Shows
Puu Muay Thai PodcastBehind the Scenes: A Talk with Program Director Glory Munoz | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 203This week on the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast (Episode 203), Jonathan sits down with Glory Munoz, Program Director at Pu’u Muay Thai Ventura and one of the academy’s first-ever hires. Glory shares her story of starting as a beginner student, rising through the ranks, and stepping into a leadership role where she now helps guide others through their Muay Thai journey.From managing classes and events to mentoring students and upholding the academy’s high standards, Glory plays a vital role in the growth of Pu’u Muay Thai and its mission to make Muay Thai more...2025-07-2542 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastWhat Every Muay Thai Beginner Needs to Hear: Avoid These 9 Mistakes | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 202Starting Muay Thai can be overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Jonathan Puu breaks down the real challenges beginners face and how to overcome them. Learn why consistency beats talent, how to train through injuries, and what to do when motivation disappears.Don’t miss updates on our Muay Thai training camp in Thailand, upcoming events, and how to become a certified Muay Thai official. Links below:Thailand Camp: thailand.puumuaythai.comSIAM Standard: muaythairingofficial.comEAT SLEEP TEEP: eatsleepteep.comSeminars & More: pmtlifestyle.comSupport the show💬 What Do You Think...2025-07-1924 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastWBC vs. IFMA Controversy, ONE Championship Changes & Muay Thai Politics | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 201In Episode 201 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, host Jonathan Puu unpacks breaking news around a controversial Muay Thai youth tournament in Italy that’s sparked global concern, with accusations of illegal full-contact bouts and Olympic ambitions being questioned. He also covers the latest on ONE Championship’s Muay Thai rule changes, WBC Muay Thai's fiery response, and the upcoming SIAM Standard Ring Officials Course and EAT SLEEP TEEP Semi Contact event. Plus, hear about the December Thailand training camp and updates from Teep Studios in Scottsdale.🔗 Join the Thailand Camp: https://thailand.puumuaythai.com 🎓 Become a Cer...2025-07-1138 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastFighter Dies at Muay Thai Tournament - What Happened & What Comes Next | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 200A tragic incident shook the Muay Thai community when a young fighter passed away at a recent tournament in Des Moines, Iowa. In this episode, Jonathan Puu reflects on what happened, the emotional aftermath, and how the Muay Thai community is responding. We discuss the importance of safety, tournament culture, and what steps are taken here in USA to help reduce risks.This conversation is about honoring the fighter’s legacy, supporting his family, and calling for better protections in the sport we all love.🙏 You can support the family here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/sup...2025-06-2717 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastCoach Connor: Building Better Muay Thai Athletes | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 199In this in-depth conversation at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona, Coach Connor joins Jonathan Puu to talk about what it truly takes to coach Muay Thai in 2025. From developing real fighters to creating a sustainable training culture, they cover the highs and lows of coaching, why some athletes stagnate, and what separates a coach from a pad holder.They also dig into the differences between American and Thai training methods, how to navigate ego in the gym, and why mentorship matters more than ever. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or just a passionate fan of the sp...2025-06-2057 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastWhy Dana White Won’t Promote Muay Thai (Even Though He Prefers It) | Pu'u Muay Thai Podacst Ep. 198Why Dana White Refuses to Promote Muay Thai – The Real ReasonUFC President Dana White recently made headlines after commenting on kickboxing and Muay Thai, saying he prefers Muay Thai over kickboxing—but still has no plans to promote it. In this solo episode, Jonathan Puu breaks down Dana's statements, the deeper reasons UFC is investing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and boxing, and what this means for the future of Muay Thai globally.Jonathan also explores the missed opportunities for UFC to bring striking-only combat sports like Muay Thai to mainstream audiences, and whether "UFC...2025-06-1314 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastThe American Dream Through Muay Thai: Daniel Chacon’s Powerful Origin Story | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 197In this inspiring episode of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu welcomes Daniel Chacon of Denver Muay Thai to Teep Studios via Zoom. From arriving in the U.S. as a child refugee from Argentina to becoming a U.S. citizen, Muay Thai