Judo Politics and USA Judo’s Future - Ramon Hernandez

In this episode, Shintaro and Peter discuss how to keep randori safe. They explore key principles of self-preservation, fostering a safe training environment, and the role of instructors in maintaining controlled practice intensity. Shintaro shares insights on how to tailor training based on skill level, weight differences, and individual goals, emphasizing why a balanced approach is essential to skill development and injury prevention. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:24) Self-Preservation in Training (00:05:26) Risks of High-Impact Techniques (00:09:18) Adapting to Your Training Partner (00:12:03) Letting Lower Belts Work Independently (00:14:02) What Should Senseis Do? (00:17:46) Managing Intensity Levels (00:22:45) Creating a 30% Effort Randori (00:25:44) Encouraging Controlled Training

In this episode, Shintaro and Peter tackle one of the most frequently asked questions in the martial arts world: "What am I doing wrong?" Drawing from personal experiences and examples, they explore the critical importance of context and detail in asking meaningful questions. Shintaro shares insights from recent seminars and how asking well-formed questions is essential for receiving practical and actionable advice. Peter connects these lessons to research and problem-solving in other fields, emphasizing the concept of the "XY problem." Whether you're a judo practitioner or just curious about effective communication, this episode provides valuable tips for better learning and teaching strategies. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:00:47) Why "What Am I Doing Wrong?" Is Hard to Answer (00:01:54) Peter's Specific Problem with a Lefty Judo Player (00:03:45) The Importance of Context in Questions (00:05:20) The XY Problem and Its Relevance to Judo (00:13:55) A Real-life Example of a Good Question (00:16:55) The Role of Self-Study Before Asking for Help (00:20:00) Insights from Seminar Experiences (00:24:12) Utilizing Peer Knowledge for Growth

Shintaro recently participated in special training sessions with the Olympic Wrestling Gold Medalist Rei Higuchi as the translator, and shares this incredible experience with Peter. They dive deep into the technical side of wrestling, highlighting the unique challenges and nuances of grappling terminology across languages. Shintaro recounts how the session was not just about technique, but also about understanding the mindset and methods of a champion. The conversation covers Higuchi's systematic approach to training, the benefits of small group training pods, and how these lessons can be applied to judo, BJJ, and beyond. For fans of grappling sports, this episode provides rare insights into the mechanics of elite wrestling and the cross-disciplinary connections within grappling arts. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:00) How Shintaro Met Rei Higuchi (00:02:22) The Role of Wrestling Terminology (00:06:00) Training Session Structure (00:07:32) Cross-Pollination Between Wrestling and Judo (00:09:03) High-Level Insights from Rei Higuchi (00:13:41) What Are Training Pods? (00:26:46) The Grand Unified Theory of Grappling: Push, Pull, Angle, Kuzushi (00:34:56) How Rei Higuchi Uses The Grand Unified Theory of Grappling (00:43:28) How Can Hobbyists Use The Grand Unified Theory of Grappling?

After a 14-year absence, certain prestigious tournaments, including the All Japan Open Championship, are experimenting with reintroducing leg grabs. Shintaro and Peter discuss this groundbreaking rule change, potential IJF adoption, and what this means for judo practitioners globally. They also explore how this rule change might attract more wrestlers and Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes to Judo especially in the U.S., and Shintaro offers insights on how to integrate leg grabs into training. The conversation touches on the future of judo in the U.S., particularly in the lead-up to the LA 2028 Olympics. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:45) Leg Grabs Returning in Competitions (00:03:20) Compromise on Leg Grab Rules (00:06:30) Effects on Judo Spectatorship (00:10:39) Impact on American Judo and Wrestlers (00:13:52) Integrating Leg Grabs into Training (00:21:42) The Future of Judo and Competition (00:24:33) The American Judo Style

In this episode, Shintaro sits down with long-time judo competitor and coach, Ramon Hernandez, to discuss the evolving landscape of USA Judo. They dive into Judo politics, including the removal of Joe Ragan from the board, USA Judo elections, and the financial challenges facing the sport in the United States. Ramon shares his thoughts on the need for better support for athletes, the role of marketing in growing the sport, and the importance of bringing outside sponsorships to judo. This conversation provides an insightful look into the political and economic aspects of USA Judo and what’s needed to elevate the sport in the coming years. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:25) Ramon's Take on USA Judo Elections (00:05:04) USA Judo’s Acquisition of America Judo System (00:08:17) Removal of Joe Ragan from USA Judo Board (00:14:13) Importance of Athlete Support (00:19:13) Marketing Issues in Judo and Club Management

