SFL Episode 63: Roy Hatcher


Conversation with Charlotte-based Systema Instructor and bodyworker Roy Hatcher.

Roy began his martials arts career in the US Air Force, while stationed in Korea. Seeking a way to calm his fiery temperament, he studied traditional Korean sword styles - and later Aikido - for their peaceful, meditative aspects. Some years later, he was exposed to Systema through the formidable Martin Wheeler, and his concept of martial arts was forever altered.

Here, we discuss:

- how Systema helped him understand his aggression

- the origins of his considerable massage skill, and how it dovetailed with his Systema practice

- the value of developing touch, softwork, and working "with" your opponent

- cultivating a curious spirit, and a learning approach based on listening

Find out more about training with Roy at www.hatchersjustbreathe.com/ and check out his YouTube channel here

SFL Episode 62: Joe Gehr

This week, a lively discussion with security professional, IDF intelligence officer, and instructor at Systema Miami, Joe Gehr.
Born in Columbia, raised in Aruba, and later a resident of Israel and the United States. Joe has a fascinating background, and trained widely in Filipino, Japanese, and Israeli martial arts before beginning Systema in 2005. Today, he teaches Systema applications to special operatives, SWAT teams and VIP protection units - in the USA and abroad.

Here we touch upon:

  • Systema as the ultimate art of awareness

  • the difference between military and civilian martial arts

  • the place for strategy and tactics

  • the necessity of preparation and personal responsibility

Find out more about training with Joe at www.SystemaMiami.com and www.ProactiveAndPrepared.com

SFL Episode 61: Jeff Sodeman

Conversation with my good friend - and fellow Instructor at NC SYSTEMA - Jeff Sodeman.
A highly accomplished martial artist in his own right, Jeff has trained Aikido and Systema for over 25 years, founded the San Diego Systema and Aikikai (California), and ran it for over a decade before moving to North Carolina in 2015.

Here, we get into:

  • how Jeff came to martial arts...via rock climbing

  • parallels between climbing, combat, and conditioning

  • exhaustion, efficiency, and psychological endurance

  • differences and similarities between Aikido and Systema

  Jeff now teaches regular group and conditioning classes at NC SYSTEMA.  Find out more at www.ncsystema.com.