THE WARRIOR CLASS (12/07/25)

Welcome to the WARRIOR CLASS Podcast

The WARRIOR CLASS podcast is your essential, unique resource for mastering self-protection and self-defense. Designed to equip every listener—regardless of background, experience level, or physical ability—with the vital skills and profound knowledge necessary for personal safety and empowerment, we go beyond simple techniques.

We believe that true self-defense begins with a “Warrior Mindset,” focusing on situational awareness, threat recognition, de-escalation tactics, and the legal and ethical considerations of using force. Our episodes feature in-depth interviews with world-class experts: tactical trainers, martial arts masters, security professionals, and legal analysts.

Tune in to explore practical strategies for:

  • Physical Self-Defense: Practical, high-percentage techniques for escaping grabs, defending against common assaults, and utilizing everyday objects for protection.
  • Situational Awareness: Developing the mindset to identify and avoid danger before it escalates.
  • Home Security and Personal Safety Technology: Reviews and best practices for securing your environment and leveraging modern tools.
  • Psychology of Conflict: Understanding fear, managing adrenaline, and maintaining control under pressure.

Join the WARRIOR CLASS community today and take charge of your personal safety journey. Your empowerment starts now!

This week…

This episode: Beyond the Veil of Visibility: Examining the Depth of Black Imagery in Media

It is an undeniable truth that Black actors today enjoy a greater quantitative presence in films and television shows than in decades past. However, this sheer increase in visibility should not be mistaken for meaningful or authentic representation. The true measure of progress lies not in the volume of appearances, but in the quality and complexity of the roles being offered.

When the characters written for Black talent are disproportionately confined to narrow, often harmful archetypes—such as criminals, servants, comedic relief, sidekicks, the emotionally detached “magical negro,” or characters whose narratives are solely defined by trauma—then representation has not genuinely progressed. It has merely diversified in the most superficial of ways, creating a false sense of inclusion.

These limiting roles frequently serve to reinforce damaging, long-standing cultural narratives, regardless of the exceptional skill and artistry of the actors embodying them. This perpetuation of tropes, even in contemporary media, normalizes a restricted and distorted view of Black humanity.

The problem extends beyond the screen and into the realm of printed media, including books, magazines, and comic books. While some Black tropes may have had historical or contextual roots, their continuous and uncritical deployment becomes fundamentally harmful. They operate by flattening the experiences of millions of people into one or two simplistic, overused personality types. This practice effectively erases the vast cultural, regional, class, and personal diversity that exists within the global Black community.

Ultimately, mere visibility is not enough. Representation that lacks authenticity, depth, and complexity is, in effect, a form of misrepresentation. It fails to honor the rich tapestry of Black life and instead promotes an easily digestible, often prejudiced caricature.


In this essential episode of Warrior Class, the Instructors will lead a rigorous and timely exploration and discussion of Black imagery, examining its evolution, impact, and authenticity across various media, including books, television, and film.

A Message from the Professor

Viola Ford Fletcher, affectionately known as “Mother Fletcher,” was a true icon and a powerful voice for justice, known globally as the oldest living survivor of the horrific Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Her life spanned over a century, a period during which she bore witness to immense change and persistent struggle for civil rights in America.

The devastating two-day massacre, which saw the destruction of the prosperous Black neighborhood of Greenwood—often called “Black Wall Street”—was a trauma etched into her memory from the time she was a young girl. For decades, the tragedy was largely absent from history books, and survivors like Mother Fletcher carried their pain in silence.

However, in the later years of her extraordinary life, she chose to break that silence, stepping into the national and international spotlight as an unwavering advocate for recognition and reparations. At the remarkable age of 107, she made international headlines when she testified before the U.S. Congress on May 19, 2021, just weeks before the massacre’s 100th anniversary.

Her testimony, delivered with clarity and profound emotional weight, was a stark reminder of the atrocity. “I have lived through the massacre every day,” she stated, recounting the terror of watching her community burn and her family flee for their lives. She stood as the human embodiment of the historical injustice, asserting, “We are asking for justice. We are asking you to help us.”

