The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast

Hosted by Legacy Martial Arts Consulting

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Jul 2026

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Welcome to "The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast," hosted by Nick Castiglia, the CEO of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. This podcast isn't just a platform; it's a mission to inspire and educate aspiring and established martial arts school owners by sharing the remarkable journeys of those who have carved a niche for themselves in this vibrant (and sometimes crazy) industry. Each episode, we dive deep into the heart of martial arts business success, featuring in-depth conversations with successful gym owners, competitors-turned-entrepreneurs, and visionaries who have transformed their passion for martial arts into thriving businesses. Their stories are not just narratives of success but lessons in perseverance, innovation, and the martial spirit. Whether you're a seasoned martial arts school owner or dream of opening your own dojo someday, our podcast offers invaluable insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories of running a martial arts business. Join us as we explore the legacy of martial arts, not just as a sport, but as a way of life and a path to business success. Welcome to the community of martial arts entrepreneurs, where every story shared is a step towards your own legacy.

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15 recent

July 2, 2026Episode 1549 min

Episode #15 - Muzammal Nawaz: The Business of Building Champions

Leadership isn't measured when times are easy—it's defined by how you serve your community when it matters most.In this episode of the Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast, Nick sits down with Muzammal Nawaz, President of WAKO Kickboxing and owner of Bay Area Athletic Club, to discuss the evolution of kickboxing in Canada and what it takes to build a strong, sustainable martial arts organization. From WAKO's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic to the importance of collaboration, transparency, and long-term vision, Muzammal shares valuable insights for school owners and coaches alike.The conversation also explores the future of amateur combat sports, including athlete development, government funding, and the systems needed to elevate martial arts to the level of other nationally recognized sports. Muzammal emphasizes the growing importance of Safe Sport, professional standards, and legal responsibility, offering practical advice for academy owners who want to create safer, stronger, and more successful schools.The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting Don't forget to subscribe and stay connected for more valuable insights and inspiring stories!

June 25, 2026Episode 1448 min

Episode #14 - Dan Uyemura: The Next Evolution of Martial Arts School Ownership

Is the martial arts industry heading into its next major evolution?In this episode of the Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast, Nick Castiglia sits down with Dan Uyemura, CEO of PushPress, to discuss what academy owners can learn from the explosive growth of the CrossFit industry—and why many of the same opportunities and challenges are now emerging in martial arts and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.From student onboarding and retention to culture, operations, and leadership, Dan shares insights gained from working with hundreds of gyms and academy owners across North America. Together, Nick and Dan explore what separates thriving schools from struggling ones, why many academy owners are overlooking critical business systems, and how creating a better student experience can lead to long-term growth.The overarching message is clear: the martial arts industry is maturing, and the schools that combine great instruction with great business systems will be the ones that win. Whether you're a new school owner or an industry veteran, this conversation is packed with practical lessons that can help you build a stronger, more sustainable academy.The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting Don't forget to subscribe and stay connected for more valuable insights and inspiring stories!

June 11, 2026Episode 1344 min

Episode #13 - Chris Mierzwiak: Using Data to Build a Stronger Martial Arts Business

What separates thriving martial arts schools from those that constantly struggle to grow?In this episode of the Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast, we sit down with Chris Mierzwiak—Bellator and Strikeforce veteran, martial arts academy owner, Wodify Partnerships Specialist, and father of two—to discuss how school owners can use data to make smarter business decisions, improve retention, and create a better experience for their students.From identifying the metrics that truly matter to understanding why more leads aren't always the answer, Chris shares practical insights that every martial arts school owner can implement immediately.Whether you own a BJJ academy, Muay Thai gym, MMA school, or traditional martial arts program, this conversation will challenge the way you think about growth and help you build a stronger, more sustainable business.The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting Don't forget to subscribe and stay connected for more valuable insights and inspiring stories!

