Dr. Peter Yu returns to the podcast to share exciting updates on his post-PhD life, including his move to Silicon Valley to work on autonomous vehicles. The conversation dives into the state of self-driving technology, Peter's role as an applied scientist, and how his research background plays into cutting-edge developments. The trio also explores the biomechanics of judo throws, surprising parallels with golf, and the challenges of life transitions after academia. Join my Patreon for:✅ 1-on-1 v...
Jun 30, 2025•26 min•Ep. 210
Shintaro Higashi returns from the Junior Nationals in Chicago and shares a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at this major youth judo event. Joined by co-host David Kim, the two discuss standout matches, rising talent, and the evolving landscape of competitive judo in the U.S. 00:00 Intro & Trip to Junior Nationals01:30 Event Overview & Youth Pipeline 03:00 Event Scale & Social Aspect05:00 Smoothcomp & Tech Evolution 08:30 Coaching Rules & Professionalism11:00 Spotlight on Ris...
Jun 23, 2025•43 min•Ep. 209
In this episode, Shintaro Higashi and Dave dive into the nuanced distinction between being an instructor and a coach in martial arts. They explore the expectations, responsibilities, and personal dynamics involved in both roles, drawing from their own experiences in judo, jiu-jitsu, and even ballet. Whether you're a student or teacher, this conversation sheds light on what it truly means to coach — and be coachable.
Jun 16, 2025•31 min•Ep. 208
Marcus Johnson joins the show to talk about the launch of Heritage Jiu Jitsu, a premium new BJJ studio in Morganville, NJ. Shintaro and Marcus dive into the design philosophy, his coaching background, running elite gyms like Essential BJJ and Marcelo Garcia Academy, and what it really takes to build a high-end academy from the ground up.From coaching at ADCC to navigating business systems like billing, merch, and buildouts—Marcus shares a detailed behind-the-scenes look into launching a modern B...
Jun 09, 2025•46 min•Ep. 207
In this episode of The Shintaro Higashi Show, Shintaro sits down with co-host David Kim to share stories of their respective surgeries—Shintaro's recent knee operation and David’s disc replacement in his neck. They dive deep into the importance of medical self-advocacy, navigating conflicting diagnoses, and what recovery looks like for active martial artists.Join my Patreon for:✅ 1-on-1 video call coaching✅ Exclusive technique breakdowns✅ Direct Q&A access✅ Behind-the-scenes training footage...
Jun 02, 2025•26 min•Ep. 206
Shintaro Higashi returns from a seminar tour through North and South Dakota and shares highlights from his teaching experience with co-host David Kim. They dive deep into the nuances of judo grip fighting, seminar structure, and how to make training safer and more productive for all levels. This episode is packed with practical teaching philosophy, funny travel anecdotes, and martial arts insight.Join my Patreon for:✅ 1-on-1 video call coaching✅ Exclusive technique breakdowns✅ Direct Q&A acc...
May 26, 2025•31 min•Ep. 205
In this episode of the Shintaro Higashi Show, Shintaro and David Kim break down the unique judo techniques of Natsumi Tsunoda, a gold medalist at the Paris Olympics. The discussion highlights Tsunoda's mastery of the straight back tomoe nage, her innovative use of the secondary leg, and how she seamlessly blends tachiwaza and newaza. Join my Patreon for: ✅ 1-on-1 video call coaching ✅ Exclusive technique breakdowns ✅ Direct Q&A access ✅ Behind-the-scenes training footage 🔗 Subscribe & S...
May 19, 2025•21 min•Ep. 204
In this episode of the Shintaro Higashi Show, Shintaro and guest David Kim discuss the revival of the Judo program at the New York Athletic Club (NYAC), the challenges of maintaining high-level training, and the collaboration between Shintaro, Colton Brown, and other top athletes to restore the program's energy and excellence.The NYAC is a historic private club in NYC, known for supporting top-level athletes across various Olympic sports. The Judo program, which once thrived, has seen a decline ...
May 12, 2025•28 min•Ep. 203
David Kim is coming onboard to help with the podcast! He discusses balancing family life with martial arts training, his jiu-jitsu journey as a middle-aged practitioner, and his "midjitsu" persona focused on helping older grapplers. David shares insights on marriage, training philosophy, and how he manages to train consistently while raising four children. David will be a recurring special guest on the show. Join my Patreon for: ✅ 1-on-1 video call coaching ✅ Exclusive technique breakdowns ✅ Dir...
