The Business of Jiu Jitsu

Most BJJ academy owners think the answer to growth is hiring a marketing agency. They skip straight to paid ads and end up on the agency treadmill — burning thousands a month for leads they can't convert.In this episode of The Business of Jiu Jitsu, JP Levesque breaks down the 7 levels of marketing every academy owner should be running before they spend a dollar on paid ads. Starting with the work nobody talks about — buying into your own business as the CEO — and building out through staff buy-in, student retention, referrals, your physical location, B2B relationships inside a one-mile radius, and a strong local online presence (website, SEO, Google reviews, blogs, AI search).The episode also covers the prerequisite most academies miss: getting churn under 5% before paid ads can ever pay back. Plus the agency treadmill math ($4,000 a month = 23.5 sign-ups just to break even) and why learning to run your own ads beats hiring an agency for almost every BJJ academy.If you're a BJJ academy owner stuck around 80–150 students, this is the foundational episode on academy marketing — what to do, in what order, and what to fix first.About the host:JP Levesque is the founder of Grow Jitsu. He helps BJJ academy owners clean up their business model, student journey, and simple owner-run marketing so they can grow past the 80–150 student ceiling without selling out the art or burning out.Timestamps:00:00 – Why most owners skip straight to paid ads02:30 – Level 1: You (your buy-in as the CEO)05:00 – Level 2: Your staff07:00 – Level 3: Your students (5–7x cheaper to keep than acquire)12:00 – Level 4: Referrals14:30 – Level 5: Physical location16:50 – Level 6: B2B19:00 – Level 7: Online presence (website, Google, reviews, blogs, AI search)26:30 – The prerequisite: churn under 5%31:30 – The agency treadmill story ($4K/month math)33:50 – Why running your own ads beats hiring an agency36:00 – How to get helpWant help applying this to your academy? Book a free BJJ Growth Plan Call: https://growjitsu.com/call

AI for Jiu-Jitsu Academy Owners What's Actually Useful Right Now!!Warning!! I had so many thoughts about AI and business and you did so during this episode. It took me three or four takes to record it. So it's not as streamlined as I would like. I will do an AI update in the future, but I think is a point of reference, it's a good place to start, even if it is a little bit jumbled.AI is moving fast and the noise is loud. This episode cuts through it. JP breaks down the real state of AI, what it can and can't do for you as an academy owner, and exactly where to invest your time right now so you're ahead of the curve, not chasing it.In this episode:Where AI actually is right now, and why most people are still using it like a chatbotWhy domain expertise matters: AI is only as useful as the context you give itWhy you're needed more than ever , and why demand for what you do is only going upThe difference between AI bolt-ons and AI-first tools, and what's coming to gym management softwareWhy human touch points aren't going anywhere, and which ones you should protectThe master prompt concept: going from stranger to context-rich collaborator instantlyHow to build skills inside Claude, email copywriter, ads analyst, social media manager, and why that's the best use of your time right nowThe Cowork feature and what it means to have AI working inside your actual files and foldersWhy blogs are making a comeback, and how AI search makes local SEO more important than everThe marketing foundation stack: good product → good business model → internal marketing → win local search → paid ads. In that order.Why churn under 5% is the real unlock before anything else makes senseWant to know exactly where your academy is stuck and what to fix first?Book a free 45-minute Growth Plan Call. JP will look at your numbers, map out where you're stuck, and tell you exactly what to do next. Link below.https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjj-growth-plan-call

Why Marketing Agencies Don't Work for Jiu-Jitsu AcademiesAlmost every academy owner JP talks to has tried a marketing agency. Most of them got burned. This episode breaks down exactly why, and what you should be doing instead.In this episode:Why "50 students in 50 days" promises are flat-out lies, and why agencies keep making themWhat agencies actually do (hint: it's just top of funnel) and why that's not enoughThe real math: paying $1,500–$2,500/month in retainer plus ad spend when you're doing $10-12K MRR is a losing equationWhy cold Meta traffic is so much harder to convert than referrals or Google leadsThe retention problem that makes agencies pointless, if you're losing 5 students and gaining 5, you're at net zeroWhy the leads problem is real, but the churn problem is biggerWhat a proper onboarding and nurture system actually looks like when you own it yourselfRunning your own Meta ads as a learnable skill, and why it's worth the 15–20 hours to figure it outThe skill gaps and systems gaps that agencies will never fix for youThe big caveat: ads work, agencies are the problemWant to know exactly what systems and skills your academy is missing to see consistent growth?Click thelink below to book a free 30 min growth audit, we'll look at the numbers, find out where you are stuck and make a plan to move you forward - https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjjgrowthengineaudit

How to Hire (and Fire) for Your BJJ AcademyIf a coach is costing you students, that coach needs to go. Doesn't matter how many medals they have. This episode is JP's full breakdown on staffing your academy, who to hire, when to hire them, and how to run a process that doesn't blow up in your face.In this episode:Why toxic, overly strict, or incompetent coaches are a retention killers and why academy owners keep them anywayThe exit interview move that tells you exactly why students are leavingWho your first hire should be (and it's probably not who you think)Staffing by revenue stage: under 70 students, 10–20K, 20–30K, and beyondWhy fewer coaches with more hours usually beats a big part-time rosterThe friction concept applied to hiring — how many hoops is the right amountWhy asking for a video submission in your job post is one of the best screens you can runDo's and don'ts: hiring for attitude first, defining the role on paper, running trial shifts, giving early feedbackRed flags and green flags to watch for in the interview processThe GWC screen from Traction, do they Get it, Want it, and have the Capacity to do it?Want help building the operating system for your academy?JP will look at your numbers and tell you exactly where you're stuck and what to fix. Link below.https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjjgrowthengineaudit

The Simplicity of Growing Your AcademySummaryGrowing a gym isn't complicated, but it does require you to actually develop the skills. In this episode, JP breaks down the two levers every academy owner needs to master: retention and marketing. Most gyms aren't stuck because they lack leads. They're stuck because they're bleeding students out the back door while ignoring the fundamentals. Until you fix that, more marketing is just pouring water into a leaky bucket.This episode walks through a practical, no-BS framework — fix your retention first, raise your prices, then put that money into ads you run yourself. It's simple. Not easy. But it works.Key TopicsWhy retention is always the first thing to fix — and what "doing more" actually looks likeThe Committed Club: using attendance-based incentives to keep students engagedAt-risk attendance tracking and why a simple phone call changes everythingOnboarding as a retention tool — the 30/60/90 day student journeyHow a 15–20% price increase funds your marketing budgetWhy you should run your own ads instead of paying an agencyThe 20-hour rule: how long it actually takes to get competent at a new skillPutting CEO time in your calendar every week — and why it's non-negotiableReady to grow your academy?Book a free 30-minute Growth Engine Audit — JP will look at your numbers and tell you exactly where you're stuck and what to fix. Link below.https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjjgrowthengineaudit

