Martial Arts Wealth Mastery Reviews & Testimonials

“My student, Stephen Oliver is the new generation of leaders in the Martial Arts Industry. It’s important to me to have him on my Team to really continue developing my business.”
— Jhoon Rhee, Father of American Tae Kwon Do

“I know of no other martial arts professional who has more business experience and knowledge of how to maximize profits in the martial arts.”
— Don “The Dragon” Wilson, World Kickboxing Champion, actor/producer (Facebook review)

“A work of quality… thoughtful, practical, smart and an invaluable guide for anyone seeking success and not only financially. Your book should be a text in every MBA program.”
— Walter Anderson, Retired Chairman, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, Parade Magazine

“I have known and worked with Stephen Oliver for many years and personally witnessed the profound impact he has on individual Martial Arts School owners, and on the industry as a whole. Maybe viewed by some as heretic, and by others as the deliverer of inconvenient, uncomfortable truths, it is undeniable that, with the school owners who have been mindset ready, he has brought a tested, proven, thorough business growth blueprint. And not just revenue growth, but growth in the owner’s pride and satisfaction with the way the greater income is created.”
— Dan Kennedy, Marketing Strategist, Entrepreneur, Famous Author of the “No B.S.” book series

“Stephen Oliver knows the martial arts profession as well as anyone. He brings an amazing intellect and a unique perspective honed from years in the trenches.”
— Dave Kovar, Founder, Kovar’s Satori Academy (LinkedIn recommendation)

“Stephen Oliver is a unique force in our field of martial arts… his methods, when applied, insure the success of his clients.”
— Joe Corley, PKA co-founder; promoter, Battle of Atlanta (LinkedIn recommendation)

“I’ve personally helped hundreds of BJJ and MMA school owners build 6- and 7-figure schools, and I can tell you without hesitation — Stephen’s material is some of the most sound, reliable business and teaching methodology in the martial arts industry.”
— Lloyd Irvin, BJJ/MMA coaching legend

“My friend Stephen Oliver is one such master who has invested years to build and test his program for creating martial arts school success. Get his book and study it.”
— Stephen K. Hayes, Black Belt Hall of Fame; founder, To-Shin Do; author of 20 books

“When it comes to combining martial art marketing genius with the latest technologies, Stephen Oliver is the proven authority.”
— Keith Hafner, Most Profitable Single-School Operator in the U.S.; EFC Hall of Fame

“I believe Steve to be the premier martial arts school business adviser in the world today. He is someone I trust explicitly.”
— Mike McCoy, Co-promoter, the U.S. Open; NASKA President

“Stephen Oliver is the ‘Maverick of Martial Arts’. His book is inspirational!”
— Bill Clark, Industry pioneer

“I’ve known Stephen Oliver for over 40 years. He’s now the ‘Go To’ expert for veterans like myself as well as the ‘Young Guns’ in the top 1% of school owners.”
— Pat Worley, 10th Degree Black Belt; founder, USA Karate

“One of the nation’s most respected authorities on the ownership, management and promotion of martial arts schools.”
— John Worley, National Karate Schools; co-promoter, Diamond Nationals (LinkedIn recommendation)

“You can be the best instructor in the world but that does not mean you will be a great school owner. With this man’s expertise and help, I know I am well on my way to joining him in the top 1%.”
— John Chung, Legendary World Forms Champion

“Extraordinary Teaching captures the depth of that knowledge and shows exactly how true mastery on the mat translates into mastery in the classroom and the business.”
— Troy Dorsey, 8-Time World Kickboxing & Boxing Champion

“Oliver and Smith have cracked the code that has eluded our industry for generations… a blueprint for building institutions that forge genuine leaders while ensuring your school thrives for decades.”
— Dr. Robert Goldman, MD, PhD, DO, FAASP, Co-founder, World Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine; 9th Degree Black Belt

“For the first time, there is a comprehensive guide designed specifically for serious martial arts school owners… a proven, step-by-step system.”
— Gerard Robbins, 9th Dan; founder, Official Taekwondo Hall of Fame

“An invaluable resource for school operators and educators alike. The perfect synergy between sound business practices and martial excellence.”
— Cezar Borkowski, Founder, Northern Karate Schools — Canada’s largest multi-dojo organization

“Long recognized as one of the sharpest marketers in the industry… while the rest of the industry is just discovering the web, he has already written a book on it.”
— John Graden, Founder, NAPMA and the Martial Arts Teachers’ Association (MATA)

“Not only was it educational and motivating, it was truly inspiring. As for the school owner in me, the knowledge was priceless.”
— Frank Silverman, MAIA and MA Success Magazine; owner of five schools

“Stephen was my mentor in the late 80’s and helped me take a brand new martial art school, enroll 180 students in 90 days, open 4 schools and gross over $1 million in 18 months.”
— Terry Bryan, President, Black Belt Investor (LinkedIn recommendation)

“He has become one of the top thought leaders in the world for the business of martial arts. Lots of people have come and gone… Stephen Oliver is still there leading the industry!”
— Andrew Wood, Founder, Legendary Marketing; author of 70+ books (LinkedIn recommendation)

“If you’re in the martial arts world, you know Stephen Oliver’s name — and if you don’t, you should. I’ve been attending his seminars since I was a teenager. Stephen Oliver is a well-respected martial arts school owner, entrepreneur, consultant, and coach.”
— Matthew Brenner, Host, Black Belt Business Podcast; CEO, Double Your Dojo

“There are few people in our industry today that have the educational background and the practical experience that Steve does. He’s also way, way ahead of his time.”
— Tom Callos, Martial arts industry educator

“I’ve written extensively on the subject of the business of teaching martial arts, both through my blog and in books such as The Best of Martial Arts Business Daily. So, I know something about the martial arts industry and what instructors need to know to succeed.

