Shows
Master’s AllianceWhen Magnet attackThe dark underbelly of competitive Taekwondo surfaces in this revealing episode as coaches Juan Moreno, Fred Borchardt, and TJ Proe dissect the technical disaster that unfolded at the recent Grand Prix Challenge in Charlotte. What began as a standard tournament quickly descended into chaos when the DADO Gen 3 electronic scoring system malfunctioned spectacularly, with officials secretly adjusting sensitivity levels midway through the competition.
Through firsthand accounts, the coaches expose how morning matches yielded only 16 total points across all rings, while afternoon sessions suddenly exploded with scores in the 30s and 40s. Athletes who fought early faced completely...
2025-06-191h 122025-05-231h 17Master’s AllianceUzbekistan Training Camp: What American Taekwondo Could LearnOlympic medalists Juan Moreno, TJ Grimes, and Herb Perez pull no punches in this raw, unfiltered examination of what's happening behind the scenes in American taekwondo.
Coach Moreno shares fascinating insights from his training camp in Uzbekistan, where he's witnessed a thriving system with nine full-time coaches for their senior team, impressive test matches, and remarkable depth of talent. The contrast between this environment and the current USA program becomes the springboard for a deeper conversation about leadership, accountability, and inclusion in American taekwondo.
The coaches reveal their frustrations with USA Taekwondo leadership's systematic exclusion...
2025-05-0857 min
2025-04-181h 16
Master’s AllianceGame Changers: The Athletes Who Redefined TaekwondoThe Warehouse 15 crew delivers a no-holds-barred assessment of the recent Pan Am Championships in Queretaro, Mexico, where competitors battled not just opponents but also 90-degree heat in outdoor tents. The tournament's chaotic organization—from confusing registration processes to midnight schedule changes—prompts a larger conversation about respect for athletes in international Taekwondo.
The discussion takes a critical turn toward USA Taekwondo's development pipeline after noting the junior team's underwhelming gold medal count. Unlike other sports with sophisticated talent identification systems and multiple development pathways, Taekwondo in America lacks structured approaches to cultivating future Olympic talent. Financial support come...
2025-04-101h 13
Master’s AllianceMat Chat: Three Masters Roast the Latest Taekwondo Gear DisasterA seismic shift has occurred in the Olympic world with the election of the first-ever female IOC president, and the Warehouse 15 team wastes no time diving into what this might mean for martial arts on the global stage. Masters Herb Perez, Juan Moreno, and TJ Curry unpack this historic development with their signature blend of insider knowledge and unfiltered commentary.
The conversation takes a particularly heated turn when examining World Taekwondo's latest equipment innovation – protective "baby mitten" gloves that have left our hosts utterly baffled. "They're treating athletes like dogs. They're too stupid not to grab, so le...
2025-03-271h 14
Master’s AllianceWhen Your Sport Excludes Its Champions: A Candid Taekwondo DiscussionNavigating the complex terrain of taekwondo politics requires more than just technical skill—it demands resilience against systems that sometimes work against their own athletes. In this revealing conversation, Coach Lee joins the Warehouse 15 podcast to share his perspective as both an Olympic coach and someone who's experienced the double standards prevalent in USA Taekwondo.
2025-03-131h 24
2025-02-2859 minMaster’s Alliancehttps://youtu.be/TXBVUJCY5NsHow does one navigate the unpredictable world of sporting events and weather chaos? Join us at Warehouse 15, where I, the Grandmaster of Disaster, along with TJ and Coach Moreno, share personal updates and the latest weather conditions from California to South Florida. Our conversation takes an exciting turn as we spotlight the recent USA Taekwondo Open Tournament. We celebrate the amazing triumphs and acknowledge the challenges faced by athletes and coaches, with a special nod to Aaron Vorpal's commendable contributions to the Wisconsin taekwondo community. Travel stories weave their way into our discussion, highlighting the storms we've braved and...
