The Mind Sensei Podcast – Episode 1 with Mr. Scott Gonzalez (8th Degree Associate Master)

In this episode of The Mind Sensei Podcast, host Peter Tas sits down with Mr. Scott Gonzalez, an 8th Degree Associate Master in American Kenpo, representing the respected Jeffcoat–Tatum lineage.

Mr. Gonzalez began his Kenpo journey in 1990, training under Mr. Rick Jeffcoat, initially in a garage studio environment. He later became the first enrolled student at Mr. Larry Tatum’s Green Street school, where he continued developing his understanding of the system.

Training under both Mr. Rick Jeffcoat and Grand Master Larry Tatum, Mr. Gonzalez earned his First Degree Black Belt in 1995, laying the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge within American Kenpo.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we explore Scott’s early years in Kenpo, the training culture of the time, and the influence of his instructors.

How Scott first discovered American Kenpo• Training in the early days with Rick Jeffcoat Becoming the first student at Larry Tatum’s Green Street studio The training environment and culture of early Kenpo schools• Lessons learned from direct mentorship• How lineage shapes understanding of the art

8th Degree Associate Master in American Kenpo Represents the respected Jeffcoat / Tatum lineage Began training in 1990 under Mr. Rick Jeffcoat First enrolled student at Larry Tatum’s Green Street studio Earned 1st Degree Black Belt in 1995 Founder and head instructor of Desert Dragons’ Kenpo in Arizona• Nearly a decade of experience as a secondary school teacher in California and Arizona Continues his training and personal development under the guidance of Grand Master Larry Tatum

Desert Dragons’ Kenpo – Arizona

Website:https://desertdragonsaz.com/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=desert%20dragons%20kenpo%20karate%20sc

The Mind Sensei Podcast explores the mindset, philosophy, and personal journeys of martial artists and thought leaders from around the world.

Hosted by Peter Tas, martial artist and member of the Australasian Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

In this episode we discuss:Guest Biography – Mr. Scott GonzalezGuest School & Contact