Woooh am I excited to share this one with ya'll.

Rob Ingram, founder of @McDojoLife on instagram,(550K Followers), shares his journey in martial arts and how he started exposing frauds in the industry.

He discusses his experience with bullying and how martial arts helped him gain confidence.

He explains how McDojoLife became a full-time venture and how he monetizes it.

We also talk about the real-life consequences of exposing fraudulent martial arts instructors. He shares a personal experience of being sued for defamation by an instructor who had a registered sex offender at his facility.

The importance of background checks and safety measures in martial arts schools is emphasized, with Matthew highlighting the need for local and federal background checks, cameras, and audio surveillance.

He also discusses the need for measurable standards in the martial arts industry and the importance of running a martial arts school as a business.

The conversation concludes with a reflection on the role and responsibility of martial arts instructors and the impact they can make.

Takeaways

Chapter breakdown

In this episode, discover how to create a HYBRID program for your BJJ or Martial Arts school.

I speak with Brendan, the CEO of Wodify, a software designed to streamline processes for fitness based businesses (Crossfit/ BJJ/ Karate) and take them into the digital world by combining "in person" training resources with easy-to-manage digital training, to create a seamless experience for students.

Wodify makes it easy for martial arts business owners to connect their brick and mortar to the online space- even if they aren't "tech savvy."

Brendan explains how Wodify is digitizing the fitness experience for martial arts schools, including the use of looping videos and in-app chat.

He discusses the company's focus on configuring the software to fit different martial arts and shares insights and data to help gym owners improve their businesses.

Brendan and Matthew talk about the challenges of building a SAAS (software as a service) brand that appeals to multiple verticals.

Matthew shares the difficulties of being a CEO, particularly in attracting and retaining talented individuals. He discusses the importance of developing relationships with employees and communicating the impact of their work.

Key Takeaways

Want to try out Wodify? Black Belt Business listeners get 50% off the first 3 months, visit wodify.com/podcast

Tune in to learn more!

In this inspiring episode, join us as we sit down with Dave Silver, the visionary founder of Rec Philly and a Forbes 30 Under 30 awardee. Rec Philly, a thriving creative community, is dedicated to the belief that "independent doesn't mean alone."

Their mission is clear: to provide creators, musicians, and artists with the essential support and resources they need to monetize their talents and achieve success.

Dave shares his journey as an entrepreneur, discussing the challenges he faced while building a platform that empowers artists and fosters collaboration.

We delve into the core values of Rec Philly and explore how they are shaping the future of the creative industry.

We also discuss what people don't tell you about the hardships of entrepreneurship.

Discover new trails to explore and gain insights into the mind of a young entrepreneur who is changing the game for artists everywhere.

Tune in to this episode for a glimpse into the world of creativity, entrepreneurship, and the beauty of the American wilderness, all in one exciting conversation. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and get inspired by the resilience of the creative spirit.Follow me @blackbeltbrenner1 on instagram

I sit down with Josh Vogel, the co-founder of the Jiu Jitsu Company in Philadelphia and my personal instructor. Discover the intriguing journey that led Josh to leave his former Jiu Jitsu school and take the bold leap into starting his own academy.

In a candid conversation, we dive deep into the world of modern Jiu Jitsu schools, examining the common pitfalls and misconceptions that many academies stumble upon. Josh shares his valuable insights into what it truly takes to create a thriving Jiu Jitsu community and foster a positive learning environment.

But that's not all! We also explore the unique dynamics of running a business alongside his wife, uncovering the challenges, rewards, and secrets to their successful partnership.

And, for a delightful twist, Josh opens up about his unexpected obsession with cats, offering a glimpse into the fascinating intersection of martial arts and feline fascination. You won't want to miss this episode filled with valuable life lessons, business insights, and a charmingly unexpected cat connection!

Questions? DM me @blackbeltbrenner1 on instagram Josh Vogel DM him @theslothresport on instagram

In this episode, your host Matthew Brenner is joined by a true expert in the world of digital marketing, Steve Cassano, the founder and CEO of Bowtie Social. Get ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of marketing as Steve shares his insights, experiences, and expert advice on how to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Steve and Matthew start by exploring the common digital marketing mistakes business owners make. They discuss the pitfalls that can sink your online marketing efforts and how to avoid them. From chasing every new social media trend to neglecting your website's user experience, Steve offers invaluable guidance to keep your business on the right track.

Branding is a buzzword in marketing, but Steve breaks down why it's more than just a trendy concept. He shares stories of how his agency, Bowtie Social, has helped businesses transform their brand presence and why a strong brand is the key to standing out in a crowded digital marketplace.

But it doesn't stop there. Steve and Matthew also delve into the importance of knowing where your target customers congregate online. Discover the tools and strategies to pinpoint the online spaces where your audience hangs out, making your marketing efforts more effective and efficient.

And if you thought this episode was all business, think again. Steve candidly shares a humorous anecdote about a personal experience on how NOT to talk to your wife, showcasing the importance of effective communication skills, which are surprisingly relevant in both personal and professional settings.