2025-02-2157 minMaster’s AllianceCrafting Champions: Redefining Success, Coaching Innovation, and the Role of Legendary Figures in SportsWhat if the true measure of success in sports isn't just about winning but about pushing the boundaries of performance and personal growth? Join us in Warehouse 15 as we, Herb Perez, Coach Moreno, and Coach TJ, unmask the realities of our athletic journeys. We recount our candid experiences, from my own self-reflective path of balancing martial arts and competitive distractions to Coach Moreno's fatherly pride in his child's theatrical debut in Seattle's "Footloose." Coach TJ brings humor to the table as he shares tales of a local Taekwondo tournament, navigating the dynamics of gratitude and recognition in sports with...
2025-01-3155 min2025-01-2246 min2025-01-2246 min
Master’s AllianceFrom Gold Medals to Governance: Rethinking Taekwondo LeadershipOlympic champion and Taekwondo legend joins us for an unmissable conversation that challenges the status quo. We tackle a critical question: does Kukkiwon's exclusively Korean leadership truly serve the global Taekwondo community? Our guest shares their remarkable journey from winning Olympic gold to achieving the prestigious 9th Dan, offering unique insights into the heart of Taekwondo. However, the discussion takes a bold turn as we critique the current governance of Kukkiwon, questioning whether its leadership structure is failing to reflect the sport's worldwide appeal and diversity. Our guest argues for a fresh perspective, suggesting that non-Korean representation in leadership...
2025-01-2118 min2025-01-1805 minMaster’s AllianceFrom Homemade Tortillas to Sports LeadershipEver tried making homemade tortillas from scratch? We kick things off with some hilarious tales of our culinary exploits, from the bustling magic of Disneyland to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Sharing our holiday adventures, we paint a picture of Xochimilco's traditional boats and street food, all while reflecting on the world's diverse cultures. Join us as we recount our personal journeys, mixing in humorous anecdotes and travel experiences, all set against the backdrop of new beginnings and the spirit of the New Year.
Resolutions aren't just for January; they can spark meaningful change any time of...
2025-01-0950 minMaster’s AllianceReferees Unveiled: The Crucial Role and Challenges in Sports Coaching and Competition EvolutionEver wondered how a referee's presence can make or break a game? Join us as we share our weekend tales, starting with TJ's adventure at the DMV Open tournament in Virginia, where he witnessed firsthand the nuances of local competitive sports. Meanwhile, Juan recounts a heartfelt family celebration filled with rich cultural traditions. These experiences shape our discussion on the evolving roles in sports coaching, highlighting how recognizing and embracing one's strengths can enhance both personal growth and coaching effectiveness.
We shine a spotlight on the pivotal role referees play in ensuring fairness and quality in sports...
2024-12-1847 minMaster’s AllianceBeetlejuice 2, Gladiator Reboots, and the Evolution of Taekwondo Coaching: Balancing Legacy and InnovationWho knew that a sequel could be both a source of laughter and nostalgia? We kick off with a look at Beetlejuice 2 and the new Gladiator, comparing them to their legendary predecessors. Tucked between our cinematic banter, a personal anecdote about a daughter's unexpected first words turns into a family running gag that might just resonate with you. Our chat takes a thoughtful shift as we explore old-school versus new-school approaches in taekwondo, pondering the genuine toughness and diverse perceptions of fighters across eras.
Moving to the heart of the sport, we unpack the crucial role of...
2024-12-131h 00
Master’s AllianceRed Dragon Chris CasamasaRed Dragon Chris Casamasa shares his thoughts on life and success
2024-11-0537 min
Master’s AllianceFuture of Taekwondo: Coach Juan Moreno's Vision and Paris 2024 ReflectionsExperience an electrifying breakdown of the Paris 2024 Olympic Taekwondo event with legendary Olympic coach Juan Moreno. We uncover Coach Moreno's firsthand impressions of the stunning Grand Palais venue and the awe-inspiring architectural design that wowed sold-out crowds. Together, we tackle the hefty financial challenges smaller countries face when hosting such grand events, comparing Paris's success with the high expectations set for LA 2028.
