The ATA Nation Podcast

Zach Hayden

A podcast for the students, families, friends, and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo. You are ATA Nation and we want to share with you great interviews, upcoming events, listener feedback and much more. read less

SportsSports

Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Kids & FamilyKids & Family

Start Here

Ep. 131 - From South Africa to Little Rock: A Taekwondo Journey

Ep. 131 - From South Africa to Little Rock: A Taekwondo Journey

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. Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Episodes

Ep. 131 - From South Africa to Little Rock: A Taekwondo Journey

Ep. 131 - From South Africa to Little Rock: A Taekwondo Journey

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. Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

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

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

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. Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 129 - Beyond the Belt: Parenting Advice from Senior Master Lee

Ep. 129 - Beyond the Belt: Parenting Advice from Senior Master Lee

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!Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 128 - Beyond the Belt: Insights from Senior Master Taekwon Lee

Ep. 128 - Beyond the Belt: Insights from Senior Master Taekwon Lee

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. Take our Listener Survey! - https://atanationpodcast.captivate.fm/surveyThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcastGet a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athlete

Ep. 127 - Founders Month: A Conversation with Grandmaster Tammy Harvey Stauber

Ep. 127 - Founders Month: A Conversation with Grandmaster Tammy Harvey Stauber

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/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 126 - From Mom to Master Making an Impact Beyond the Belt

Ep. 126 - From Mom to Master Making an Impact Beyond the Belt

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!

Ep. 125 - PanAm Championship fun in Chile!

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/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 124 - From Father's Day Gift to Master Instructor

Ep. 124 - From Father's Day Gift to Master Instructor

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/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 123 - How to become an ATA Samurai Master

Ep. 123 - How to become an ATA Samurai Master

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/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 122 - Training in the Burgh w/CM Skiles

Ep. 122 - Training in the Burgh w/CM Skiles

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/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 121 - Teaching and Training with Learning Disabilities w/CM Newberry

Ep. 121 - Teaching and Training with Learning Disabilities w/CM Newberry

This week on the ATA Nation Podcast we talk to Chief Master Tina Newberry about how to get the most from ourselves and our children when dealing with learning disabilities. CM Newberry is a child expert and gives amazing tips and tricks as well as great insight for all instructors, students, and parents.Chief Master Tina Newberry is an 8th Degree Black Belt and the Founder and CEO of Leaders for Life Martial Arts. As a young girl, Chief Master Newberry was bullied and struggled with dyslexia. When she came into martial arts and realized how she could use it to empower other kids just like her to walk with confidence and conquer life’s challenges, she developed a deep love for teaching. Personal Mission Statement: To partner with parents to raise independent human beings who are ready for life’s challenges. To help parents raise their kids to be leaders in all areas of life. Tina's Facebook page @chris.tina.newberry on Instagram Tina's Website Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 120 - Doing Songahm Taekwondo in High School

Ep. 120 - Doing Songahm Taekwondo in High School

This week on the ATA Nation Podcast we talk to Chief Master Lee Feiles about how he's taking his students Beyond the Belt in a very unique program. CM Feiles has created an very cool program where he teaches Songahm Taekwondo as a regular class in a local high school. Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 119 - Meeting South Africa in Phoenix

Ep. 119 - Meeting South Africa in Phoenix

World Championships 2024 is over but that doesn't mean the fun has to end. We were luck enough to interview some of our ATA friends in Phoenix this year and over the next few weeks we'll be bringing you those interviews.This episode we talk with Anecke Viljoen from South Africa. Though she tried to avoid our microphones we were able to corner her and talk about how ATA Nation is thriving in South Africa.Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 118 - It's almost WORLDS!!

Ep. 118 - It's almost WORLDS!!

The biggest event in ATA Nation is coming in just a few weeks! Join us in seeing why YOU should attend the ATA World Championships this year. Listen in and see what all is part of Worlds and what my favorite things are this year.Get more information at ATAMartialArts.com/worlds!Get a 4 Week Athletic Development home training plan here! - http://atama.ninja/2024athleteThe ATA Nation Podcast is for students, families, friends and instructors of Songahm Taekwondo!Be sure to subscribe and share with your ATA familyFollow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 117 - International Team Sparring

Ep. 117 - International Team Sparring

One of the coolest events at the ATA World Championships is the International Team Sparring event! This event brings together 5 person international teams to compete against each other for the Songahm Cup. In this episode we interview two international athletes who will be fighting for their countries during the 2024 World Championship Songahm Cup. Get more information at ATAMartialArts.com/worlds Get 30 Day FREE trial of the Prehab App! - http://atama.ninja/prehab 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 Follow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 116 - Why Worlds?

Ep. 116 - Why Worlds?

World Championships is right around the corner! Many of you have your trips all planned out but some haven't decided to take the opportunity to attend yet. In this episode we talk to two guests on exactly why YOU should make plans to attend the ATA World Championships this year! Get more information at ATAMartialArts.com/worlds Get 30 Day FREE trial of the Prehab App! - http://atama.ninja/prehab 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 Follow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 115 - Training Opportunities with CM Skiles

Ep. 115 - Training Opportunities with CM Skiles

ATA Nation has been busy the last month! Today we talk to CM Skiles from the ATA Training Department about the European Championships and instructor camp, the ATA MAX Gathering, and all the training opportunities at this year's ATA World Championships. Be sure to register for these trainings by visiting ATAMartialArts.com Get 30 Day FREE trial of the Prehab App! - http://atama.ninja/prehab 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 Follow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 114 - Talking to a Captain

Ep. 114 - Talking to a Captain

Joe Rowan started martial arts almost from birth. In this episode see how he went from starting martial arts young to becoming a Team Captain of the ATA's Team USA. We also discuss the trainings going on all over the country that you can participate in. Find your training location now - https://www.teamatausa.com/train Get 30 Day FREE trial of the Prehab App! - http://atama.ninja/prehab 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 Follow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 113 - Taekwondo in the Special Olympics

Ep. 113 - Taekwondo in the Special Olympics

Did you get to see the Special Olympics demo competition at the ATA Spring Nationals? In this episode we talk with Mary Johannesen about the big things happening with Special Olympics and Taekwondo in Texas and how you can be involved at your school. Get 30 Day FREE trial of the Prehab App! - http://atama.ninja/prehab 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 Follow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast

Ep. 112 - ATA Nation in Alaska

Ep. 112 - ATA Nation in Alaska

Did you know there's an ATA Martial Arts Club in Alaska? Today we talk to the Dempsey family who are part of this club about how it got started and what it's like doing martial arts in the beautiful state of Alaska. Share this episode with a friend today! Get 30 Day FREE trial of the Prehab App! - http://atama.ninja/prehab 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 Follow us on Instagram @ATANationPodcast