The thing is, so often in this industry we’re told that you have to do things a certain way in order to be a successful studio owner. Yet, a lot of what Oliver says flies in the face of the status quo. I like that, and I appreciate the fact that he shares his experiences so candidly here. With all the ‘experts’ who are now offering books, coaching, and seminars on martial arts business management, you could do much worse than to have Stephen Oliver giving you advice.”
— Mike Massie, Author, Small Dojo Big Profits

“Most books on martial arts business stop at marketing and enrollment. Extraordinary Teaching goes where others don’t — into the art and science of retention, leadership, and legacy.”
— Mike Massie, Author, Small Dojo Big Profits

“Stephen’s ideas, strategies and tactics are so powerful he teaches them to other business owners. I teach his philosophies to dentists, would you believe.”
— Tony Gedge, Founder, Marketing Pirates of Dentistry (Facebook review)

“A great organization run by people who deeply care about their members.”
— Dave Dee, Speaker and marketing expert (Facebook review)

“He has made many a millionaire… His expertise and knowledge about martial arts businesses is by far the best in the industry. Highest recommendation!”
— Clara E. Minor, CEO, MINORSAN Self-Defense & Fitness

“I’ve known Stephen Oliver and Jeff Smith for more than 30 years… a must-read for any instructor who wants to reignite their passion for teaching.”
— Greg Silva, Martial arts industry leader

“Stephen Oliver is an exceptional human being. Many people have master’s degrees. Many people know how to speak well. Many people may be famous, successful, or wealthy. But that is not what impressed me about Stephen Oliver.

What impressed me was his character. He showed deep respect, dedication, and loyalty. Even with his own responsibilities, speaking engagements, conventions, and travel, he demonstrated the kind of honor and commitment that comes from the heart.

I am not easily impressed by fame, money, or titles. I was impressed by Stephen Oliver because he is an outstanding man — a man of respect, loyalty, and integrity. I am proud to recognize Stephen Oliver as an exceptional man and a true leader in the martial arts.”
— Grand Master Y.K. Kim (Young-kun Kim), Korean-born Taekwondo grandmaster, author, speaker, and entrepreneur; founder of Martial Arts World, AMS (a martial arts billing and consulting company), and Atlas Software — a martial arts school and leadership-development organization, based in Florida.

“Stephen Oliver is a remarkable individual that stands as a true Martial Arts legend, a globally acclaimed mentor, and an industry trailblazer dedicated to nurturing the growth of fellow school owners. He has profoundly impacted the lives of numerous school owners. His unparalleled ability to uplift Martial Arts school owners worldwide is truly awe-inspiring.”
— Tracy Lee Thomas, 8th-Degree Black Belt, Founder of Go2 Karate

“Stephen Oliver is without a doubt one of the most educated martial arts businessmen in America — his ability to identify and simplify the critical success factors involved in running a martial arts school is what makes his marketing seminar the best I’ve seen. Stephen Oliver knows how to make a lot of money teaching martial arts, and school owners can make a fortune doing what he says.”
— Rick Bell, Author and Speaker

“We were truly impressed by the caliber of speakers and the quality of ‘real-life-scenario’ topics presented at your last boot camp. You bring a fresh perspective that simplifies the business of Martial Arts while providing the essential business tools school owners need to succeed in their market.”
— Sean P. Kirby, National Sales Director, ASF International

“I would personally recommend this Bootcamp to anyone and everyone interested. I’m so impressed with your program that you may give out my number if anyone needs a testimonial to make them come to your next event.”
— Tommy Lee, East Coast Martial Arts, SBSS Success Systems

“I learned a tremendous amount at Stephen Oliver’s Ultimate Martial Arts Marketing Bootcamp. I highly encourage you to attend, have a great time, mastermind with some of the best minds in the industry — be challenged to take your school to the next level. By the way, you might just end up being a millionaire.”
— Tim Kovar

“I have worked with Stephen Oliver and his Martial Arts Wealth Mastery for years, and I am always still VERY IMPRESSED with the quality of knowledge, usable strategies, mindset, and practical skills he shares.”
— Lee Milteer, performance and productivity coach

“Coming out of COVID in Seattle, I was down to just $13,000 a month… Today, I’m hitting $100,000 months with 240 active students — and there’s still so much room to grow!”
— Krista Wells, Mercer Island Martial Arts, Mercer Island, WA

“We were running in the low $20,000s per month… Then last month we hit $109,000 in revenue.”
— Scott & Brandi Sullivan, Bam Bam Martial Arts, Houston, TX

“We went from facing closure at $7,500 to building a sustainable $100,000/month business. This program literally saved my career.”
— Jason Purcell, Family Black Belt Academy, Seattle, WA

