The Business of Jiu Jitsu

Epizodai

• Ep. 114 - Ryan Hurst - The Mobility Master from GMB Fitness 04.06.2026 56min

  Movement, Mobility, and Martial Arts: Insights from Ryan HurstRyan offers a free guide on mobility and strength for BJJ click here to check it out: https://gmb.io/bjj-mobility/In this episode, Ryan Hurst of GMB Fitness shares his unique approach to movement training that enhances mobility, strength, and injury prevention—key for martial artists and fitness enthusiasts alike. Discover practical techniques you can incorporate into your routine, whether you're on the mats or in the gym.Key Topics:Ryan's journey from martial arts in Japan to founding GMB Fitness focused on movement independence.The importance of animal movements (bear walk, monkey, frog, crab) for building joint mobility and control.How mobility and movement quality impact martial arts performance and long-term health.Practical advice for warm-ups, emphasizing purposeful movement over traditional calisthenics.Differences in martial arts culture between Japan and the US, including training and teaching philosophies.Specific exercises like shrimp squats for strength and balance, and the significance of single-leg movements.The role of joint integrity and how it supports injury prevention in martial arts.Strategies for gym owners and instructors to foster mutual respect and effective teaching.The impact of cultural behavior changes in Japan post-COVID and how respect influences training environments.Ryan's tips for integrating functional movement practice into busy training schedules.Timestamps:02:15 - Ryan's background in martial arts and time in Japan06:00 - The core philosophy of GMB Fitness: movement education08:30 - Animal movements: bear walk, monkey, frog, crab explained11:20 - How mobility influences martial arts success15:00 - Practical warm-up routines for martial artists and trainers20:30 - Tips for gym owners: efficiency and mutual respect23:50 - Cultural dynamics of martial arts training in Japan versus the US29:00 - The role of joint health and injury prevention33:00 - Ryan's thoughts on traditional warm-ups in BJJ classes37:00 - Structuring effective martial arts curriculums with movement principles48:00 - Living in Japan: cultural insights and training culture shifts56:00 - How to find Ryan online and incorporate his movement practicesLearn more about and connect with Ryan here:IG: https://www.instagram.com/gmbfitness/YT: https://www.youtube.com/@gmbfitInterested in working with GrowJitsu?If you're looking to grow your BJJ Academy and are tired of churn and burn marketing agencies. Book a free BJJ Growth Plan Call: https://growjitsu.com/call
• Ep. 112.5 - 10 Years of Academy Owneship - The FULL Episode with - CJ Hollet 21.05.2026 40min

  We had technical difficulties on the previous recording so this is a NEW recording and the full episode.Most BJJ academy owners burn out somewhere between year 3 and year 7. Not because the jiu jitsu is hard — because the people part is. The communication, the boundary-setting, losing core members, staying in one piece, knowing who to let through the door.Heads up: this is a shorter episode — we ran into some technical difficulties partway through the recording, but the conversation was too good to shelve.In this episode of The Business of Jiu Jitsu, JP Levesque sits down with his own professor, CJ Hollett, who just crossed the 10-year mark running his BJJ academy. CJ breaks down what actually keeps an academy owner in the game a decade in, how jiu jitsu training methodology has evolved over the past 10 years (and where the "let them work" mentality came from), how to coach white belts and women so they don't quit, and the #1 attribute every great BJJ coach needs.The conversation also gets into the personality side of running an academy — why some people probably shouldn't be coaches at all, why patience and communication matter more than technique when it comes to retention, what CJ would tell himself 10 years ago about losing core members, how to pick your rolls and keep your body in one piece as an owner on the mat every day, and the red flags students should watch for when picking a jiu jitsu academy.If you run a BJJ academy, are thinking about opening one, or want an honest look at what a full decade of academy ownership actually feels like — this one's for you.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 – Intro: 10 years in the game with CJ Hollett01:00 – What keeps you going a decade later02:30 – How jiu jitsu training has evolved04:30 – The rise of the "let them work" mentality05:55 – Coaching white belts so they don't quit08:20 – The #1 attribute of a great coach10:20 – Why some people shouldn't be coaches at all11:50 – Proudest moments after 10 years of ownership12:40 – How to keep your body in one piece as an owner15:00 – Red flags in an academy17:20 – Green flags of a good academy19:00 – What CJ would tell himself 10 years ago21:30 – Why losing a core member never stops hurting22:30 – Advice for anyone opening an academy today25:00 – Who actually sticks with it long-term28:00 – Belt promotions and how to structure them34:30 – Teaching structure: curriculum vs. organic37:00 – Merch, gis, and not forcing students to buy yours39:00 – How to make a new student feel like part of the teamWant help applying this to your academy? Book a free BJJ Growth Plan Call: https://growjitsu.com/call
• Ep. 112 - 10 Years of BJJ Academy Ownership with CJ Hollett 14.05.2026 15min

