Craig Wolpert discusses his journey from bullied kid to martial arts expert and founder of “The Way of the Kitten.” Discover how Craig empowers groups of professionals in Dunwoody through practical self-defense training. Learn why situational awareness and simple, life-saving techniques matter most. We dive into Craig’s unique teaching style, community impact, and how he’s making living in Dunwoody safer for all.
The Way of the Kitten: Dunwoody’s Unique Self-Defense Initiative
On this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, Matt Weber brought in Craig Wolpert, a passionate martial artist, instructor, and Dunwoody resident, to discuss his unique self-defense initiative, “The Way of the Kitten.” This engaging conversation was sponsored by Dr. Bret Freedman and Village Orthodontics. Craig shares his journey in martial arts, his dedication to empowering people through practical self-defense, and his impact on moving to Dunwoody and living in Dunwoody.
A Martial Arts Journey Born in Ohio
Craig’s entry into martial arts in the 1980s began as a means to defend himself from his older brother’s teasing. Despite early struggles and being deemed the worst student by his instructor, his persistence paid off, eventually earning him the title of Student of the Year. This determination continues to drive his teaching philosophy today, offering simple yet effective self-defense techniques. Craig’s approach reflects resilience—a trait that resonates deeply with Dunwoody’s community values.
The Origin and Essence of “The Way of the Kitten”
Named after an unexpected encounter between Craig’s Shih Tzu and a fearless kitten, “The Way of the Kitten” emphasizes the importance of strategic action when escape is impossible. This self-defense philosophy teaches participants to assess threats, utilize basic techniques, and fight relentlessly when cornered. Craig recounts humorous and intense moments that led to this philosophy’s inception, blending practical martial arts with relatable, real-life anecdotes.
Teaching Self-Defense Across Dunwoody
Craig’s work extends to various settings in Dunwoody, such as city-sponsored classes, church groups, and corporate offices. From teaching self-defense to Girl Scout troops at Dunwoody United Methodist Church to working with corporations like Newell Rubbermaid, his impact on Dunwoody’s community is extensive. His practical workshops focus on situational awareness, techniques for escaping potentially dangerous encounters, and building self-confidence.
Empowering Women and Real Estate Professionals
Craig’s classes primarily cater to women and vulnerable groups, addressing situations they might encounter while living in Dunwoody. He emphasizes heightened awareness, avoiding distractions like cell phones, and understanding exits and surroundings during real estate showings. Given the unique risks REALTORS® face, Craig has offered specialized sessions tailored to their safety needs. His message resonates across Dunwoody’s neighborhoods, encouraging individuals to prioritize their security.
Combative Techniques Rooted in Practicality
At the heart of Craig’s instruction is a system taught by his mentor. Unlike traditional martial arts focused on competition, this system centers on practical, close-quarters defense for real-world scenarios. Craig demonstrates how simple movements like knee strikes and elbow throws can be life-saving, especially for those with no prior combat experience. His emphasis on easy-to-learn techniques makes self-defense accessible to everyone in Dunwoody.
The Mental Preparedness Factor
A key aspect of Craig’s teachings is mental preparedness—being aware of surroundings and recognizing potential threats. Drawing from the book The Gift of Fear, he explains how instinctual fear can serve as a life-saving tool. Craig emphasizes listening to one’s intuition and using tools like pepper spray to deter attackers. This approach helps empower residents of Dunwoody to stay vigilant and confident.
Community Collaborations and Impactful Workshops
Craig collaborates with local organizations, such as Dunwoody’s Parks and Recreation Department and community groups, to spread his self-defense message. His flexible workshops—ranging from short lunch-and-learns to longer, immersive sessions—reflect his commitment to enhancing Dunwoody’s sense of safety and community. Craig’s workshops create lasting bonds among attendees, fostering a sense of collective resilience.
Balancing a Day Job with a Passion for Self-Defense
Craig’s day job involves wireless buyback and recycling, helping Fortune 500 companies reduce their environmental impact. Despite a busy career, he remains committed to teaching self-defense as a side hustle, often offering free classes to teachers, nurses, and others who serve the community. This dedication underscores his role in making living in Dunwoody safer and more empowering for all residents.
How to Connect with Craig Wolpert
For those interested in self-defense training or learning more about “The Way of the Kitten,” Craig welcomes community engagement. He is dedicated to building a safer, more aware Dunwoody, one class at a time. Residents can reach out to him via his website or directly for private and group sessions.
