WELCOME TO THE Inaugural All about mad: Making a difference" conference - Uniting MANY OF THE WORLD'S GREATEST MARTIAL ARTISTS!
MAD is creating the most prestigious and sought after martial arts events in the world.
Join us December 5 - 7, 2025
Open Now
Join one of the FINEST martial arts events in the world and learn from the best

What is it?
The Inaugural All About MAD Conference is the most prestigious and sought after martial arts events in the world.
Who is it hosted by?
Hosted by Grand Masters Rick Arnold, Lawrence Arthur and Brant Rogers.
WHere and when?
Location: Tanglewood Resort on Lake Texoma, Pottsboro, TX on December 5 - 7, 2025.
What's included?
Features: Seminars such as "active shooter response", application to kata, krav maga self-defense, Business seminars with the GOAT, Induction of Executives, Networking events, and more!

located at Tanglewood resort & conference center
Nearest Airport: Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW). Nearest airport shuttles are available for certain flights
Host Hotel: Tanglewood Resort
December 5 - 7, 2025: $99 per Night
290 Tanglewood Circle, Pottsboro, TX 75076

Event Details - overview
On behalf of our entire team, I want to extend my warmest welcome to each of you. This weekend is more than an event- it is the unveiling of something much bigger than most of us can comprehend. It is a celebration of excellence and the legacy of the marital arts communities around the world. It is the uniting of martial artists by improving mentally, spiritually and physically.
We have gathered here from across the globe- Masters, Grandmasters, instructors, students, and supporters- united by a shared commitment to honor the path we walk and the lives we touch. All About Making a Difference exists to recognize those who are dedicating themselves to the highest ideals of martial arts discipline, respect, perseverance, and continuous improvement.
In this “never before done” weekend, we will witness remarkable demonstrations, gain insights from world-class instructors, and connect with fellow warriors who share our passion for the arts. So take this time to learn, to share, to celebrate- and be inspired. Every handshake, every conversation, every lesson here has the potential to shape your future.
Friday, December 5, 2025
belt testing/Candidate Promotion
Schedule*
- 9:00 AM | Testing Candidates- Interviews/Previews/Consultations
- 12:00 PM | Luncheon with all guests who might arrive early.
- 2:30 PM | Doors open for rehearsal and staging for testing. Mandatory Rehearsal includes: lining up, bowing in, briefing on the steps to an excellent performance, accepting rank, etc.
- Photo booth for Candidates and Judges
- 3:30 PM | Welcome and 15 minute countdown
- 3:40 PM | Candidates lineup side by side and prepare to bow in properly
- 3:45 PM | Introduction of officials as they are seated
- 4:00 PM | Official Promotion Ceremony begins
Location
- Grand Ballroom – Tanglewood Resort
Led By
- Grand Masters Lawrence Arthur and Rick Arnold
What to look forward to:
- This day we walk a path of tradition, discipline, and honor as we recognize those who have persevered through years of training and transformation.
*Tentative schedule. Subject to change.
The WONDERFUL ADVENTURE begins…
Schedule*
- 6:00 PM | WELCOME – All About Making a Difference Conference Weekend
- Introduction of the incredible lineup of instructors who will be leading this weekend.
- 6:15 PM | Mrs. Haleigh Arnold-Black - Why/How/When we warm up. Is it necessary? What mindset should our members be in to begin an amazing class? How do we include parents in youth classes? 21 ways to create energy and values during the warmup. Learn how to create value in your program by warming up, greeting and encouraging your members.
- 7:15 PM | Mr. Birch Powers & Colton Black - How and When to grow your classes. These two young men will give us details on how to get new members every single month consistently. Top 10 marketing tips to make you the MOST NOTICED MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL in your area. How to stay consistent in your communities and how to make people want to be a part. FIND OUT WHAT MAKES YOU ATTRACTIVE!
- 8:15 PM | Grand Master Troy Burleson – an introduction to Active Shooter Response
- GM Troy Burleson will help us “see the room with pressure-tested training.” A foremost expert in firearms and self-protection, he has traveled the globe with his private protection company.
- 9:15 PM | Seminar
- 10:00 PM | Closing remarks and FUN at the resort
Location
- Grand Ballroom – Tanglewood Resort
*Tentative schedule. Subject to change.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Instructor & Business Training Seminars
Schedule*
- 7:00 AM | Breakfast
- 8:00 AM | Doors Open
- 9:00 AM | WELCOME and recap of last night's events.
- 9:15 AM | Seminar
- 10:00 AM | Grand Master Lawrence Arthur - The Do's and Don'ts of Small Business. Why we teach, how we should be growing, how to connect with the right people, and how and why to make your school profitable. GM Arthur is a no-nonsense mentor to hundreds. His motivational words and wisdom might transform your lives.
- 11:15 AM | Tom Henniger – Officiating- what makes a Professional? How/When/Why Tom has traveled the world as a Professional WAKO referee and taught officiating to hundreds of martial artists and enthusiasts.
- 12:30 | Luncheon
- 1:30 PM | Larry Roberts of Red Hat media – Our All About MAD bi-weekly podcast! How and why AI is the future…
- 2:30 PM | Seminar
- 3:30 PM | Seminar
Location
- Grand Ballroom – Tanglewood Resort
*Tentative schedule. Subject to change.

VIP Reception and Awards Photography
Schedule*
- 3:30 PM | Meet and Greet and Networking Ready for Photography (website and social media etc.)
- 3:30 - 5:30 | Media Sessions: Video and Comments about All About Making a Difference (Semi-formal and Business Casual Dress)
Location
- Grand Ballroom Foyer – Tanglewood Resort
*Tentative schedule. Subject to change.

Dinner & Making A Difference Keynote
(Semi-formal and Business Casual Dress)
Schedule*
- 5:30 PM | Seating for Dinner
- 6:00 PM | Dinner Starts
- 6:25 PM | National Anthem presented by Alyssa Arnold
- 6:30 PM | Dinner is served
- 7:30 PM | Recognition and Appreciation for our Veterans and First Responders
- Awards presented, high dan board, executive board, officials certifications and leadership recognized
- Keynote Address
- An evening of fun and fellowship
Location
- Grand Ballroom – Tanglewood Resort
*Tentative schedule. Subject to change.

sunday, December 7, 2025
Concluding Conference
Schedule*
- 8:00 AM | Breakfast
- 9:30 AM | A time of music and prayer. See how Arnold’s Martial Arts uses video along with Christian music to touch people all over the world! They have actually performed in front of 20,000 people at one time. Can martial arts be a ministry? How do we teach our Christian values without offending people?
- As we leave, carry with you the spirit of this gathering:
- With Honor in how you live
- With Perseverance in how you overcome
- With Kaizen in your heart – the relentless pursuit of continuous improvement
*Tentative schedule. Subject to change.


All About MAD Conference Registraton and Pricing Options
Whether you are a seasoned Black Belt, a dedicated martial artist attending the event or a supporter of MAD celebrating excellence, we have a package tailored for you. Secure your place at the Inagural 2025 All About MAD Conference and be a part of history in the making.
Guest Attendance options
We are limited to the number of registrations we can accept. Please note, if using a credit card there will be a 3% charge added on.
(Non-participants)
Contact us to register early!
Our goal is to improve the world of martial arts by joining forces. We know there is strength in numbers. We are currently in Four Countries and 22 States! If you would like to join us simply fill out the form below and we will add you to our growing list.
OR Call Mrs. Haleigh Arnold-Black at 903-267-0170
Limited Spots Available – Secure Your Place Now!
Support our mission and make a difference now!
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