Join us for a special episode of the Elite Podcast as host Lee speaks with Andy Cleeves, one of the UK's most successful coaches, fighters, and entrepreneurs in the martial arts industry. In this deep-dive conversation, Andy talks about his journey from a small village outside Bristol to becoming a pivotal figure in the world of martial arts. They discuss Andy's early influences, the growth of his organisation Epic Martial Arts, and the importance of maintaining both quality and excitement in the sport. They also explore the fascinating new project, Total Combat, which aims to provide a professional pathway for traditional martial arts strikers. Andy shares invaluable insights on leadership, overcoming adversity, and the future of martial arts competitions. Don't miss this inspiring and informative episode!

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Elite Podcast
01:46 Andy's Background and Family History
03:48 Journey into Martial Arts
06:19 Training and Mentorship
09:32 Evolution of Martial Arts Training
19:26 Building Epic Martial Arts
22:54 Branding and Business Expansion
30:07 Collaborations and Partnerships
31:00 Industry Insights and Supply Chain Challenges
32:11 Building a Trustworthy Business
33:00 Expanding Opportunities with Top 10 GB
33:35 The Bristol Open and Merchandise Business
37:29 The Journey of Total Combat
41:14 Challenges and Future of Total Combat
55:18 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode of the Elite Podcast, Lee speaks with Gurjit Gallon, a former British champion and fight announcer. Gurj shares his journey from his early passion for martial arts to overcoming a collapsed lung and working towards his dreams. The conversation delves into Gurj's experiences in training, the martial arts community, and his role as a vibrant and unique fight announcer. Join us for an inspiring discussion on resilience, passion, and the pursuit of excellence in martial arts.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:51 Interview Start
01:41 Journey to Martial Arts Success
02:44 Challenges and Injuries
06:16 Return to Martial Arts and New Beginnings
14:46 Building a New Legacy
21:48 The Beard Journey
22:47 COVID and the Beard
23:14 Spiritual Beliefs and Practices
24:29 Losing and Regaining Faith
25:27 Martial Arts and Personal Growth
30:53 Total Combat Team Dynamics
39:29 Future Aspirations and Goals
41:53 Conclusion and Farewell

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode of the Elite Podcast, we sit down with Amy Truesdale, MBE, a four-time European champion, three-time World Champion, and Paralympic champion in Taekwondo. Amy shares her inspiring journey from starting Taekwondo at the age of eight, influenced by her parents, to conquering various challenges and achieving monumental success in the world of martial arts. She talks about her transition from the ITF style in TAGB to Olympic-style WT, her experiences at the Tokyo and Paris Paralympic Games, and the mental and physical struggles she overcame to become a champion. Amy also discusses her future plans, including gearing up for the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles and her aspirations to become a full-time coach. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness in the face of adversity.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Amy Trusdale's Journey
01:18 Early Beginnings in Martial Arts
05:43 Transition to Olympic Style Taekwondo
08:54 Challenges and Triumphs in Paralympic Taekwondo
10:03 Life as a Full-Time Athlete
11:53 Mental Struggles and Overcoming Adversity
18:20 Current Competitions and Future Plans
20:09 The Paralympic Experience and Media Coverage
21:21 The Paralympian Journey
22:12 Childhood Challenges and Parental Influence
23:51 The Drive to Succeed
25:39 Training for the Next Paralympics
26:07 The Reality of Competitive TaeKwonDo
31:04 Achievements and Recognition
34:19 Future Plans and Coaching Aspirations
37:43 Growing Awareness for Para Taekwondo
39:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode of The Elite Podcast, we sit down with John Yusef, a masters bodybuilding champion, strength and conditioning coach, and gym owner. John shares his journey from his intense diet and training regimen leading up to competitions, his notable wins including the UK Open and World Championships, to his approach to peak performance and carb cycling. He also recounts a harrowing teenage encounter with the infamous Purple Aki and reflects on his motivations for bodybuilding and competing. Additionally, John talks about the evolution of his gyms and the shift from strength and conditioning to a stronger focus on bodybuilding. This candid conversation offers insight into the dedication, challenges, and triumphs in the world of competitive bodybuilding.

