Ofer Lidar spent over two decades inside Israel’s Shin Bet security agency, heading its hand-to-hand combat program. In this episode, we talk openly about what real-world violence looks like—and how Krav Maga needs to adapt to meet it. We unpack where traditional training falls short, how to build fighters—not just technicians, and why mindset—not just technique—decides who walks away.

We explore:

• Why Krav Maga became “martial-artsy” and how it’s shifting back to its roots
• The gap between sports and survival
• How modern Krav Maga can (and should) evolve
• Training agents to make split-second decisions under pressure
• Mindset over method: teaching people to think under fire

A raw, honest conversation between two Israelis with combat backgrounds, decades of experience, and a shared commitment to keeping the training real.

www.kravmagaisrael.com

Paulo "GN" Rubio is a martial artist and tactical trainer celebrated for his unique approach to self-defense and mixed martial arts. Growing up between the urban and natural jungles of the Philippines and later moving to Canada, he faced many transformative experiences that shaped his training philosophy. Paulo combines insights from law enforcement, military, and civilian perspectives to teach creative problem-solving and self-expression in martial arts. His methods emphasize understanding core principles like timing, footwork, and distance management, rather than sticking to one traditional style. Known for his authenticity and vulnerability on social media, Paulo has built a strong community by being open to both criticism and praise, continually inspiring him to improve and innovate in the martial arts world.

www.kravmagaisrael.com

Nick Rians is a former US Marine, urban warfare specialist and bodyguard.

Nick founded a tactical training facility, off the grid, in the desert of New Mexico. His school - Ghost Ring Tactical provides firearms courses, hand to hand combat training, tactical first aid and long range precision rifle training to the general public.

Earlier this year I was invited as a guest instructor to teach a Krav Maga program at the facility which is where I originally met Nick and the rest of his team.

www.kravmagaisrael.com