This episode of “My Empty Hands” features an interview with martial artist Sal Luciano, who discusses his journey and insights into the martial arts, with a specific focus on Kempo. The conversation covers his background in Judo and Aikido, his transition to Kempo, and his philosophy on training and teaching.
Discussion Points:
[49:45] Criticism of chasing rank over genuine skill and self-improvement.
[00:37] Introduction to the “My Empty Hands” podcast, which focuses on Kempo.
[01:02] Sal Luciano discusses his martial arts journey, starting with Judo and Aikido, which he considers his “mother arts.”
[03:05] The importance of asking questions, showing respect, and cross-training in different disciplines.
[03:56] Luciano’s experience with kickboxing and boxing.
[05:07] The significance of self-awareness, common sense, and integrity in martial arts training.
[09:59] Luciano’s transition from the Shaolin Kempo system to the American Kempo system.
[19:57] Discussion on the evolution of martial arts and the need to incorporate techniques from other disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
[29:19] Luciano’s views on teaching and the importance of accountability for students.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The Male Room with Dr. Jesse Mills
As Director of The Men’s Clinic at UCLA, Dr. Jesse Mills has spent his career helping men understand their bodies, their hormones, and their health. Now he’s bringing that expertise to The Male Room — a podcast where data-driven medicine meets common sense. Each episode separates fact from hype, science from snake oil, and gives men the tools to live longer, stronger, and happier lives. With candor, humor, and real-world experience from the exam room and the operating room, Dr. Mills breaks down the latest health headlines, dissects trends, and explains what actually works — and what doesn’t. Smart, straightforward, and entertaining, The Male Room is the show that helps men take charge of their health without the jargon.