“After 20 years struggling at $16,000 gross monthly, within six months I skyrocketed to $59,000 (I have the financials to prove it). I’m now consistently over $80,000 a month.”
— Ben Brown, Owner/Head Coach, PHAS3 Muay Thai, Santa Rosa, CA

“When we began, our gross was $25,000 to $30,000. We have grown all the way to $94,000 in February… We grossed $900,000 last year and went from 120 students to almost 300.”
— Sebastian Mejias, Honor & Samurai / TI Martial Arts, Frisco, TX

“When we first joined the group we were averaging about $23 to $25,000 a month… so far this year we’re averaging $110,000 a month.”
— Tim Harrison, TM Martial Arts, Joliet, IL

“COVID cut me in half to $15,000… Within the first year, I doubled to $60,000. Last March, we hit $94,000 in a single month.”
— Stephen Del Castillo, Founder, KMMA Black Belt Leadership Academy, Tampa, FL

“My net income has gone from $22,000 to $200,000+ in a year and a half with the program.”
— David Grout, Karate organization owner

“My first August and September after joining, I enrolled 60 students… I went from $7,000–$8,000 a month to hitting $50,000 this September.”
— Riley Fyfe, Martial arts school owner

“When we first started, my tuition billing was roughly $13,000 a month and we were making about $25,000. Currently, my billing is close to $50,000 and our gross income is close to $75,000.”
— Delfino Candia, America’s Best Karate Center, El Paso, TX

“When we started with Master Oliver’s Wealth Mastery Group we were struggling; now we are on track for $1 million this year.”
— Jan Lappin & Rachel Luton, Middleburg Martial Arts, Jacksonville, FL

“He helped me bring my business from failing to now bringing in over $70,000 a month!”
— Simon Chang, BJJ & Muay Thai academy, Columbus, GA (Facebook review)

“We closed out our renewal blitz at just over $200,000 for the month of December. For the first time in 15 years of school ownership we have more than a hope of an abundantly profitable school.”
— Colby Winkler, Lee’s Champion TaeKwonDo Academy, Mankato, MN (full case study)

“We have gone from 250 students to 330 and our income went from $23K to $30K every month — and this last month, $41K.”
— Brad Wenneberg, Fullerton Martial Arts Academy, Fullerton, CA

“Our monthly was probably around $16,000 to $18,000. Now we’re about $50,000–$55,000 and still climbing. We’ve now become a professional school.”
— John Cantu, South East Texas Martial Arts, Houston, TX

“My normal gross was about $19,000, and that June — the month I actually implemented everything — I did $47,000.”
— Duane Brumitt, Tri-Star Martial Arts Academy, Bradley, IL

“I could talk for days about how your program has changed my business. The price is a drop in the bucket compared to the value.”
— Lloyd Irvin Jr., Lloyd Irvin’s Martial Arts Academy (added $300,000 in 12 months)

“You provided the most impressive representation of Martial Arts success I have ever seen in one place.”
— David Shirley, 8th Degree Black Belt, Villari’s Martial Arts Centers (added $250,000 in 12 months)

“Because of last year’s Bootcamp, my company had a major jump in quality, gross and net.”
— Terry W. Brumley, President, Taekwondo University (added $180,000 in 12 months)

“My own personal school grew from about 40 students to just under 200 in less than two years… Stephen Oliver, in my opinion, is a business and marketing genius.”
— Larry D. Shealy, BS, MBA, Jacksonville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (LinkedIn recommendation)

“Within 5 years we doubled our monthly revenue. And within the last 2 years it has doubled again!”
— Karis Velut, MAW member since 2014

“We were able to add over $10,000 to our monthly billing in a very short period by following the tuition and upgrade strategies.”
— Michael Parella, Master Parella’s ATA, North Kingstown, RI

“We were able to grow past 300 students and finally operate like a professional business… work on the business, not just in it.”
— Mike Gobbi, Professional Martial Arts Academy, Rocky Hill, CT

“If you want to be one of the best (and earn more than the rest) you must be taught by the best. Just enrolled 17 new members in the first 8 days of January.”
— Oliver Drexler, School owner, Germany

“Following their advice I had 50 more leads than usual check out my academy my first month in the program.”
— Hayden Buckner, Academy owner (Google review)

“With the ideas and help of Master Oliver we will likely quadruple our gross at each of four locations. It is truly the difference between feast and famine!”
— Art Mason, Founder, The Peaceful Warriors’ Martial Arts Institute; 6th Dan

“I learned more about teaching and running a school in two days than I had in the previous twenty years. Your knowledge is universal, as evidenced by our success in New Zealand.”
— Grant Buchanan, 6th Degree Black Belt, Mile High Karate Tauranga, New Zealand

“I couldn’t break $30,000–$35,000 a month running my school on my own. Now I’m at $80,000–$82,000 most months, with about 170 students.”
— Heidi Gilbert, Elevate Martial Arts, Woodinville, WA

“They helped me completely restructure my program — a new curriculum, a new schedule, new classes. It’s been an absolute game changer. There is truly nothing this group doesn’t have an answer for.”
— Jeff Kash, Laguna Beach Dojo, Laguna Beach, CA

“We’ve grown from approximately 70 students to about 225, on our way to 300. We’re grossing on average $64,000 a month now — we did almost $750,000 last year, up from about $120,000 when we started.”
— Steve Seme, USA Karate, Rosemont, MN