May 05, 2025•27 min•Ep. 202
In this episode of The Shintaro Higashi Show, you’re riding shotgun as Shintaro drives to the dojo and dives deep into what goes through his mind before training. From setting the right intentions to managing fatigue, fear, and skill development, this off-the-cuff episode covers how to make every session count, whether you’re a competitor, hobbyist, or somewhere in between.Shintaro shares personal stories from his days at the Olympic Training Center, how injuries have shaped his approach, and ho...
Apr 28, 2025•32 min•Ep. 201
Do big deadlifts = better judo?In this episode, Shintaro sits down with wrestling coach and grappling veteran Vinnie Mancuso to talk about lifting for combat sports, what actually helps on the mat, and what’s just ego. They share training insights, injury prevention strategies, and how to structure your back day to support grappling performance, not break you down.
Apr 21, 2025•45 min•Ep. 200
In this episode of The Shintaro Higashi Show, I sit down with my longtime friend, elite grappler, and judo black belt Vinnie Mancuso to dive deep into the world of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), testosterone, fitness, and recovery in the grappling world. Whether you’re curious about TRT, trying to optimize your training, or just want to hear unfiltered gym talk between two grapplers, this episode is a must-listen.
Apr 14, 2025•46 min•Ep. 199
In this episode of The Shintaro Higashi Show, we’re joined by Lydia Coleman — a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Pan-American champion, Judo brown belt, and co-owner of Rolling Bear BJJ in New Jersey. Lydia shares her journey from striking to grappling, how she built her competitive career, what it’s like to run a gym as a woman, and the stark differences between the judo and jiu-jitsu communities.
Apr 07, 2025•37 min•Ep. 198
In this episode, Shintaro sits down with Jeff Morris, Owner & Head Instructor of Greenwich Jiu Jitsu Academy. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, United States Marine Corps veteran, and active Law Enforcement Detective, Jeff shares his incredible journey—from discovering BJJ in the Marines to building a thriving academy and using martial arts for self-defense, personal growth, and community building.Jeff’s 25 years of experience in BJJ, self-defense, and law enforcement brings deep insights in...
Mar 31, 2025•50 min•Ep. 197
Shintaro welcomes Sensei Seth, a top martial arts YouTuber, for an in-depth conversation about his journey from viral spinning kicks and the Bottle Cap Challenge to becoming a Sumo National Champion and one of the biggest martial arts influencers on YouTube. They dive into Seth’s approach to content creation, how he balances training with producing videos, his thoughts on MMA, traditional martial arts, and the future of martial arts education.
Mar 24, 2025•45 min•Ep. 196
Two-time Olympian Colton Brown joins the podcast to share his journey from elite competitor to top-level coach and dojo owner. We dive into his transition from athlete to mentor, his rapid success in building a thriving Judo academy, and his thoughts on the future of Judo in the U.S.Colton also opens up about his time as a USA Judo board member, the challenges of balancing elite competitors with hobbyists, and his unique approach to creating a strong Judo community. With nearly 400 students in j...
Mar 17, 2025•46 min•Ep. 195
After years of insightful conversations, debates, and plenty of laughs, Peter is saying goodbye to the podcast as he moves forward in his career after completing his higher education. In this special episode, we take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on our best moments, lessons learned, and what’s next for Peter.Join me in wishing him the best, and let’s celebrate everything he’s brought to the show. It’s not goodbye—it’s see you later!
Mar 10, 2025•28 min
AI is rapidly changing the way we train, learn, and analyze Judo. Peter breaks down the fundamentals of AI, how machine learning can enhance coaching, and its potential applications in skill development. Shintaro explores practical uses, from video analysis to training optimization, while discussing AI’s limitations and ethical concerns. They also touch on the future of AI in Judo, including data-driven strategies and predictive modeling. Whether you're curious about AI’s role in martial arts or...
Mar 05, 2025•20 min
In this episode, Shintaro and Peter dive into the role of weight training for grapplers, especially when dealing with injuries. Shintaro shares his personal experiences managing knee and shoulder issues while maintaining a consistent lifting routine. They discuss modifications for common lifts, strategies for working around injuries, and the importance of balancing weight training with grappling practice. The conversation also covers Shintaro’s approach to dieting, his weight loss progress, and ...
