Summary

In 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.

Takeaways

Devin 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu Journey

05:52 Professionalizing the Academy

12:00 The Importance of Enthusiasm in Sales

17:51 Creating a Seamless Customer Experience

24:27 Overcoming Growth Challenges in Jiu-Jitsu Academies

33:54 Enhancing Student Experience Through Contextual Learning

42:52 Key Strategies for Academy Owners to Foster Growth

Summary

In 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.

Takeaways

Most 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Business Owner Hot Takes

01:27 Running a Gym: Hobby vs. Business

03:54 Transparency in Pricing and Scheduling

06:17 The Importance of Uniforms in Jiu Jitsu

10:34 Managing Student Dynamics

11:32 Cross-Training and Student Retention

12:28 Trial Classes and Their Effectiveness

14:26 Beginner Classes: Expectations vs. Reality

15:41 The Value of Kids Programs

16:38 Belt Testing: Necessity or Nuisance?

18:00 Coaching Philosophy and Class Dynamics

19:46 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/whitelotusbjj

Website: https://www.janisconsulting.com/