SummaryIn this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu Podcast, JP Levesque breaks down a real-world case study to show how academy owners can use their numbers to actually grow their business. Instead of guessing what to fix next, this episode walks through how to interpret your metrics, set realistic targets, and make better decisions based on what’s actually happening inside your gym.JP covers how to reduce churn, improve conversions, and reverse engineer your growth goals using simple math. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure what lever to pull next, this episode gives you a clear, practical framework to move forward with confidence.Key TopicsHow to read your gym’s numbers and understand your true growth potentialWhy churn is one of the most important metrics (and how to reduce it)Improving lead → trial → member conversion ratesCost per lead vs cost to acquire a customer (CAC)Using Google reviews to build local trust and authoritySimple, consistent marketing strategies that actually workReverse engineering growth targets using real dataOnboarding and communication strategies to improve retentionCommunity events and engagement to reduce drop-offSetting realistic expectations for growth (120–150 students and beyond)Balancing growth with sustainability and avoiding burnoutResources & LinksWant help identifying what to fix in your academy and building a clear plan for growth?Book a free Growth Engine Audit here:https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjjgrowthengineaudit

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu Podcast, JP Levesque sits down with Mark Millare from Hart Jiu Jitsu to talk about what actually makes a gym stand out today. They dive into the importance of building a strong culture, creating a fun but pressure-tested training environment, and using social media consistently to attract and retain students.Mark shares how Hart Jiu Jitsu approaches class structure, onboarding, and community building to create an environment where people want to train long-term. The conversation also covers simple ways to create engaging content, build gym pride among students, and use branding and merchandise to strengthen your academy’s identity.Key TopicsWhy culture and environment matter more than fancy facilitiesHow consistent social media builds visibility and attracts studentsBatching and planning content around training schedulesBalancing fun training with pressure-tested techniqueCreating a welcoming trial experience that convertsBuilding gym pride and community through inside jokes and shared identityStructuring classes and warmups to improve retention and engagementUsing branding and merchandise to strengthen your academy’s identityFollow Hart Jiu Jitsu on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/hart_jiujitsu/If you want to grow your Jiu Jitsu academy and you're stuck but not sure why click the link below to grab a free 30 min growth engine audit.We’ll look at your academy by the numbers, help you find the holes and give you a plan to move forward and start seeing growth.Book your audit here:https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjjgrowthengineaudit

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu Podcast, JP Levesque breaks down four simple systems that can dramatically improve the way you run your academy. Many gym owners feel busy all the time but still struggle to see real progress. JP explains how small weekly habits like calendar blocking, reviewing your metrics, and consistent lead follow-up can shift your business from chaotic to controlled.You’ll also hear why tracking attendance is one of the most overlooked retention strategies, and how setting aside time each week for growth planning can help you move from reactive to proactive as an owner. If you want practical systems you can start implementing immediately, this episode lays out a clear and simple framework to help you grow your academy sustainably.Want help figuring out what’s actually holding your academy back?Book a free Growth Engine Audit and we’ll walk through your leads, onboarding, retention, and systems together.Just clarity and direction.https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/bookings/bjjgrowthengineaudit

On this episode we get some great gym owner insights from Jason Khalipa. We explore the journey of turning passion into a sustainable business, focusing on lessons learned from Jason Khalipa's extensive experience in fitness, CrossFit, and Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you're an academy owner or aspiring entrepreneur, discover actionable tips on business mindset, class structure, community building, and growth strategies.Key TopicsThe parallels between CrossFit and Jiu-Jitsu industry evolution (2010–2020)Treating your gym as a business, not a hobbyImportance of formal partnership agreements to prevent conflictsThe significance of class structure, curriculum planning, and relaying content effectivelyHow to create positive member experiences and reduce dropout ratesThe role of professionalism, punctuality, and cleanliness in gym qualityStrategies for owners of 100–120 students feeling stuck and scaling upThe mindset shift from hobbyist to business owner for sustainable growthPersonal growth, discomfort in expansion, and maintaining health as an ownerBuilding community with men's programs and online digital appsConnect with Jason on the links below:⁠Th.fit ⁠ — Free parking lot workouts for menNC Fit — Jason's Gym'sInstagram - Check out Jason on IGIf you are serious about growing your BJJ academy and you want a road map on how to do it, click the link below to schedule a free 30 min BJJ Growth map call. Click here to schedule your 30 minute call

In this episode of the Business of Jujitsu podcast, JP Levesque discusses essential best practices for jujitsu academies, focusing on retention, onboarding, sales, lead generation, and business metrics. He emphasizes the importance of tracking student attendance, creating effective onboarding processes, simplifying sales techniques, nurturing leads, and understanding business metrics to foster growth. The conversation provides actionable insights for academy owners to enhance their operations and student engagement. TakeawaysRetention is crucial for student engagement.Regularly check student attendance to prevent dropouts.Implement a structured onboarding process for new students.Sales should be straightforward with clear options.Lead nurturing is essential for building trust.Understand the importance of Google reviews for credibility.Track business metrics to make informed decisions.Time block tasks to focus on CEO responsibilities.Utilize paid ads for lead generation effectively.Now is the optimal time for growth in jujitsu academies.Interested in working with GrowJistu? Book a free demo call on this link: https://growjitsu.com/request-a-demoGet your free ads training I mentioned in the video here:Click here to get the doc - FILE > MAKE A COPY

