Shows
Krav TalkFight, Flight, Freeze: How Stress Shapes Decisions and How to Regain ControlDecision-making under pressure is one of the most critical skills in life, yet also one of the least understood. When stress hits, most people do not rise to the occasion. They lose access to clarity, communication, and options they normally rely on. Vision narrows, time distorts, emotions feel like facts, and hesitation or freezing becomes the real threat.In this episode, Tsahi Shemesh sits down with Shahar Or, a fighter and security professional with real-world experience in high-pressure, life-threatening situations. Together, they break down what actually happens to the mind and body under stress, why training matters...
2026-01-2345 min
Krav TalkThird-Party Protection: The Mindset Most Self-Defense Training MissesIn this episode, we speak with Shahar “Sean” Or, an Israeli security professional and senior Krav Maga instructor with decades of operational experience in personal protection and third-party protection. Sean brings a background in IDF Special Forces, law enforcement command, and executive protection, and specializes in training people to protect themselves and others in real-world situations.The conversation focuses on everyday situational awareness, risk assessment, and decision-making under stress. We discuss how protecting others changes the way you must think, move, and respond, and what to pay attention to in daily life before a situation escalates. Sean also...
2026-01-1659 min
Krav TalkFrom Setbacks to Success: Making Dreams Come True From The Ground UpIn this episode of Krav Talk, Tsahi Shemesh sits down with Hilroy Alfred, a true entrepreneur whose journey embodies resilience and vision. From a setback on the cricket field to launching a fitness empire and founding a Krav Maga school after tragedy, Hilroy turned pain into purpose. He shares how he overcame obstacles, why betting on yourself matters, and how a positive outlook can transform setbacks into stepping stones. This conversation dives deep into perseverance, risk-taking, and the mindset required to turn dreams into reality. Tune in to learn what it takes to rise from hardship and build something...
2025-09-0946 min
Krav TalkKrav Talk with August Ritter - What Does Resilience Mean?Krav Talk hosting August Ritter.What Is Resilience? In this episode, Tsahi hosts August Ritter, a dedicated Krav Maga coach and resilience expert.August shares his perspective on resilience—what it truly means, how it’s built, and why it’s essential in both self-defense and everyday life. Together, they explore how facing adversity, training hard, and developing the right mindset can transform challenges into growth.BackgroundAugust Ritter is no stranger to pushing limits. With years of experience in Krav Maga and other combative discipl...
2025-03-1052 min
Krav TalkA Step-by-Step Guide to Learn Self-DefenseIn this episode of KravTalk, Tsahi breaks down the essentials of learning self-defense, making it accessible for anyone—no matter your experience or background. Self-defense is more than just physical techniques; it’s about building confidence, awareness, and the mindset to handle challenges both on and off the mat.Drawing from the last article on the KME blog, A Step-by-Step Guide to Learn Self-Defense, we will walk through practical steps to get started, tips for staying consistent, and why self-defense is a skill every person should master.Tune in to discover:Why simp...
2025-01-0926 min
Krav TalkKrav Talk with Dr. Oksana Sivkovich Fagin - The Parallels Between The Training Mat and Therapist’s CouchIn this episode, Tsahi sits down with Dr. Oksana, a Cognitive Psychology expert with a PhD specializing in the mechanisms of hypnosis. With over a decade of experience helping individuals through hypnosis, Dr. Oksana brings a wealth of knowledge on the human mind and its ability to heal and transform. As a Borough of Manhattan Community College professor, she teaches courses in Cognitive Psychology, Research Methods, and Behavioral Statistics, shaping the next generation of psychological thinkers.Oksana and Tsahi explore together the fascinating connections between the world of psychology and the physical training mat. Discussing the healing...
2024-12-1156 min
Krav TalkKrav Talk with Eric Dym - Freedom Of Speech vs Hate SpeechIn this episode, Tsahi is hosting Eric Dym. A retired NYPD Lieutenant. Eric shares his view as a law enforcement officer, handling hate speech and finding the difference between what is legally allowed and what isn't. Enjoy! Background Eric Dym is a fighter. On the mat, he trains in Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, skills that helped him stay safe during his long career of protecting others.Eric joined the Marine Corps in 1999 and deployed to the Middle East. After his five years of service, he joined the NYP...