“I was grossing about $12,000 to $18,000 a month. I decided to join with uncertainty — I was either going to crash and burn or thrive. I got flooded with new students.”
— William Wong, Lincoln Family Martial Arts, Lincoln, CA

“I’m partners with Elite MMA in Houston and we have about 650 students at our main location and 200 at our second location. I really thought I didn’t have enough time to be here this weekend, and what I really got was that it was invaluable — I took the time out to work on the business instead of in the business.”
— Eric Williams, Elite MMA, Houston, TX

“My school has never been stronger. My retention has never been better and my grosses have grown consistently. Stephen Oliver is one of the finest minds in the martial arts business — if you want to make changes to your business, you want to improve, you want to grow, this is absolutely essential. I can’t recommend it more.”
— Shihan Mike Pace, 9th Degree Black Belt, Goshin Ryu Karate

“Stephen Oliver’s Program is the Disney of Martial Arts Business! This program has taught me more in the past 2 years than in the previous decade.”
— Travis Tooke, Team Tooke Mixed Martial Arts, Houston, TX (Facebook review)

“Other than finding my wife, meeting him and deciding to work with him was the best business decision I have ever made.”
— Marty Callahan, Chief Instructor, Shotokan Karate Leadership School, Santa Rosa, CA

“Master Oliver’s depth of knowledge, real life experience and sincere desire for you to succeed makes it an easy choice in a sea of consultants… a person of unwavering INTEGRITY.”
— Geoff Cielo, King Tiger Martial Arts, Virginia Beach, VA (31 years in business)

“In just one year with the program, I gained the business expertise that four years of traditional martial arts training never provided.”
— Paul Gruschow, Rochester Kung Fu & Fitness, Rochester, NY

“I had been in business for 20 years and thought I had it all figured out. I was wrong… His insights on digital marketing are what kept our school thriving and growing.”
— Shane Tassoul, Tassoul’s ATA Martial Arts, Green Bay, WI

“What Stephen Oliver provides is a complete A-to-Z business system… the confidence of knowing we had a proven plan for any challenge.”
— Tracy Lee, Victory Martial Arts, Olive Branch, MS

“Should your school qualify to work with Grandmaster Oliver, do so… you’ll earn back whatever his fee is exponentially.”
— Joseph Preira, Success Martial Arts

“He helped our school to the next level (like ‘The Ivy League of Martial Arts’)… the most expensive school in the area with top quality martial arts.”
— Jae Jo, Martial arts school owner

“Master Oliver has been at the top of this industry for decades and has really given everyone a way to succeed.”
— Richard Hackworth, Owner, American Dragon Martial Arts

“Master Oliver and his team can and will teach you the systems needed to run a high-quality, professional school that is profitable and remains true to your style and culture.”
— Eric Sbarge, The Peaceful Dragon, Charlotte, NC

“They have helped me view myself and my business with fresh eyes and regain the passion and vision for making an enormous impact as a professional martial arts academy.”
— Andre T. Johnson, Quest Martial Arts, South Florida (Facebook review)

“Grand Master Oliver has been a mentor to me for over 27 years. He introduced me to Tony Robbins, Chuck Norris, Grand Master Jhoon Rhee — concepts, networks, and people that have profoundly changed my life.”
— Harrison Snider, School owner; 27-year student (Facebook review)

“He really knows his market and how to take a martial arts business and turn it into sizeable profit… If you are looking for the answer on how to better market and manage your martial arts business, this is your guy!”
— James Murphy, School owner (Facebook review)

“If you want insight into what the top 1% are doing and thinking, listen to Mr. Oliver. He provides the cutting edge of successful martial arts business systems… His information applies to ALL styles of martial art.”
— David Arnebeck, Warrior’s Cove Martial Arts (Facebook review)

“When it comes to teaching martial arts or the business of martial arts, Stephen is the real deal.”
— David Crum, School owner (Facebook review)

“Great opportunity to dramatically increase your bottom line. Very well done seminars and good follow up.”
— Don Willis, School owner (Facebook review)

“You need someone to set the course and throw you the rope. Master Oliver has climbed the mountain many, many times over, and he’ll get you where you want to be.”
— Jeff Bartsch, School owner (Facebook review)

“Master Oliver has ‘been there, done that’ in every aspect of this business! He can tell you what you are doing wrong; what you are doing right; and what you need to do next.”
— Bob Olinghouse, School owner (Facebook review)

“Stephen Oliver is the go to guy in Martial Art Business!”
— Troy Cheatwood, School owner (Facebook review)

“Want to take your business to the next level… this is the guy to work with!”
— Jeff Klaubert, School owner (Facebook review)

“Master Oliver is uniquely positioned to help others be successful in the martial arts business… he helps others gain the knowledge needed to be a success too.”
— Mindi Godfrey, School owner (Facebook review)

“This is exactly why any professional martial artist should be in this group. I’d been cruising in the comfort zone for years — getting here, getting stretched, and seeing what’s truly possible has let us do what we love and get the kind of results that let us live the life we should be living.”
— Nathan Ray, World Karate-Do, North Carolina

“The live events are 100% worth shutting your whole school down for — you get three months’ worth of information in three days. Everyone is incredibly generous with their knowledge and genuinely kind. My advice is simple: just go. It’s invaluable.”
— Sherry Shaoling, Martial Arts Wealth Mastery member