  Most BJJ academy owners burn out somewhere between year 3 and year 7. Not because the jiu jitsu is hard — because the people part is. The communication, the boundary-setting, losing core members, staying in one piece, knowing who to let through the door.Heads up: this is a shorter episode — we ran into some technical difficulties partway through the recording, but the conversation was too good to shelve.In this episode of The Business of Jiu Jitsu, JP Levesque sits down with his own professor, CJ Hollett, who just crossed the 10-year mark running his BJJ academy. CJ breaks down what actually keeps an academy owner in the game a decade in, how jiu jitsu training methodology has evolved over the past 10 years (and where the "let them work" mentality came from), how to coach white belts and women so they don't quit, and the #1 attribute every great BJJ coach needs.The conversation also gets into the personality side of running an academy — why some people probably shouldn't be coaches at all, why patience and communication matter more than technique when it comes to retention, what CJ would tell himself 10 years ago about losing core members, how to pick your rolls and keep your body in one piece as an owner on the mat every day, and the red flags students should watch for when picking a jiu jitsu academy.If you run a BJJ academy, are thinking about opening one, or want an honest look at what a full decade of academy ownership actually feels like — this one's for you.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 – Intro: 10 years in the game with CJ Hollett01:00 – What keeps you going a decade later02:30 – How jiu jitsu training has evolved04:30 – The rise of the "let them work" mentality05:55 – Coaching white belts so they don't quit08:20 – The #1 attribute of a great coach10:20 – Why some people shouldn't be coaches at all11:50 – Proudest moments after 10 years of ownership12:40 – How to keep your body in one piece as an owner15:00 – Red flags in an academy17:20 – Green flags of a good academy19:00 – What CJ would tell himself 10 years ago21:30 – Why losing a core member never stops hurting22:30 – Advice for anyone opening an academy today25:00 – Who actually sticks with it long-term28:00 – Belt promotions and how to structure them34:30 – Teaching structure: curriculum vs. organic37:00 – Merch, gis, and not forcing students to buy yours39:00 – How to make a new student feel like part of the teamWant help applying this to your academy? Book a free BJJ Growth Plan Call: https://growjitsu.com/call
• Ep. 111 - The 7 levels of marketing for BJJ Gyms and how to get to the final boss! 30.04.2026 36min

  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
• Ep. 110 - Should you care about AI as a BJJ Academy Owner? 23.04.2026 36min

  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
• Ep. 109 - Why Paid Ads Don't Work For Most BJJ Academies 16.04.2026 27min

  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
• Ep. 108 - Who to hire first, when to fire, and how to build a great team. 09.04.2026 24min

  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
• Ep. 107 - The two most important growth levers for BJJ gyms 30.03.2026 17min

  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
• Ep. 106 - Stop Guessing: How to Use Your Gym’s Numbers to Grow 19.03.2026 40min

  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
• Ep. 105 - Mark Millare - Hart Jiu Jitsu - How to make social media content that doesn't suck for your BJJ Gym 13.03.2026 42min

  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
• Ep. 104 - The Essential Weekly Activities for BJJ Academy Owners 06.03.2026 31min

  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
• Ep. 103 - Jason Khalips - Embracing your BJJ Gym as a Business 27.02.2026 46min

  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
• Ep. 102 - Best Practices for BJJ Gyms 20.02.2026 22min

  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
• Ep. 101 - Marketing 101 for Jiu Jitsu Academy Owners 12.02.2026 24min

  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
• Ep. 100 - 10 hot button issues for BJJ academies that just keep coming up 06.02.2026 31min

  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.
• Ep. 99 - The best season to add students to your BJJ gym is here. 30.01.2026 26min

  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)
• Ep. 98 - The Top 10 Mistakes BJJ Academy Owners Make 23.01.2026 20min

  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
• Ep. 97 - The 4 levels of mastery in Jiu Jitsu academy ownership 15.01.2026 34min

  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
• Ep. 96 - Andrew Green - How to run a successful kids program in 2026. 09.01.2026 48min

  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
• Ep. 95 - Build a new BJJ academy fast with pre-sale offers 01.01.2026 33min

  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.