Dive into the nitty-gritty of Taekwondo's evolving landscape as we analyze major shifts in scoring systems from 2012 to 2021. Coach Moreno offers an insider’s perspective on the transition from LaJust to Daedo systems, the upgrade to...
2024-08-1659 min
Master’s AllianceDr. Harvey Schiller: Revolutionizing Sports Management through Technology, Leadership, and MentorshipDiscover how cutting-edge technology and financial dynamics are reshaping collegiate and professional sports in our special episode featuring the legendary Dr. Harvey Schiller. We explore how streaming services, artificial intelligence, and sponsorship deals are revolutionizing the sports industry, impacting everything from negotiations to athlete performance. Dr. Schiller provides a deep dive into the implications for young athletes and the broader sports ecosystem, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the future of sport management.
Experience the transformative power of military-inspired leadership in sports management through compelling stories from the Barcelona Olympics and other iconic events. Dr. Schiller offers...
2024-07-2559 min
Master’s AllianceSifu Harinder Singh: Mastering Energy Work for Personal GrowthCan mastering your center truly transform your life? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Sifu Harinder Singh, a revered master of Qigong and Jeet Kune Do. Sifu Singh introduces his groundbreaking "Master Your Center" method, a technique designed to help individuals find grounding and inner peace amidst chaos. Influenced by Bruce Lee's philosophy, Sifu Singh emphasizes the importance of adaptability in achieving both personal and professional growth. This episode promises to unlock secrets of energy work and its profound impact on peak performance and martial arts.
Listen as Sifu Singh shares a transformative story of one...
2024-07-191h 02
Master’s AllianceHarnessing Mental Mastery for Athletic Triumph: Visualization and Mindfulness with Herb PerezEver wondered how top athletes mentally prepare for peak performance? Join me, Herb Perez, in our inaugural "Champions Toolbox" episode, where I reveal transformative visualization and meditation techniques designed for athletes striving to reach their highest potential. Learn essential strategies to mentally gear up for a match through precise breathing exercises and warm-ups, culminating in visualizing yourself executing flawless techniques against a skilled opponent. This guided meditation isn't just about easing anxiety—it's about boosting your agility and instilling a rock-solid confidence that translates to standing triumphant on the podium with a gold medal.
But our journey do...
2024-07-0925 min
Master’s AllianceMaster Michael McKenzie: From Humble Beginnings to Global Taekwondo Leadership and Mentorship MasteryWhat does it take to journey from a small mining town to the global stage of Taekwondo? In this riveting episode of the Masters Alliance podcast, we sit down with Master Michael McKenzie, a trailblazer in British Taekwondo. Michael shares his inspiring story, beginning from the moment he was inspired by the old Kung Fu TV series at the age of 10, to overcoming physical challenges and enduring rigorous traditional training. His anecdotes from those early days in a modest setting underscore a dedication that would eventually propel him to the forefront of Taekwondo worldwide.
Listen as Michael...
2024-07-0746 min
Master’s AllianceTrinity Osborn: From Olympic Aspirations to Leading the USA Masters Taekwondo Team and Cultivating Community ExcellenceHave you ever wondered what it takes to transform a passion into a lifelong career? Join us as Trinity Osborn, a former Olympic Training Center athlete and the CEO of the USA Masters Taekwondo team, takes us through her incredible Taekwondo journey. From being scouted by Coach Han Wan Lee to her transformative experiences at the Olympic Training Center, Trinity's story is filled with pivotal moments and mentoring relationships that shaped her into the elite competitor and leader she is today. Discover how Taekwondo has built her character and confidence, and how she continues to give back to the...