Summary:How to Grow Your Gym with Simple StrategiesIn this episode, JP Levesque breaks down straightforward marketing tactics that any gym owner can implement to boost growth. From Google reviews to internal engagement and paid advertising, learn how to create a sustainable and effective marketing system without relying on agencies.Key Topics:The importance of Google reviews and how to automate collecting themInternal marketing strategies: telling your students about upcoming events and programsBuilding a calendar of mini-events to increase engagement and retentionCreating cost-effective campaigns like Valentine's Day promotions and partner classesThe essentials of setting up a strong foundation before investing in paid adsHow to run and scale Facebook and Meta ads for consistent lead flowThe mindset: inputs (effort) drive outputs (results), not magic tricksTools and resources: automation tips, ChatGPT for content ideas, and a free marketing documentTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: marketing tips for gym owners0:29 - Marketing simplified: do cool shit and tell people about it0:54 - The ideal seasonal window for growth: early February to June1:24 - The crucial first step: boosting your Google reviews1:52 - Why reviews matter: social proof and search rankings2:21 - How to integrate review requests into onboarding and bulk emails3:19 - Using automation and incentivizing reviews with cookies or stickers4:17 - Ensuring your Google My Business profile is accurate and up-to-date5:15 - Tips to improve search visibility: open when you're open6:45 - Internal marketing: sharing what your gym is doing, upcoming programs, and mini-events7:15 - Creative internal campaign ideas: themed rash guards, partner classes, self-defense series8:37 - Planning and promoting your calendar of events and activities9:06 - The "roll with your Valentine" idea and other themed classes10:04 - Keeping your members engaged with consistent messaging and event promotion10:59 - Easy-to-implement automation strategies for marketing campaigns11:56 - The value of dedicated time monthly: content planning with ChatGPT and templates12:55 - The benefits of internal marketing: engagement, retention, lifetime value13:23 - The role of paid marketing: when and how to run effective ad campaigns14:17 - Making a simple, functional course for ad management using Google Docs15:15 - The importance of a consistent ad spend: minimum three months, $30/day16:12 - Foundation matters: lead nurture and onboarding first, then paid ads17:40 - How consistent ad campaigns can stabilize your student base and reduce stress18:10 - Avoiding financial stress by taking control of your marketing19:09 - Long-term approach: seasonal adjustments and persistent effort20:09 - The mindset: keep feeding the ad machine, reviews, and internal promos21:35 - Segmenting your messaging for different audience buckets at your gym22:35 - The power of paid ads for rapid growth and why to start now23:02 - Inputs drive outputs: focus on what actions create results24:02 - Free resources and how to get JP’s marketing document"If you want to download the free Meta ads training guide metnioned in the video: CLICK HERE AND FILE > MAKE A COPY

SummaryIn this special 100th episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu Podcast, JP Levesque reflects on the lessons learned from building GrowJitsu, coaching hundreds of academy owners, and recording 100 episodes of the show. He shares 10 key insights that every gym owner should hear — whether you're brand new or trying to get to the next level.This episode is both a thank-you and a roadmap, packed with mindset shifts, tactical takeaways, and hard-earned advice from the past few years of growing Jiu Jitsu academies on purpose.Key TopicsThe original goal of the podcast and how it’s evolvedWhy community engagement drives long-term successThe power of systems and SOPs in avoiding burnoutWhat it really takes to create a welcoming, student-first cultureThe myth of “just be a good coach” and what to do insteadWhy embracing business skills doesn’t mean selling outUsing feedback loops to improve both your gym and your leadershipHow to leverage events, camps, and parties for retention and growthThe role of passion and purpose in running a long-term academyWhat’s next for the podcast and future projectsIf you are looking for help to grow your Jiu Jitsu academy head over to www.GrowJitsu.com and book a demo.

SummaryIn this episode, JP Levesque shares a strategic month-by-month blueprint for gym owners to boost enrollment, retention, and operational systems during the peak growth season. Whether you're a seasoned owner or just starting out, discover actionable steps to crush it in the first half of the year.Key TopicsImportance of tracking business metrics monthly and how to interpret themTiming and execution for price increases to ensure profitabilityCreating a robust onboarding process for new students to improve retentionEffective marketing strategies for January and February, including self-run Facebook ads trainingPlanning summer programs, kids camps, and internal events to keep engagement highDeveloping SOPs, staff training, and system documentation for scalabilityThe significance of reports and progress check-ins every 90 daysHow to plan for slower months (July and August) with system reviews and vacationsIf you are serious about growing your BJJ academy and you want a road map on how to do it, click the link below to schedule a BJJ Growth map call - CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULEPS. Here is a link to the free FB/IG/Meta ads training I mentioned in the pod -CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS (FILE> MAKE A COPY)

In this episode, JP talks about the ten most common mistakes made by Jiu Jitsu academy owners, drawing from his personal experiences. He emphasizes the importance of tracking metrics, creating standard operating procedures, maintaining student engagement, and managing finances effectively. The conversation also covers the significance of hiring practices, communication strategies, and the necessity of developing business skills to ensure growth and success in running a Jiu Jitsu academy.TakeawaysWaiting until you are big enough to start taking your metrics is a mistake.Tracking financials is crucial for understanding your business.Creating standard operating procedures can streamline operations.Engaging with students regularly helps maintain their interest.The value of membership should always exceed its cost.Outworking business problems by spending more time on the mat is ineffective.Centralizing communication can reduce chaos and improve efficiency.Being comfortable discussing money is essential for business success.Negative influences in the academy can harm the culture and should be managed.Hiring decisions should be made carefully to ensure business growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Common Mistakes in Jiu Jitsu Academies01:00 The Importance of Tracking Metrics02:51 Creating Standard Operating Procedures04:44 Reselling Students and Maintaining Engagement06:38 The Fallacy of Outworking Business Problems08:17 Centralizing Communication for Efficiency10:11 Getting Comfortable with Money Conversations12:35 Managing Negative Influences in the Academy15:31 Hiring Mistakes and Timing17:56 Prioritizing Business Skills for GrowthIf you want to avoid these mistakes and grow your academy faster I'm doing a limited number of BJJ Business audit calls. It's a by the numbers look at your business to figure out where you're stuck and what you need to grow. Click the link below to book a call: https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/booking/cugd9bndUjStB6e1B15w

In this episode, JP Levesque discusses the four levels of Jujitsu Academy business, providing insights into the challenges and strategies at each stage. He emphasizes the importance of balancing artistic integrity with business acumen, and outlines practical steps for growth, retention, and systemization. The conversation is structured around the journey from the initial proving grounds to becoming an architect of a successful academy, highlighting key takeaways for academy owners.TakeawaysThe four levels of Jujitsu Academy business are crucial for growth.Artistic integrity can coexist with business strategies.Stabilizing cash flow is essential for long-term success.Engagement and retention strategies are vital at every level.Investing in systems and tools can alleviate bottlenecks.Hiring full-time staff can enhance operational efficiency.Understanding your stage helps in planning for the future.Clear offers and pricing structures are necessary for attracting members.Marketing calendars are important for both staff and students.Deciding on a long-term vision is key to sustainable growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jujitsu Academy Business Levels03:23 Level One: The Proving Grounds10:02 Level Two: The Marathon Stage18:13 Level Three: The Bottleneck Stage24:52 Level Four: The Architect StagePS. If you're looking for help growing your Jiu Jitsu academy I'm the founder of a company called "GrowJitsu". It's part tech, part systems/best practices, and part coaching. It's basically an all in one solution for Jiu Jitsu academy owners looking for growth. If you want to see what it looks like to work together click the link below to book a free demo call: https://link.growjitsu.com/widget/booking/cugd9bndUjStB6e1B15w

