The Aiki Dojo Podcast
by Aikido Center of Los Angeles
Translating traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. Hosts:David Ito, Chief Instructor of Aikido Center of Los AngelesKen Watanabe ShihanBill D'Angelo, Aikido 4th DanMike Van Ruth, Aikido 4th Dan, Iaido 4th Dan
Episodes
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A Discussion on Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Aikido In Episode 85 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei, Johansson Sensei and Blevins Sensei discuss Aikido and its current state touching upon teaching, the old days, and what the future of Aikido holds. Read the Aiki Dojo Message — weekly writings on...
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An Interview with James Doi Shihan
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with James Doi Shihan In Episode 84 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we interview James Doi Shihan. Doi Shihan has been doing Aikido since 1969. At 75 years old, he has a unique view of not only Aikido but training into his 70s. Watch the episode here:...
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Andrew Blevins Sensei and the Path of the Deshi
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Andrew Blevins Sensei and the Path of the Deshi In Episode 83 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Andrew Blevins Sensei from Kiryu Aikido about the book he wrote: Path of the Deshi. In this episode they discuss the concepts of being an otomo, a student, and a...
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A Discussion on Aikido and Swordsmanship
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Aikido and Swordsmanship In Episode 82 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ken Watanabe Shihan discusses his experience with swordsmanship and his Aikido training. Watanabe Shihan is 6th Dan in Aikido and 5th Dan in Muso Shinden-ryu Iaido. He brings a unique...
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Edgar Johansson Sensei and Budo vs. Bullshido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Edgar Johansson Sensei and Budo vs. Bullshido In Episode 81 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Edgar Johansson Sensei from Denver Aikikai. Johansson Sensei started Aikido in 1990 and has built up an impressive resume of teacher that he has actually studied...
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Martial Arts Movies and Their Role in Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Martial Arts Movies and Their Role in Training In Episode 80 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss martial arts movies and their role in training. Ito Sensei gives a few of his favorite films and explains the martial concepts in others. In this video, he will talk about…
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Aikido Myths, Legends, and Tall Tales
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido Myths, Legends, and Tall Tales In Episode 79 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss a few of the myths in Aikido training. Some of these myths are allegorical teachings that students must train to find out for themselves the real meanings. Others are tall tales…
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A Discussion on Dojo Culture
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Dojo Culture In Episode 78 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss dojo culture. Is it true that birds of a feather flock together or that one bad apple spoils the bunch? Is dojo culture crucial? If so, who creates this culture? Tune in and find out.…
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A Discussion on Aikido as Self-defense
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Aikido as Self-defense In Episode 77 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei and Yoshida Sensei discuss Aikido as a form of self-defense. Is Aikido a form of fighting or combat? It it a viable means of self-defense? Should it be used as a form of...
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Coming Back to Training After a Long Layoff
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Coming Back to Training After a Long Layoff In Episode 76 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei discusses coming back to practice after a long layoff. There are so many factors that go into someone quitting and even more to them coming back. Ito Sensei discusses his…
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A Discussion About Budo Renshu With Glenn Yoshida Sensei
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion About Budo Renshu With Glenn Yoshida Sensei In Episode 75 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Glenn Yoshida Sensei from Renshinkan Dojo shares he thoughts on O’Sensei’s book Budo Renshu. Budo Renshu is a book published by Morihei Ueshiba in the late 1930s. It…
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Ken Watanabe Shihan's 5 Things All Beginners Should be Working on
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Ken Watanabe Shihan's 5 Things All Beginners Should be Working on In Episode 74 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ken Watanabe Shihan gives 5 things that he thinks all beginners should be working on. Enjoy! Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/xnNLftPYwLo The Aiki Dojo...
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Part 2 of an Interview with Jay Dunkelman Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Part 2 of an Interview with Jay Dunkelman Sensei In Episode 73 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, this is the second part of Ito Sensei’s interview of Jay Dunkelman Sensei of Kuwamori dojo in Japan. Kuwamori dojo was the first dojo created outside of Hombu dojo in the early 1950s....
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An Interview with Jay Dunkelman Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Jay Dunkelman Sensei In Episode 72 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Jay Dunkelman Sensei of Kuwamori dojo in Japan. Kuwamori dojo was the first dojo created outside of Hombu dojo in the early 1950s. Dunkelman Sensei moved to Japan in 1977…
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The Beginner’s Ego
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Beginner’s Ego In Episode 71 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we begin a series of discussions on beginners. This particular episode deals with the ego and the beginner. Should a beginner have an ego? What is the role of the ego in training? How to recognize the ego. Tune in...