In this episode, Shintaro sits down with Matthew Parker to dive deep into the inner workings of USA Judo. Matthew, a former national team member and current candidate for USA Judo’s at-large board position, offers a unique perspective on the organization's challenges and future. They discuss the fragmented state of USA Judo, the need for improved coaching development, athlete support, and fundraising efforts. Matthew also shares insights into his background in finance, his vision for unifying USA Judo, and what needs to change for the sport to grow domestically. Whether you're a judoka, BJJ practitioner, or someone interested in the governance of sports organizations, this episode is packed with eye-opening details and strategies for USA Judo’s future. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:00:52) Matthew’s Judo Journey (00:03:11) Running for the At-Large Board Position (00:08:32) Matthew’s Main Positions (00:13:27) USA Judo’s Financial Landscape (00:17:45) Coaching Development and System Improvements (00:22:09) Matthew’s Relationship with Other Board Members (00:27:11) Current State of USA Judo Financials (00:33:00) USA Judo’s Election and Board Dynamics (00:38:15) Closing Thoughts & Final Remarks from Matthew Parker

In this episode, Shintaro is joined by the legendary Jimmy Pedro, a two-time Olympic medalist and world champion in Judo, to discuss his campaign for the USA Judo Board. Jimmy opens up about his extensive experience as a coach and businessman, emphasizing the urgent need for structural reform in USA Judo. They explore topics ranging from developing future athletes and expanding judo in schools to leveraging professional coaching and raising funds for USA Judo's success leading up to the 2028 Olympics. Jimmy also shares his ambitious plans to create stars in Judo, foster stronger connections with BJJ and MMA communities, and professionalize the sport at all levels in the United States. Whether you're a judo enthusiast or just curious about how national sports organizations operate, this episode provides deep insights into the future of American judo. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:27) Why Jimmy is Running For USA Judo Board (00:07:50) How Judo Competes with BJJ and NCAA (00:09:00) Creating Stars and Events to Promote Judo (00:10:00) The Importance of Developing Coaches (00:16:20) American Judo System and USA Judo (00:18:18) The Need for Structural Reform in Coaching (00:25:14) Jimmy’s Coalition Within USA Judo Board (00:37:50) Jimmy’s Thoughts on National Training Centers (00:41:42) Financial Needs for Professional Coach Development

In this special extra episode, Shintaro sits down with Nicole Stout, a four-time national champion and USA Judo board member. Nicole opens up about her fight for transparency and reform within USA Judo's leadership, offering an inside look at boardroom conflicts and governance issues affecting athletes. From advocating for athletes’ funding and transparency to addressing conflicts of interest on the board, Nicole sheds light on what it takes to push for change in a complex organization. With upcoming elections, she also shares her vision for the future of USA Judo and her hopes for elevating American judo on the world stage. A must-listen for anyone invested in the growth and integrity of the sport! (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:20) Concerns Over USA Judo Leadership and Budget Cuts (00:02:54) Challenges with the CEO's Fundraising and Priorities (00:04:55) Board Divisions and Removal of Members (00:09:18) Ethics and Governance Issues on the Board (00:12:35) Nicole’s Perspective on Transparency in Board Meetings (00:17:05) Differences of Opinion Between Nicole and Colton (00:21:11) Financial Transparency and Budget Concerns (00:24:23) Problems with Current Size of USA Judo Membership (00:28:02) Board Members’ Roles and Conflicts (00:33:02) Nicole’s Endorsements (00:42:44) Nicole’s Future Vision for USA Judo

In this episode, Shintaro sits down with two-time Olympian and Grand Prix medalist Colton Brown to discuss the important issues that are on the ballot in the upcoming USA Judo election. They dive deep into the various challenges facing USA Judo and the importance of athlete representation. Colton offers candid insights on how the board operates, the ongoing political tensions within the organization, and his vision for the future of judo in the United States. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:14) What Is Colton Up To These Days? (00:03:16) Transition from Athlete to Coach (00:06:43) Colton’s Thoughts on BJJ (00:09:51) Role as Athlete Representative on the USA Judo Board (00:13:44) Issues Facing USA Judo and Upcoming Election (00:15:59) Colton’s Long Term Vision for USA Judo (00:17:58) How Decisions Are Made By the USA Judo Board (00:19:19) Who Can Vote In the Upcoming Election? (00:21:56) Biggest Issues Within the Board (00:33:02) Colton’s Coalition On the Board (00:36:56) Ways To Bring More Financial Support For Athletes (00:39:57) Candidates For Athlete Representatives (00:42:39) Colton’s Thoughts On Olympic Qualifications (00:49:55) Colton’s Advice For Dojo Owners

​​USA Judo's board elections are fast approaching, and they could significantly shape the future of American Judo. In this episode, Shintaro sits down with Chris Round to discuss why this election is the most crucial in recent memory, particularly with the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics on the horizon. Chris explains the importance of voting, how the board impacts everything from athlete selection to organizational strategy, and why your vote truly counts in this "small town" election. Shintaro and Chris further discuss the roles of different board positions, the impact on athlete and coach representation, and the challenges and opportunities facing USA Judo. Whether you’re a competitor, coach, or passionate fan, this episode highlights how you can influence the direction of judo in the U.S. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:00:05) Importance of the Upcoming Election (00:03:28) Understanding USA Judo’s Board Structure (00:10:39) Key Issues: Olympic Qualification (00:12:24) Candidate Platforms and How to Learn More (00:16:05) Voting Eligibility (00:19:09) Candidates in the Upcoming Election (00:22:47) Engaging with USA Judo’s Board