Mother Fletcher, alongside her younger brother Hughes Van Ellis and fellow survivor Lessie Benningfield Randle, became a leading plaintiff in a historic lawsuit seeking reparations from the city of Tulsa and other entities for the wealth, lives, and property lost during the attack.

Upon her passing, Viola Ford Fletcher transitioned to take her rightful place among the ancestors—a title of profound respect in African and African American culture. Her death is a call to action, reminding the world that the fight she so courageously waged for accountability, historical accuracy, and economic justice is far from over. Her legacy compels the current and future generations to take up the torch and continue the pursuit of the justice and healing she so desperately sought for her community.

We extend our sincere and deepest gratitude to the professor for generously sharing this exceptionally helpful and insightful video. The quality of the content is truly outstanding, and it serves as a testament to their profound expertise and dedication.

The professor’s unwavering commitment to the noble cause of education—specifically, the free and open dissemination of knowledge to a broad public audience—is truly admirable and sets a high standard for academic outreach.

For those who found this video valuable and wish to explore the full breadth of the professor’s important work, we strongly encourage you to visit their official YouTube channel. You can easily access it by clicking on the link provided HERE.

The channel is a rich repository of valuable information, featuring a diverse collection of videos that go into great depth on complex social issues and critical historical contexts. Engaging with this material is an excellent way to continue your learning journey and significantly deepen your comprehensive understanding of these essential topics.

“I can’t save you from the fire, but I can save you from the pain.” That’s the power of friendship.

Anne Askew, a figure of extraordinary fortitude and conviction, remains a powerful symbol of resistance against religious persecution in Tudor England. A staunch Protestant during the reign of Henry VIII, a period marked by violent shifts in doctrine and political maneuvering, she refused to recant her beliefs or betray her co-religionists, even in the face of the most barbaric state-sanctioned cruelty.

Her steadfast refusal led to her being taken to the Tower of London. There, she was subjected to the rack—an agonizing instrument of torture that systematically pulled the victim’s joints from their sockets. This act of torturing a woman was itself a gross violation of English law, underscoring the desperation and brutality of her interrogators, led by Chancellor Thomas Wriothesley and Richard Rich, who were obsessed with uncovering a network of high-ranking Protestant sympathizers at court, including Queen Katherine Parr.

Despite the excruciating pain of having her limbs dislocated—a suffering few can comprehend, let alone endure—Askew remained utterly silent regarding the names of anyone else involved in the Protestant movement. Her refusal to yield stood in stark contrast to the response of many others, such as Guy Fawkes centuries later, who, under similar duress, often gave their captors whatever information was demanded merely to hasten the end of their torment. Askew’s physical and mental endurance was truly exceptional.

Having failed to break her spirit through the rack, the authorities condemned her for heresy. On July 16, 1546, a frail Anne Askew, unable to walk due to her injuries, was carried on a chair to her execution. She was burned at the stake in Smithfield, London, alongside three other Protestants. Her final moments were marked by the same incredible bravery and unwavering faith she displayed throughout her ordeal. Her testimony, later documented and smuggled out of the country, cemented her legacy as a courageous martyr and a woman of immense strength.

AN EXTRAORDINARY STORY Journey to Freedom: The Enduring Spirit of Venture Smith

This documentary embarks on an extraordinary journey into the life of Venture Smith, an African boy whose indomitable spirit, though tragically ensnared by the horrors of capture and enslavement, ultimately triumphed through an unwavering force of will. More than just a historical recounting, this powerful film, set against a backdrop of a deeply moving instrumental score, transforms into an emotional odyssey. It is a profound exploration of the unimaginable pain and suffering endured by countless individuals over centuries, yet it simultaneously stands as a radiant testament to the indomitable resilience that allowed the human spirit to not only survive but to ultimately prevail against overwhelming odds.

The evocative melodies and pulsating rhythms that permeate the documentary serve as the very heartbeat of freedom itself. They are a powerful, almost visceral, testament to the unwavering hope and courageous fight for liberation that defined the lives of so many. Through the remarkable and deeply personal story of Venture Smith, viewers are confronted with the devastating impact of injustice – the brutal rupture of families, the theft of identity, and the systemic dehumanization that characterized the era of slavery. However, and perhaps more importantly, the film inspires with Smith’s unyielding determination to reclaim his autonomy, to defy the chains that sought to bind him, and to forge a path towards a self-determined future.

Venture Smith’s narrative is a microcosm of a larger, pivotal chapter in human history. Born in what is now Ghana in 1729, he was ripped from his home as a child, brutally transported across the Atlantic, and forced into servitude in the American colonies. Yet, his story is not merely one of victimhood. It is a testament to the extraordinary strength of character that allowed him to endure unimaginable hardships, to work tirelessly to earn his freedom, and ultimately, to purchase the freedom of his family members. His autobiography, A Narrative of the Life and Adventures of Venture, a Native of Africa: But Resident above Sixty Years in the United States of America, published in 1798, stands as a rare and invaluable firsthand account of the transatlantic slave trade and the struggle for freedom.

This film invites viewers not just to observe, but to bear witness to this critical period, offering a poignant and enduring reminder of the individual spirit’s power in the face of overwhelming adversity. It delves into the nuances of his life, from the strategic labor he undertook to earn money for his freedom, to the shrewd business dealings that allowed him to establish himself as a landowner and entrepreneur in Connecticut. The documentary meticulously pieces together historical accounts and Smith’s own words to paint a vivid portrait of a man who refused to be defined by his circumstances. His legacy is not just one of personal triumph, but also a powerful message of resistance, perseverance, and the universal human longing for liberty and dignity. This cinematic exploration of Venture Smith’s life is an essential experience, shedding light on the darkness of the past while illuminating the enduring flame of hope and the unyielding pursuit of self-determination.

Let’s sing for World Peace!!!

I came across this video, which is titled, THIS SONG SHOULD BE TRANSLATED TO ALL THE LANGUAGES IN THE WORLD. #WORLDPEACE, and I wholeheartedly agree with its central message about universal understanding and the power of music to connect people across cultures. The song is called Rien ne m’étonne (nothing surprised me), and it’s beautifully performed by the talented Ivorien Revolutionary singer Tiken Fah Koli. His lyrics resonate with themes of resilience and hope, touching on the struggles faced by communities while also inspiring listeners to embrace peace and unity. This song truly deserves to be shared worldwide, allowing its uplifting spirit to reach every corner of the globe and remind us of our shared humanity.

Here are the lyrics in English:

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

If you let me have Chechnya,

Me, I’ll let you have Armenia

If you let me have Afghanistan,

Me, I’ll let you have Pakistan

If you don’t leave Haiti,

Mе, I’ll send you to Bangui

If you help me bomb Iraq,

Mе, I’ll sort out Kurdistan for you

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

If you let me have Uranium,

Me, I’ll let you have Aluminum

If you let me have your mineral deposits,

Me, I’ll help you chase out the Taliban

If you give me a lot of wheat,

Me, I’ll go to war at your side

If you let me extract your gold,

Me, I’ll help you kick the General out

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

They divided Africa without consulting us

And they wonder why we are disunited

Part of the Mandinka Empire ended up with the Wolof

Part of the Mossi Empire ended up in Ghana

Part of the Soussou Empire ended up in the Mandinka Empire

Part of the Mandinka Empire ended up with the Mossis

They shared Africa without consulting us!

Without asking us!

Without informing us!

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

They’ve divided up the world

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Nothing surprises me anymore

Let’s bring Peace for all of humanity! This aspiration goes beyond mere words; it embodies the collective hope for a world where understanding, compassion, and goodwill prevail among all individuals, transcending borders and differences. By fostering open dialogue, embracing diversity, and nurturing empathy, we can create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Together, we can work towards a future where peace is not just a dream, but a reality that enriches the lives of generations to come. This vision requires collaboration and commitment from individuals, communities, and nations alike, fostering an environment where understanding and empathy prevail over conflict. By investing in education and open dialogue, we can cultivate a culture that embraces diversity and promotes harmony, allowing future generations to thrive in a world free from discord. As we unite our efforts, we pave the way for sustainable solutions that address the root causes of strife, ensuring that the dream of a peaceful coexistence becomes an integral part of our shared journey forward.