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The Roll of the Uke
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Roll of the Uke In Episode 70 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we have a discussion about the uke. The uke is the one who “receives” the technique. From the outside looking in, the uke seems like just a throwing dummy. However, the uke’s role is much more than just rolling or...
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Should we Cross Train in Other Martial Arts?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Should we Cross Train in Other Martial Arts? In Episode 69 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we have a discussion on what martial arts, arts, or practices compliment Aikido. Should we cross train in other martial arts or arts? Do other styles compliment Aikido or does Aikido...
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A Discussion on The Teacher-Student Relationship
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on The Teacher-Student Relationship In Episode 68 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the relationship between the student and the teacher. Is the relationship different? What is the reason for any relationship? Do we need to have a teacher? Tune in for the...
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A Discussion on Intention
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Intention In Episode 67 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we spend some time discussing intention. Is intention necessary in one’s training? Do we need to define our intention in training? Tune in and see what role or importance intention plays in one’s Aikido...
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An Interview with Michael Gallo Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Michael Gallo Sensei In Episode 66 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we interview Michael Gallo Sensei, Aikido 6th Dan of Aikido San Marcos. Gallo Sensei is 6th Dan Aikikai and 8th Dan Daito-ryu. Listen in for some interesting stories. Enjoy! Watch this episode...
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Why is Aikido Hard to Learn
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Why is Aikido Hard to LearnIn Episode 65 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we learning Aikido and why it can be hard to learn. In this episode we will delve into the mindset of the student and also the motivation of the teacher. Does either one play a role in the difficult in...
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Is Aikido The Art of Peace?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido The Art of Peace? In Episode 64 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the Art of Peace with special guest Glenn Yoshida Sensei, Aikido 7th Dan from Aikido Renshinkan. The common assumption about Aikido is that it is for defensive purposes and people think that...
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A Discussion on Martial Awareness
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Martial Awareness In Episode 63 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss awareness. Martial awareness is the ability to quickly size up an opponent or a situation. Typically this training begins with trying to read one’s teacher and then we use that skill to…
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A Discussion on Quitting
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Quitting In Episode 62 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss quitting. Not quitting from the standpoint within the first 30-60 days. We mull over the possible reasons and possible remedies for people who quit after they have been training for a while. It is...
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An Interview with Mark Dufresne
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Mark Dufresne In Episode 61 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we interview Mark Dufresne. Mark was a student of Rev. Kensho Furuya's in the 1970s. In this interview Mark brings 50 years of Aikido training and experience. A truly eye opening interview. Enjoy!…
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Do Dominance Rituals Belong in Aikido?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Do Dominance Rituals Belong in Aikido? This is the first podcast episode of 2025. In Episode 60 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss if shaming, hazing or other dominance rituals belong in Aikido. Is hazing or shaming a true aspect of learning. Does a teacher have to be...
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Is Aikido Meditation?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido Meditation? The last Aiki Dojo Podcast of 2024. In Episode 59 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss if Aikido is meditation. Most confuse the difference between something being meditative and mindful. Ito Sensei gives his take on how to get to a place where the...
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You Want to Start Your Own Dojo?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - You Want to Start Your Own Dojo? In Episode 58 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei talks about what he says when someone asks to start their own dojo. He believes that it isn’t so much a matter of a specific rank, but rather that one apply themselves in the process and...
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Aikido Conversations II
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido Conversations II In Episode 57 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss a number of different topics related to Aikido, training, and martial arts. Listen in on the conversation. Enjoy! Watch it here: https://youtu.be/uPbViZHqAFg You can also listen to this podcast on...
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A Discussion on Strengths vs. Weaknesses
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Strengths vs. Weaknesses In Episode 56 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss whether building upon your strengths or addressing your weaknesses makes you a better Aikidoist or helps you develop faster. Enjoy! Watch this episode here:...
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Aikido Conversations I
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido Conversations I In Episode 55 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss a number of different topics related to Aikido, training, and martial arts. Listen in on the conversation. Enjoy! Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/8Ab2asTZDJM The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is...
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Sportsmanship and Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Sportsmanship and Aikido In Episode 54 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss sportsmanship and how it applies to Aikido training. Although, Aikido is not a sport, it does share some common traits that go hand in hand with sportsmanship. Enjoy! Watch this episode here:...
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Atemi in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Atemi in Aikido In Episode 53 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss atemi (当て身) or the practice of striking in Aikido. We discuss its history, evolution, and its place in training. Enjoy! Watch it here: https://youtu.be/QtnyuqvQaVo The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to…
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Why is Aikido Misunderstood?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Why is Aikido Misunderstood? In Episode 52 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss how Aikido might be misunderstood by not only practitioners but by the general public. It comes down to how Aikido is classified. Aikido can be exercise, a martial art, a philosophy, a…
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How Does Age Affect Training?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - How Does Age Affect Training? In Episode 51 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the role age and aging and how it affects training. On a certain level, age is a mindset. Those who think they can, will. Those who think they can’t, won’t. Tune into the discussion on how age...
