Rising Phoenix Martial Arts



Instructors



Our Teaching Philosophy



A great teacher leads by example. The values we instill in our students are the same virtues we strive to live by every day. Teaching is like tending a flame: it requires the right piece of wood at the right time. You don’t begin with the largest logs—you start with twigs and kindling, then gradually add bigger branches. Patience is essential, or the fire will go out before it ever has a chance to grow.


We take the same approach with our students at Rising Phoenix Martial Arts. We begin by building passion, then slowly introduce rigor. Sometimes a student needs a gentle nudge to spread their wings, but we give that encouragement at the right moment—when they’re truly ready to fly. Over the years, we’ve witnessed incredible transformations, both physically and mentally. Often, the person who walks away hardly resembles the one who first stepped through our doors—just as the phoenix rises from the ashes of its former self.



Staff



Our master‑instructors are lifelong practitioners with more than sixty years of combined experience. They met in Korea while training and working in taekwondo, and later moved back to the United States to build a school that blends the best of Eastern and Western philosophy.

GM John Olds and Master Seonok Olds are the founders of Oneway. A modern martial art with the spirit of a traditional discipline where student can receive multiple types of international certification all in one. They lead instruction at The Oneway Retreat in Vermont, where new instructors from across the country are brought into the fold every year. GM Olds hosts The Oneway Podcast, which connects practitioners from every style and allows meaningful conversation about important issues effecting the martial arts. You can learn more about oneway at onewaymartialart.com.

We are a family martial arts school, literally to our core, and not only can GM Olds and Master Seonok's children be regularly encountered on the mats, but also many of the other instructors on our team comprise similarly training families. As they say, "Families that kick together, stick together." Nothing builds a bond like a shared passion, and martial arts is one of the few things available at every age. Having a family-friendly environment is of the utmost importance to us.



GM John Olds



Director, Head Instructor



GM Olds brings more than thirty years of martial arts experience to our school, having taught and trained across the United States and internationally. His depth of knowledge and global perspective shape the foundation of our program.


Full Bio

Master Seonok Olds



Senior Instructor



Master Seonok Maeng is a former professional taekwondo competitor and national champion with decades of experience. Her technical mastery and lifelong dedication to the art elevate the standard of instruction at our school.


Full Bio

Mr. Michael McDaniel



Instructor



Mr. McDaniel was one of our very first students when we opened in Kyle, and he went on to earn one of the school’s earliest black belts. His dedication, consistency, and leadership have made him an essential part of our instructor team.



Ms. Kristi Kirmse



Junior Instructor



Ms. Kirmse has been teaching yoga for many years, and she brings that deep experience into every class she leads. Combined with her work as a middle school teacher, her calm presence and clear communication have quickly made her one of our strongest instructors.



Mr. Ean Travis



Junior Instructor



Mr. Travis's passion for martial arts shines through the moment he steps on the mat. Paired with his extensive IT experience, he’s become an indispensable part of our team—bringing energy, precision, and a sharp technical mind to our school.



Matt McGray



Junior Instructor



Matt brings a calm, approachable presence to every class, balanced by a remarkable persistence when challenges arise. This combination makes him an ideal instructor for students of all ages and skill levels.



Jude Willett



Junior Instructor



Through years of dedicated training, Jude has grown into our strongest junior black belts. His attention to detail, respectful attitude, and disciplined approach make him a positive role model for students of all ages.



Lindsey McGray



Assistant Instructor



Lindsey has a sharp eye for detail, and it shows in both her teaching and her photography. She has been instrumental in developing our social media presence and elevating the way our school is represented online.



Joann Seeberger



Assistant Instructor



Joann was one of our first students when we opened our doors nearly a decade ago. Her no‑quit attitude and indomitable spirit continue to inspire everyone who trains alongside her. She continues to remind us that age is but a number.



Corben Morris



Assistant



Corben grew up on the mats and became one of our first junior black belts. Now stepping into adulthood, he joins the team to share his experience with the next generation. His kindness and sincerity can be felt by everyone who trains with him.



Eli Housman



Assistant



Eli began training with us as a young boy, and his determination has never faded. His perseverance has shaped him into a strong martial artist, and his humble heart and thoughtful nature make him an inspiration to everyone around him.



Yoania Olguin



Assistant



Yoania had the humility to start fresh at our school some years ago, and she has never looked back. She throws herself fully into her training and has become an important member of our team. Her savvy mind and steady determination make her a true asset.



Brayden Duge



Assistant



Brayden started his martial arts journey at just seven years old, and his sharp attention to detail and deep passion for training have only grown stronger. He refuses to quit or shy away from challenges, embodying the warrior spirit we hope to cultivate in every student.



We bring in exceptional talent from across the country and abroad to teach at our facility through residencies and seminars. Take a look at the instructors who have shared their expertise at Rising Phoenix Martial Arts in the past.


Emeritus Instructors



402 S. Old Highway 81
Kyle, TX 78640



risingphoenixtkd@gmail.com | 512.975.9520