Show Notes
Jess Gerrity is a New Zealander-turned-Saitama local whose journey has taken her deep into the heart of Japan’s traditional martial arts culture.
Born in Auckland, she first visited Japan as a university student and quickly became captivated by the country’s urban design and public transportation systems. That spark of fascination eventually led her to earn a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and make the move to Japan—now more than 22 years ago.
Jess began her life in Japan as an English teacher, but her path soon shifted toward media. Over the last two decades, she has built a diverse career as a TV personality, writer, narrator, and tourism ambassador, appearing regularly on Japanese television, radio, and in print.
At the center of her life, however, is her devotion to kyūdō, Japanese archery. A 3rd dan practitioner in All Japan Kyudo Federation and a beginner in Heki ryu Insai ha, Jess is a contributing writer for Kyudo Nippon and Budo Japan, and serves as Chief Editor of Kyudo World Magazine. Her martial arts practice extends far beyond the bow, with studies in naginata, kyujutsu, and sports yabusame—horseback archery.
And through it all, she still balances life as a wife and mother of three.
Please welcome my guest today, Jess Gerrity.
Jessica TV – YouTube
More from Everyday Martial Artist
Dan Bernardo has dedicated his life to the study, preservation, and cultivation of traditional martial arts, with a deep connection to the teachings and lineage of Hwang Kee, the founder of Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan.
Trap Gambino has experienced the world of combat sports from just about every angle, from training and competing in MMA and grappling to cornering fighters, working in combat sports media, and appearing on MMA-related reality programming. Along the way, he has gained valuable experience working alongside some of the industry’s most experienced figures.
Jeremy Butler has spent more than two decades studying, teaching, and applying the martial arts, developing an approach that goes far beyond simply learning how to fight. His work focuses on preparing people for the physical and psychological realities of violent encounters, and understanding what it really takes to be prepared when things go wrong.
David Brock has spent more than five decades training, competing, teaching, and helping shape the martial arts community around him.
Gator Conley is a lifelong Kenpo Karate practitioner whose martial arts journey has spanned more than four decades, built on loyalty to his instructors, a passion for teaching, and a deep commitment to preserving the traditions and lineage of American Kenpo.