soft skills that anyone can practice absolutely anywhere and with anyone in their daily lives, to make them into master negotiators . Don't miss this one.

Kevin discusses thoughts from his latest book, available worldwide on Amazon.

I've been teaching alongside a lot of other instructors lately, and I am sharing some thoughts on elements that are interpreted differently or sometimes overlooked.

Self-defense is more than technique; it's also about how you inhabit your body. Jess Mather joins the show to explore the hidden link between fear of injury and fear of attack, and how trauma-informed strength training helps women break free from the “fragility” narrative. Learn how building strength creates safety, confidence, and presence, both in daily life and in moments that matter most.For more information on Jess, please visit:https://rebuildingbody.com/orhttps://www.facebook.com/jess.mather.75

In this week's episode, returning guest Mike Malpass, discusses the emerging role of AI both in operational and training settings, discussing the benefits and the dangers.For more information on Mike, please visit https://www.combativeresolutions.com/Or to view books by Mike, please visit:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Michael-G-Malpass/author/B09Q3QZVYS?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1757782116&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=0683a6fc-f2b0-48da-910a-e3bfbdd14d01

In our continuing discussion of AI seen through the lens of warrior wisdom, I interview Randel Davis, the co-host of Kung Fu Conversations about how AI performed when posed with some deeper questions about the practice of Kung Fu. https://www.youtube.com/@kungfuconversations7282https://www.instagram.com/kfconversations

In this week's episode, we became a consideration of AI as a source of warrior wisdom. Kevin begins with his own investigation, searching the simple question of:"What style is best for self-defense?"Then, he's joined by his returning guest Stewart Breeding , martial artist, combat veteran, and master fitness trainer, for a discussion of how to learn, and the dangers AI could present.For more on Stewart Breeding, please visit: Five Stones Barbellor follow him on Instagram @StewartBreeding

Lorne Bernard is the custodian and inheritor of the Fujian Flying Crane Fist Style. A decorated kung-fu master, he is forthright, insightful, and generous with his knowledge, making this interview a gem for martial artists and fitness enthusiasts of all types.Filmed on location in Laval, Quebec at The International Headquarters of the Fujian Flying Crane Fist Association.For more information, please visit:https://www.shaolinwhitecranekungfu.com/accueilFor Sifu Lorne's books and store, please visit:https://www.kontactsports.com/HOME-bcbaaaaaa.asp

Do yourself a favour and learn more about Sifu Russ, at: https://www.burinkan.org/And if you're not already a subscriber you gotta follow Kung Fu Conversations incredible and fun in-depth interviews with a host of awesome martial and fitness experts:https://www.youtube.com/@kungfuconversations7282/videoshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kung-fu-conversations/id1584504038

Do yourself a favour and learn more about Sifu Russ, at: https://www.burinkan.org/And if you're not already a subscriber you gotta follow Kung Fu Conversations incredible and fun in-depth interviews with a host of awesome martial and fitness experts:https://www.youtube.com/@kungfuconversations7282/videoshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kung-fu-conversations/id1584504038

This week, we discuss the research of Nikolai Bernstein and the Degrees of Freedom Problem. Berstein was a fearless researcher and avant-garde expert in motor development. In this podcast we delve into his theories and the controversy and critiques surrounding his work.

In this episode, we explore a leading theory in the mobility work known as Spinal Engine theory--the belief that the spine is the source of all movement in the body. We address leading criticisms of this theory and discuss its role in movement training.

These 2 trauma-informed self-defense experts share their journey to transformation, recounting their early training, their insights into coping with the effects of trauma, their approach to building empowerment and their new book Rewired: Transforming Trauma Through Self-Defense Training.To purchase their new book, please visit:Rewired: Transforming Trauma Through Self-Defense Training: Hecht, Ashley, Oklevitch, Chris: 9798289123862: Amazon.com: BooksFor more information, please visit:Corporate Safety | Adrenaline Self Defense | United StatesSelf-Defense Classes | Jacksonville, FL | The Women's Defense Company

This week I interview Vadim Kolganov, Master of Sport in Sambo and Judo, 4th Dan in Jujitsu, Master Instructor in ROSS, Strength and Conditioning Coach. Vadim discusses his early life training in Russia, his time in the military, his studies at the Central University of Culture and Sport, and his life after moving to Glasgow.A noted competitor, with titles that include Moscow Champion (1986) , World Masters Sambo Championship Bronze Medalist (2005), and British Sambo Champion (2006), Vadim gives insights into training, competing, and discipline, tempered by his deep understanding of wellness and conditioning, which includes his work at Valentin Dukul's Spinal Injury clinic, and his current practice as an Osteomyologist.For more information on Vadim, please check out:http://www.vadimkolganov.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/vadimkolganovsporthttps://www.instagram.com/vadimkolganovsport

In this episode I'm in conversation with a former colleague who rose up from the bad streets, to serve in the military, and then to provide over 3 decades of high-level intervention as a global security contractor. We discuss combat, awareness, mindset and much more. This one took some gymnastic efforts to make happen. I hope you enjoy it.