September 27, 2024Episode 1259 min

Episode #12 - Dan Moroney: From the Backyard to Bravado

In this conversation, Nick Castiglia interviews Dan Moroney, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and owner of Bravado BJJ. They discuss Dan's journey in Jiu-Jitsu, including his early days in Montreal, the founding of Grappling Arts Academy, and the eventual opening of Bravado BJJ. They also touch on Dan's affiliation with Royler Gracie and the importance of mentorship in Jiu-Jitsu. Dan Moroney shares his journey of transitioning from a full-time job to running his own jiu-jitsu academy. He discusses the challenges he faced, including financial struggles and the closure of his brother's academy. Dan emphasizes the importance of staying true to your vision, setting goals, and not taking things personally. He also highlights the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and setting boundaries with students. Dan's words of encouragement for struggling gym owners are to never give up on their dreams and to do whatever it takes to make them a reality.Takeaways:Dan Moroney started his Jiu-Jitsu journey in Montreal and eventually opened Bravado BJJ in Toronto.Dan's brother played a significant role in his Jiu-Jitsu development and was a mentor to him.Dan became the first Canadian black belt under Royler Gracie and has been affiliated with Royler's team for over 20 years.Mentorship and the importance of being a teacher first are key values in Dan's approach to Jiu-Jitsu. Stay true to your vision and don't worry about what others expect of you.Set goals and visualize them to stay focused and motivated.Maintain a work-life balance and prioritize time with your family.Set boundaries with your customers to avoid personal and professional conflicts.Don't sacrifice your integrity and always act with honesty and professionalism.Remember that every student has an expiration date, and it's important to respect that.Don't take things personally and control your ego to avoid hindering your progress.Never give up on your dreams and do whatever it takes to make them a reality.This episode is dedicated in memory of our friend, Sylvain Moroney.The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia and Sam Hattlestad, Entrepreneurs and co-owners of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and Sam. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting Don't forget to subscribe and stay connected for more valuable insights and inspiring stories!

September 13, 2024Episode 1153 min

Episode #11 - Jesse Topp: How Martial Arts Saved My Life

In this conversation, Nick Castiglia and Jesse Topp discuss Jesse's journey in martial arts and how it saved his life. They also delve into the importance of running a martial arts school as a business and the steps to securing financing and investing in real estate. Jesse shares valuable insights on building a team, establishing a network, and finding the right professionals to work with. Jesse Topp shares valuable insights and advice for gym owners looking to build a successful business. He emphasizes the importance of hiring a mentor and surrounding yourself with people who are already achieving what you want to achieve. Jesse also discusses the benefits of leveraging your home to finance your business and the importance of having a solid financial structure. He shares his experience with commercial real estate and the BRRR method (buy, rehab, rent, refinance), as well as the importance of taking care of your personal health and well-being. Jesse's key message is to not let the fear of failure hold you back from pursuing your dreams.Takeaways:Martial arts can have a profound impact on people's lives and can even save them in difficult situations.Running a martial arts school as a business is essential for financial stability and growth.Securing financing and investing in real estate can provide long-term financial security for martial arts school owners.Building a team and establishing a network of professionals is crucial for success in real estate ventures.Finding the right professionals, such as commercial real estate agents and mortgage brokers, is key to navigating the real estate market. Hire a mentor who is already achieving what you want to achieveConsider leveraging your home to finance your businessHave a solid financial structure and consider commercial real estateTake care of your personal health and well-beingDon't let the fear of failure hold you back from pursuing your dreamsThe Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and me. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting Don't forget to subscribe and stay connected for more valuable insights and inspiring stories!

