In this powerful and personal episode, Mariel is joined by longtime friend and 5th-degree black belt Mike Blom, a dedicated martial artist and national-level competitor, who’s getting ready to represent Canada at the ITF World Championships in Croatia.
From ninja turtles and Power Rangers to the intense, disciplined world of Taekwondo, Mike shares the deeply human side of martial arts. He opens up about what it really means to step into the ring, not just to fight, but to face yourself. Together, Mike and Mariel explore the mental fortitude required to keep showing up when you’re bruised, doubted, or afraid.
🔍 In this episode, we dive into:
- 🥋 Mike’s origin story in martial arts, and how he went from an uncoordinated kid to a 4-time Team Canada athlete
- 🤯 What martial arts teaches about mental strength, humility, and getting back up after a loss
- 💬 His go-to fight mantra: “No one can beat me”—and what that really means (hint: it’s not about winning)
- đź‘Š How he handles pressure, chaotic opponents, and the unknown
- 🧠Why routines, self-talk, and learning to lose well are essential to success—not just in sport, but in life
- đź’ˇ Advice for young athletes and parents navigating fear, overwhelm, and competition burnout
You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll leave this episode with a deeper appreciation for the mindset behind mastery.
🎯 Whether you're a coach, a parent, a competitor, or someone fighting battles of your own, this conversation is packed with perspective-shifting insights on resilience, emotional regulation, and the kind of quiet confidence that can only be forged through adversity.
📣 Mike is funding his own trip to Worlds!!! (Which is something many people don’t realize about amateur elite athletes. If you’re moved by this episode and want to support a true warrior on his journey, click HERE to go to the GoFundMe and help get him to Croatia.
This is about more than medals. It’s about heart, legacy, and the courage to keep coming back, no matter the outcome.
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