To celebrate episode 20, this installment will outline 20 ideas for improving your ability to make decisions under stress.

With the gracious permission of my brothers Owen Schilling and Randel Davis over at The Kung Fu Conversations Podcast, here is a rebroadcast of a conversation I had with Sifu Russ Smith. Sifu Russ expressed an interest in martial arts as a young teenager, and began learning Karate basics with a family friend. It wasn't until Russ was on extended vacation in the Philippines over thirty years ago that he began his formaltraining in Japanese Goju-Ryu under Australian instructor, Sensei Iyan Mackenzie. Russ's desire to continue research on the origins and influences on Goju-Ryu has lead him to also study Fujian and Hakka arts such as Five Ancestor (Ngo Cho Kun / Wuzuquan), White Eyebrow (Pak Mei), and White Crane Boxing styles....Russ's focus is preserving, promoting, and researching the arts of Okinawa, Southern China, Malaysia, and the Philippines at his Burinkan dojo.For more on Sifu Russ, please check out: https://www.burinkan.org/And do yourself a huge favor and check out Kung Fu Conversations for incredible and fun in-depth interviews with a host of incredible martial and fitness experts:Youtube: Kung Fu Conversations Podcast - YouTubeInstagram: instagram.com/kfconversationsFacebookfacebook.com/profile.php?id=100075429849614&locale2=ne_NP&_rdrKFC T-Shirts & Merch: kfconversations-shop.fourthwall.com

In this week's episode, I have the great fortune to interview martial arts and defensive tactics instructor Alex Jansen, about his journey through the martial arts, the military, and beyond.Among his many experiences, Alex trained directly under the founder of Systema Kadochnikova and enjoys unique insights into combat readiness. To find out more about Alex, please visit: warrior_minds_et on instagram [email protected]

In this week's episode we discuss the effect that anxiety, fear, and specifically anger can have on your performance, even in combative situations. This is an expansion and response to our week 5 episode, which generated a lot of feedback.

In this week's episode, actor, writer and comedian Dan Bingham, discusses his journey to success, the process of creation, dealing with performance anxiety, heckler's, writer's block, and much more.

In this week's episode we delve deep into the field of trauma-informed care and training with the co-founders of Thrive Self Defense, Lauren Bailey and Lindsey Falcon. In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore how to create a safe training space, essential principles of personal protection, and the path to healing. Not to be missed by anyone serious about making the world a better place.For more information about the Thrive Empowerment Center and Thrive Self Defense, please visit Thrive Empowerment Center

In this week's episode, we speak with Max White. This veteran stunt performer and coordinator has appeared in some of the biggest films of the past 2 decades which include "300", "Kingsman", "Hellboy 2", and "Superman, Man of Steel" as well as tv shows like "The Boys". Also a lifelong martial artist, in this week's episode we broach topics like coping with and overcoming fear, healing and recovery, discipline, as well as stories from the various sets. An eye-opening peek into the daredevils who entertain us. Max can be reached at [email protected]

You don't need to be a tactical operative to benefit from a clear understanding of tactical principles. These concepts permeate public consciousness in motivational literature and misinterpreting them can be a serious roadblock to progress. In the second half of this conversation, Kevin and master tactical instructor Mike Malpass continue to share their ideas and experiences on 6 of the most misunderstood concepts out there. Check out all three of Mike's books on Amazon at ⁠Amazon.com: Michael G Malpass: books, biography, latest update⁠Or reach out to Mike at ⁠MICHAEL G. MALPASS - Home

Tactical concepts permeating our consciousness, from self-help books, to TED talks, to the martial arts. In part 1 of this conversation with master tactical instructor Mike Malpass, we discuss 6 of the most misunderstood tactical rules and how they damage our learning process. Check out all three of Mike's books on Amazon at ⁠Amazon.com: Michael G Malpass: books, biography, latest update⁠Or reach out to Mike at ⁠MICHAEL G. MALPASS - Home

Trauma creates measurable physical changes in our brain structure, body chemistry, and nervous system. In this episode, we will explore the modern movement of Trauma-Informed Training, and learn how to integrate elements of respect, self-care and healing into our solo training and environments, to create lasting positive change in our bodies, minds, and behaviours.

