Continental Who's Who

Grand Master Barbara Kunkel

Grand Master Barbara Kunkel is recognized by Continental Who’s Who among Pinnacle Professionals in the field of Health and Wellness. She currently serves as the President of Life and Leadership Taekwondo. Barbara is an 8th degree Black Belt, a 2000 Olympian and was Captain of the U.S. Team. She is also a Stage Three Breast Cancer Survivor and a mother of two adopted children. She loves to share her story of positive perseverance through life’s challenges, but also her love of Martial Arts, sports and empowering people. She focuses on the Four D’s of a Champion; Desire, Discipline, Dedication and Determination to motivate and empower people to be able to dream big, set and accomplish goals in many areas of life. Her motto is, “Discover the Champion in You!” In the industry for 28 years, Barbara has been in her current role for 15 years. She is also an International Coach, Motivational Speaker and Empowering Life Coach. Barbara believes that “The Academy is for today’s families, and tomorrow’s leaders.” Many leaders and international champions have been developed from this family friendly environment – in which kids think they are kicking and punching while valuable life skills, including focus, discipline, respect and confidence, are reinforced. She also believes that adults enjoy Martial Arts through self-defense, fitness, camaraderie and family time. In recognition of her career accomplishments, Barbara has received numerous honors and awards over her career in Martial Arts & Leadership. They include the National Women’s Leadership Award, the International Women’s Leadership Award and she was named as a VIP Woman of the Year by the National Association of Professional Women. Barbara holds a Master’s degree in Leadership Education from Barkley University. She also has amassed a number of athletic accomplishments. She is a 2015 Martial Arts Hall of Fame Inductee, is an eight-time U.S. National Team Member, is a National and International Medalist and was named Athlete of the Year. Her business “A.L.L. TKD” was listed in Best of the Springs. To learn more, please visit www.family-taekwondo.com, or on Facebook at Barb Kunkel or I Love Taekwondo.