gym owner, and coach—Daniel shares the raw and emotional story of how martial arts transformed his life.Hear how a chance encounter with UFC legend Rich Franklin lit the spark that changed everything, and how Daniel now uses his platform to give back to the next generation of fighters. We also disc...2025-06-0726 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastMimi the Tiger & Muay Thai Legends: Behind the Scenes at Fairtex | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 196In this special episode recorded at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ, host Jonathan Puu is joined by Muay Thai legends John Crane and Bob Karmel, two Americans with deep roots at the iconic Fairtex Bangplee camp in Thailand during the 1990s.We dive into:What it was like to be among the first Americans training full-time at Fairtex ThailandThe wild story of Mr. Wong’s pet tiger, “Mimi,” that lunged at fighters during their morning runs 🐅The culture shock, intense training regimens, and bonds formed in one of Muay Thai’s golden er...2025-05-3046 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastWhat It Takes to Build a Muay Thai Gym & Community from the Ground Up | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 195In Episode 195 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu returns to Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ after a whirlwind few weeks of building the future of Muay Thai—literally. From hosting a sold-out Eat Sleep Teep 3 semi-contact event in Ventura to laying down the floors of the brand-new Pu’u Muay Thai Ventura academy, this episode is all about growth, gratitude, and grassroots community building.Jonathan shares the real story of how Muay Thai didn’t even exist in Ventura when he was growing up—and how, through persistence, sacrifice (even selling hi...2025-05-2422 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastWhy Muay Thai Referees Need Better Training (And What We’re Doing About It) | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 194In Episode 194 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, recorded at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ, Jonathan Puu returns from a jam-packed trip to Ventura, California to share major updates and powerful insights into the future of Muay Thai officiating in the U.S.🔥 What’s covered:Eat Sleep Teep 3 – Over 100 registered athletes for the third event in our semi-contact Muay Thai series happening May 17th at Ventura High SchoolBig Move Alert – The new Ventura academy location at 2424 East Main Street is under construction with a full buildout underwayMuay Thai...2025-05-1024 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastMay Madness: Eat Sleep Teep 3 & Ventura Academy Expansion | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 193In Episode 193 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, recorded at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ, Jonathan Puu dives into the exciting chaos happening in May for Pu'u Muay Thai!We talk about Eat Sleep Teep 3, our next big semi-contact Muay Thai event taking place on May 17th at Ventura High School, featuring competitors from across California, Arizona, Nevada, and beyond. Plus, Jonathan reveals all the details about Pu’u Muay Thai Ventura’s big move to our brand-new upgraded facility just down the street on Main Street in Ventura!This...2025-04-2528 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastMuay Thai Scams, Culture Clashes & CHOK Chats from Bangkok | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 191In Episode 191 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, we’re coming to you straight from Bangkok, Thailand with a special crossover segment from CHOK Chats—hosted by content creator and RWS commentator Joe Comerford, joined by Jonathan Puu and Josh Soliva.This wide-ranging, no-filter conversation digs into the realities of training and fighting Muay Thai in Thailand, the cultural expectations for foreigners, and the ongoing issue of influencer fraud—people selling online content and courses without real experience.We discuss: 🇹🇭 What foreigner...2025-04-1256 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastWhy Fighters Are Flocking to Marrok Gym in Bangkok | Full Tour & Interview | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 190In Episode 190 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu visits the stunning Marrok Gym in Bangkok, Thailand, for a powerful in-person conversation with co-owners Mimm and Golf, alongside special guest Josh Soliva. This episode dives deep into how Marrok is reshaping the Muay Thai and MMA landscape in Thailand—focusing on fighter empowerment, fair contracts, and long-term athlete development.Jonathan explores: 🥊 How Marrok Gym was founded to give fighters fair treatment and freedom from exploitative contracts. 💥 Stories of buying fighters out of unfair d...2025-04-0532 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastThe Truth About Fighting in Thailand: What They Don’t Tell You | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 189In Episode 189 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu exposes the harsh realities and hidden truths about fighting in Thailand—things most fighters never hear before stepping into the ring. If you’ve ever dreamed of fighting in the birthplace of Muay Thai, this episode is a must-listen to understand what you’re really signing up for.