Summary In this episode of the Business of Jujitsu Podcast, host JP Levesque talks with Andrew Green from Innovative Martial Arts in Winnipeg about the basics of running a successful kids' jiu jitsu program. They discuss the importance of marketing, community events, the impact of martial arts on children, and strategies for growing a kids' program. Andrew shares insights on staff training, age group separation, and the role of the head instructor. They also explore the benefits of birthday parties as a marketing tool and the significance of summer camps and events in maintaining engagement.TakeawaysAndrew Green emphasizes the importance of community events in promoting martial arts programs.The kids' program at Innovative Martial Arts has grown to nearly 300 members, primarily children.Andrew believes that martial arts can have a significant impact on children, more so than on adults.Staff training and having the right temperament are crucial for running a successful kids' program.Separating age groups is essential to cater to different developmental stages.The head instructor should be visible but not necessarily teach all kids' classes.Birthday parties are an effective marketing tool, bringing in new leads and creating memorable experiences.Summer camps offer unique opportunities to engage children during school breaks.Andrew shares that a pre-registration period is vital for launching new classes successfully.Events and community presence are key to maintaining visibility and attracting new members.Chapters00:00:01 Introduction and Background00:00:46 Growth and Community Engagement00:01:53 Staff Training and Program Structure00:04:33 Age Group Separation and Class Management00:08:05 Marketing Strategies and Events00:17:08 Summer Camps and Seasonal Engagement00:25:36 Birthday Parties as a Marketing Tool00:38:27 Community Events and VisibilityAbout my guest: The Kids Jiu-Jitsu Playbook is a community for Jiu-Jitsu school owners, managers, and coaches who want their kids programs to run smoother, retain better, and be easier to manage.This group is focused specifically on kids classes. How to keep them engaged, how to structure classes that work, how to train coaches, and how to grow kids programs without adding chaos or burnout.Inside the group you will find hands-on coaching tips and training, internal and external marketing ideas, class games and drills, and proven systems that help improve retention, class flow, and parent satisfaction.Here's some of what's inside:Discussion forum with other experienced kids coachesClass Games Library with games that use and develop jiu-jitsu skillsCoach development manualsWhite label Newsletters you can fully customize to your school in minutesInternal marketing and retention events to get more kids and have them stay longerHow to run the best Birthday party in your cityIf you're interested in joining Andrew's community here is a link to check it out. Link: https://www.skool.com/kids-jiu-jitsu-playbook

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, JP Levesque discusses strategies for opening a new jiu jitsu academy with a focus on becoming cashflow positive from day one. He emphasizes the importance of pre-selling memberships, having a solid business plan, and differentiating your academy in a competitive market. JP shares insights on pricing, marketing, and creating a strong student journey to ensure growth and sustainability.TakeawaysOpen cashflow positive by pre-selling memberships.Avoid relying solely on being a great coach; have a business plan.Differentiate your academy to stand out in a competitive market.Pricing should reflect value and support business sustainability.Pre-sell at least 25 memberships to start strong.Aim for 10 new students per month to grow steadily.Use marketing and offers to attract and retain students.Create a strong student journey to ensure retention.Invest in a good online presence and management software.Ads work if executed with a solid strategy.Chapters:00:00:01 Introduction and Topic Overview00:00:29 The Importance of Pre-Selling Memberships00:00:58 Differentiating Your Academy00:01:56 Pricing and Financial Planning00:03:16 Creating a Strong Student Journey00:06:39 Marketing and Offers00:18:08 Ad Strategies and Offers00:27:31 Building a Sustainable BusinessIf you enjoyed the episode and want to see what getting help to grow your academy looks like head on over to https://growjitsu.com/request-a-demo It's a free call that will help you figure out the next steps in growing your academy, there's no pressure, only clarity and direction for your academy's future growth.

SummaryIn this episode, JP Levesque discusses the four buckets of growth essential for jujitsu academies, emphasizing the importance of generating leads, effective onboarding, long-term student retention, and the role of staff in business success. He provides actionable insights and strategies for academy owners to implement systems that ensure growth and sustainability in their businesses.TakeawaysThe four buckets of growth are essential for business success.New leads must be funneled into onboarding and retention.Effective onboarding is crucial for new students' success.Long-term engagement strategies are necessary for student retention.Staff motivation and alignment with business goals are vital.Creating systems for lead generation can control business growth.Regular check-ins with students can enhance retention.Engagement activities can keep students motivated beyond belt promotions.Understanding staff roles can prevent operational issues.Continuous improvement and adaptation are key to business growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Four Buckets of Growth02:53 Understanding the First Bucket: New Leads and Students05:52 Onboarding New Students Effectively09:05 Long-Term Student Retention Strategies11:55 The Importance of Staff in Business Growth15:11 Conclusion and Future Directions

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, I break down a full month-by-month marketing and operations plan for your academy in 2026.If you ever feel like you’re just reacting to whatever’s in front of you, this gives you a clear structure to follow. I walk through what to focus on in each month, from pricing reviews and onboarding in January, to marketing kickoffs in February, to retention plays and system building over the summer, and all the way to end-of-year promotions in December.You’ll also hear ideas for running kids camps, holiday offers, belt promotion timing, and how to keep students engaged year-round. Whether you're brand new or trying to clean up what you’ve already built, this gives you a clear and repeatable plan to grow your gym without burning out.PS. If you're looking for help growing your academy head on over to www.Growjitsu.com - I've got free resources as well as paid help, thanks for listneing.

In this episode, I walk through what it really takes to grow a Jiu Jitsu academy — and why lead generation should never be the first step.We cover how to tighten up your retention, onboarding, and sales process before you worry about running ads or chasing new leads. I also talk through simple but effective ways to build trust during trials, communicate better with your students, and use basic tools (like Google Sheets) to track what matters.If you’ve been stuck in overthinking or spinning your wheels trying to grow, this one lays out a clear, practical path forward.If you're a Jiu Jitsu Gym owner looking for a little help to grow their business grab a copy of my free book 'The Unstuck Academy' here: https://growjitsu.com/book

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, I break down a layered approach to building and growing your Jiu Jitsu academy, from setting your big picture goals all the way down to the small plays that actually move the needle. Whether you're just getting started or trying to fix a gym that's already running, this episode walks you through the exact framework I use when helping academy owners clean up their systems and grow.We go over how to do a simple “traffic light” assessment of your gym, how to build structure around retention, onboarding, and lead flow, and how to engage your current students without needing a huge marketing budget. I also share some easy-to-execute ideas like monthly attendance shoutouts, Google review habits, rewards systems, and how to know when you're ready to scale. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode will give you a real game plan to work from.Head on over to https://growjitsu.com/book to download a free copy of my book 'The Unstuck Academy'.

Spoilers, yes you should run a Black Friday special at your Jiu Jitsu Academy...But there is both a right way and a wrong way to do this. This episode breaks down what actually makes a good offer, not just for Black Friday, but year-round.I talk about:– Why you should always have some kind of offer running– What makes a promo actually valuable (without giving discounts)– What to do for current members during the holidays– When to turn paid ads back on in the new year– And yeah… the uncomfortable truth about price increases and cutting discountsShort episode, straight to the point.PS. If you want some help growing your Jiu Jitsu Gym or Academy I've got jus the thing for you. Head on over to https://growjitsu.com/book to download a free copy of my book 'The Unstuck Academy'.

