In this powerful and deeply reflective episode of the Impact My Life Podcast, host Jason Nolan sits down with one of his most respected mentors and influences, Shihan Gene Dunn, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond techniques, belts, or competition.

Shihan Dunn shares his journey growing up in New York City, how martial arts became both a refuge and a framework for life, and why philosophy, mentorship, and community are just as essential as physical training. Together, Jason and Gene explore what it means to view martial arts as a lifelong practice—one rooted in personal growth, emotional intelligence, and responsibility to the next generation.

This episode dives into topics such as:

• Martial arts as a mission, not just a profession
• The importance of dojo culture versus gym culture
• Longevity, sustainability, and training through different seasons of life
• The mentor–student (senpai–kohai) relationship and why it matters now more than ever
• Preserving traditional values and philosophy in a modern, media-driven martial arts world
• Creativity, art, and self-expression as parallel lifelong practices

Shihan Dunn also opens up about vulnerability, leadership, masculinity, and the idea that true strength includes compassion, awareness, and accountability. His reflections offer valuable insight not only for martial artists, but for parents, educators, and anyone seeking purpose, resilience, and connection.

This is an episode about carrying the torch—honoring those who came before us, supporting those beside us, and ensuring the art doesn’t end with us.

Listeners are also encouraged to check out Shihan Gene Dunn’s own show, the Gentle Art Podcast, where martial arts, life, relationships, and spirituality continue the conversation.

In this powerful episode of #ImpactMyLife, Jason welcomes one of his oldest friends and longtime training partners, Shihan Craig Haley, owner of Elite Force Martial Arts in Deerfield Beach, FL. Together they revisit their early days on the mats, the rivalry-turned-brotherhood that shaped their lives, and how their shared passion for martial arts became the foundation for two meaningful careers.

Jason and Craig dive deep into how martial arts has evolved over the last 30+ years, why character development matters now more than ever, and how traditional values like discipline, confidence, and respect continue to transform both kids and adults. They discuss smart training philosophies, the importance of safe and sustainable sparring, and the role of community in helping students thrive on and off the mat.

Craig also opens up about overcoming a major challenge this year, a devastating fire at his dojo — and how mindset, support, and resilience carried him through. Whether you're a parent, student, or adult considering your first class, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and actionable insights from two lifelong martial artists who live what they teach.

In this episode of #ImpactMyLife, Jason Nolan sits down with executive coach and author Ralph L. Simone to explore the principles behind his mantra “Slow Down to Go Faster.”

Ralph shares how martial arts, family dinners, and leadership coaching all tie into the art of being present and intentional. From creating “Not-To-Do” lists to embracing experimentation, he shows why slowing down often unlocks peak performance.

The conversation dives into:

• Why adaptability is the ultimate leadership skill in today’s world
• How Emergent helps people and organizations unlock authentic potential
• The importance of pausing, reflecting, and building energy—not just managing time
• Lessons from martial arts, flow state, and even a Bruce Lee vs. Chuck Norris sparring story

Whether you’re a parent, leader, or someone chasing personal growth, this episode will inspire you to rethink success and lead with presence.

In this special panel episode of the #ImpactMyLife Podcast, host Jason Nolan welcomes three guests with unique perspectives on the challenges facing teens today: Jennifer Meyers, School Psychologist at Phoenix Central Schools; Kira Pawletko, Biological Sciences major at Cornell University; and Betsy Lehmann, School Resource Officer for North Syracuse CSD. Together, they dive into the pressures of growing up in a digital world, from social media visibility and constant connectivity to the lingering effects of the pandemic.

The discussion explores how technology, mental health awareness, and changing social dynamics are shaping today’s youth—and what parents, educators, and mentors can do to help. From building resilience and setting healthy tech boundaries to fostering trust and genuine connections, this conversation offers both practical advice and hopeful insights for supporting teens through a rapidly changing world.

In this inspiring episode of the #ImpactMyLife Podcast, Jason Nolan sits down with longtime friend Mary Beth Featherstone, whose career journey spans corporate HR to 20 years of teaching second grade. Together, they explore the life skills that bridge the workplace and the classroom—goal setting, discipline, communication, and resilience.

Mary Beth shares parenting tips for setting kids up for a successful school year, the importance of limiting screen time, and how martial arts helped shape her daughters into confident, driven adults. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or just passionate about personal growth, this conversation is packed with practical advice and heartfelt stories.

In this episode of Impact My Life, Jason Nolan welcomes longtime friend, martial artist, and instructor Jon Bidwell—a man with nearly four decades of martial arts experience and a black belt lineage that spans generations.

Jason and Jon dive into their shared history on and off the mat, from early sparring memories to modern-day lessons in grit, growth, and perseverance. They reflect on how martial arts has evolved over the years—from the hardcore, militaristic training of the past to today’s focus on mental toughness, character development, and inclusivity. You'll hear stories about black belt transformations, hilarious dojo moments, and the philosophies that shaped their approach to teaching and training—like the “shoe rack theory” and overcoming “stinking thinking.”

Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or just curious about what it means to live the black belt mindset, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom.

In this episode of the #ImpactMyLife Podcast, host Jason Nolan sits down with longtime friend and Certified Nutrition Specialist Practitioner Amy Doyle, owner of White Stone Wellness, for a conversation that blends practical health strategies with real-life challenges.

Together, they explore:

• Why nutrition is a key form of self-defense
• Common myths about carbs, fats, and "inflammatory foods"
• How to approach supplements safely and effectively
• The truth about hydration and how it affects your daily performance
• Simple meal prep strategies for busy families
• Tips for fueling athletes, martial artists, and growing kids
• The power of small steps—and why joy might be the missing link in your health journey

Whether you're a parent, an athlete, or someone just trying to live better, this episode is full of insights you can use right now. Don’t miss Amy’s empowering reminder: you’re never too old to start something new.

👩‍⚕️ Learn more about Amy at whitestonefunctionalnutrition.com or connect via Instagram and Facebook.

🎧 Listen now and take your next step toward better health.

In this episode of Impact My Life, Jason Nolan welcomes his longtime friend and positive psychology expert Jaime “JJ” Weisberg, founder of Northbound Coaching and Consulting. Together, they dive into the real science behind happiness, human flourishing, and why positive psychology isn’t just about "thinking positive."

JJ breaks down what positive psychology really is (and isn’t), how it helped shape her life and career, and shares practical, research-backed strategies to shift your mindset—starting with simple changes like reframing your thoughts and practicing gratitude.

They also explore how martial arts training at Impact Martial Arts aligns with key positive psychology principles, including resilience, self-efficacy, community, and growth mindset. Whether you're a parent, student, or just someone looking for more purpose and clarity, this episode offers tools to feel better, live better, and lead a more meaningful life.