2024-06-2026 min
Master’s AllianceArlene Limas: Championing Safety and Equality in Sports and SocietyWhat does it take to become the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in Taekwondo? Our special guest, Arlene Limas, shares her remarkable journey from starting martial arts at the age of five to her triumphant victory at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Arlene gives us an inside look at her grueling training regimen, the mental and physical challenges she faced, and the emotional moment of standing on the Olympic podium. She also reflects on how the true significance of her achievement only hit her years later. This episode is a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the power...
2024-06-1340 min
Master’s AllianceGerard Robbins' Historic Journey and Lasting LegacyWhat does it take to break barriers and become a trailblazer in a venerable martial art like Taekwondo? Join us for a riveting conversation with Grandmaster Gerard Robbins, the first person of African descent to earn a ninth-degree black belt from South Korea. From his initial training in Japanese-style karate with Bill Adams to his transformative journey under Don Kumpar, Grandmaster Robbins provides an in-depth look at his impressive competitive history and his vital role in establishing the United States Taekwondo Union, now AAU Taekwondo. His story offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the...
2024-06-1341 min
Master’s AllianceFrom the Mat to the Badge: The Inspiring Journey of Grandmaster Meschelle SmithWelcome to the Masters Alliance Podcast on CUT. In this episode, host Herb Perez is joined by Grandmaster Mescelle Smith, a remarkable taekwondo practitioner who has had an illustrious career both on and off the mat. From competing in the 1988 and 1992 team trials for the Olympics and Pan Am Games to serving as a New York state trooper, Michelle's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Listen as she shares her early experiences in taekwondo, starting at the age of 17, and the mentors who shaped her path. Despite starting later than most, she achieved the rank of eighth...
2024-06-0643 min
Master’s AllianceMaster Keith Kelly: Navigating Martial Arts, Mentorship, and Life's Challenges with PerseveranceWhat if martial arts could do more than just teach self-defense? What if it could shape character, provide mentorship, and guide young men, especially those from single-parent households, through life's toughest challenges? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Master Keith Kelly as he shares his remarkable journey from training under Grandmaster Tayari Cassell and Master Yousef Bilal to competing in prestigious tournaments and finding a calling in teaching. Keith opens up about how martial arts has been a cornerstone in his life, providing stability and direction during difficult times.
Ever wondered what it takes to transition...
2024-06-0324 min
Master’s AllianceBuilding Black Belts and Future Leaders: Grandmaster Jack Corrie's JourneyDiscover the remarkable journey of Grandmaster Jack Corrie, a martial arts legend with over 56 years of Taekwondo experience, as he transforms from a mischievous boy on an Air Force base to a Special Forces Marine and ultimately a revered instructor. Grandmaster Corrie shares pivotal moments from his life, including his mentors' influence and his passion for teaching that led him to produce thousands of black belts and run a successful school for over four decades. Gain insights into his unwavering commitment to consistency and dedication, which have been key drivers of his long-term success in both martial arts and...
2024-05-3043 min
Master’s AlliancePreserving the Heritage of Military Taekwondo with Grandmaster Bennett and Coach DavisCan military discipline shape the best Taekwondo champions? Join us for a special edition of the Masters Alliance podcast as we uncover the compelling stories of Coach Louis Davis and Grandmaster Michael Bennett, two towering figures in the U.S. Armed Forces Taekwondo team. Coach Davis takes us through his early passion for martial arts, ignited by icons like Bruce Lee, leading him to the prestigious All-Army Taekwondo Team. Grandmaster Bennett, whose career journey began in Louisiana, shares his significant contributions to developing military Taekwondo teams and mentoring athletes like Davis. Together, they emphasize how military discipline has been...
2024-05-2845 min
Master’s AllianceThe Alchemy of Athleticism and Healing with Physical Therapist Dr. Jason HanHave you ever wondered how elite athletes pivot to impactful careers after their sports days are over? Dr. Jason Han, a former top-tier martial artist and now a celebrated physical therapist, joins us to unravel the tapestry of determination and adaptability that has defined his journey. From his near-Olympic experience to his integral role with the Los Angeles Football Club, Dr. Han's story is an inspiring blueprint for transforming competitive spirit into professional excellence.