In this episode, JP Levesque discusses the critical role of pricing strategy in maintaining a sustainable business. He emphasizes the need for business owners to evaluate their pricing in relation to their operational costs and the potential impact on student retention. The discussion highlights the balance between affordability for customers and the necessity for businesses to ensure their long-term viability through appropriate pricing adjustments.TakeawaysIf your prices are too low, you're breakeven.Raising prices can significantly increase revenue.Consider the impact of price changes on student retention.It's important to balance affordability with business needs.Long-term sustainability requires regular price evaluations.Evaluate your roster to predict who might leave after a price increase.Shit is expensive; businesses need to adapt pricing accordingly.Pricing strategies should reflect the realities of operational costs.Don't price people out of your service; find a balance.Regularly assess your pricing to ensure business longevity.If you want to learn more about how I help academy owners grow their business without becoming Mc Dojos head on over to www.GrowJitsu.com and book a demo.PS. There's also a free Ebook I wrote to help academy owners grow their business - https://growjitsu.com/book

In this conversation, Zach Forrest emphasizes the critical role of regular check-ins with clients in a gym setting. He discusses the importance of understanding clients' frustrations and excitements, particularly for new members. By fostering open communication and feedback, trainers can adapt their approach to better meet clients' needs and enhance their overall experience. This ongoing dialogue is essential for building strong client relationships and ensuring satisfaction in their training journey.If you don't have a good member management software to ruin your gym on check out - https://www.pushpress.com/They have a free tier, they aren't paying me to pitch this, I just believe in the team and the product to the point it's a no brainer to recommend having personally used it in my gym too.If you are looking to get a little more direction on growing your Jiu Jitsu Gym/Academy head on over to www.growjitsu.com/book and download my free book called 'The unstuck academy' to start seeing growth again in your gym.

In this episode of The Business of Jiu Jitsu Podcast, JP Levesque breaks down the realities of opening a Jiu Jitsu academy in today’s saturated market.He shares why “just being a good coach” isn’t enough anymore, and why having a marketing budget is no longer optional if you want to grow.From Meta ads to Google search, JP explains how to think about paid marketing, how to budget for it, and why your dream gym won’t survive if no one knows it exists.While I did talk about ads the majority of the episode is about the underlying systems you need to have in place BEFORE you consider running paid ads.This one’s a must-listen if you’re launching an academy or struggling to get new students through the door.If you own a Jiu Jitsu academy and you want help adding new students, keeping them longer, and building a lasting legacy working with GrowJitsu might be right for you so check out the link below to book a live demo with me.https://growjitsu.com/request-a-demoAs always, no pressure, no stress, just answers and direction, heres the link to book:

SummaryIn this episode of the Business of Jiu-Jitsu podcast, JP Levesque discusses how Jiu-Jitsu academy owners can achieve consistent growth and turn their academies into successful businesses. He emphasizes the importance of understanding key metrics such as student retention, revenue, and profit margins. JP also highlights the need for dedicated CEO time to strategize and plan for the future, encouraging owners to set clear goals and understand their business's potential. The conversation wraps up with actionable steps for academy owners to start seeing growth and improvement in their operations.akeawaysYou need to measure what matters in your business.Understanding churn is crucial for growth.Average client value can be increased through additional offerings.Setting aside CEO time is essential for business improvement.Identify your biggest constraints to growth.Evaluate what has worked and what hasn't in the past.Look at successful academies for inspiration.Define what you want your business to achieve.Your business can be a lifestyle choice or a legacy.Knowing your numbers helps you make informed decisions.As always if you want some help growing your academy head on over to www.GrowJitsu.com/book to download a free copy of my book 'The Unstuck Academy' so you can start seeing growth in your business today.

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu, JP Levesque interviews Glenn Powditch, a seasoned jiu jitsu practitioner and gym owner. They discuss the duality of running a gym as a hobby versus a business, the importance of professionalism, and the challenges gym owners face. Glenn shares insights on how to navigate the commercialization of jiu jitsu while maintaining integrity, the significance of tracking leads and marketing effectively, and the role of breath work in enhancing jiu jitsu performance. The conversation emphasizes the need for gym owners to adopt a business mindset to ensure sustainability and success in the competitive landscape of jiu jitsu.TakeawaysRunning a gym can be both a hobby and a business.Professionalism is key to successful gym management.Breath work significantly improves jiu jitsu performance.Tracking leads is essential for gym marketing success.Maintaining integrity is crucial in the commercialization of jiu jitsu.Gym owners should not lower their standards for gradings.Creating a safe training environment reduces injury rates.Understanding your target market helps in pricing and services.Building a strong online presence is vital for attracting members.The jiu jitsu business landscape is evolving, and owners must adapt.Here is a link to the article on BJJ Fanatic that Glyn mentioned in this episode: https://bjjfanatics.com/blogs/news/guide-to-opening-a-bjj-gym-hobby-vs-commercial-gym?srsltid=AfmBOor06MU-hykU-pEvxhF3HNWDAigotCsK1XAjsXCRTFez-yLzd3WdYou can also find Glyn on IG/FB/WEB/BJJ Fanatics, here are some links incase you want to learn more: SBG Rossendale: https://sbgrossendale.com/Marketing Agency: https://dreamagility.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/glynpowditch/FB: https://www.facebook.com/glyn.powditchBJJ Fanatics: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/breathe-to-win-by-glyn-powditchIf you want some help getting your own BJJ academy getting new students, keeping them long term, and running a profitable business grab my free book here: https://growjitsu.com/book

Are you a black belt on the mats but a white belt in business?In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, JP Levesque explores the concept of belt levels in business, drawing parallels to the martial art of jiu jitsu. He discusses the challenges faced by business owners at different stages, from the 'white belt' stage of struggling to establish systems, to the 'black belt' stage of mastery and personal definition of success. The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness, systemization, and growth in achieving business success.TakeawaysThe hardest stage for business owners is the white belt stage.Awareness is key to moving from a white belt to a blue belt in business.Systems are crucial for business success and growth.Purple belt signifies a solid foundation of systems in business.Brown belt represents refinement and optimization of business operations.Black belt in business is a personal journey and definition of success.Transitioning through belt levels can happen quickly with effort.Financial stability is essential for business owners to thrive.Building a business you love requires systemization and awareness.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Business Belt Levels02:36 Understanding the Business White Belt04:54 Transitioning to Business Blue Belt08:11 Achieving the Business Purple Belt12:26 Reaching the Business Brown Belt15:48 Defining the Business Black Belt20:31 Recap and Final ThoughtsIf you want to learn more about how I help academy owners grow their business without becoming Mc Dojos head on over to www.GrowJitsu.com and book a demo.PS. There's also a free Ebook I wrote to help academy owners grow their business - https://growjitsu.com/book

