Interview with James Walker,
sensei
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I began my training in 1991 with Master Rick Hall in Pinellas Park, Fla. After a company I was working for closed, I asked Master Hall to pass on my résumé if he knew anybody hiring for an IT position. The next day, he called me and offered me a job as his program director. In 1997, I moved back to Colorado to marry the love of my life. I tried a few schools in the area, but missed teaching my style of Okinawan karate (Matsumura Seito). I think what I truly missed was being able to influence people’s lives in a positive manner, watching them change and grow. So a good friend and lifetime mentor talked me into opening my own academy, and his two children were my first students. Now I teach their children.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We offer a trial so the students and parents can decide if this is truly what they want to do. Not just a two- or three-lesson, but a four- to eight-week trial. This also allows us to make sure the student is a good fit for the academy. Team Bushido means an elite team of martial arts athletes in all areas of life, not just on the mat. Students young and more seasoned in years are held to the highest standards. In their personal life, education (letters of recommendation from parents and teacher must be obtained before each belt promotion) and community service. We have a saying that every time you suit up, you have to earn your spot on this team and there is always someone waiting to take your spot. When you train to win, you have got to bring it. Our students are held accountable for their required curriculum, which is accumulative from white belt to black belt, on every test. I always tell my students, I have never failed a student on a test, though some have failed themselves by not practicing and being prepared. Unlike some other institutions of learning, we do not pass a student for social reasons, but only because they have earned the rank they wear. Our parents and students expect this of us and appreciate that we do not just give away rank. Students have a sense of pride in their accomplishments, but remain humble, as well. Though a major part of our training is on character development and leadership, the martial arts are about self defense. I do not want my students being bullied and assaulted by a individual who has never taken a lesson in their life. We do not advocate violence, but my students understand that sometimes we must defend ourselves with the physical techniques we have learned, and that there may be consequences, but so long as they used good judgement, me or their parents will not be upset.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: The opportunity to influence lives in a positive way. Most people only get the chance to influence 10 people in their lives. As martial arts instructors, we get to touch thousands of lives.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Parents, video games and social media.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: We teach the history and values of the martial arts. So many people who have trained in the martial arts lack the knowledge of their style, history or lineage. This may not seem like a big deal to some, but when you know your lineage and culture, you take pride in who you are. This gives our students a sense of pride in themselves, their families and community.
Profile
Business: James Walker’s Bushido Academy
Address: 15355 E. Colfax Ave.
Hours: 2-10 p.m. Monday trough Friday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday
Founded: 1999
Contact: 303-341-5425,
Employees: 15