“The live event was fantastic — especially being around all the successful big schools. Being in the room with everyone at that level makes a huge difference.”
— Christian Arias, America’s Best Karate, El Paso, TX

“They don’t always tell you what you want to hear (rarely) — but they always tell you what you need to hear. Stephen Oliver listens to what your goals are and then gives you a clear (simple, rarely easy) path to get there. If you want your students to receive the best possible service you can offer while growing your own financial wealth, this is where you want to be.”
— Amanda Christensen, Martial Arts Wealth member

“Master Oliver has the experience that helped me get my martial arts school in the right direction. With an emphasis on training our students and staff to be successful in life as well as martial arts, and marketing with systems that really work, we have grown every month since joining two years ago. THIS is the right group to learn from.”
— Thomas Wright, Martial Arts Wealth member

“Master Oliver and company have a true wealth of knowledge to impart to those wise enough to listen. If you own a martial arts school and you want to be more successful, these are unquestionably the right people to get you there.”
— James DeGrechie, Martial arts school owner

“Unparalleled coaching and education for the serious martial arts professional.”
— Rob Atalick, Nakkuma Academy

“Unparalleled business master! Thank you for all your help and guidance over the last year and a half.”
— Walter Bergeron, Martial Arts Wealth member

“For the professional martial arts school owner, Stephen’s depth of knowledge and experience make him the undisputed leader.”
— Don Southerton

“Growth happens outside our comfort zone. It’s not easy, but it IS worth it. If you wish to expand the positive impact you’re having in your students’, community’s, and family’s lives, seek out Master Oliver — operations and systems based on doing the greater good for your students and your life.”
— DojoUSA WTC, school owner

“From running multiple schools to maximizing revenue in a single school, Grand Master Oliver’s team will put you on the fast track to success and make your life easier! With 35 years of experience running extremely successful schools, he is the industry expert in every aspect of starting, growing, or reinventing your school. Before making any major decision I check in with him and his team for consultation and guidance — I don’t have to worry about advice from someone with no real-life experience. There’s a lot of crummy advice out there… don’t be fooled!”
— Greg Macy, martial arts school owner

“I’ve been amazed at Master Oliver’s willingness to sit down with me and openly share everything about his program. I highly recommend this to anybody who wants to take it to the next level — Master Oliver will do anything he can to help you be the greatest success you can be.”
— Robert Austin, International Black Belt Academy

“This is probably the best-packed weekend of information you could possibly get. You’ve got the elite — the top echelon of school owners — giving you this information. It’s probably the best thing you could ever do.”
— Mark McCumber, former Oliver school operator

“Master Stephen is a great instructor and his business skills are amazing. He has the tools to take your school to the top.”
— William Hernandez, School owner (Facebook review)

“Some of the best martial arts professionals in the world listen to what this fine sir has to say when he speaks about their business. Keep that in mind when deciding who to take business advice from.”
— Tim Nelson, School owner (Facebook review)

“Embrace the model! There is always something to learn from Stephen Oliver.”
— Clay Worley, School owner (Facebook review)

“Looking for more business and more students? Grandmaster Stephen Oliver is THE MAN!”
— Gilbert René Boutoumou, School owner (Facebook review)

“Over the last 30+ years in the martial arts profession, I have had the good fortune to work with many of top consultants in the industry. Master Oliver and his crew are lightyears ahead of them all. They don’t give theory, they don’t give ideas, the give effective systems to build an outstanding martial arts school that build outstanding students. Disclaimer: It is work! But man it works!”
— Jon Penny, Jon Penny’s Black Belt Academy

“Incredible mentor. The people Master Oliver surrounds you with are truly top notch. I couldn’t ask for a better group to help push us and take us to the next level.”
— Christian Arias, America’s Best Karate, El Paso, Texas

“Grand Master Smith is a martial arts superstar. On top of being one of the best competitors ever, he is also a world-class school owner and business consultant. He has decades of experience and knows how to share it in a productive way.”
— Dave Kovar, Founder, Kovar’s Satori Academy

“I always introduce Jeff as the all-around most accomplished martial artist in the history of martial arts in America. No other person can point to as many excellent results in so many areas as Grand Master Jeff Smith.”
— Joe Corley, CEO, PKA Worldwide

“Jeff is one of the top financial consultants, if not the very best, advising the top martial arts school owners in the nation. Jeff is, without a doubt, the ‘Tony Robbins’ of the financial world of martial arts.”
— Keith Vitali, martial arts champion and author

“He is one of the best fighters and martial arts leaders I have met in my many years of travel. What stood out most is his ability to build strong relationships with his students and his teams of instructors.”
— Chris Casamassa, CEO, Red Dragon

“Being part of the Martial Arts Wealth Mastery program has been one of the best things we’ve ever done. Grand Master Jeff Smith has helped us so much — when we started we were grossing about $15K a month and now we’re working toward $100K a month. Our lives have changed dramatically.”
— Jason Purcell, Owner & Master Instructor, 6th Dan

“Grand Master Jeff Smith is one of the true icons of the martial arts on all levels. He has become a mentor to numerous school owners around the nation, giving his time tirelessly to raise the standards in the industry, and helped many schools weather the storm and keep growing.”
— David Hughes, Master Instructor, Ernie Reyes’ West Coast World Martial Arts

