Full Episode Page (show notes, links, transcript): #17: John Tieng – IRL Fall Guy, Learning to Fight, and Sharing Knowledge to Grow
Introduction
In the latest episode of One Thousand Gurus, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the multifaceted John Tieng. Known for his captivating freestyles and courageous stunt work, John shared his journey from a freestyle dancer to a seasoned stunt performer in the film industry, offering insights into the worlds of dance, film, martial arts, and stunt work.
A Passionate Journey Begins
J.R. introduces John Tieng, recalling their first meeting at Seaside Sessions through mutual connections. John’s unique freestyle dance style left a lasting impression, characterized by precise and controlled movements that exuded musicality. His career path, influenced by various martial arts and stunt work, showcases John’s fearless pursuit of passion.
John humbly acknowledges the role of his Filipino heritage and community in guiding his creative journey. Despite any doubts about his own story, it is evident that John’s experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone tuning in.
Exploring Creative Pathways
Throughout the conversation, John and J.R. delve into John’s body of work. From showcasing his 2024 stunt reel to discussing his dance choreography and freestyle performances, John highlights the synergy between controlled aggression and artistic expression. John’s appreciation for choreography and musicality in movement forms the backbone of his artistic approach.
In a reflective segment, John shares his origins in dance, tracing his passion back to the influences of 90s pop culture icons like NSYNC and Britney Spears. Dancing since third grade and later joining high school and collegiate teams led him to discover a love for dance that shaped his life’s direction.
Film School & Martial Arts: A Fusion of Art Forms
John’s path took a turn when he pursued film school—a decision fueled by his love for filmmaking and the discovery of martial arts as a kinesthetic expression akin to dance. His experience in film school deepened his understanding of production and direction, skills that seamlessly translated to stunt performance.
A key takeaway from John’s journey is the importance of adaptability. Pivoting from editing and directing to stunt coordination involved mastering technical skills, understanding the demands of the industry, and embracing the same creative resilience ingrained in his dance roots.
Overcoming Challenges in High-impact Work
John candidly discusses the physical demands of stunt work and his fascination with the healing process after recovering from knee surgery. This journey into self-healing sparked a curiosity about pushing physical boundaries, leading him to train as a stunt performer. With influences like Jackie Chan and Jet Li shaping his approach, John seamlessly blends martial arts with his background in dance and filmmaking.
John emphasizes the importance of community support and training in specialized environments, highlighting the significance of connections, mutual trust, and continuous learning as pillars of success in the stunt industry.
Cultivating Community: Sharing Knowledge and Kindness
The discussion shifts to John’s views on community building. He stresses the importance of sharing knowledge and discouraging gatekeeping within creative industries. By fostering an environment of mutual support, John believes individuals can flourish together, elevating creative output and forging meaningful connections.
John’s teaching philosophy centers on kindness, adaptability, and understanding individual learning styles. By imparting these values, he aims to inspire others to pursue their passions with determination and kindness.
Rapid-fire Insights
In a rapid-fire round, John opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including confronting depression. His advice to his younger self—to remain persistent and active, despite periods of uncertainty—resonates deeply, reflecting a journey of continual growth.
Conclusion: The Path Ahead
In the closing moments, John reflects on his ambitions, revealing aspirations to create a thriving business that supports creative expression. Despite past regrets about not continuing dance, John remains committed to exploring all facets of movement and artistry.
John leaves readers with a powerful message: smile more, share knowledge, and believe in the importance of lifting each other within our communities. His story is a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that arise from pursuing one’s passions wholeheartedly.
Find more about John Tieng on his Instagram and website, and tune into One Thousand Gurus to enjoy insightful conversations like this one.
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