The ATA Nation Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 131 - From South Africa to Little Rock: A Taekwondo Journey Nov 13, 2024

Show notes

ATA Nation podcast brings you a fascinating glimpse into the world of Taekwondo with two insightful interviews featuring Master Van Tonder and Master Jacobs, both esteemed instructors at the ATA International Headquarters in Little Rock, Arkansas. Master Van Tonder, originally from South Africa, shares his inspiring journey into martial arts, highlighting the challenges of relocating to a new country and the personal growth he’s experienced since joining the ATA. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance through tough times, reminding listeners that even on bad days, pushing through can lead to greater rewards. Meanwhile, Master Jacobs recounts his own path from starting martial arts in 1993 to becoming a familiar face within the ATA community, offering valuable advice for those considering a career in martial arts. Together, these interviews illuminate the dedication and passion that drive ATA instructors, making this episode a must-listen for students, parents, and martial arts enthusiasts alike.

Takeaways:

ATA headquarters not only serves as a central hub for Taekwondo but also hosts its own martial arts school.
Master Van Tonder shared how he transitioned from South Africa to teaching at ATA headquarters.
He emphasized the importance of perseverance, especially during challenging times in martial arts training.
Master Jacobs reflected on his unexpected journey into martial arts, starting from a gym without prior interest.
Both instructors discussed the sense of community and accountability found in ATA's training environment.
The episode highlighted the significance of overcoming bad days to experience greater successes in Taekwondo.

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The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 130 - Beyond the Belt: Master Candidate Liz Beddow on Fighting Cancer Through Community Service Nov 06, 2024

Show notes

Master Candidate Liz Beto joins Senior Master Zach Hayden to discuss her inspiring journey and the impactful work she has done in her community, which earned her the prestigious Sunsee Lee Award. Liz’s commitment to service began long before her Taekwondo journey, as she started participating in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at a young age. After facing her own family’s battle with cancer, she turned her grief into action, leading fundraising efforts that have raised over $350,000 for cancer support services. The conversation highlights the importance of using martial arts as a platform for community engagement and service, encouraging others to go beyond the belt and make a difference. Liz emphasizes that everyone, regardless of age or resources, can contribute to their community through time and effort, illustrating the profound impact of compassion and leadership in martial arts.

Takeaways:

Master Candidate Liz Beddow won the prestigious Sun C. Lee Award for her significant community service contributions.
Her journey in Taekwondo began at age 12, influenced by her family's involvement in martial arts.
Liz initiated fundraising for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life at a young age.
The impact of cancer on her family motivated her to continue fundraising and helping others.
Beto's innovative kick-a-thon fundraiser has raised over $51,000 in the last event alone.
She emphasizes the importance of giving back, especially through community service and leadership.

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The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 129 - Beyond the Belt: Parenting Advice from Senior Master Lee Oct 30, 2024

Show notes

This episode features a continuation of the insightful interview with Senior Master Lee, focusing on the importance of perseverance in martial arts and life. Senior Master Lee emphasizes the challenges children face when they want to quit, encouraging parents to support their kids through these tough moments, as consistency often leads to greater happiness and fulfillment in martial arts. The hosts share personal anecdotes about their experiences at the recent ATA Fall Nationals in Pittsburgh, highlighting both the challenges and joys of the event. Listeners can also expect a light-hearted discussion on favorite beverages and entertainment choices, including Netflix recommendations. The episode wraps up with information about the upcoming Spring Nationals and a call for listener feedback to improve future episodes.

Takeaways:

Senior Master Lee emphasizes the importance of perseverance in martial arts and life.
Parents should encourage their children to push through challenges, especially in martial arts.
The value of martial arts extends beyond training, impacting physical, mental, and emotional health.
Consistency and commitment in martial arts can lead to long-term happiness and success.
Even high-ranking masters face challenges, and it's important to remember their human side.
The upcoming Spring Nationals in Fort Worth, Texas, promises exciting events and opportunities.

Listener Feedback Link!

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The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 128 - Beyond the Belt: Insights from Senior Master Taekwon Lee Oct 23, 2024

Show notes

Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Senior Master Taekwon Lee, the ATA's CEO and son of the founder, Eternal Grandmaster H U Lee. This discussion centers around the theme of "going beyond the belt," emphasizing that martial arts is not merely about ranks and achievements but about personal growth, perseverance, and overcoming challenges. Senior Master Lee shares his experiences growing up in the ATA and how he transformed his struggles into strengths, encouraging students to believe in their potential, regardless of their starting point. The conversation highlights the importance of community, mentorship, and the lessons learned from both success and failure in martial arts and life. Tune in to discover how the values instilled by the ATA can empower individuals to strive for excellence beyond their current capabilities.