BASIC ELEMENTS OF CAPOEIRA: AU BATIDO

“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of
them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War

Today, I will Introduce you to one of Capoeira’s Trademark kicks, the AU BATIDO.

Aú batido is a traditional capoeira cartwheel kick, known under various names in breakdancing, MMA and other disciplines. This dynamic and visually striking maneuver is characterized by the graceful arc of the body, utilizing momentum and strength to execute a seamless transition from standing to upside-down and back again. The cartwheel kick originated as a combat kick, primarily used to evade attacks while simultaneously delivering a powerful blow to an opponent, showcasing the versatility and effectiveness of capoeira as both an art form and a martial discipline. Over time, it has become very popular as an acrobatic decoration, often featured in performances and demonstrations that highlight the athleticism and skill of practitioners. Beyond its practical applications, the aú batido has also gained a place in popular culture, being frequently depicted in media and competitions, making this likely the most photographed capoeira move, admired not only for its technical execution but also for the fluidity and style it conveys.

This movement is a defensive move, used when attempting to perform a cartwheel and the opponent attacks. Generally with a cabeçada, a headbutt, the aú batido takes place, attacking the opponent by surprise before the attack is executed. The aú batido is a clever and strategic technique that not only showcases the agility of the practitioner but also serves as an effective counter to incoming strikes, making it a valuable addition to any martial artist’s arsenal. This move is sometimes also used in moments of doubt, allowing the practitioner to regain control of the situation, or simply as a trick move to confuse the opponent. The versatility of the aú batido is evident as it can adapt to various combat scenarios.

Names used in different Capoeira schools may also include Beija Flor (Humming Bird, literally Flower Kiss(er)), Leque (Fan), Aú Québrado (also “broken cartwheel”), Aú Malandro (wily cartwheel), Aú Amazonas (Amazon cartwheel) or Amazonica, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and interpretations surrounding this fascinating technique. Each name carries its own unique story, adding depth to the practice and connecting practitioners with their heritage and the community. Moreover, these names often symbolize the characteristics associated with the movements, resonating with the emotions and spirit of those who perform them.

For instance, the Aú Malandro not only highlights agility but also the cleverness required to execute it gracefully, while Aú Amazonas captures the essence of strength and resilience found in the majestic Amazon rainforest. Such rich nomenclature emphasizes Capoeira’s role as a living art form, continuously evolving while remaining deeply rooted in its historical and cultural foundations, thus fostering a sense of belonging among practitioners from various backgrounds.

In addition to its defensive applications, this move is also performed in tricking, where it emphasizes style and creativity, showcasing the athlete’s ability to blend athleticism with artistic expression. Furthermore, in the world of dance, particularly for quality performances, it is frequently utilized in BREAKDANCING, where it is known as the L-kick. This dynamic movement captivates audiences not only due to its technical difficulty but also because it highlights the dancer’s unique interpretation of rhythm and flow. Its popularity in breakdancing underscores the cross-disciplinary nature of movement arts, revealing how varied techniques can be embraced and adapted across different forms of physical expression, ultimately fostering a rich tapestry of creative possibilities in both performance and personal style.

BURN BABY BURN!!!

Greetings!

The Nottoway Plantation fire has righteous people celebrating the destruction of a symbol of oppression, while the white media wants us to mourn this as some “loss of history.” Instead of honoring a place that has long represented the painful legacy of slavery and exploitation, many individuals are choosing to see this event as a necessary step toward healing and embracing a future free from the chains of the past.

Well, the professor decided to post this story to refute that lie, highlighting the importance of recognizing the true history behind such locations and advocating for the voices of those who suffered rather than the preservation of a problematic narrative that only serves to glorify the oppressors. This act of storytelling not only seeks to correct misconceptions but also to honor the memories of those whose experiences have often been overlooked in mainstream historical accounts. By shedding light on this issue, the professor aims to provoke critical conversations about history, heritage, and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality, urging others to engage in dialogue that challenges established narratives and fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of our past.

The professor believes that by confronting uncomfortable truths, we can begin to heal and work towards a more equitable future, where all stories are told, and all voices are heard. This commitment to historical integrity serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to ensure that the lessons of the past inform our actions in the present and future.

