Leadership
13 articles by Sensei Willy Strohmeier, from his monthly Brighton Buzz column.
2026
Who's Kicking Your Cat?
Good moods and bad ones spread like dominoes. Zig Ziglar's classic story and a student's progress show why every interaction matters.
Heroes Never Die, They Just Fade Away
A broken bed, The Way of the Dragon, and Chuck Norris: how a childhood hero's discipline, humility, and faith inspired a lifetime of karate.
2025
From White Belts to Role Models: The Story of Two Brothers Who Never Gave Up
Two brothers who started karate in tears at ages 4 and 5 kept showing up for 13 years, earning black belts and becoming instructors.
Karate Gave Me a Head Start in Life
Dane joined the dojo at twelve in 2007. Now an Army Chaplain Candidate, he shares how 'Seek Perfection of Character' shaped his calling.
2024
3 Reasons Why Cobra Kai Stinks
A karate instructor's take on Cobra Kai: why the show misses what real martial arts training is about, from character to mentorship.
Meet Intermediate Student, Leo!
Leo joined karate unable to speak English and bullied at school. With patience and care he found his smile, and now helps new students feel safe.
2021
Self-Made? Not Me!
If you see a turtle on a fence post, it had help getting there. Sensei Willy thanks the friend and mentor who helped him build his karate school.
It's Not My Fault
Blaming others means admitting we couldn't do better. Why our dojo teaches extreme ownership: be prompt, no whining, no excuses.
Honoring Our Past, Living in the Present, and Forging Our Future
Revisiting his childhood Sensei in Lima, Peru, Sensei Willy reflects on what a teacher passes on, and how anyone with experience can be a Sensei.
Pushing Brighton Forward
Like pushing an old Datsun to get it started, our community needs a push. Practical ways to support Brighton's small businesses through hard times.