This episode of Diamond Mining Friday is a big one and an important one as it covers a topic that is, for some, controversial, and for others, a way of life. For Blaine, becoming a delibreate creator of experiences, opportunities, abundance, realtionships, and health began when he was an uchi deshi (live-in student) in Chicago. His study of Aikido and Zen lead him to begin studying what are often referred to as Universal Principles and the laws of cause and effect. Gaining an understanding of these principles lead him to seek out specific ways to utilize these principles for his own benefit as well as the benefit of others. 

Over the past 20 years, Blaine has been effectively using these principles to start several successful businesses, get in better shape and experience better health, eliminate toxic relationships and attract healthy ones, create opportunities that seemed distant or non-existent, and lead an overall extraordinary life and lifestyle. 

There's no talk about quantum physics and no secrets revealed since everything Blaine uses on a daily basis has been well known practice for thousands of years. The practices are literally as simple as breathing, walking, and thinking, although its not always easy to break the negative patterns that have become habit for so many people.

Grab a pencil and a pad of paper for this one becuase there are literally life changing tips in this episode! If you're interested in hearing the private podcast on 'How using positive affirmations are causing the opposite of what you want!", head over to www.AikiCast.com and join the AikiCast Tribe today to start receiving the private podcasts.

In this episode of the AikiCast question and answer session, Blaine tackles 2 big topics: starting your own martial arts business and what to do about the current state of police abuses in the U.S.

The first question from Paolo is about being a full time instructor and whether or not I recommend it. I give him my personal experiences from starting and running several businesses over the past 20 years and how to start a martial arts business, run it successfully and still maintain your passion for the art.

The second question from Chris is about the current situations we see almost every week where somebody is either abused or killed by the police and what my thoughts are. I give him my viewpoint as a trainer of law enforcement as well as an informed citizen and concealed carry proponent. 

This episode is filled to the brim so get ready for some action!

In this episode of AikiCast Diamond Mining Friday, Blaine discusses the differences between a mere martial arts teacher and a true Sensei. Since the term Sensei connotes one who has 'gone before' the student, there is an understanding in eastern traditions that the Sensei was more than just a teacher. The Sensei student relationship was on par with the parent child relationship and highly respected in eastern cultures. 

Blaine breaks down the 3 most common types of teachers found in most martial arts schools today.

1. The Guru or Master- This individual demands a certain level of respect at all times, doesnt interact with his or her students outside of the martial arts school, is not tolerant of questions, is disdainful of students seeking instruction outside of the instructors guidance, and quickly reprimands those who disobey or mess up.

2. The Respected Mentor- This individual commands respect based on the quality of their character and instruction. They interact with the students on and off the mat in a similar manner. They require a modicum of respect and teach ettiquette and martial rituals as tools for growth. The Respected Mentor is sought out by others in the community for their sound advice and rational approach. Students often look to this type of teacher for advice on topics not related to the martial arts training. 

3. The Trainer or Coach- This individual places high emphasis on the physical training and cardio vascular benefits of martial arts. He or she is laid back and friendly and imposes very few, if any, rules or ettiquette on the students. Dues are somewhat optional and classes feel more like a group of friends getting together to sweat.

While each type of teacher has pros and cons, each student must choose what type of martial arts teacher he or she would like to learn from. In addition, each student must decide at some point what type of teacher she wants to become.

Give it a listen and see where you fall on the spectrum.