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/

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.

Summary

In 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.

Takeaways

Everything 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