“Jeff Smith is one of the foremost authorities in the martial arts business and management world — a 10th-degree black belt, former world champion kickboxer, and a martial arts pioneer. If you’re looking for a business coach, I highly recommend him.”
— Jessie Bowen, President, American Martial Arts Alliance

“I have worked with Greg Moody for over 15 years and find his work ethic and depth of knowledge to be second to none. Dr. Moody’s knowledge of martial arts, curriculum design, marketing, IT systems, and sales lets him contribute greatly to every project.”
— Rick Abair, Director of Human Resources

“Few martial arts experts are skilled at teaching, and even fewer have the organizational skills to build an effective, sustainable curriculum. Master Moody combines all of these skills to provide best-in-class training. My family and I have studied under him for eight years and grown tremendously. I highly recommend him.”
— Jerry Grula

“Dr. Moody is an amazing listener, teacher, and leader — and he will be part of my thoughts for the rest of my life.”
— Michael Harris, Chief Innovation Officer, GlobalMed

“Greg is passionate about what he does, and he motivates those he works with to feel passionate too. Greg pulls no punches and tells you like it is — which is important when you’re hiring someone to help you with your business.”
— Keith Shoup, Instructor and leadership developer

“Senior Master Greg Moody has always been at the forefront of developing new programs to help people in martial arts. I’ve seen firsthand the impact of his programs on children training at martial arts schools across the country.”
— Sarah Perry, Professor, University of Massachusetts Amherst

“I want to congratulate you on writing a very fine piece of literature that I think will greatly help the martial arts community, as well as other small businesses that might use it… Every page is useful and filled with the ‘do’s and don’ts’… I never knew you could produce a book that was in a format so easy to read, grasp and put into action.”
— Jim Clapp, American Karate Studios, Newark, DE; EFC Board of Directors

“I have finally completed reading your manuscript. Being computer-illiterate I found it quite interesting, to my surprise, and an easy read. The ideas from a marketing stand point are wonderful.”
— David Deaton, NASKA World Tour Promoter, David Deaton Karate Schools

“What an outstanding book, not only for a Karate school, but for any local business that wants to market them self more effectively online. Tons of resources and details that will save hours and lots of dollars.”
— Jonathan Mizel, The Online Marketing Letter

“After more than fifty years in this art, I can say with conviction: this is the finest modern work ever written on building a martial arts school that lasts.”
— Grand Master William Clark, 50+ years in the martial arts (The Leadership Factory)

“His approach to the attendance card alone could save a struggling school thousands of dollars a month. This is not theory. It’s a blueprint.”
— Shihan Marc Pamfilis, Founder, Shihan Marc’s Karate Academy; 50 years teaching (The Leadership Factory)

“A sharp wake-up call for martial arts instructors… essential reading for anyone who wants to teach with heart and excellence and build their school.”
— Marc Sigle, 7th Degree Black Belt; owner, Bushido Esslingen, Germany (Extraordinary Teaching)

“I’ve worked with them for over a decade and trained with them at live events across the United States. I’ve seen first hand how much they care about everyone they work with.”
— Adam Lux, 7th Degree Black Belt, DLux Martial Arts, Detroit, MI

“A remarkable hallmark writing of insights into martial arts leadership. I have used these lessons in my life achievements as a Doctor in Education and Juris Doctor of Law.”
— Lorenzo Trujillo, Ed.D., J.D., Attorney and educator; former Oliver school director

“I have been operating martial arts schools for over 30 years, and I wish I would have read this book back then. Get this book, read it, and apply it. It works.”
— Sascha Williams, School operator, 30+ years (Amazon review)

“Damn! I wish I had written this book! What decent instructor is not going to want to read this?”
— Marty Callahan, Shotokan Karate Leadership School

“I wish this book was available 18 years ago when I opened my first martial arts school. The concepts in Stephen Oliver and Jeff Smith’s ‘Extraordinary Teaching’ completely turned my school around — a clear route to marketing and sales, higher enrollments and long-term commitments, and continuous growth. Whether you are a new or seasoned school owner, you should consider this book indispensable.”
— Master Chuck Vertolli, Yi’s Karate (Amazon review)

“It is a book I require my staff to read in order to learn, think, and act like black belts in business. The staff is more aligned, classes have become more structured, standards have risen, and student and family satisfaction has improved. We are now over 215 active students and our number of students continues to increase every month.”
— Steven Seme, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)

“Candidly, I expected to be irritated. I’ve taught martial arts for 31 years, trained law enforcement from cadet to SWAT, and invested over $100,000 in my own instructor education. I ended up pleased — and a little embarrassed — that I was very wrong. I’ve learned dozens of new things I can do to become a better instructor. This is teaching and student retention on a whole different level than I’ve ever done before.”
— JP, 31-year instructor and law-enforcement trainer (Amazon review)

“I’m a little over double my monthly revenue and have significantly better retention. This book gave me a practical blueprint for growth and retention month over month — how to teach so students stay, build attendance habits and testing rhythm, and develop an instructor bench without burning people out.”
— Halima Kamani, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)

“As the owner of three performing arts academies, I picked up Extraordinary Teaching expecting insights for martial arts schools — but I quickly realized how relevant it is for anyone running a school that works with young people. The principles translate beautifully to music, theater, and other performing arts programs. For owners who care about building something meaningful and sustainable, this book offers a lot of practical ideas.”
— Antonius Bittmann, owner of three performing arts academies (Amazon review)