Dr. Han's episode is a treasure chest filled with stories of resilience, the cultivation of a powerful mindset, and the embrace of technology...
2024-05-211h 09
Master’s AllianceMaster Chan Lee: Infusing Taekwondo Philosophy into Life's Canvas and Mastering Martial Arts MentorshipWhen Master Chan Lee steps into the room, you can feel the energy shift. His life, a rich tapestry woven with the threads of Taekwondo philosophy, kindness, and mentorship, sets the stage for our latest podcast episode. We welcome you to a conversation that delves into how Master Lee's upbringing amidst the Bruce Lee craze informed his compassionate approach to martial arts, and how his communication skills amplified the success of his Taekwondo school. Balancing roles as a community leader and family man, Master Lee shares a narrative that moves beyond kicks and punches, diving into nonprofit initiatives and...
2024-05-1659 min
Master’s AllianceMaster Amitis PourarianDiscover the inspiring story of Master Amatis Pourarian, who has carved a path from the disciplined world of Taekwondo to the competitive arenas of business and academia. As she sits down with me, Herb Perez, we traverse her journey from the streets of Iran to the academic halls of Stanford, and ultimately, to the forefront of the martial arts community in the United States. Her tale is more than a series of achievements; it's a testament to the transformative power of martial arts on confidence, goal-setting, and the cultivation of a winner's mindset from an early age.
...
2024-05-0835 min
Master’s AllianceAAU TOPS Coach Gianni GiambiAs I sat across from Coach Gianni Giambi, the mastermind behind the AAU TOPS program, his passion for the transformative power of Taekwondo was palpable. His journey from a second-generation martial artist to nurturing future Olympians is the kind of story that can ignite a fire in the heart of any aspiring athlete. In our conversation, we uncover the philosophy that drives the success of the TOPS program, explore the delicate dynamics of the coach-athlete relationship, and celebrate the blend of tradition and innovation in martial arts training. Coach Giambi's insights into coaching tactics that lead to excellence, the...
2024-05-0343 min
Master’s AllianceAAU Chairman Bobby StoneWhen a child's unbridled energy collides with the foresight of a psychic, a martial arts master is born. Grandmaster Bobby Stone, head of the AAU, joins me to recount this unique beginning and delve into the depths of a life shaped by taekwondo. His narrative is not just about kicks and punches; it's a tale of personal evolution, leadership, and the indomitable spirit that drives one to build a community anchored in the values of the sport.
We've all witnessed that triumphant moment when the underdog overcomes the odds—like that new white belt in the dojang sm...
2024-05-0158 min
Master’s AllianceGM John HollowayGm John Holloway shares his history and where we are as sport and martial arts.
2024-04-251h 40
Master’s AllianceOlympic Qualifiers update Taekwondo with Coach Juan MorenoWelcome to episode two of the Masters Alliance Podcast, where we continue our engaging interview with acclaimed Taekwondo coach, Juan Moreno. This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of Taekwondo's global and regional landscape, especially after the recent Pan Am qualifiers for the Olympic Games.
Join us as Coach Moreno shares his heartfelt reflections on teams' performances, the challenges and opportunities facing athletes and coaches, and the shifting dynamics affecting countries like Brazil and Mexico. He also elaborates on the growing significance of world rankings for team progress, and the impact of sustained competition on successful team development.
2024-04-171h 01
Master’s AllianceMaster George BellMaster Bell is a musician, educator, elite athlete and teaches jujitsu and escrima.
2024-04-141h 04
Master’s AllianceGrandmaster Preston makes the CallGrandmaster Leon Preston shares his thoughts on education of the Modern Master
2024-04-111h 10
Master’s AllianceMaster Antony GrafAuthor of Whisper of Wisdom Master Graf shares his views on teaching and mentoring the youth of the World.
2024-04-0942 min
2024-04-051h 24