Description

In this episode, CJ Kirk and Joel Ellenbecker unpack the critical difference between vertical growth—going deeper into the Krav Maga system—and horizontal growth—chasing new skills and techniques that may not serve you under stress.

Drawing on real conversations from recent seminars, handgun certifications, and years of system-level training, they explain why Krav Maga’s system-first architecture is designed to reduce cognitive overload and increase survivability. Vertical growth means simplifying, refining, and fully owning what you already know—so your defenses are reliable, fast, and functional when it counts.

Key topics include:

• Why “less is more” when lives are on the line
• What it means to rent vs. own your skills
• Why vertical growth can feel slower but pays bigger dividends
• How adjacent areas like coaching and firearms training support vertical development
• The difference between training as a tourist and training as an archaeologist

Whether you're a Level 1 student or a seasoned black belt, this episode will challenge your assumptions and help you focus your energy on the type of growth that saves lives.