Feb 17, 2025•23 min
The ecological approach to coaching has sparked intense debates in the grappling community. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter break down what the ecological approach really means, how it differs from traditional coaching methods, and whether it’s truly the best way to train. They explore the balance between structured instruction and discovery-based learning, discussing how different learning styles impact a student's ability to absorb techniques. Shintaro also shares his perspective as both a...
Feb 10, 2025•23 min
Grappling in Japan has a rich and diverse history, spanning judo, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and even sumo. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter dive into the unique structures of these grappling disciplines in Japan, discussing their training systems, cultural differences, and how jiu-jitsu is rapidly growing as a hobbyist sport. Shintaro shares insights from his recent seminar in Okinawa and explores the potential for bridging the gap between Japanese and American grappling communities. Th...
Feb 03, 2025•20 min
Large language models like ChatGPT are transforming the way we interact with AI. Peter explains its inner workings, how it understands language through probabilities, and its applications across various domains. Shintaro brings relatable scenarios, exploring AI's practical uses, its limitations, and ethical concerns like bias and transparency. They also touch on the future of AI, from prompt engineering to potential advancements like agentic AI and multitask robotics. Whether you're curious abou...
Jan 27, 2025•53 min
Grappling is much more than perfect throws or traditional techniques. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter discuss rethinking training methodologies, from static uchikomi to positional and grip fighting. They address the criticisms of traditional approaches, explore the ecological training model, and share how tailored drills can accelerate learning and creativity. This episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for improving your training. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:31) Critiq...
Jan 20, 2025•30 min
Shintaro and Peter explore the dynamics of organizing Judo events, reflecting on the challenges and benefits of building a thriving judo community. They discuss the importance of dojo collaborations, creative ways to host training sessions, and nurturing a supportive environment for all practitioners. From Judo field trips to inter-gym partnerships, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to enhance their martial arts journey. Plus, they share personal anecdotes about balancing j...
Jan 13, 2025•31 min
In this episode, Shintaro learns about peer review from Peter. They tackle common misconceptions, explain how peer review parallels qualifying rounds for Judo competitions, and discuss the strengths and flaws of the system. From navigating PubMed to addressing the challenges of reviewer anonymity, this episode offers an engaging and accessible take on an often misunderstood topic. Whether you're a researcher, a student, or just curious about how science works behind the scenes, this discussion w...
Jan 06, 2025•27 min
Shintaro recently caught some strays from the popular video “ The Lies Behind Judo Basics ”. In this episode, Shintaro gives his real first-time reactions to the video. Shintaro shares his thoughts on the nuances of teaching traditional Judo basics versus practical competition techniques, while Peter adds context about cultural differences in teaching and training approaches. They discuss the value of traditional drills, address critiques about Uchimata instruction, and reflect on the importance...
Dec 30, 2024•19 min
The new IJF rule set has sparked significant debate in the Judo community, with controversial changes and intriguing predictions about the sport's future. In this episode, Shintaro and Peter talk about the details of the rule updates, including the return of Yuko scoring, adjustments to head safety rules, and the evolving stance on leg grabs. Shintaro shares insights from his commentary experience at the Tokyo Grand Slam and provides his predictions for the future of leg grabs in Judo. The discu...
Dec 23, 2024•24 min
In this episode, Shintaro shares his experience at the Tokyo Grand Slam, where he was one of the IJF commentators. From meeting Olympic champions to exploring the nuances of Japan’s Judo culture, Shintaro reflects on his growing role as a commentator and influencer in the Judo community. Meanwhile, Peter catches us up on his PhD journey, including passing his thesis proposal and attending the prestigious NeurIPS conference. He explores exciting ideas about combining Judo video datasets with AI r...
Dec 17, 2024•32 min
In this episode, Peter and Shintaro shift gears from grappling to dive into Peter’s current main focus: earning a PhD. They explore what it means to pursue a PhD, the challenges faced by doctoral students, and how this journey parallels competition in sports like judo. Using vivid analogies and insights, they discuss the structure of PhD programs, the peer review process, and the impact of publishing research. Whether you’re curious about academia or intrigued by its connections to grappling, th...
Dec 09, 2024•31 min
Shintaro just returned from an international seminar trip in the Netherlands and Germany. In this episode, Shintaro recounts the challenges of organizing international seminars, navigating new countries, and sharing his Japanese-style judo with enthusiastic European practitioners. From the unique Dutch judo culture to logistical hurdles like finding reliable transportation, this episode offers a mix of travel tales, cultural insights, and practical tips for hosting successful events abroad. Plus...
Dec 02, 2024•33 min