Studies continue to emerge, substantiating the use of "Magic Mushrooms" as a powerful and rapid treatment for conditions ranging from medication-resistant depression to PTSD. In this episode, mushroom facilitator Cliff "Trip" Maxwell, shares his journey and experience with the healing power of Psilocybin.

The martial arts of Russia are among the most maligned and misunderstood in the world today. Clouded by misinformation, a fragmented historical record, and outright charlatanism, it can be difficult to separate the beneficial from the bogus. In this episode, Kevin, himself a seasoned expert in the art, dissects some of the biggest misunderstandings, with a focus on which aspects can create the biggest transformation in your own training.

In the second portion of this interview, we learn how consolidate Stewart's martial, military and fitness mastery to forge a "Tactical Athlete". You will learn detailed prescriptions for creating a personal fitness system, clearly and simply. For more about Stewart, please visit:⁠Five Stones Barbell⁠⁠ or Soma Strong

In this episode, we explore the first half of an interview with Stewart Breeding. He is a master-level fitness instructor, martial arts expert, and combat veteran with the infamous 82nd Airborne.We discuss his early years of getting into fitness, his military experience, his training with legendary martial arts masters, and much more.For more about Stewart, please visit:Five Stones Barbell or Soma Strong

In this week's show, I interview Dr. John Giduck. John was a pioneer in the establishment of the Slavic martial arts in the West. He is a retired lawyer who earned his law degree from the University of Denver. He has been a doctoral studies professor in homeland security for the past 10 years and a criminal justice professor for 30 years. In addition, he has a Master's Degree in Russian Studies which involved a significant amount of study at St. Petersburg State University in Russian. He also has a Ph.D. in Middle East Studies from King's College in London. Some of his areas of specialization include the evolution of jihadist terrorism and mass siege tactics, which led to him authoring the books "Terror at Beslan", "When Terror Returns" and "Shooter Down" which addresses the Virginia Tech massacre.In the first half of the interview we discuss his new book "1500 Years of Fighting: The Complete Book of Russian, Ukranian and Soviet Martial Arts from Cossacks to Spetsnaz and Beyond", and discuss his time in Russia and training in the Slavic arts. In the second half of the interview, we discuss his forthcoming book "No Such Thing as Sudden Enlightenment: Knowing Where You Are On The Path and What The End Will Be Like So Long As You Are on Planet Earth" and discuss the idea of enlightenment, and how to create a daily practice in search of awakening. John's books can be found on Amazon worldwide.His articles can be found at Giduck BooksOr you can reach out to John directly at [email protected]

Within the self-defense world, a constant debate rages on regarding how ferocious you should train yourself to be. Should we train ourselves to be resolute and to resort to any means necessary unthinkingly? How burdened by the risk of consequences should we allow ourselves to become? In this podcast, we discuss various perspectives and establish some potential tenets and guidelines for assessing our training. Regardless of what you train or even whether you train, understanding and challenging your underlying view of violence and aggression is essential and potentially transformative.

The Ecological Approach to learning as well as the Constraints Led Approach are enjoying growing popularity. This discussion with tactical expert and instructor Mike Malpass specifically discusses some of the limitations of this approach as it applies to the martial arts, self-defense, and tactical instruction. It attempts to unpack some of the inflated marketing claims. It provides a balanced discussion of how to approach and integrate this methodology, with conventional training and instructional structure. Check out all three of Mike's books on Amazon at Amazon.com: Michael G Malpass: books, biography, latest updateOr reach out to Mike at MICHAEL G. MALPASS - Home

One of the questions I’ve been asked the most in my decades of training and teaching, is how do I train myself to be more confident when everything is on the line? How do I tame my fear and have the resolve to face my fears?In part two of this episode, we will conclude our 25 exercises to practice in your daily life that will grow your ability across the entire spectrum, from assertiveness to aggression. Special thanks to my sponsor, Naya Defense.

One of the questions I’ve been asked the most in my decades of training and teaching, is how do I train myself to be more confident when everything is on the line? How do I tame my fear and have the resolve to face my fears?In this two-part episode, we will give you 25 exercises to practice in your daily life that will grow your ability across the entire spectrum, from assertiveness to aggression. Special thanks to my sponsor, Naya Defense.

With so much conflicting and competing information on the market about breath training, we start by looking at research that suggests breath retraining may be a rational placebo. From there, we delve into the mechanics of specific techniques, including 3 levels of breathing, Box Breathing, and The Physiological Sigh, providing new insights and simple ways to test and integrate these concepts in your daily life.