I was inspired to start public speaking by an Aikido Sensei. It was during the time in my life when I was operating a full-time professional Aikido school. I was training and teaching everyday and traveling extensively to deepen my skills. I would attend the California Aikido Association's yearly week-long Aikido Camp. We lived on site and immersed ourselves with up to five or seven training options per day. It was an incredible training experience with fantastic history. One of the more anticipated events of the camp was the "Aiki-Follies."

This was a variety show with an Aikido martial art overtone. I always took part in Aiki-Follies doing funny performance skits, musical performances, and anything else that would bring a laugh to the crowd of Aikido students, instructors, and practitioners. One year I decided to offer a "One-Handed Monologue" about my experience as a one-handed martial artist and Aikido instructor. After it was over and we were celebrating and partying at the after-party, one of my Aikido mentors said something that changed my life. Francis Takahashi Sensei, 7th degree black belt in Aikido said to me, "I would pay money to hear you speak." That moment was the inspiration I needed to become a professional speaker.

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Show Notes:

I was inspired to become a professional speaker from an Aikido Instructor.

Resources:

My first real Public Speaking gig – I delivered A one-handed Aikido speech.
Musical Samurai – Aiki-Follies music skit.
Paired Weapons Training – Aiki-Follies performance skit. A different way to do paired weapons.

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Play your hand,
AlejAndro