“For decades Stephen Oliver has been known as the GOAT of martial arts business and marketing. With this book he proves he’s just as brilliant when it comes to the teaching aspect of running a successful martial arts school — both big-picture concepts and implementable steps.”
— Ran Z (Amazon review)

“As a martial arts school owner, the business side often felt like a struggle — that changed when I discovered this book. It’s not just theory; it’s a proven blueprint for success. This book has made a profound impact at our school and business.”
— John Ramirez, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)

“This book is a MUST READ for any serious martial arts school owner. I’ve trained with Master Oliver for decades and there’s nobody who knows how to build a rock-solid school better than him. Do yourself a favor and get this book!”
— James Theros, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)

“Stephen Oliver is a martial artist and business guru. I have every book he has written, and they are filled with tons of practical, usable business insight. I love this book — five stars, pick up your copy today.”
— Nicole Alberigo, host, School Owner Talk podcast (Amazon review)

“This book is now mandatory reading for my staff. It was a complete game changer for both me and my school. I can’t recommend it enough!”
— Michael Corley, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)

“As someone who grew up in Mile High Karate and had the opportunity to know Stephen Oliver as both an instructor, employer, business owner, and mentor, I can tell you first hand he knows what he is talking about. In my 25 years as a part of the Mile High Karate organization, I have experienced first hand the dramatic effects of what Stephen Oliver’s business models can do for new schools and established schools alike. I have seen him walk into schools with 20 students and within weeks have the school flooded with hundreds of new students. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone in the martial arts industry looking to move to the next level.”
— Korey and Sara Stites, Personal Achievement Martial Arts, Wheat Ridge, CO

“I HATE, HATE, HATE it when one of my competitors produces an incredible resource. I read Master Oliver’s The Way of the Mile High Maverick and was blown away by his content, insight and ‘just tell it how it is’ style, complete with facts and figures. This is an absolute MUST read for EVERY Martial Arts School owner out there. I hate to admit it but it is GREAT! Get and read this book NOW!”
— Leigh Childs, The MA Success Guy

“OK, I am blown away with the content of your book. There is so much. I need to study all of it! God Bless You and Thank You. I do not think there is another publication out there that can come close to your book!”
— Keith Joseph Bennett

“If you are a professional martial arts instructor and are fed up and ready to take your school to the next level, there is no other choice but the one. Read his book The Way of The Mile High Maverick and you too will be the top 1%. I lingered in the lower 90% for six years thinking I knew the answer. Thanks to Master Stephen Oliver I learned that you can be the best instructor in the world but that does not mean you will be a great school owner. With this man’s expertise and help, along with this amazing book, I know I am well on my way to joining him in the top 1%. Worth its weight in gold!”
— Adam DiStefano

“Stephen Oliver has set the standard in true Martial Artist professionalism. I have known Mr. Oliver for three decades, and he had my attention when he produced a national tournament, the Mile High NASKA event, but it was behind the scenes that really impressed me. His organizational skills are the standard for the industry. He is my friend and fellow martial artist who will continually be in the eyes of the martial arts community for progressive progress in the business world of martial arts. He is what we say at the Museum: ‘a Professional Maximizer.’”
— Professor Gary Lee, Founder, National Sport Karate Museum, 9th-Dan

“History allows us to take a step back and evaluate the impact of those before us. Stephen Oliver is not only a man who has had his share of battles, but has proven to overcome all obstacles and establish one of the most successful martial arts organizations today. In this new book, he provides a unique way of examining our own history and taking our passion into a more rewarding and even profitable industry. It is not a how-to book, but a book on philosophy and reshaping our mindset to make a successful living on something we love. Stephen doesn’t hold back; he says it like it is, and he provides a series of concepts that will have an immediate and direct effect on school enrollment and a pathway to running a more successful school.”
— Michael Matsuda, President, Martial Arts History Museum

“Master Stephen Oliver is without a doubt one of the martial arts industry leaders in combining martial arts training with tried and true business skills. This book is a must in recommended reading for anyone considering opening up a martial arts school!”
— Master Karen Eden

“Ignorance is not bliss, it’s torture. I didn’t know what I didn’t know. Once I read this book, The Way of the Mile High Maverick, I realized how deep the rabbit hole goes. This book is the tipping point from mediocrity to excellence in Martial Arts business management: comprehensive, thorough and to the point. Beware, a read through means you can no longer use the excuse, ‘I didn’t know.’”
— Peter Johnson, NAPMA Peak Performer; Elite Billy Blanks TaeBo Instructor; Ultimate Black Belt Graduate Team

“Recently went from $18,000 to $110,000+ per month in the last 12 months. When we joined NAPMA about a year and a half ago we were struggling to make a turnover of about $18,000 a month. Since joining your organization, receiving your marketing packages, attending your seminars and most importantly implementing your business systems and ideas, we are now doing well over $110,000.00 turnover a month, with less effort and labour! This is going to be our best month ever! Just as important, the quality of our instructors has drastically improved as well as our student satisfaction. It is a win-win situation! Without the proper marketing and business systems in place you will fail. For any martial arts school who is now struggling, there is something out there besides mere hope; it is called NAPMA!”
— Paul Resnick, Program Director/Instructor, IWKA BV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

