Real Talk with Sensei Nick

About Real Talk with Sensei Nick

This podcast is about Real Talk. Living the best Martial Arts life and being the best that you can be. There is so much misinformation out there as far as fitness goes. This is the podcast where we tackle myths and issues in the martial arts and the ultimate goal is to help you get moving toward being your best possible self.

Publisher

Nick Taber

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

27 May 2020

Latest episode

14 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

185 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Sept 2026

   Because I am a martial artist, the Season Finale

   What does it really mean to call yourself a martial artist? In this heartfelt season finale, Sensei Nick reflects on the journey that shaped his life—from being born nine and a half weeks premature and growing up with cerebral palsy and dyslexia, to overcoming labels, setbacks, and expectations that said he shouldn't succeed. This isn't a story about becoming superhuman. It's about becoming fully human. Throughout the season we've talked about setbacks, resilience, purpose, and finding strength when life refuses to cooperate. This episode ties everything together with one simple truth: Because I'm a martial artist. Martial arts didn't remove life's obstacles. It provided the mindset, discipline, and perseverance to face them head-on. Whether navigating school, career changes, family responsibilities, or moments of uncertainty, the lessons learned in the dojo became lessons for life. Why setbacks don't define your future. Growing up with cerebral palsy and dyslexia. Refusing to accept the limitations others placed on you. The mentors who changed a life. How martial arts prepares us for challenges far beyond the dojo. Why character is revealed through adversity, not comfort. The philosophy that has guided every chapter of Sensei Nick's journey. If you've ever questioned your abilities, felt overlooked, or wondered whether you were capable of more, this episode is for you. Thank you for spending this season with me. Whether you've listened to every episode or this is your first, I truly appreciate you being part of these conversations. Your support, encouragement, messages, and willingness to grow alongside me have made this podcast something special. I hope these episodes have challenged you, encouraged you, and reminded you that no matter where you are in your journey, you always have another step you can take. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode and what martial arts has meant in your own life. Questions, comments, or speaking inquiries: tabersmartialarts@gmail.com (mailto:tabersmartialarts@gmail.com) If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with a friend. Every share helps these conversations reach someone who may need to hear them. Thank you for joining me for this season of Real Talk with Sensei Nick. Until next season... Who cares that it's Monday? Go get 'em.

2. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Beyond Self-Defense: Protecting the People You Love | Featuring Jason Brick

   What does it really mean to protect your family? In this episode of Real Talk with Sensei Nick, I'm joined by author, martial artist, and longtime friend Jason Brick for a conversation that challenges the way many martial artists think about self-defense. We often spend years learning how to defend ourselves, but what changes when you're responsible for protecting someone else? Jason shares the story behind his book, Safest Family on the Block, and explains how becoming a father completely changed the way he viewed personal protection. From practical family safety strategies to the emotional realities of parenting, this conversation explores how martial arts principles extend far beyond the dojo and into everyday life. We also discuss the role of fear, preparation, situational awareness, and why the best self-defense often starts long before a confrontation ever takes place. Whether you're a parent, an instructor, or simply someone who wants to better protect the people around you, there's something in this conversation that will make you think. In this episode, we discuss: • Why protecting a child is completely different from protecting yourself. • The inspiration behind Safest Family on the Block. • Practical family safety habits that every parent can begin teaching today. • Why repetition and realistic training matter more than complicated techniques. • Helping children respond instead of freeze during stressful situations. • The importance of situational awareness and planning ahead. • How martial arts teaches us to manage fear instead of being controlled by it. • The balance between confidence, humility, and keeping our ego in check. • Why good instructors adapt their teaching to the individual rather than forcing everyone into the same mold. • The value of creating a family culture centered on awareness, communication, and preparation. Key Takeaway The greatest form of self-defense isn't winning a fight—it's preventing one. Martial arts gives us the mindset to recognize danger early, prepare for the unexpected, and make thoughtful decisions that keep ourselves and the people we love safe. Sometimes the strongest move isn't throwing a punch at all—it's having a plan before anything ever happens. If this conversation gave you something to think about, I'd love to hear your perspective. Share this episode with another parent, instructor, or martial artist, and let's continue building stronger families and stronger communities together. You can reach me at tabersmartialarts@gmail.com (mailto:tabersmartialarts@gmail.com). Thanks for listening to Real Talk with Sensei Nick. I'm rooting for you.

3. 

   31 Aug 2026

   Missing Episode, Random Questions

   Missing Episode, Random Questions 1. Does martial arts actually make you a better person? 2. Would your martial arts actually work if somebody really tried to hurt you? 3. What does a black belt actually mean anymore?] 4. When does preserving tradition become refusing to evolve? 5. When should you leave your martial arts school? Listener Question What is something you've always wanted to ask about martial arts—even if you were afraid to ask your instructor? Send me your questions, thoughts, disagreements, or ideas at ⁠tabersmartialarts@gmail.com⁠ (mailto:tabersmartialarts@gmail.com). Thank you for listening to Real Talk with Sensei Nick.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 41 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

57

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

60

Contact Real Talk with Sensei Nick

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.