Tune in to this episode to gain insights from a seasoned digital marketing pro, learn from his experiences, and discover the strategies that can take your marketing efforts to the next level. Whether you're a business owner looking to enhance your digital presence or a marketing enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won't want to miss. Join us and sharpen your marketing skills with Steve Cassano of Bowtie Social!

In this captivating episode, we sit down with the renowned Dr. Sheena Howard, an award-winning writer and masterful storyteller who's known for her behind-the-scenes work with business executives and billionaires. Dr. Howard peels back the curtain on the world of ghostwriting, offering us an exclusive peek into the minds of some of the most successful people on the planet.

Ever wondered what it takes to craft a compelling narrative that leaves an indelible mark? Dr. Howard shares her invaluable insights on the art of storytelling, drawing from her extensive experience working with high-profile clients. Discover the secrets to capturing the essence of their journeys, visions, and wisdom while maintaining their unique voice.

But that's not all! If you've ever aspired to write a book but find yourself grappling with the complexities of the craft, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Dr. Howard imparts her expertise on improving your writing skills, whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned wordsmith seeking to refine your craft.

As you listen, you'll gain a profound understanding of the power of storytelling and how it can elevate your personal and professional endeavors. Plus, Dr. Howard invites you to explore the world of ghostwriting through her services, making your dream of becoming a published author more attainable than ever.

Tune in and embark on a journey into the world of storytelling, writing, and the remarkable experiences of those who shape our world. Dr. Sheena Howard is your guide to unlocking the true potential of your narrative talents. Don't miss this episode if you're ready to take your storytelling and writing skills to new heights!

In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Rasean, the founder of the renowned boutique gym, The Gym Philly, to delve into the secrets of success when it comes to managing a thriving business and staying in top physical shape.

Join us as we explore the importance of morning and bedtime routines, and how they can set the tone for a productive day. Brandon shares his personal rituals and provides invaluable insights on how you can implement these routines into your life to boost productivity and well-being.

In a lively and entertaining debate, we tackle the age-old question: are expensive sunglasses worth the investment? Brandon and our host share their contrasting opinions, revealing some surprising perspectives on the value of luxury eyewear.

For all the business owners and entrepreneurs out there, Brandon spills the beans on how to get shredded when you're strapped for time. Discover his tips and tricks for squeezing in effective workouts and maintaining a healthy lifestyle while running a business.

Lastly, we dive deep into the world of gym culture. Brandon Rasean sheds light on the challenges and rewards of building a thriving fitness community and shares his vision for creating a gym atmosphere that fosters growth, motivation, and a sense of belonging.

Tune in to gain practical advice on balancing business and fitness, learn the secrets of successful routines, and gain insights into what it takes to build a positive gym culture. Brandon Rasean's journey and wisdom are sure to inspire and motivate you on your own path to success, both in and out of the gym.

I ignored the warnings and took a big risk! I paid $1300 to have a stranger I never met stay at my house for a week.

In this episode, I chat with Stephen Venter & Jake Marconi and tell their stories.

These 2 guys have vastly different backgrounds.

Stephen is a nationally ranked martial arts competitor in South Africa, and Jake is a scientist in a lab who has NEVER trained in martial arts before.

We put them through INTENSE ALL DAY training for 1 week to see if they had what it takes.

Together, they will run a new martial arts school location.

Listen to this episode to discover how it all came together, and how you can do something similar for your business.

Questions?

Email me [email protected]

instagram @blackbeltbrenner1

In this episode of Black Belt Business, join host Matthew Brenner as he sits down with Pete McHugh, the remarkable owner of a million-dollar Jiu Jitsu school.

Prepare to be inspired as Pete shares his extraordinary journey, starting from humble beginnings in a trailer park to building a thriving martial art school.

In the first segment, Pete opens up about his childhood and how martial arts became his escape from the challenges he faced. He highlights the pivotal role played by his mentor, Ricardo Almeida, in shaping his skills and mindset.

Pete delves into a fascinating aspect of his business: the decision to rebrand from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to simply Jiu Jitsu. He explains the reasoning behind this strategic move and the outcomes it brought to his school's positioning and marketing efforts.

Lastly, Pete sheds light on the process of creating a team of high-level instructors. He shares valuable insights on attracting and retaining talented individuals who contribute to the growth and success of his school. Listeners will gain valuable tips and strategies for building a strong team of instructors in their own martial arts schools.

Join Matthew and Pete in this insightful episode as they discuss the trials and triumphs of Pete's journey, highlighting the resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit required to build a thriving martial arts business. Whether you're a martial arts enthusiast or an aspiring business owner, this episode is sure to leave you motivated and inspired to pursue your goals with passion and tenacity.

Meet John,

He's been training in martial arts since he was 5, but he never imagined he would make it into a career.

In this episode you'll discover

- The insane age he started his first school

- How he got seed funding

- How he made $100,000 before graduating college

- The type of "vision casting" that inspired him as a young instructor to open up a school

- How long it took him to become "successful"

- How he leveraged one school into multiple, here's what he's doing next

- Dealing with underperforming employees

- The mindset needed to create a successful business

- Why he was embarrassed telling his girlfriend what he did for a living

- What he did to buy a $480K+ house before his 25th birthday

Questions?

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @blackbeltbrenner1