Conversations with a Backfist!
Social Gelo with Angelo Podcast
282-Are We Creating Better Bullies or Champions?
Are martial arts creating champions, or are we sometimes just creating better bullies? BJJ black belts T. Lee and Daniele Bolelli of the History on Fire podcast join me to discuss aggression, confidence, ego, bullying, and the responsibility that comes with learning how to fight. We also get into belt systems versus arts like kickboxing and boxing where rank isn't part of the culture. Does martial arts build character, or does it simply make you better at being who you already are?
281-Are You a Martial Arts Instructor, Babysitter, or Recreation Program Director?
It doesn’t matter if you teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, MMA, or any other martial art. At what point does running a successful martial arts school stop being about teaching martial arts and start becoming daycare with belts? I sit down with Dan Tyrrell, a mixed martial arts program director who runs multiple programs with well over 200 students; Ron Esteller, with over 20 years of experience running martial arts programs; and Mickey Lopez, who works with the community-based DSAL Boxing Academy in the Bay Area. Are we martial arts instructors, babysitters, or recreation program directors? We discuss the pros, the cons, and the uncomfortable financial reality of keeping a martial arts program alive.
280-The Most Hated Man in Kenpo? Manny Reyes Jr Speaks Out
Manny Reyes Jr. is one of the most controversial figures in the Kenpo community. Some call him a troll, a clown, or even a fraud—but is there more to the story? Manny sat down with me and answered the hard questions about modern Kenpo, his MMA experience, the people he's called out, his past trolling, and the bridges he's burned along the way. I openly disagreed with him on several issues—and unlike other interviews that reportedly never happened, Manny didn't back out. He stayed, answered the questions, and even admitted to some regrets. Love him or hate him, hear what Manny Reyes Jr. has to say and decide for yourself.
279-Did Michael Jai White Really Disrespect Bruce Lee?
Did Michael Jai White really disrespect Bruce Lee? In this episode, we break down Michael Jai White's comments, Bruce Lee's legacy, and the difference between being a great martial artist, a great fighter, and a great coach. Was Bruce Lee one of the most influential martial artists of all time? Absolutely. But does influence automatically mean someone was the greatest fighter? We explore the evidence, the myths, and why this debate continues to divide the martial arts community.
278-What BJJ Gets Right That Other Martial Arts Don't | Rigan Machado
In this episode of Social Gelo, I sit down with BJJ legend Rigan Machado to discuss why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has experienced incredible growth while many other martial arts have struggled to keep pace. We explore the importance of community, leadership, culture, student retention, and what academy owners and instructors from every martial art can learn from BJJ's success. We also discuss the future of martial arts, building strong schools, and the philosophy behind the Mach5 Network. Whether you're a martial artist, instructor, school owner, or simply interested in the evolution of combat sports, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
277-I Don't Think Ninjutsu is Real. Convince Me!
I don't think modern ninjutsu is real. Convince me. After living in Japan for over 13 years and training in multiple martial arts, I've got some serious questions about modern ninjutsu. So instead of ranting, I invited a practitioner to defend it. No cheap shots. No echo chamber. Just an honest conversation. Did they change my mind? Watch and decide for yourself.
276-Does Martial Arts Really Need Another Hall of Fame?
For years, the martial arts world has seen Hall of Fame after Hall of Fame. Some have earned respect. Others have been criticized for expensive induction fees, $1,000 dinner tickets, and awards that many feel have lost their meaning. So, does martial arts really need another Hall of Fame? In this episode of Social Gelo with Angelo, we sit down with the organizers behind the new Kajukenbo Hall of Fame to discuss why they believe this project is different. We talk about preserving Kajukenbo's competitive history, honoring those who helped shape the art through competition, and the challenges of deciding who truly deserves recognition. The conversation also touches on legendary names connected to the project, including Chuck Liddell, Benny "The Jet" Urquidez, Cecil Peoples, and John Hackleman, and why their involvement brings credibility to the Hall of Fame. Is this the Hall of Fame martial arts needs—or just another one? Watch and decide for yourself.
Train with UFC Coach Hackleman—Virtually
Can’t attend in-person classes? No worries.
Join the online Pit community and get elite instruction, personalized progress, and official belt ranking. From your home to the hall of fame.