💭 The Fantasy vs. Reality of Fighting in Thailand:The romanticized vision of training at an authentic gym, fighting in world-famous stadiums, and earning respect.The reality—many fighters start out i...2025-03-2115 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastWhy Most Muay Thai Fighters Are Broke (And How to Fix It) | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 188In Episode 188 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu dives deep into the harsh reality of why most Muay Thai fighters struggle financially—and more importantly, how they can change that. Despite being one of the toughest and most respected combat sports, Muay Thai fighters often earn little to nothing, even at high levels. But does it have to be this way?Jonathan, with over 18 years in the industry as a fighter, coach, gym owner, and ring official, breaks down: 💰 The harsh truth about fighter pay...2025-03-1418 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastMuay Thai’s Ranking System Is Broken – Here’s Why | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 187In Episode 186 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu breaks down the flawed ranking system in Muay Thai and why it continues to be a challenge for fighters, promotions, and organizations worldwide. Unlike MMA and boxing, where structured ranking systems dictate title contention, Muay Thai still lacks a standardized, universally recognized system—and that’s holding the sport back.Jonathan dives into:🥊 The difference between promotional titles vs. legitimate sanctioning bodies🏆 Why there’s no unified ranking system in the U.S. and how that affects fighters📉 ...2025-03-0116 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastRunning a Muay Thai Gym in 2025: The Hard Truth | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 186In Episode 186 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a successful Muay Thai gym in 2025. Whether you’re an aspiring gym owner, a coach, or a dedicated student, this episode will give you a raw, unfiltered look at the business side of Muay Thai—beyond just training fighters and hosting events.Jonathan shares his insights from over 18 years in the industry, discussing:✅ Why treating your gym as a business is essential for survival.✅ The hidden costs—rent, insurance, marketing, staff, and...2025-02-2125 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastAre Foreigners Ruining Muay Thai? | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 185Muay Thai is evolving—but is it for the better? In this episode, Jonathan Pu’u breaks down one of the most heated debates in the sport: Are foreigners helping Muay Thai grow, or are they diluting its authenticity?As more Western fighters, gyms, and trainers flood Thailand, we’re seeing major shifts in how Muay Thai is practiced, promoted, and taught. Some argue that this globalization is bringing more money, exposure, and opportunities to the sport. Others believe that Muay Thai is being over-commercialized, losing its deep Thai cultur...2025-02-0716 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastOvercoming Mental Barriers with Muay Thai: Tim of Sack Life on Martial Arts for Mental Health | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 184In this episode of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, we sit down with Tim from Sack Life to explore how Muay Thai and martial arts can be powerful tools for mental health. Tim shares his deeply personal journey—from battling clinical depression to discovering how training on a heavy bag helped him reclaim his life. Today, he travels the country in a 1977 Volkswagen bus, bringing free martial arts training for mental health to communities everywhere.💭 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ How Muay Thai hel...2025-01-3133 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastNew Year, New Fighter: Starting Your Muay Thai Journey in 2025 | Pu’u Muay Thai Ep. 183In Episode 183 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu reflects on the opportunities a new year brings and encourages listeners to make 2025 the year they finally begin their Muay Thai journey. Recorded at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for beginners looking to take their first steps into the "Art of Eight Limbs."Jonathan addresses common fears like not being fit enough, looking silly, or holding others back, and shares why Muay Thai is the ultimate New Year’s resolution. With stories of past students who overcame these fe...2025-01-1716 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastWhy Muay Thai Fighters Aren't in the UFC | Pu’u Muay Thai Ep. 182In Episode 182 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu dives deep into the question many fight fans are asking: Why aren't more Muay Thai fighters competing in the UFC? Broadcasting from Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ, Jonathan