2024-07-0855 min
Empowered + WellThrowing Punches with Amy ParkasLucky number 13!!! This week we chat with Amy Parkas, a dedicated practitioner of Krav Maga who began her training as an adult. Her story is a powerful testament to the transformative effects of martial arts, not only in terms of physical strength but also mental resilience. Amy has experienced firsthand how Krav Maga can build confidence, enhance self-discipline, and foster a sense of empowerment, particularly for women embarking on new ventures later in life. We touch on so many topics including: What Krav Maga is and why you might want to start a practice Th...
2024-06-2749 min
Krav TalkKRAV MAGA IN THE AGE OF ANTISEMITISMIn this insightful episode of our podcast, Tsahi Shemesh welcomes back expert Ron Rotem to delve deep into the origins and societal catalysts of Krav Maga. Exploring the disturbing rise of antisemitism during the 1930s—echoes of which are resurfacing in 2024—and how Imi Lichtenfeld, the founder of Krav Maga, responded to these challenges back in the last century. The discussion will cover the relevance of Krav Maga's philosophy in today's context, specifically addressing the actions and mindset the Jewish community might consider in the face of renewed discrimination. Additionally, Tsahi and Ron explai...
2024-05-1348 min
Krav TalkKrav Talk with Elad Binenfeld - Krav Maga As a Therapeutic ToolIn this episode, Elad Binenfeld & I discuss how Krav Maga serves as a therapeutic tool. Krav Maga, just as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) involves managing emotions and reactions to help build resilience and prepare for daily situations.Support the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who might find it valuable. Stay connected with Tsahi and learn more about upcoming episodes by following on social media or visiting the website. Your journey to gr...
2024-04-0835 min
Krav TalkKrav Talk with Ron Rotem - The History Of Krav MagaIn this episode, Tsahi Shemesh and Ron Rotem, two instructors who know their Krav Maga inside and out, delve into the origins of Krav Maga. They're here to chat about all things Krav Maga - the stuff everyone knows and the juicy secrets that hardly anyone talks about. We'll dive into how Krav Maga got started, why it became such a big deal, and how it spread all over the globe. But that's not all. Tsahi and Ron are also going to spill the beans on the behind-the-scenes stories, the hidden heroes, and some of the sneakier a...
2024-02-1258 min
Krav TalkKrav Maga Vs AntisemitismIn today's episode, Tsahi Shemesh is being interviewed on a show called "Being Jew-ish" By Rabbi David Z Vaisberg. TSupport the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who might find it valuable. Stay connected with Tsahi and learn more about upcoming episodes by following on social media or visiting the website. Your journey to growth, resilience, and empowerment starts here—see you in the next episode!
2023-11-2145 min
Being Jew-ishKrav Maga vs. AntisemitismTsahi Shemesh, founder and chief instructor of Krav Maga Experts in NYC, joins Seth and Dave. Tsahi shares his perspectives as an instructor and life-long practitioner of Israel's unique self-defense system, Krav Maga (roughly translated as “close touch”), as an Israeli and Jew living in New York City, and as a parent too. Dave and Tsahi first met when Tsahi came to Dave's congregation to teach a self-defense workshop after the rise of Antisemitism in 2019. Learn more about Tsahi Shemesh and Krav Maga Experts at www.kravmagaexperts.com. You can also learn more from Tsahi on his podcast, Krav Talk, avai...
2023-11-2144 min
Krav TalkElad Binenfeld - Teaching based on Krav Maga principlesWe are introducing Part 2 of our self-defense podcast with Elad Binenfeld, a Krav Maga Expert with decades on the mat!In this episode, we'll discuss the difference between violence and self-defense, the three reactions that explain a self-defense mindset, how we teach Krav Maga principles on the mat, and how we aim to meet the needs of many different individuals in a group setting.Support the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it...
2023-08-211h 14
Krav TalkKristin - Trauma's Effect on The Body & How Krav HelpsIn this episode, I am hosting Kristin, is Krav Maga Instructor who also wears the therapist's hat during regular work hours. Informed, trained, and licensed to help, she helps people heal on the couch and the mat. In today's talk, we are discussing the effect of trauma on the body and Why and How training on the mat helps change it.EnjoySupport the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave...
2023-08-0858 min
Krav TalkKrav Maga Q&A By Tsahi ShemeshDo I need to be fit to start? My fitness isn’t like the rest of the group. Is that a problem? The optimal frequency of training? How many hours do I need to train until I am good?Balancing / importance of fitness, and strength training with Krav, to what degree is it necessary?How to be a good partner How to overcome the fear of hurting others in practice Cross training - is it good to cross train or would it confuse me?Would watching YouTube help? Training tips Thank you all for...
