Gender Equality & Space Travel
Hailing from Queens, NY, I am a filmmaker deeply invested in illuminating gender equality and the often-overlooked historical narratives. As a husband, father, and martial artist, the tapestry of my life experiences deeply enriches every project I undertake, offering viewers a distinctive, thoughtful, and engaging lens.
The foundation of my narrative craft was laid during high school, where I was chosen to write and produce a feature-length play. It garnered critical praise and enjoyed multiple weekend runs on campus. This passion continued into my collegiate years, when I was honored with the Ohio University Research Grant. This prestigious award facilitated my exploration into the seldom-told tales of Sri Lankan Queens, leading to my induction into the esteemed National Leadership Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa.
My martial discipline, cultivated under the mentorship of my Sensei, Debbie Pittak, has significantly influenced my worldview. Through her guidance, seminal works such as Miyamoto Musashi's "The Book of Five Rings" emphasized decisive leadership and resolute decision-making. Similarly, Lao Tzu's "Tao Te Ching" underscored the profound impact of enabling others to lead and take pride in their creations. These teachings have become cornerstones in my leadership ethos.
Drawing perpetual inspiration from my Grandmaster, Sensei Tatsuo Shimabuku, I wholeheartedly embrace the philosophy of Kaizen - the Japanese practice of continuous improvement. It's with this relentless pursuit of mastery that I approach the art of filmmaking. Committed to the evocative power of storytelling, I forever seek to inform, enhance, and inspire.
College
Ohio University
Bachelor's of Specialized Studies - International Media
20072011
College
Chubu University
Japanese Film, Language, and Comedy
20072008
Birth Date
December 18, 1987
Nickname
JT
Birth City
Cleveland, Ohio
Current City
Queens, NY
Gender
Male
Eye Color
Hazel
Married To
Vianna
Children
2
Has studied multiple forms of martial arts from the age of four, primarily Isshinryu.
"Mastering others is strength; mastering oneself is true power."
- Lao Tzu
"The two most powerful warriors are patience and time."
- Leo Tolstoy
“The true science of martial arts means practicing them in such a way that they will be useful at any time, and to teach them in such a way that they will be useful in all things.”
- Musashi Miyamoto
Old Dojo Sayings - ALWAYS vs NEVER
Always accept the random nature of self-defense situations and don’t assume you know what will happen or when.
Always train in a martial art that you are confident will supply the proper tools to survive a self-defense incident.
Always seek to have the proper mental attitude regarding self-defense. Seek a calm mind, and an even temper, and avoid situations that put you at risk.
Always train with the assumption that life is not like a movie. While self-defense techniques may work great in the school, when applied in real life, they are messy, and some may not work. May not work? Yes, and so you have to train your mind to move on from plan A to plan B, C, D, etc.
Never put faith in a weapon. Weapons can be taken from you, or for some reason be unavailable (can’t get to it) or even fail (doesn’t work on the attacker as intended). A weapon shouldn’t be the only tool you have. Train yourself. Depend on you.
Never underestimate your opponent. This one is timeless and yet bears repeating.
Never assume there is just one attacker.
Never forget that survival means surviving. That could mean getting away as much as vanquishing your assailant. If you can get away, do that.
Never stop training your mind and body. Learning a few techniques from a one-day or even a weekend course is no substitute for a deeper level of training over time. The acquired skills and intangible benefits gained from training for a long period exist beyond self-defense and are great for personal development and peace of mind.
Gender Equality & Space Travel
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