Today we’re sitting down with TJ Brownfield — a lifelong martial artist, a traveling coach, and the man responsible for growing the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu footprint here on the Oregon coast.

Originally from Colorado, TJ spent time moving around with his wife while she served in the military. After retiring from the tech industry, he dove fully into the world of Jiu-Jitsu.. a journey he actually started later in life at age 38.

TJ has been training Jiu-Jitsu for nearly 13 years, with a background that includes Muay Thai, toughman competitions, early competition experience, time training under Matt Arroyo at Gracie Tampa South, and helping build the team under Kevin Gallagher at Gracie Trinity in Florida.

After an ACL tear pushed him from competing into coaching, TJ found his purpose in teaching — and since moving to Oregon, he’s earned his black belt under Kevin and Matt, opened Gracie Coquille and Gracie Coos County, and become a pillar in the local BJJ community.

Today we’re getting into his journey, his mindset, building gyms, and what it’s like to start everything over later in life.