Takeaways:

The concept of going beyond the belt emphasizes personal growth and perseverance in martial arts.
Eternal Grandmaster H.U. Lee faced numerous challenges, including language barriers and discrimination, yet he succeeded.
Being a black belt is not just about rank, but about the experiences and lessons learned along the way.
The ATA community is like a family that supports individuals through their personal struggles, especially during tough school years.
Success in martial arts, like in acting, requires resilience in the face of rejection and failure.
The importance of structure and discipline in martial arts training fosters personal development and confidence.

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The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

Ep. 127 - Founders Month: A Conversation with Grandmaster Tammy Harvey Stauber Oct 09, 2024

Show notes

October is Founders Month, and this episode of the ATA Nation podcast highlights the significance of this time, particularly in relation to the H. U. Lee Scholarship Foundation. Host Zach Hayden interviews Grandmaster Tammy Harvey-Stauber, the ATA's first female grandmaster, who shares her thoughts on carrying forward the legacy of Eternal Grandmaster Lee. The conversation delves into the foundation's mission to provide financial assistance for higher education and the impact of regional fundraising efforts. Listeners are encouraged to participate in various events throughout October, such as board break-a-thons and kick-a-thons, to support the foundation and help students achieve their academic goals. The episode also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the ongoing initiatives to raise funds that benefit local schools and aspiring martial artists.

Takeaways:

October is Founders Month, honoring the legacy of Eternal Grandmaster H. U. Lee.
The H.U. Lee Scholarship Foundation supports students pursuing higher education in Taekwondo.
Grandmaster Tammy Stauber emphasizes the importance of continuing the legacy of H. Lee.
Regional fundraising for the H. U. Lee Foundation allows local schools to benefit directly.
Students are encouraged to apply for H. U. Lee scholarships to assist with college costs.
Fundraisers like board break-a-thons and kick-a-thons are vital for raising scholarship funds.

Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 126 - From Mom to Master Making an Impact Beyond the Belt Sep 26, 2024

Show notes

This week on the ATA Nation Podcast we talk to Master Kerry Regano from Ignite ATA Martial Arts in Ventura, California. At her recent tournament there was a great example of going Beyond the Belt and in this episode we talk all about it.

Not only will you hear the story of an awesome scholarship donation to Master Regano's students but you'll here how she got involved in ATA Martial Arts and how she looks to impact the future Beyond the Belt!

Takeaways:

Master Regano began her martial arts journey by enrolling her son at age three, which led her to become a black belt and school owner.
The Dan McGrath Scholarship Fund provides financial support for outstanding students in leadership programs, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship.
Master Regano highlights the transformative power of martial arts in developing leadership skills and character beyond physical training.
Parents are encouraged to participate alongside their children in martial arts, fostering personal growth and strengthening family bonds through shared experiences.
The ATA's philosophy of 'beyond the belt' emphasizes the lifelong values and skills students learn, which extend into their everyday lives.
Involving oneself in martial arts not only enriches the child's experience but can also significantly enhance parents' lives and parenting skills.

Ep. 125 - PanAm Championship fun in Chile! Sep 18, 2024

Show notes

Have you seen the social media posts going around about the ATA PanAm Championships in Chile? In this week's episode we talk to Master Cesar Ravedutti about his experience at this year's Championships.

We also discuss how the PanAm Championships are setup in the title program and how you can start making your plans to attend next year in Brazil!

Cesar Ravedutti

Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 124 - From Father's Day Gift to Master Instructor Sep 11, 2024

Show notes

This week on the ATA Nation Podcast we talk to Master Scott DeShetler about his journey from watching his daughters do martial arts to becoming an ATA Master at this year's World Championships.

US Army Military Police, Software Engineer, 6th Degree Black Belt, Husband, Father of 2 girls (2nd degree and 4th degree), ATA school owner since 2010. Started in the ATA when I was 37.

Scott's Facebook page

Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 123 - How to become an ATA Samurai Master Sep 04, 2024

Show notes

This week on the ATA Nation Podcast we talk to Sr. Master Jesse Pino who is a Black Belt and Instructor in the ATA Gum Do system. He's one of the first individuals in the ATA to start teaching Gum Do in his school.

Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

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Ep. 122 - Training in the Burgh w/CM Skiles Aug 28, 2024

Show notes

The 2024 ATA Fall Nations in Pittsburgh is coming right up. In this episode we talk with Chief Master Skiles, Director of Training at ATA Martial Arts, about all of the great trainings being offered this year.

Make sure you visit ATAMartialArts.com to register for any of the trainings mentioned in this episode.

Chief Master Scott Skiles

Presiding Chief Master, Hall of Fame Member, 4 Time World Champion

@chief_master_skiles on Instagram

Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

The ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!

Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA family