Mar 07 2025 66 mins
In this episode of the Elite Podcast, Lee sits down with Damon Sansum, kickboxing world champion, Olympic Taekwondo GB coach, and multiple world medalist. Damon shares his journey from starting martial arts at 12, overcoming challenges and injuries, to becoming a successful athlete and coach. The conversation covers Damon's early influences, transition from kickboxing to Olympic Taekwondo, and the psychological and physical demands of being a top-level athlete. They also discuss the future of martial arts and the exciting new Total Combat event. This episode offers an in-depth look into the life and mindset of a martial arts champion.
Chapters:
00:00 The Beginning of a Martial Arts Journey
01:21 Early Kickboxing Days
02:23 Memorable Tournaments and Training
04:58 Life Changes and Moving to Scotland
10:20 The Importance of Male Influence
11:53 Sliding Door Moments
12:18 The Martial Arts Lifestyle
13:34 Challenges and Respect for My Dad
20:19 Transition to Olympic Taekwondo
25:41 The Fighting Chance Program
31:58 The Evolution of Front Leg Techniques
33:16 Influence of GB Team on International Taekwondo
35:32 Adapting Techniques Across Styles
40:24 The Role of Mindset in Athletic Success
42:18 Challenges and Rewards of Martial Arts Training
49:27 Total Combat
55:20 The Future of Martial Arts Competitions
01:05:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Events
The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.
Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.
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Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
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