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, JP Levesque dives into various hot takes regarding the operation of BJJ academies. He discusses the value of kids programs, the importance of quality control in scalable businesses, and the necessity of balancing business acumen with jiu jitsu skills. JP also addresses common pitfalls faced by academy owners, the ethics of recruitment during open mats, and the significance of maintaining hygiene standards. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the need for a strong business foundation to ensure the success of a jiu jitsu academy.TakeawaysKids programs can be valuable for personal development and fun.Being good at business is infinitely better than being good at jiu jitsu.Most gym owners are awful at practically every aspect of running the business.Teaching good jiu jitsu is not even a top five priority when it comes to running a good business.Recruitment at Open Mats is slimy and lacks integrity.Contracts that run your social security number are a massive red flag.Constant jibber jabbering speeches after class need to stop.Charging for promotions feels icky and should be avoided.Hygiene standards in gyms are crucial for student safety.Quality over quantity is often forgotten in most academies.KeywordsBJJ, Jiu Jitsu, Academy Owners, Business, Kids Programs, Quality Control, Membership Contracts, Teaching, Ethics, Personal DevelopmentSummaryIn this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, JP Levesque dives into various hot takes regarding the operation of BJJ academies. He discusses the value of kids programs, the importance of quality control in scalable businesses, and the necessity of balancing business acumen with jiu jitsu skills. JP also addresses common pitfalls faced by academy owners, the ethics of recruitment during open mats, and the significance of maintaining hygiene standards. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the need for a strong business foundation to ensure the success of a jiu jitsu academy.TakeawaysKids programs can be valuable for personal development and fun.Being good at business is infinitely better than being good at jiu jitsu.Most gym owners are awful at practically every aspect of running the business.Teaching good jiu jitsu is not even a top five priority when it comes to running a good business.Recruitment at Open Mats is slimy and lacks integrity.Contracts that run your social security number are a massive red flag.Constant jibber jabbering speeches after class need to stop.Charging for promotions feels icky and should be avoided.Hygiene standards in gyms are crucial for student safety.Quality over quantity is often forgotten in most academies.TitlesThe Business of Jiu Jitsu: Hot Takes UnveiledNavigating Kids Programs in BJJ AcademiesSound bites"Recruitment at Open Mats is slimy.""Charging for promotions feels icky.""Hygiene standards in gyms are crucial."Chapters00:00 Introduction to BJJ Academy Owner Hot Takes01:00 The Value of Kids Programs02:57 Quality Control in Scalable Jiu Jitsu Businesses07:20 Business Acumen vs. Jiu Jitsu Skill08:47 Common Pitfalls of Academy Owners12:32 Prioritizing Teaching Quality in Business13:56 Recruitment Ethics in Open Mats15:24 Consultations and Cultural Fit16:48 Membership Contracts and Consumer Rights18:37 Classroom Management and Communication19:06 Ethics in Pricing and Promotions21:00 Hygiene Standards in Jiu Jitsu Academies22:25 Personal Development through Kids Programs23:22 Trial Class Experiences24:46 Importance of Fundamentals Classes27:37 Quality Over Quantity in AcademiesIf you want to learn more about what I do outside of highly caffinated ramblings head on over to www.GrowJitsu.com and check it out. There's also a free Ebook I wrote to help academy owners grow their business.

In this episode of the Business of Jiu Jitsu podcast, JP Levesque discusses strategies for Jiu Jitsu academy owners to regain momentum as summer ends. He emphasizes the importance of planning events for revenue generation, student retention, and recruitment. JP outlines effective marketing strategies, including reactivation campaigns and the use of Facebook ads, to attract new students and keep current ones engaged. He stresses the need for a solid lead nurturing process and a great trial experience to ensure success in the competitive landscape of martial arts academies.TakeawaysPrioritize rebuilding momentum as summer ends.Plan monthly events for revenue, retention, and recruitment.Implement a reactivation campaign to bring back former students.Engage current students with challenges and seminars.Use marketing strategies that resonate with your audience.Facebook ads can be effective if set up correctly.Ensure a great free trial experience for new students.Lead nurturing is essential for converting interest into sign-ups.Onboarding processes can reduce quit rates in the first 90 days.Consistency in marketing efforts leads to long-term success.If you want to learn more about me or how I help BJJ academies grow, head on over to Growjistu.com for details or to reachout.

SummaryIn this episode of the Business of Jujitsu podcast, Devin Needles shares his journey from a Jiu Jitsu practitioner to the owner of Ground Control Academy. He discusses the challenges and successes of running an academy, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, structured curriculums, and effective lead generation strategies. Devin highlights the significance of creating a welcoming environment for new students and the role of enthusiasm in sales. He provides insights into the onboarding process and the necessity of having a well-thought-out class structure to enhance the student experience and drive growth.TakeawaysDevin started his academy in a small town to avoid competition.Low startup costs and minimal expectations were key to initial success.Professionalism and structured processes are essential for running a successful academy.Lead generation websites and automation can significantly improve student onboarding.Enthusiasm for Jiu Jitsu helps in nurturing leads and converting them into students.Trial classes should be well-structured to ensure a positive experience for newcomers.A standardized curriculum helps students progress and understand Jiu Jitsu better.Creating a welcoming culture is crucial for retaining new students.Academy owners should focus on the student experience to drive growth.Having a clear sales process and marketing strategy is vital for long-term success.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu Journey05:52 Professionalizing the Academy12:00 The Importance of Enthusiasm in Sales17:51 Creating a Seamless Customer Experience24:27 Overcoming Growth Challenges in Jiu-Jitsu Academies33:54 Enhancing Student Experience Through Contextual Learning42:52 Key Strategies for Academy Owners to Foster Growth

SummaryIn this episode of the Business of Jujitsu podcast, JP Levesque discusses various hot takes related to gym ownership and the business side of jujitsu. He addresses common complaints from the jujitsu community, such as the importance of transparency in pricing and scheduling, the debate over gi requirements, and the challenges of managing students. Levesque emphasizes the need for gym owners to treat their academies as businesses rather than hobbies, while also exploring the value of kids programs and the role of testing in belt promotions. The conversation is lively and filled with insights for both gym owners and jujitsu practitioners.TakeawaysMost gyms operate like hobbies rather than businesses.Transparency in pricing and scheduling is crucial for attracting students.Gi requirements can be flexible, but cleanliness is important.Handling difficult students is a necessary skill for gym owners.Cross-training should be encouraged to improve overall jujitsu skills.Trial periods should allow enough classes for potential students to decide.Kids programs can be valuable for personal development and fun.Testing for belts can help identify skill gaps in students.Motivational speeches after class can be beneficial if not overdone.Drop-in policies should prioritize the safety and culture of the gym.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Business Owner Hot Takes01:27 Running a Gym: Hobby vs. Business03:54 Transparency in Pricing and Scheduling06:17 The Importance of Uniforms in Jiu Jitsu10:34 Managing Student Dynamics11:32 Cross-Training and Student Retention12:28 Trial Classes and Their Effectiveness14:26 Beginner Classes: Expectations vs. Reality15:41 The Value of Kids Programs16:38 Belt Testing: Necessity or Nuisance?18:00 Coaching Philosophy and Class Dynamics19:46 Drop-In Policies and Gym Culture