breaks down the cultural, historical, and practical barriers that have kept high-level Muay Thai fighters from transitioning to mixed martial arts and entering the global stage of the UFC.Topics include:The cultural significance of Muay Thai in Thailand and why it's deeply rooted in the nation’s identity.Historical barriers, including MMA being banned in Th...2025-01-1025 minPuu Muay Thai PodcastGratitude & Milestones: A Look Back at an Incredible Year | Pu’u Muay Thai Ep. 181In Episode 181 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, join host Jonathan Puu as he reflects on an incredible year filled with growth, challenges, and exciting milestones. Broadcasting from Teep Studios in Scottsdale, AZ, this gratitude-filled episode reviews the highlights from the past year, including unforgettable podcast conversations, impactful events, and the thriving community that has made it all possible.We revisit key episodes, like exploring Muay Thai in Thailand, comparing RWS vs. ONE Championship, and learning from inspiring guests like James Nichol, Marc Entenberg, and Bruce Panyapol. Jonathan also shares personal highlights from training camps, events like...2024-12-1326 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEvolution of The Ultimate Fighter | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 177In Episode 177 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast titled "Evolution Of The Ultimate Fighter," Jonathan Puu sits down with Mark Beecher, former multi-sport pro fighter turned high-level striking coach, joining via Zoom from Houston, Texas. Mark, known as one of the top striking coaches with a low-key reputation, shares his journey in MMA and Muay Thai, recounting how he got started and his experiences training UFC legends like Forrest Griffin and Matt Brown.Jonathan and Mark reflect on their history together over the years, from crossing paths at fight events, working as ring officials at...2024-11-0854 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastHighlighting Muay Thai In The UFC | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 176In Episode 176 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast titled "Highlighting Muay Thai In The UFC," Jonathan welcomes former multi-sport professional fighter Chris Culley for his first appearance on the show, joining via Zoom from Los Angeles. Jonathan and Chris share their unique history, having met across the cage when Jonathan was cornering against Chris in a championship MMA fight.The conversation dives into critical topics in the fight community, from authentic fighter development and the issue of record padding in some fight promotions to the challenges of building true competitive experience. Chris shares his experiences...2024-11-011h 05
Puu Muay Thai PodcastTraveling & Fighting Muay Thai | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 175In Episode 175 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast titled "Traveling & Fighting Muay Thai," we connect with professional fighter Ricardo Mixco via Zoom from Maryland for his first appearance on the show! Ricardo and Jonathan reminisce about meeting at the 2015 WKA World Championships in Benidorm, Spain, and discuss Ricardo’s experience fighting for Lion Fight, a former leading Muay Thai promotion in the USA.We explore Ricardo’s journey overcoming setbacks from COVID-19 as a pro fighter, his training with legendary figures like Dany Bill and Manu Ntoh, and the exciting possibility of transitioning to professional boxi...2024-10-2946 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastMuay Thai at Ventura High School | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 170Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--In this episode, recorded via Zoom from Teep Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona, Jonathan Puu is joined by Ryan Ughoc, coming to us from Santa Barbara, California. Ryan is one of the promoters for our upcoming Muay Thai event at Ventura High School on October 20th, 2024, and together, we’re excited to bring this to our community in Ventura, Jonathan’s hometown and one of the high schools he attended.We dive into the rules of the even...2024-09-2532 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 169 - Muay Thai Event Coming to VENTURA!Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--In Episode 169 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, we're bringing you exciting news straight from Teep Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona. Join host Jonathan Puu as he dives into the details of our upcoming Muay Thai Semi-Contact event happening on October 20th, 2024, in Ventura, California! This is a historic moment as it's the first-ever Muay Thai event in Ventura, and we can't wait to see everyone there.Jonathan shares what to expect, how you can get involved...2024-08-3019 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 167 - RWS or ONE Championship: Which Is Better?Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--In Episode 167 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu dives deep into the world of elite Muay Thai competitions with a focus on the Rajadamnern World Series (RWS) and ONE Championship. Having experienced both events in person multiple times over the past 18 months, Jonathan shares his unique insights and observations, comparing the two platforms from the perspective of both a fan and a practitioner.Which one truly captures the essence of Muay Thai? Which offers...2024-08-1023 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 166 - From Pattaya to Ventura: Training, Fighting, and Seminar Highlightsin Episode 166 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu takes you on a journey through the recent post-training camp trip in Bangkok, Thailand. Broadcasting from Teep Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona, Jonathan shares exciting highlights and insights from this unforgettable experience.Join us as we dive into the details of Kru Ed's impressive fight at JF Boxing Stadium in Pattaya, Thailand. Kru Ed, previously featured here on the podcast, fought valiantly and showcased his skills on an international stage.Explore the continued growth of entertainment-style Muay Thai, including the Rajadamnern World Series (RWS) and ONE...2024-07-2624 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 153 - How Muay Thai Changed My LifeSponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--In this deeply personal episode of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, join me, Jonathan Puu, as I share the transformative journey of how Muay Thai reshaped my life. From my early days as a punk rocker with little direction, through my evolution into a fighter, and ultimately becoming a business owner, this story is about more than just martial arts; it's about finding a path to purpose and passion.Discover how a lack of direction as...2024-04-2716 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 137 - Preparing For Your First Muay Thai Fight: Part 3Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--This is part three of Jonathan Puu reading his book "Preparing For Your First Muay Thai Fight" making it FREE for anyone that wants it.You can purchase a paperback or eBook here on amazon: https://amzn.to/3M3iSfgLimited SIGNED copies available direct here: https://shop.pmtlifestyle.com/collections/frontpage/products/preparing-for-your-first-muay-thai-fight-paperback-book-signedAs always, we encourage our listeners to submit questions and give shout-outs to their training partners and coaches...2023-10-2721 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 136 - Preparing For Your First Muay Thai Fight: Part 2Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--This is part two of Jonathan Puu reading his book "Preparing For Your First Muay Thai Fight" making it FREE for anyone that wants it.You can purchase a paperback or eBook here on amazon: https://amzn.to/3M3iSfgLimited SIGNED copies available direct here: https://shop.pmtlifestyle.com/collections/frontpage/products/preparing-for-your-first-muay-thai-fight-paperback-book-signedAs always, we encourage our listeners to submit questions and give shout-outs to their training partners and coaches...2023-10-2027 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 135 - Preparing For Your First Muay Thai Fight: Part 1Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--This is part one of Jonathan Puu reading his book "Preparing For Your First Muay Thai Fight" making it FREE for anyone that wants it.You can purchase a paperback or eBook here on amazon: https://amzn.to/3M3iSfgLimited SIGNED copies available direct here: https://shop.pmtlifestyle.com/collections/frontpage/products/preparing-for-your-first-muay-thai-fight-paperback-book-signedAs always, we encourage our listeners to submit questions and give shout-outs to their training partners and coaches...2023-10-1531 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 128 - From Tulum to Oahu: Jonathan's Referee Adventures and Insider Tips Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--In Episode 128 of the Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast, your host Jonathan Puu takes the spotlight. He shares his upcoming adventures as a referee, starting with an upcoming assignment in Tulum, Mexico for the thrilling Rumble in the Jungle event by WBC Muay Thai Mexico. The following weekend, he heads to Indiana for a highly anticipated women's fight between Tierra Brandt and Charlsey Manor. And just when you think the excitement is over, he wraps up his referee journey w...2023-08-1221 min
Puu Muay Thai PodcastEp. 127 - Exploring Drug Testing Disparities in Muay Thai: The Petchtanong Case and Global Perspectives Sponsored by: http://www.PMTLIFESTYLE.COMOptimize Your Training With: ONNIT Supplements: https://bit.ly/pmt-onnit--In this episode, we have some exciting updates and discussions lined up for you.One of the main topics we delve into is the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and the regulations surrounding them in the world of Muay Thai. We address the recent case of Petchtanong, who was stripped of his title due to testing positive for metenolone and boldenone. Although he claims those substances were doctor prescribed for injuries, it is important to note t...2023-08-0435 min