236-The Future of Kajukenbo

In this episode of Social Gello with Angelo, I sit down with Joseph Bautista, a true generational Kajukenbo practitioner who comes from a long line of martial artists. Joseph’s background is unique—he’s worked with KSDI, the Gaylord Association, and has trained with several other Kajukenbo branches. We talk about what it means to grow up “in between” different Kajukenbo families and how that perspective gives him a broader view of the art’s evolution. From there, we get into the real talk—what went down at the KSDI Tournament, why turnout numbers have changed, and what the community can do to bring Kajukenbo back into the spotlight. Joseph shares ideas on how we can make Kajukenbo a household name again—through unity, visibility, and the kind of collaboration that stays true to the roots while moving the art forward. If you care about where Kajukenbo’s been and where it’s heading, this is one you don’t want to miss.

235-What is Kajukenbo? The Sequel Nobody Asked For

Here we go again, another episode about Kajukenbo. I know, it feels like beating a dead horse at this point, but sometimes the horse just won’t stay down. Call it the sequel nobody asked for, but you’re getting it anyway. In this episode, I sit down with two different generations — Will Deutschendorf and Anthony Miele — and we talk about how Kajukenbo has its issues. The big one? It’s not really definitive on what it is, because it changes depending on the practitioner. We also dig into some of the questionable history around people who left Kajukenbo and ended up blending into Kenpo circles. That includes the rise of Fred Villari, who created Villari’s Studios of Self-Defense and Shaolin Kempo Karate. From there, some of his black belts and students branched off and eventually helped form organizations like United Studios of Self-Defense. Along the way, there were stories of people going overseas, coming back with new grandmaster titles, and presenting themselves in ways that raised a lot of eyebrows — even inside the Kajukenbo community. And Villari wasn’t the only one tied to that kind of drama. From there, we talk about what real self-defense actually is — and how that answer shifts depending on where you live, who you train with, and what you’re training for. 👉 Stick around if you want the raw, unfiltered side of martial arts. 🔔 Like, drop your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe if you actually did want this sequel.

234-BJJ Isn’t Just For Pros

Most people who train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu aren’t chasing a professional career — they’re recreational athletes who love the art, want to challenge themselves, and sometimes dream about representing their country. That’s where the JJIF (Ju-Jitsu International Federation) comes in.

234-Who Owns Jiu Jitsu? Brazilian vs Japanese vs American

In this episode of Social Gelo with Angelo, I sit down with martial artist and author Weston Simonis to talk about his new book The Blue Belt — a curriculum that blends Danzan Ryu, Kajukenbo, Jiu-Jitsu, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We dive deep into: The roots of Jiu-Jitsu at Kodokan and how it split into Japanese, Brazilian, and American branches. Why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu communities can be harsh toward people who compete outside IBJJF (like Combat Jiu-Jitsu or other formats). The problem with traditional Jiu-Jitsu schools that get so rigid they lose effectiveness. The controversy of calling something “Jiu-Jitsu” when there’s no real ground game involved. How to teach Jiu-Jitsu in the modern world so it’s effective, marketable, and respected by the BJJ community. As a BJJ brown belt, I brought my perspective to the conversation, while Weston — a BJJ purple belt — shared how his cross-training background shaped his approach. 🔥 Expect some controversial takes, especially on what should count as real Jiu-Jitsu today. Buy the Book Here: https://a.co/d/9g11vEc

233-Is Kajukenbo Really Filipino Martial Arts? | GM David Ducay

In this episode of Social Gelo Podcast, I sit down with Kajukenbo Grandmaster David Ducay, head of the Kajukenbo Eskrima Division. We talk about his martial arts journey, how Filipino Martial Arts shaped his Kajukenbo, and the untold history connecting Arnis, Eskrima, and European fencing from the Spanish colonization of the Philippines. GM Ducay also shares how he teaches, how Kajukenbo instructors can get certified in Filipino Martial Arts, and what the future looks like for the Kajukenbo Eskrima Division. 🥋 Topics we cover: Kajukenbo & Filipino Martial Arts crossover The history of Eskrima, Arnis & colonization How European fencing influenced Filipino Martial Arts Teaching, certification, and preserving tradition 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real martial arts conversations.

232-Before the Algorithm – Training for the art, not the clout.

Before the Algorithm – Training for the art, not the clout. I sit down with Claude Lawson (BJJ black belt, Kajukenbo black belt) to talk about how martial arts has changed. We break down: -Training for self-defense vs training for clout -Why people chase belts for social media -The harsh reality of making money in martial arts -Is influencer culture ruining the art? 👉 Watch, drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more real martial arts conversations.

231-Living — and Training — with Brain Injuries: Lazarus Hunter’s Story

🔥 In this episode of Social Gello with Angelo, I sit down with Lazarus Hunter — a Taekwondo black belt from Seattle and a Kajukenbo brown belt — to talk about something most martial artists don’t want to admit… traumatic brain injuries (TBI). 🧠🥋 At only 20 years old, Lazarus has already suffered multiple TBIs. In this conversation, he shares: 💥 What it’s like living and training with brain trauma 🥊 Why you sometimes have to compromise and skip competition 🌱 How natural remedies (including the controversial use of psilocybin 🍄) might help 💡 His plans to keep pushing forward in martial arts despite the setbacks Whether you’re a martial artist, coach, or just curious about the hidden struggles fighters face, this interview will challenge how you think about training, recovery, and health. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This is one person’s story and not medical advice. Always consult a professional when it comes to your health. 👇 Drop a comment with your thoughts on TBIs in martial arts — and let’s open up this conversation.