In this episode, I sit down with Joshua Janis, owner of White Lotus Jiu Jitsu.We talk about what it means to build a Jiu Jitsu academy around intention, clarity, and culture. Joshua shares how his background and philosophy have shaped the way he runs his gym and how important it is to create an environment where the right students thrive.We also dive into the evolution of Jiu Jitsu, how to lead with purpose, and why a clear vision is key, not just for growth, but for staying aligned with why you opened your academy in the first place.Want to connect with Joshua?IG: https://www.instagram.com/joshuaj_bjj/FB (academy): https://www.facebook.com/WhiteLotusJiuJitsu/BJJ Globetrotters Instructor Profile: https://www.bjjglobetrotters.com/featured-camp-instructor-joshua-janis-bjj-globetrotters/BJJ Globetrotters Academy Feature: https://www.bjjglobetrotters.com/featured-affiliated-academy-white-lotus-jiu-jitsu-usa/Website: https://www.gentleartlifestyle.com/whitelotusbjjWebsite: https://www.janisconsulting.com/

A quick episode for once, and clearly a click bait title, but worthwhile if you're still stuck trying to grow your BJJ academy and haven't quite cracked the code. SummaryIn this episode of the Business of Jujitsu podcast, JP Levesque discusses the importance of embracing discomfort and cringe in order to achieve personal and professional growth. He shares anecdotes about overcoming societal judgments and emphasizes the necessity of marketing and sales in business. The conversation encourages listeners to take action despite their fears and to focus on their goals, reminding them that success often lies just beyond their comfort zones.TakeawaysEverything you want is on the other side of discomfort.People's opinions shouldn't dictate your actions.Success requires pushing through cringe-worthy moments.Marketing and sales are essential for business growth.You are already selling, even if you don't realize it.Fear of rejection is a common barrier to success.Integrity in business practices is crucial.Taking action is more important than seeking approval.Growth often requires doing things that feel uncomfortable.Self-doubt is often the biggest obstacle to success.If you want help growing your BJJ academy, I wrote a free book that walks you through the systems and strategies that actually work. Grab your copy at www.Growjitsu.com/book

In this episode I chatted with Bobby and Amanda McMasters of Open Source BJJ in Ashville NC. They have not only built a place with a good vibe, amazing coaches and team members but they are doing something very unconventional with their Jiu Jitsu academy. They are giving back to their community with a pricing model that allows anyone who wants to train to be able to afford it. Considering most of us agree that the world would be a better place if more people did Jiu Jitsu it's a very exciting idea and I'm stoked to spread the word with this week's episode. If you're looking to reach out to Bobby & Amanda you can find them here: IG: https://www.instagram.com/opensourcejiujitsuavl/FB: https://www.facebook.com/opensourcebjjWEB: https://www.opensourcebjj.net/

In this solo episode, I rant a little about a bad drop in experience and talk about the main point of this episode which is to embrance change in your business.I share a quick story about a terrible experience I had at a gym recently. I don't name any names or call anyone out, but I tell the story to make a point about professionalism, first impressions, and what your academy is actually saying to people who walk through the door.We also get into why your gym is either improving or falling behind. There’s no such thing as staying the same. Just like in Jiu Jitsu, if you’re not constantly tweaking, testing, and improving your systems, you’re going to get passed.This one is all about taking ownership, being intentional, and remembering that your culture and your standards are either attracting the right people or pushing them away.Topics covered:Iteration as a tool for growthWhy professionalism matters more than you thinkHow your culture shapes your reputationEmbracing failure as part of the processCreating momentum through small, consistent improvementsFollow me:IG: @jp_levesque24Email: [email protected] you interested in building up your BJJ business?The Unstuck Academy is a free guide that shows you how to fix what’s broken, keep more students, and build a business that actually works.Download it here: www.growjitsu.com/book

In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Shaw of Bellingham BJJ.Jeff shares how he built a Jiu Jitsu academy that he runs based on his own compass. Which incidentally exploded in popularity within the first few months of opening, creating a wait list. We talk about building a culture that attracts the right people and repels the wrong ones.But the real gold? Jeff breaks down his onboarding process and world class foundations program. If you want to help new students succeed and actually stick around, don’t miss this part.Topics we cover:Running your academy on your own compassDesigning a welcoming environmentCreating win-win memberships for beginnersBuilding a foundations program that worksIf you want to reach out to Jeff you can find him here: IG: @BELLINGHAMBJJEmail: [email protected]: BELLINGHAMBJJ.COMAre you interested in building up your BJJ business?The Unstuck Academy is a free guide that shows you how to fix what’s broken, keep more students, and build a business that actually works.Download it here: www.growjitsu.com/book

In this solo episode, I kick things off with a simple but important question "What do you actually want out of academy ownership?"A lot of people jump in for the love of Jiu Jitsu, but if you want your academy to succeed long-term, you’ve got to get real about what you’re building and how you're doing it.We break it down into three key areas:Invite: How to get people in the door with simple, consistent marketing (and why paid ads probably aren’t the move at first)Enroll: Turning trials into members with a clear offer and a solid sign-up processRetain: Onboarding the right way and keeping members around for the long haulIf you get these right, growth becomes a lot less mysterious and a lot more repeatable.Heres a link to my socials: Instagram – @jp_levesque24Email – [email protected] – www.Growjitsu.comWant help building these systems? Grab my free book at www.Growjitsu.com/book

In this episode, I sit down with Robert Biernacki from Island Top Team! You may know Rob from his work with Stephan Kesting and he's got a great perspective to share on academy ownership and Jiu Jitsu in general.We get into:Finding a balanace when coaching students who are training for fun that helps them improve but not feel picked onHow to stay passionate about teaching when your room isn’t full of competitorsFinding other ways to fill your cup as a coachOther avenues of business to create a living from teaching Jiu JitsuI enjoyed chatting with Rob, my only regret in the episode is not having enough time to get into the endless rabit holes Jiu Jitsu conversations can take.Check him out here:📍 Island Top Team – Nanaimo, BC: https://islandtopteam.com📸 Instagram: @islandtopteam🧠 BJJ Concepts Online: https://bjjconcepts.net

