In this episode I talk with Stephen K Hayes, martial arts master and ex security advisor to the Dalai Lama. We discuss Stephen’s early interest in the martial arts and his journey to Japan in search of the Ninja. We learn about his training and relationship with the iconoclastic sensei Masaaki Hatsui, and how it was the Stephen first met the Dalai Lama. Stephen then gives a detailed analysis of the Dalai Lama’s skill in social engagements, as well as the lessons learned serving in the close protection field. Topics Include: 0:00 - Steve’s Intro 0:30 - A childhood interest in martial arts 03:42 - Stephen’s early spiritual leanings 06:03 - Disillusionment with Episcopal Christianity 07:44 - Stephen’s take on reincarnation 11:34 - University experiences studying theatre and speech at Miami University 14:24 - Learning Tang Su Do and opening his first school 16:30 - Stephen’s incongruence with the 70s American martial arts scene 18:06 - Why Stephen describes himself as an oddball guy 20:46 - Travelling to Japan and searching for the Ninja 27:50 - Meeting Masaaki Hatsumi 34:18 - Fame and fortune as a martial arts author 37:43 - Hatsumi’s dojo schedule and curriculum 39:28 - The essence of what Stephen learned from Hatsumi 43:16 - Travelling to Tibet in search of the dob-dob fighting monks 47:28 - Meeting the Dalai Lama in New Dehli 50:01 - Intelligence and spiritual transmission 53:43 - The Dalai Lama’s emotional impact on Stephen 57:29 - Stephen’s role as a security advisor to the Dalai Lama 59:56 - The Dalai Lama’s skill in social engagements 1:06:32 - Western attitudes vs pre-invasion Tibet 1:09:23 - What Stephen learned from the Dalai Lama 1:13:58 - Final words of advice To find more about Stephen, visit: http://www.stephenkhayes.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James