Today we’d like to introduce you to John-Michael Dietz.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started martial arts when I was 14 years old–20 years ago–the same summer I got my first job at Chik-fil-a. Three years later, I earned my first-degree black belt. This journey molded and shaped me.
I was fortunate enough to have some great peers and truly excellent mentors during my high school years, and my training kept me focused, grounded, and out trouble. I trained hard and competed often because I was surrounded by people who constantly pushed me to be my best. Because of my full class-load in college–paired with several part-time jobs–, I stopped training for several years. I hated to do it, and I tried my best to practice on my own while I was away, but I had to work to help pay for school and there were only so many hours in the day.
I graduated from Georgia State University in 2009, right as the recession seemed to be in full swing. It was a terrifying prospect, jobs were scarce. Karate Atlanta was hiring. More than nine years later, I haven’t looked back. I am the manager and chief instructor of my own location here in East Cobb. I have the honor and privilege to train and impact people every day, something I do not take for granted. I am a now 4th-degree black belt and will test for my 5th degree in two years. My students range from 4 years old to 50+. I try to give each of them the passion, inspiration, and teaching that was instilled in me.
Martial arts changed my life. I truly believe that it can help everyone in the world, given the chance. What we do matters. It’s not just kicking and punching. It’s not just fitness and self-defense. It’s not just belts and tradition. It’s more than an art form. It is all of these things, but it is also training for life. We deal in life skills. I was given a sense of honor and pride, as well humility, by my teachers, and I try to pass that balance on to my students. This is training to help us live today, and there is always more to learn.
Has it been a smooth road?
Every belt was a challenge. It’s a lot of sweat and a lot of practice. But they were each worth it. It was definitely a fight to prove myself as an instructor and a leader before I was promoted to the title of Chief Instructor. It forced me to grow up a lot. Martial arts has always been a big part of my personal maturation process.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Karate Atlanta Marietta – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We teach Songahm-style Taekwondo. As a part of ATA International (or the “American Taekwondo Association,” here in the States) we are a part of the largest martial arts association in North America. We have a high-level program. Our instructors are top notch because we get to train under Grandmaster Soon Ho Lee, the highest ranking black belt in our organization. I myself get to take a class with him every week. It’s an honor.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I’m an Atlanta native. I love it here. It’s my town. It’s so diverse and exciting. I love the food and the music and the people. I also LOVE the Falcons.
Hate the traffic, but who doesn’t.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1050 East Piedmont Road, Suite 110
Marietta, GA 30062 - Website: www.karateatlantamarietta.com
- Phone: 770-738-5425
- Email: marietta@karateatlanta.com
- Instagram: @karateATLmarietta
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarateAtlantaMarietta/
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
