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Masters Alliance

Masters Alliance

By: Herb Perez
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9th Dan BlackBelt and Olympic Gold Medalist Herb Perez visit with the best and brightest to bring clarity to the future of Martial arts.

© 2025 Masters Alliance
Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Development Personal Success Philosophy Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Poomsae Drama, Olympic Pathways, and Hawaiian Birds
    Aug 14 2025

    From the beautiful shores of Maui, this candid conversation dives deep into the current state of Taekwondo with the raw honesty that listeners have come to expect from these Olympic veterans.

    The hosts dissect a controversial Poomsae scoring incident that rocked the National Championships, questioning why an unprecedented formal report was issued when a competitor was added to finals after initially placing 12th. What makes this situation particularly noteworthy is how tournament officials removed video evidence and implemented a response dramatically different from how fighting controversies are typically handled. This raises profound questions about transparency and organizational priorities that affect competitors at all levels.

    As conversation shifts to the upcoming Under-21 Pan Am Games, the hosts provide expert analysis on each weight division and the qualification pathways to the Olympics. Their disappointment that the United States only qualified competitors in four divisions reveals a concerning trend about development priorities in American Taekwondo. The qualification structure potentially allows young winners direct entry to the Olympic Games - creating an alternative pathway that could reshape competitive careers.

    Perhaps most fascinating is the hosts' exploration of when fighters reach their physical prime in modern Taekwondo. Their surprising consensus that today's athletes peak between 18-23 years old - much earlier than previous generations - reflects how dramatically the sport has evolved. This shift raises important questions about athlete development, career longevity, and the changing technical demands of competitive Taekwondo.

    Throughout the discussion runs a thread of wisdom about humility in martial arts. As one host eloquently states, success is "rented, not owned" - a powerful reminder about perspective that transcends sport. Whether you're a competitor, coach, or passionate fan, this episode offers invaluable insights from those who've experienced Taekwondo at its highest levels.

    Join us next Friday when we'll analyze the Pan Am Games results with special guest Dr. Capner. Your perspective matters - what changes have you observed in competitive martial arts development?

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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • When Champions Speak Truth to Power
    Aug 7 2025

    Three Taekwondo veterans unpack controversial developments in the martial art with raw honesty and deep expertise, promising "Sorry, not sorry" to anyone who might be offended by their candid perspectives.

    • The new 3-2-1 scoring system being tested at the German Open eliminates spinning technique bonus points
    • Video reviews for head kicks being removed, raising concerns about fairness and referee influence
    • USAT's talent identification camp selection process lacks transparency and seemingly overlooks accomplished athletes
    • Questions about whether performance truly matters in elite Taekwondo or if politics take precedence
    • The evolution from "old school" power-based scoring to electronic-based systems has fundamentally changed the sport
    • Elite athletes from any era would likely adapt and excel in different systems
    • Today's Taekwondo might not attract the same talent as other martial arts due to its evolution

    For new Peak Taekwondo apparel including leggings and tights, check our website to order your pair and support the podcast.


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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Ankle Biters and Pinky Rings: Taekwondo's Leadership Problem
    Jul 31 2025

    The Warehouse 15 crew breaks down major issues in American taekwondo competition structures after back-to-back USAT and AAU tournaments, examining why development has become watered down and what's needed for the sport to thrive again.

    • Critical analysis of running Under-21 Team Trials and Senior Nationals back-to-back, forcing athletes to make difficult competition choices
    • Discussion on what true development means beyond simply attending tournaments
    • Concern over American athletes lacking international exposure needed to believe they can defeat opponents from powerhouse nations
    • Examination of the diminished value of making national teams when some weight categories require minimal competition
    • Candid talk about political realities in USA Taekwondo organizations that discourage speaking out about problems
    • Criticism of inconsistent refereeing decisions and electronic scoring system issues at recent tournaments
    • Positive news about AAU national team budget reportedly doubling, potentially providing more international competitive opportunities
    • Call for more random weigh-ins to ensure athletes can consistently make competition weight
    • Reflections on the courage needed to vote for organizational changes even when it means voting yourself out of power

    We're always keeping it real here at Warehouse 15 - sorry not sorry!


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    1 hr and 13 mins
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