Tea Pihlaja is from Helsinki, Finland, and began practicing Jodo and Iaido under Momiyama Takao Sensei (7.dan kyoshi), is currently 4.dan jodo and 3.dan iaido in the Finnish Kendo Association, and practices at the Helsinki Kendo Club "Ki Ken Tai Ichi"
In this wide ranging conversation, we talk about her introduction to the Japanese martial arts, the development of Jodo and Iaido in Finland, and her personal experiences around learning and leadership.
It was a pleasure speaking with someone with such a passion and dedication to the martial arts, and her enthusiasm for the developing herself and the arts is infectious and inspiring.
Not everyone is fortunate to have a high ranked sensei, or active leader in their hometown. This episode is a tribute to those who have taken it upon themselves to make the practice possible. Tea is a wonderful example.
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