Shoutout to Professor BLACK TRUTH for his engaging stories that connect with diverse audiences. His narrative style offers thought-provoking insights, challenging conventional thinking and sparking meaningful discussions. Check out his channel HERE for critical analyses on various pressing issues that broaden understanding and promote reflection.

MALANDROS IN ACTION (3/10/25)

This series examines the modern malandro in contemporary society, showcasing their resourcefulness, charm, and adaptability as they navigate urban life while evading deception and addressing issues like economic disparities and social justice. While linked to Capoeira, the individuals featured are diverse and possess unique stories. The series highlights their resilience and clever tactics, celebrating their ingenuity and spirit, while inviting readers to engage with their lives to gain insight into navigating the complexities of contemporary urban environments.

In today’s installment…

Okay, I realize this is a scene from the movie Zombie land, and not a real person… But this is how a MALANDRO operates. The gas station attendant, with a sly smile, thought he would get away with pocketing $3000 for the seemingly mundane transaction, completely underestimating the situational awareness of those around him. So the $400 he gave to the little girl was nothing more than a minimal sacrifice, a mere distraction to keep her quiet and compliant. It showcased the lengths to which he would go to secure his gain, reflecting a calculated mindset often seen in the most cunning of swindlers. The best cons not only deceive but also make the victim want to participate, creating a web of manipulation that entices their targets to willingly engage in the deception. This creates a false sense of partnership, leaving the victim oblivious to the true motives at play, often resulting in their own misfortune.

Like I said, this series was created to show scams like these, so hopefully, you don’t fall for them. By shedding light on the tactics and strategies employed by scammers, we aim to empower viewers with the knowledge they need to recognize and avoid becoming victims. Through real-life examples and expert insights, we hope to raise awareness and promote vigilance in our audience, ensuring they can navigate the complexities of today’s digital landscape with confidence. Remember, staying informed is your best defense against these deceitful schemes.

MAKING MY AUDIENCE MORE AWARE OF A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE.

I’ve decided to make a new series about stalking and stalkers, exploring the disturbing complexities of such behavior, the psychological profiles of individuals who stalk, and the impact it has on victims. This series will delve into real-life cases, discussing the signs of stalking, the legal implications, and how society can better support those affected. Through interviews and expert insights, I aim to shed light on this often misunderstood subject and raise awareness about prevention and response strategies that can help keep individuals safe.

Stalking is a very serious issue, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It affects countless individuals across diverse demographics and can lead to severe emotional and psychological distress that often persists long after the stalking behavior has ceased. The impact of stalking can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, depression, and a constant sense of fear, forcing victims to alter their daily lives and routines. Moreover, the implications extend beyond personal harm, influencing relationships with family and friends, as stalked individuals may feel isolated or misunderstood in their experiences. It is crucial for society to recognize and address this pervasive problem, providing support and resources for those affected to reclaim their sense of safety and well-being.

In this first installment…

Keekihime could have never guessed that this stalker would take it this far at Comiket, someone who would do this for over 10 years and end up making her life a living hell while doing what she enjoyed the most in Japan… Cosplaying. From the moment she first donned the costume of her favorite character, she had felt a rush of excitement and belonging, a sense of community with fellow enthusiasts who shared her passion. However, that joy quickly turned into dread as she began to notice the eerie presence of her stalker lurking in the shadows, capturing her smiles and laughter on camera without her consent. What should have been a day filled with fun, creativity, and camaraderie with friends instead transformed into a relentless nightmare.

No matter how hard she tried to shake off the fear, the persistent knowledge that someone had been obsessively tracking her every move, collecting pieces of her life to control and manipulate, weighed heavily on her heart, overshadowing her love for cosplay and turning her once-thrilling experience into a suffocating reality. Each time she donned her favorite costume and stepped into the vibrant world of fantasy and creativity, the exhilarating thrill that used to fill her chest was now replaced by a gnawing anxiety, as if a dark shadow loomed over her. She found herself glancing nervously over her shoulder, wondering if the faceless stalker was lurking nearby, and the escapism she once cherished now felt like a fragile mask, teetering on the brink of shattering, consumed by the unsettling thought that her joy had become a target for someone else’s twisted obsession.