August 30, 2024Episode 1054 min

Episode #10 - Dana Dickeson: Creating a Community and Living the Dream

Dana Dickeson shares his journey in martial arts, from his childhood fascination with action movies to his introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) as a police officer. He recounts his experiences in MMA and the challenges of running a BJJ school in a small area. Dana eventually opens his own gym, Absolute BJJ, and discusses the growth of BJJ in his region. He also mentions his affiliation with Fabio Holanda and the decision to start his own team. Dana Dickeson shares his experience as a martial arts school owner and the lessons he has learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of finding help and building a team, as well as executing ideas without overthinking. He also discusses the success of his gym and the growth of his tournament, East Coast Grappling. Dana advises gym owners to be mindful of their finances, not to overspend on unnecessary gear, and to seek help and guidance from experts in the industry. He encourages gym owners to be brave and take risks, even when they are scared.Takeaways:Dana's interest in martial arts was sparked by action movies of the 80s and 90s.He initially struggled to find a martial art that resonated with him until he discovered Judo and later Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.Dana's journey in martial arts led him to compete in MMA and eventually open his own BJJ gym.Running a BJJ school in a small area presented unique challenges, but Dana persevered and saw the growth of BJJ in his region. Find help and build a team to support your gymExecute ideas without overthinkingBe mindful of your finances and plan for a rainy dayDon't overspend on unnecessary gearSeek help and guidance from experts in the industryBe brave and take risks, even when you are scaredThe Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting

August 16, 2024Episode 952 min

Episode #9 - Brent Fryia: The Evolution of Steel City MMA

Brent Fryia shares his origin story of becoming a gym owner and MMA fighter. He started as a wrestler and had a successful career in university wrestling. After teaching for a while, he saw an ad for an MMA class and joined, eventually turning pro and moving to Asia to compete. When he returned, he found out that the gym he trained at had a falling out, so he decided to open his own gym. Initially, the gym was small and focused on MMA fighters, but it has since evolved to include recreational classes for boxing, kickboxing, and Jiu-Jitsu. Brent emphasizes the importance of the wrestling community and the tight-knit culture it fosters. He also discusses the challenges of running a gym and the need to delegate and invest in software to manage the business. Brent shares his experience of growing his gym and transitioning from being a one-man show to hiring staff. He emphasizes the importance of investing in coaches, creating a place for everyone, and fostering a strong gym culture. He also discusses his groundbreaking partnership with the school board to offer an in-school mixed martial arts program. Brent advises gym owners to respect the art of coaching, avoid making the gym too competition-focused, and prioritize professionalism.Takeaways:Brent Fryia's journey from wrestler to gym owner and MMA fighterThe evolution of his gym from focusing on MMA fighters to including recreational classesThe tight-knit culture and community of the wrestling worldThe challenges of running a gym and the need to delegate and invest in software for management Investing in your coaches and groom potential coaches from within the gymCreate a welcoming environment for all types of members, from recreational to competitiveFoster a strong gym culture and prioritize communityRespect the art of coaching and prioritize professional developmentAvoid making the gym too competition-focused and prioritize inclusivityTreat your gym as a professional business and seek help and guidance when neededThe Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting

July 26, 2024Episode 853 min

Episode #8 - Milena Hrebacka: Mastering Brand Identity

Summary Milena Hrebacka, founder of New Breed Design, discusses the importance of branding and marketing for martial arts schools. She emphasizes the need for a strong brand that reflects the gym's values and resonates with its target demographic. Milena highlights the impact of a well-designed logo and consistent branding across all touchpoints, including social media, signage, merchandise, and the physical gym space. She also stresses the importance of providing a high-quality experience for clients, from the cleanliness of the facility to the professionalism of the staff. Overall, Milena emphasizes the value of investing in professional graphic design and marketing to elevate a martial arts school's brand and attract and retain clients. In this conversation, Milena Hrebacka discusses the importance of branding and design for martial arts gyms. She emphasizes the need for a solid brand identity, a well-designed physical space, and a positive human experience. Milena also advises against using platforms like Fiverr for logo design and highlights the value of investing in professional design services. She shares the top three mistakes to avoid in branding: trying to design your own logo, balking at price points, and breaking what's working for your brand. Milena was a featured speaker at the Legacy School Owners Summit in July.TakeawaysA strong brand that reflects the gym's values and resonates with the target demographic is crucial for martial arts schools.Investing in professional graphic design and marketing pays off in the long run and helps attract and retain clients.Consistent branding across all touchpoints, including social media, signage, merchandise, and the physical gym space, is essential.Providing a high-quality experience for clients, from the cleanliness of the facility to the professionalism of the staff, is key to building trust and loyalty. A solid brand identity, a well-designed physical space, and a positive human experience are crucial for martial arts gyms.Using platforms like Fiverr for logo design can result in generic and unoriginal designs.Investing in professional design services is essential for creating a unique and effective brand.The top three mistakes to avoid in branding are trying to design your own logo, balking at price points, and breaking what's working for your brand.Check out more of Milena Hrebacka and New Breed Design here: https://newbreed.design/The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting

July 12, 2024Episode 71 hr 3 min

Episode #7 - Brendan Rice: Harnessing the Power of Data

SummaryBrendan Rice, CEO of Wodify, discusses the benefits of using Wodify for gym owners and how the software has expanded from serving CrossFit gyms to martial arts schools. He emphasizes the importance of engagement and how tracking attendance and providing additional resources can significantly improve retention rates. Rice also highlights the value of gamification in driving behavior and increasing engagement. He shares data that shows the average monthly value of clients using digital progression tracking is $21 higher than those who don't. Additionally, he suggests that gym owners can increase pricing by showcasing the added value provided by Wodify. In this conversation, Brendan Rice discusses the importance of using data to make informed decisions in running a martial arts school. He highlights the benefits of using custom reporting to track key metrics and how gym owners who actively use custom reporting generate an average of $13,000 more in revenue per month. Rice emphasizes the need for gym owners to invest time in the students who need attention and engagement the most, rather than focusing solely on the most engaged students. He also stresses the importance of embracing technology and being open to change and innovation in order to grow and improve the business. Lastly, Rice encourages gym owners to view their expenses as investments that should have a positive return on investment (ROI) and contribute to the growth of the business.TakeawaysEngagement is key to improving retention rates in fitness businesses.Tracking attendance and providing additional resources can significantly increase engagement.Gamification, such as digital progression tracking, can drive behavior and increase engagement.Gym owners can increase pricing by showcasing the added value provided by software like Wodify. Using data and custom reporting can help gym owners make informed decisions and generate more revenue.Investing time in less engaged students can improve retention and overall business performance.Embracing technology and being open to change and innovation are key to long-term success.Viewing expenses as investments that contribute to business growth can lead to a positive return on investment.The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting

June 24, 2024Episode 61 hr 4 min

Episode #6 - Matt Kwan: Taking Risks and Going All In

SummaryMatt Kwan, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, shares his journey from being a chef to opening his own Jiu Jitsu school. He talks about his passion for teaching and his desire to make a living off of Jiu Jitsu. Matt emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and taking risks to pursue one's dreams. He also discusses the challenges he faced in finding a suitable location for his school and the process of renovating and growing his business. Despite the naysayers, Matt's unwavering belief in himself and Jiu Jitsu has led to his success. In this conversation, Matt Kwan shares his journey of opening and running a martial arts gym. He emphasizes the importance of having a vision and a plan, investing in people, and leading with passion. He advises against neglecting marketing tactics that don't work, neglecting the space, and having a closed mindset. Matt also highlights the value of word-of-mouth marketing, being present in the community, and learning from other gym owners. He encourages aspiring gym owners to believe in themselves and pursue their passion.TakeawaysBelieve in yourself and your abilities to pursue your passionTake risks and go all in on what you loveRegret is a powerful motivator, don't settle for a life you don't wantSurround yourself with supportive people who understand and appreciate your goalsPersistence and hard work are key to success in any endeavor Have a clear vision and a plan to achieve itInvest in people and build strong relationshipsLead with passion and prioritize the art/business over moneyBe selective with marketing tactics and focus on word-of-mouthDon't neglect the space and continuously improve itThink outside the box and be open to new ideasLearn from and collaborate with other gym ownersBelieve in yourself and don't let others discourage youFind More Matt Kwan here:Everyday Jujitsu Podcast: ejjp.showInstagram: @theeverydayjiujitsupodcastTikTok: ejjpodEmail: ejjpod@gmail.com Online academy: onguardbjj.com The Legacy Martial Arts Business Podcast is hosted by Nick Castiglia, owner of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting. Want to get in touch with us? Just visit www.martialartsgymownersunited.com to chat with Nick and the Team. Follow us on our socials and YouTube: Instagram: @legacymaconsulting YouTube: Legacy Martial Arts Consulting Linktree: Legacy Consulting