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:04 Dieting for Competitions
02:04 Challenges of Bodybuilding
03:02 First Competition Experience
07:11 Mental and Emotional Struggles
10:36 Carb Cycling Strategy
25:15 Posing Routines and Recognition
30:37 Early Beginnings in Bodybuilding
34:51 Mentorship and Training Philosophy
35:36 Early Gym Setup and Training Routine
37:08 Teenage Confidence and Motivation
39:20 Encounter with a Notorious Bodybuilder
45:18 Harassment and Stalking Ordeal
51:50 Gym Evolution and Training Philosophy
53:30 Combining Martial Arts and Bodybuilding
01:01:25 Current Gym and Future Plans

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode of the Elite Podcast, we interview Ben Nicholson, a serving member of two Para and the Army Muay Thai head coach. Ben shares his journey of spending 12 years in the army, his efforts to get Muay Thai recognised as an army sport, and his experiences during 'Op Pitting' in Kabul. He talks about the challenges of getting a new sport accepted by the military, the surprising collaboration with French, Germans, and Polish forces, and the highs and lows of his deployment in Kabul. Additionally, Ben discusses his future plans post-military service and offers insights into the evolving training and fitness regimes within the parachute regiment.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:18 Recognition of Muay Thai in the Army
03:03 Challenges and Achievements in Army Sports
07:41 Starting Muay Thai Classes in Colchester
09:11 Navigating Army Regulations and Setting Up a Civilian Club
13:14 Future Plans and Career Transition
19:47 Reflections on Military Service and Documentary Experience
25:17 Boxing Tournament Progress
26:01 Parachute Regiment's Boxing Legacy
26:57 Training and Coaching Improvements
30:41 Life in the Battalion
44:05 Operation Pitting Experience
51:38 Conclusion and Farewell

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode of the Elite Podcast, Lee sits down with Fin Heesom, a decorated kickboxing champion who has now set his sights on the world of boxing. Fin shares his incredible journey as a multiple WACKO World, British, and European Champion, detailing his greatest achievements and most challenging moments, including fighting and winning with a fractured spine. They delve into the critical role of mindset, the transition from kickboxing to boxing, and the strategic planning involved in building a personal brand in the boxing world. Learn how Fin's unique style, competitive spirit, and unwavering determination continue to drive his success in a new arena.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Achievements
00:47 Podcast Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:50 Specialisation in Martial Arts
02:14 The Importance of Continuous Fighting
02:58 Contact Rules and Their Impact
04:47 Disqualification and Redemption
11:23 Winning the World Title
21:12 The Role of Coaches and Training
31:47 The Importance of Fitness in Fighting
32:56 Transitioning to Boxing
36:49 The Journey to Professional Boxing
42:33 Training and Sparring
56:39 Building a Personal Brand
01:01:51 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode of The Elite Podcast, we speak with Bianca Cook, a three-time world champion and double Olympic medalist in Taekwondo. Bianca shares her journey from starting Taekwondo at age 11 to her rise through the ranks, discussing the challenges she faced, including multiple knee surgeries, and her mindset that helped her stay on top. She also talks about her upbringing in Liverpool, the influence of her family, and her plans the future including media presenting and opening a multi-combat gym. Tune in to hear Bianca's insights on resilience, competition, and staying motivated.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:29 Life in Liverpool
04:49 Joining the National Team
07:58 Overcoming Injuries
16:30 Achievements and Championships
22:45 Olympic Selection Disappointment
27:41 The Unpredictability of the Olympics
29:04 The Prestige of the Olympics vs. World Championships
30:38 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Competition
31:10 The Importance of a Positive Mindset
32:11 Overcoming Injuries and Adversities
32:47 The Rigors of Taekwondo Training
37:26 The Role of Competitiveness in Training
41:04 The Influence of a Training Partner
44:07 Future Plans
49:36 Conclusion

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios

In this episode, Lee interviews David Lowe, a martial arts business coach, funnel builder, and AI expert. David shares his journey in the martial arts industry since 1999, discussing his involvement with NAPMA and the introduction of marketing strategies that transformed martial arts schools into thriving businesses. They explore the impact of program-based systems, the rise and fall of certain marketing schemes, and the rebirth of the industry. David delves into modern-day tools like AI and funnels, providing insights into how they can revolutionize martial arts marketing and operations. Tune in to learn about the past, present, and future of martial arts business strategies.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Martial Arts Business
00:45 Early Encounters and Influences
01:35 The Birth of NAPMA and Its Impact
03:50 Marketing Pioneers in Martial Arts
06:27 Challenges and Growth in the Industry
08:35 The Evolution of Martial Arts Business Models
13:33 The Role of Mentorship and Coaching
19:36 Rebirth and Modern Developments
25:16 The College of Martial Arts: A Brief History
26:37 Revolutionizing Martial Arts Training for Kids
28:17 The Fred Mertens Influence
31:07 The Rise and Fall of Program-Based Training
33:37 Transition to Business Coaching
34:53 The Power of Funnels and Automation
42:31 Embracing AI in Marketing
50:54 The Future of AI in Business
52:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

Follow Lee on social media for more:
▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
▶︎ Web - http://www.liverpoolpodcaststudios.com
▶︎ Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/liverpoolpodcaststudios
▶︎ LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/liverpool-podcast-studios