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Is Aikido Lethal?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido Lethal? In Episode 50 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss lethality and discus the whether or not Aikido is lethal. Aikido is a mature martial art but it has its roots in traditional Japanese Jujitsu dating as far back as mid 800 AD. Born out of warfare and...
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The Importance of Correct Ukemi
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Importance of Correct Ukemi In Episode 49 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss ukemi and how its correct execution is imperative to the mastery of Aikido. Ukemi is not just falling down for someone. It is an intricate and detail oriented process of moving with the…
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Failure Teaches Success
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Failure Teaches Success In Episode 48 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss how failure is the key to success. Success is great and it feels good to celebrated. However, in terms of self-development, failure is a way better tool. Watch it here:...
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Is Aikido an Art?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido an Art? In Episode 47 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the concept of Aikido being a form of art. Find out what constitutes something being classified as an art and if Aikido is an art. Enjoy! Watch it here: https://youtu.be/MXlwwN6tpBU The Aiki Dojo…
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Aikido in the 21st Century & Beyond
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido in the 21st Century & Beyond In Episode 43 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss how Aikido is different today in the 21st century and what people have to differently. Enjoy! Watch to it here: https://youtu.be/1pWBgeUOnls The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate...
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Teaching: Yesterday vs. Today
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Teaching: Yesterday vs. Today In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss teaching and learning in the past and in the present. Within this topic, Ito Sensei discusses if Aikido is relevant, what it was like studying under Furuya Sensei and how modern traditional...
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What it Takes to Get to 25 Years
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What it Takes to Get to 25 Years In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei talks with Santiago Garcia Almaraz Sensei of Kodokai Dojo about their dojo’s 25th anniversary. Find out about the ups and downs and what it takes to get to 25 years. Enjoy! Watch here:...
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A Discussion on The Mindset of Mastery
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on The Mindset of Mastery In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss mastery and the psychology surrounding it. Is mastery or excellence an all the time thing? Or is it something we strive for? Find out! Enjoy! The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to...
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An Interview With Pepe Jesus Garcia, Aikido 7th Dan
An Interview With Pepe Jesus Garcia, Aikido 7th Dan Ito Sensei interviews 7th Dan Aikido teacher Pepe Jesus Garcia. Garcia Shihan has been doing Aikido since the 1970s and studied in Japan. Garcia Shihan is also the president of Spain Aikikai and follows Endo Sensei. Watch here:...
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The Unintended Benefits of Aikido Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Unintended Benefits of Aikido Training In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the unintended benefits from Aikido training. Ito Sensei shares his personal story about a benefit he received from his Aikido training that he didn’t realize would happen.…
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An Interview With Gayne Sogi, Aikido 7th Dan
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview With Gayne Sogi, Aikido 7th Dan Ito Sensei interviews 7th Dan Aikido teacher Gayne Sogi from Hawaii Betsuin Aikido Club. Sogi Sensei has been doing Aikido since 1960 and was a long time student of Sadao Yoshioka Sensei. Hawaii Betsuin Aikido Club:...
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Using Cheats, Hacks, and Shortcuts in Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Using Cheats, Hacks, and Shortcuts in Training In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss ways to accelerate one’s learning in terms of employing cheats, hacking, or any other shortcut. Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/tGpzjPx3RR0
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A Discussion on the Evolution of Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on the Evolution of Aikido Ito Sensei welcomes back Glenn Yoshida Sensei from Aikido Renshinkan Hawaii. In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we answer a listener’s question and discuss how Aikido is evolved over years. Watch it here:...
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What do you know now that you wished you knew back then?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What do you know now that you wished you knew back then? Watch the podcast here: https://youtu.be/0PIB_j2z-bo In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we reflect back on our Aikido training. What do we know now that we wished we knew back then? What do you think students...
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Obstacles in Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Obstacles in Training In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss obstacles in training. Obstacles can be physical, mental, philosophical or even spiritual. The topics vary from injury to discouragement. No matter who we are or how long we have been training, we...
About this show
Translating traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. Hosts:David Ito, Chief Instructor of Aikido Center of Los AngelesKen Watanabe ShihanBill D'Angelo, Aikido 4th DanMike Van Ruth, Aikido 4th Dan, Iaido 4th Dan
Hosted by
Aikido Center of Los Angeles