In this episode, I go over the core framework every academy needs to grow: Invite, Enroll, Deliver, Retain, GrowIf you’re not putting time into these five buckets, your business is probably stuck.I also talk about the actual time commitment it takes to see progress. While putting in MORE hours would be great the truth is, you just need to carve out SOME hours to work on the business side if you actually want to grow. I give various numbers during the episode but the one I keep coming back to is 4 hours per week to work ON your business is essential.I walk through what each piece looks like and how to start building systems instead of putting out fires every week.If you want help with this, grab a free copy of my book at www.Growjitsu.com/book

Jesse and I covered a lot of topics on todays show but here are some major topics and points of interest. How to run a good women's program without having to run a ladies only class.Using games to help students learn faster without changing your entire teaching style.Keeping new students longer with basic reach outs.Setting expectations with new students to keep your academy drama free. It was great having Jesse on the show as he is a wealth of knowledge and runs a top notch facility. If you want to learn more about Jesse check out the links below: Web: https://roughhandsbjj.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/roughhandsbjj/Free BJJ Mental Models course access for our listeners: https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/offers/yLg5LJyT/checkout?coupon_code=RHRBJJ

Hear me out here, I'm not here to poke the bear. What I am here to do is highlight that your BJJ academy has two totally separate sides. There is the fun side of "teaching, training, coaching side" which is why most people open gyms to begin with. Then you have the other side of the business which is the "a bunch of shit I don't want to do like marketing, sales, creating SOPS, event promotion etc". In this episode I do bounce around a bit because truthfully there is so much to talk about within this subject but it boils down to this. If most academy owners get skilled enough on the business side to be a "blue belt" in business, they'll be fine. If you are looking for some help to level up your academy head on over to www.Growjitsu.com/demo to book a demo and see how you can get a website, automations and systems that make your business run as smoothly as your Jiu Jitsu.

This is an expansion on the onboarding episode from two weeks ago and through all my caffinated ramblings really asks one question of the BJJ Academy owner...What could you be doing for your students to keep them on the path to success?Easier said than done like most things. But these processes and systems start with the idea, then an outline and they become real with one single action. You don't need a perfect system day one, just the drive to help students improve or get the most out of their time with you and build up a system to keep them on track over time. If you want to take a deeper look into these systems and how to improve them in your BJJ business head over to www.Growjitsu.com/book to download a free copy of my book - The Unstuck Academy.

I'm excited to have Mike back on the show to talk about his first year in business. While this isn't his first dive into owning a martial arts school this is the first school he has opened in Calgary. Anyone who owned a gym has had the thought, "if I startefd from scratch again what would I do to make my business successful?" Well Mike has been able to answer that question for himself and it has been awesome to see it in action. I should note that Mike owns SBG Calgary with his Wife Becca who is also an SBG Black belt. If you are in Calgary and would like to train with Mike at SBG Calgary here is where you can go to find him: https://sbgcalgary.com/https://www.instagram.com/sbgcalgary/

If you've owned a Jiu Jitsu academy for more than a year you know summers can be brutal. Once students start to cancel and no one is coming into replace them you start to feel the financial squeeze. Well the good news is you can plan around it, you can engineer summer to be one of your most profitable seasons with kids camps, or just a great season if you plan ahead. From one gym owner to another I hope this helps you not just survive the next summer, but actually enjoy it. If you are looking for help growing your business and want to see what the Growjitsu Flywheel can do for you. Head on over to www.Growjitsu.com/demo and book a live call with me. Think of this demo call like a first roll, we are feeling eac hother out to see what the other's game is. My game is helping BJJ academy owners without BS marketing tactics or anything sleazy, heck my pricing is even transparently on my website!

This episode is me speaking from experience on a few topics so hopefully you can avoid stepping on the same rakes as I did. I start by talking about an IG post I saw where a gym was asking it's members if it "failed" by closing over the holdidays. The short answer is "yes" if that person wanted to come train. Then I go a little deeping into how to handle bigger policy changes and lastly not being afraid to fail when making new offerings/events etc.If you're looking for some more information on how to grow your BJJ Academy head on over to www.Growjitsu.com/book and grab a free copy of my book 'The Unstuck Academy'.

With 30 years of Jiu Jitsu experience under his belt Eli does everything from instructionals to seminars and private lessons. Eli saw the need for online Jiu Jitsu content before the big online boom and has since become a successful online name due to his consistency, persevernce and approachable teaching style.We also go into some detail about his back ground (which is an impressive lineage), his influences coming up through the belt ranks and his teaching style. If you want to learn more about Eli please check out the links to his content below: YouTube.com/knightjiujitsuInstagram @knight_jiu_jitsu_Patreon.com/knightjiujitsuFacebook - Eli Knight (personal and public figure pages)TikTok Knight Jiu-JitsuIf you want to check out his instructionals go here: https://bjjfanatics.com/search?q=Eli%20knight

I think in systems and I love structure. I also find it really helpful to create a common language to talk about business, the same way we talk about Jiu Jitsu. That common language/understanding helps move everyone forward. And so I made this episode in hopes that I could share some of that language and structure about the business side of Jui Jitsu. I also want it to make it easy for Jiu Jitsu academy owners to self identify what areas of their business need the most attention and expalin these systems well enough that simple action can be taken. If you want to take a deeper look into these systems and how to improve them in your BJJ business head over to www.Growjitsu.com/book to download a free copy of my book - The Unstuck Academy.

Chris is a polarizing figure in Jiu Jitsu for a lot of reasons, he swears like a sailor which some find endearing and others off putting, he’s got a dry sense of humor and he is trying very hard to preserve the roots of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. All in all Chris is very smart, incredibly passionate about Jiu Jitsu and teaching his students. If you want to learn more about Chris I’d highly recommend following him on social media and checking out his YT content as well as courses. Check out these links to learn more:Web: https://zeropointgjjsydney.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/chrisbonesjj/YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-ZO8c74hCXEjUCUatj-L2gInstructionals: https://www.thebjjproject.com/

After being in business for two summers I was over it. I had a bad July and a worse August as members went on hold or quit. So I decided right then and there I wouldn't be caught again next summer in the same situation, scraping the bottom of my savings to pay bills until members came back. The craziest part is it worked! I was no longer a reactive business owner riding this roller coaster waiting to see what would happen. I was learning to ride the waves of each season and anticipate the next. Truth be told it was more work, but it beat the alternative of uncertainty and the stress of not knowing how each season would go for my business. If you want to take an even deeper dive into growing your Jiu Jitsu Academy you can follow me on socials, or head over to www.Growjitsu.com/book to download a free copy of my book - The Unstuck Academy.