2023-08-0130 min
Krav TalkEmily Fitzgerald - Women In The Martial Arts WorldToday, I am hosting Emily, a martial artist, a human weapon, a college professor, and soon-to-be-called Doctor Fitzgerald. We discussed the differences between the genders and social expectations in the martial arts world, as well as what one should expect from training.EnjoySupport the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who might find it valuable. Stay connected with Tsahi and learn more about upcoming episodes by foll...
2023-07-181h 20
Krav TalkEmily Fitzgerald - Women on the training matToday, I am hosting Emily, a martial artist, a human weapon, a college professor, and soon-to-be-called Doctor Fitzgerald. We discussed the differences between the genders and social expectations in the martial arts world, as well as what one should expect from training.Enjoy!Support the show
2023-07-181h 34
Krav TalkRon Engelman - Leadership, transformation, gains, and lossesIn this episode, I'm talking to Ron, one of the most experienced and intelligent Krav Maga instructors I've ever worked with. Ron has been training Krav Maga for over 25 years, and he's taught soldiers on the front lines and civilians around the world. He also holds training camps in Israel for students and instructors, where he shares his amazing experience and advice.In this episode will discuss his teaching philosophy, leadership, and insights on the transformation the self-defense journey brings to our students. Support the showThank you for t...
2023-07-101h 18
Krav TalkNimrod Astel - Healing Combat Warriors With PTSDToday, I am honored to host my friend Nimrod again. It was clear we needed to continue our discussion about our training approaches and personal experiences. Today, Nimrod and I will discuss his approach to teaching combat warriors with PTSD. The undeniable bond of the mind-body connection.And the instructor's role in the process of the student’s growthSupport the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it...
2023-07-041h 07
Krav TalkElad Binenfeld - Krav Maga with Emotional IntelligenceElad is an Expert in Krav Maga, a fighter, a coach, a guide, and above all, a father of two amazing children.Elad has decades of experience teaching children of all ages and training children with special needs. His big heart is the key to his success in this field. He lives by the quote: “It is better to teach a child than fix a broken man”.In this episode, we discuss his unique approach to teaching Krav Maga with emotional intelligence. Support the showThank...
2023-06-261h 19
Krav TalkNimrod Astel - The Trainer Of "Fauda"I have the honor of hosting my dear friend Nimrod Astel. Nimrod is a Martial artist - a fighter and commander in one of the IDF's elite undercover units, specializing in counter-terrorism. Nimrod is a 5th dan black belt in the GOJU RYU karate and Trained generations of martial artists. You probably watched some of his students in action on Netflix as he trained the fighters of Fauda to kick ass on the big screen. Above all, His studio is a safe place for many warriors who suffer fr...
2023-06-191h 14
Krav TalkMajor Sagi Dovev - The Trainer Of The Elite IDF UnitsIn this episode, Tsahi Shemesh is hosting Major Sagi Dovev— The head training officer for the IDF's elite commando units. He specializes in Krav Maga & close combat for special ops. Sagi is the highest-ranked Krav Maga instructor in the IDF. He is a highly decorated officer but also a 10-time national Jiu-Jitsu champion,4-time European champion and a pan-America gold medalist! Support the showThank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who might find it v...
2023-06-1250 min
New York’s Finest: Retired & Unfiltered PodcastInterview of Tsahi Shemesh- Founder of Krav Maga ExpertsOn this episode Tsahi Shemesh, the founder of KRAV MAGA EXPERTS, the premier self defense school in NYC, joins Eric & John to discuss the mindset and philosophy of Krav Maga. Krav Maga is an Israeli martial art. It was developed for the Israel Defense Forces, it is derived from a combination of techniques used in aikido, judo, karate, boxing and wrestling. Krav Maga is known for focusing on real life scenarios. Tsahi breaks down the difference between training KRAV MAGA vs. other forms of martial arts. To learn more about or to get some hands on experience visit www...
2023-06-031h 07
The Ron Engelman Podcast#13 Tsahi Shemesh - Krav Maga Deep Dive: Leadership & ValuesTsahi Shemesh is a lifelong Krav Maga pratitioner. He grew up in Israel where he learned Krav Maga from an early age and joined the Israeli paratroopers where he served in combat. In 2010 Tsahi moved to New York and founded Krav Maga Experts which is a Krav Maga school with branches across the city. Tsahi trains Krav Maga instructors, works with numerous Krav Maga school around the world as well as local law enforcement in New York.Tsahi is also a good friend of mine. In this episode we discuss what it takes to teach Krav Maga...
2022-11-212h 21