The UK Karate Podcast brings you inspiring conversations with karate practitioners from across the UK and around the world. Join hosts Chris Walsh and Andy Patton as they explore the stories, lessons, and experiences behind a lifetime in karate.
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Chris Walsh is the co-host and producer of the UK Karate Podcast, a karate instructor, hydraulic engineer, and proud second-generation karateka.
Karate has been a lifelong part of Chris's journey, and today it remains at the heart of both his personal and family life. His father still trains, and his two children also practice karate, making them third-generation karateka. Chris is passionate about passing on the values and traditions of karate to future generations.
Alongside his martial arts involvement, Chris works within his family's engineering business, Hy-Acc Services Ltd, specialising in hydraulic engineering and access equipment maintenance.
Through the UK Karate Podcast, Chris is dedicated to sharing the stories of karate practitioners from all backgrounds, preserving their experiences and helping connect the wider martial arts community.
When he's not teaching, engineering, or recording podcasts, Chris enjoys spending time with his family and continuing his own lifelong karate journey.
"Where every karate journey has a story." 🥋🎙️
Andy Patton is the co-host of the UK Karate Podcast, a second-generation karateka, writer, and passionate supporter of the martial arts community.
Having trained for many years, Andy has developed a deep appreciation for the people, traditions, and life lessons that karate provides. Karate remains a strong family tradition, with his father still actively training and his daughter following in their footsteps as a third-generation karateka.
Alongside co-host Chris Walsh, Andy helps bring the stories of karate practitioners from across the UK and beyond to listeners through the UK Karate Podcast, creating a platform that celebrates the journeys, experiences, and achievements of the wider karate community.
Away from the podcast, Andy is a regular contributor to Budo Mindset, where he writes about the culture, philosophy, history, and practice of karate. Through both his writing and podcasting, he is committed to preserving and sharing the stories that make martial arts so special.
Co-host, writer, karateka, and lifelong student of the art, Andy believes that every karate journey has a story worth telling.
Shaun Cassidy is an occasional guest host and trusted stand-in presenter for the UK Karate Podcast, stepping in whenever Chris Walsh or Andy Patton are unavailable.
A highly respected karate instructor and fiercely competitive international karate competitor, Shaun brings decades of martial arts experience to the podcast. His knowledge, passion, and engaging personality help create relaxed and insightful conversations that uncover the stories behind each guest's karate journey.
Whether competing, teaching, or hosting, Shaun is dedicated to promoting the values of karate and celebrating the people who make the martial arts community so special.
James Cassidy is the technical wizard behind the UK Karate Podcast, overseeing the editing, production, and behind-the-scenes work that brings every episode to life. While rarely seen or heard on the podcast itself, his expertise ensures each episode looks and sounds its best.
A dedicated karateka with a passion for both martial arts and technology, James combines technical skill with attention to detail to help deliver a professional experience for guests and listeners alike. His hard work behind the scenes makes him an invaluable part of the UK Karate Podcast team.