“Mr. Oliver gave me about 4 sentences of advice which changed one of my lead strategies tremendously. Instead of getting 20 leads from this activity, now I get 200 plus. By listening to his advice, I received more leads in a week’s time than I have in 4 months.”
— Brad Fantle, President, Tallahassee Taekwondo Academy, Tallahassee, FL

“From 40 students to now, over 1000 students. We have been members of NAPMA since August of 1999 and we have made major progress since the addition of NAPMA’s materials. We have been able to implement messages of the week among our three locations with consistency, thanks to the NAPMA Words of the Week. The video workshops have allowed us to expand our Master’s Training curriculum. I will never forget that we started with only 40 students on a month-to-month basis. We now have approximately 1000 students over our three locations in North Alabama. We would never be where we are now without the help we have received from NAPMA.”
— Kristen Alexander, USA Family Karate, Huntsville, AL

“Over the past thirty years, I’ve studied with some of the best martial arts masters in the world, thinking this would help my school grow, but this was not the case. It was only after I enrolled with NAPMA eight years ago, studied their material, then applied their material each month, that I was able to grow my school to over 600 active students. I’ve been with NAPMA from the very beginning and I can’t thank them enough. A raving fan!”
— Lamon Kersey, Mr. Kersey’s Karate School

“Thanks to NAPMA and the Little Ninjas program we have been able to go out and pursue our passion full time now. We have just opened a 4,000 square foot dojo and have new students enrolling daily. Thanks for the great marketing tools.”
— Chris & Tami Sprague, Personal Development Institute, Inc., Lincoln, IL

“From 70 students to 321 and holding STRONG! My time with you has been nothing short of great. The info packs that you send out every month have been excellent. I’ve gotten so many great ideas from you, and implementing them has put my school in the lead; my competition doesn’t have a chance the way they are currently doing things. I have gone from a school of approximately 70 to a school of 321 and holding strong and expanding to a larger facility, doing all this out of a 1,000 sq. foot dojo. I used to charge $35 per month; now, after dramatically raising my prices, I have people charging a lot less a half a mile away and we are still 4 times bigger. So thank you NAPMA.”
— Frank Monea, Chief Instructor, Kempo Karate, Australia

“1,500 students, 1.5 million gross, net $400,000.00, the folks at NAPMA have helped me quite a bit! My days seem to run together lately as we continue our growth. The schools are running great and I’m busier than ever. Honestly, I’m not 100% sure how many students we have, maybe it’s 1,500? My primary focus is on the dollars generated and the bottom line, which keeps getting better. It looks like we’ll gross around $1.5 million and net about 30%. It’s truly unbelievable how awesome it is to be in this business. I could have never imagined the kind of success I’ve experienced over the last ten years, and the folks at NAPMA have helped me quite a bit.”
— John Bussard, Bussard Karate

“My student base went from 83 to more than 450 students in less than 9 months! NAPMA has set me free from headaches. Each month its new ideas and marketing materials take away all the guesswork. With NAPMA, my student base went from 83 students to more than 450 students in less than 9 months. NAPMA showed me the way. It’s simple: follow the NAPMA guidelines, do a little cut and paste and you’re on your way. Now I spend my time doing what I like to do and do best, teach. Experience the difference: NAPMA speaks the truth.”
— Bruce Drago, Drago’s Karate, Reading, PA

“We grew over 100 students from scratch over the first summer we opened and are now approaching 300 active martial arts students (284 today). I left a very lucrative position as a Microsoft Executive to dedicate myself to martial arts. This is a career I hope to enjoy the rest of my life. We opened our doors in April 2002 with 1600 square feet. By January 1, 2003 we had to double our space. NAPMA membership has contributed significantly to our success here by showing us things that work, things that don’t work, and generally stimulating our thought processes. NAPMA is my primary source for business management issues.”
— Joe Turner, Chief Instructor & President, Turners Martial Arts Studios

“My name is Korbett Miller and I own Miller’s Martial Arts Academy in Kirkland, WA. I recently got back with NAPMA after a couple year break. I really like what you bring to the table. NAPMA was the reason why my school grew to 300 students. The new format is great for giving really solid advice.”
— Korbett Miller, Miller’s Martial Arts Academy, Kirkland, WA

“I’ve gone from my daytime job to Martial Arts FULL TIME! I have been a NAPMA member for three years and love the material. My job as president for the NTFA involves me in trying to help our other 16 affiliate schools grow to a professional level. We recently officially started the NAPMA Little Ninjas program and it has been fantastic; I went from five ninjas to currently 40 in just three months of running the program according to the manual. Over the past three years I have slowly made the transition from working a full-time sales job while running two clubs to just doing Martial Arts full-time. With the help of NAPMA I have been able to do this.”
— Joey Perry, Joey Perry’s Martial Arts Academy, Jonesboro, AR

“I reached our goal of 350 active students. I would be remiss if I did not send a BIG thank you to the NAPMA organization. I have been a NAPMA member for ten years and have not regretted one moment of it. NAPMA has been the industry leader when it comes to innovation and change. The audio and video/multimedia package that I receive as a member each month has been without a doubt the greatest benefit of being a NAPMA member. Through our membership with NAPMA we have not only achieved 15 years in the industry, but we also reached our goal of 350 active students! Thank you, NAPMA!”
— Chick Gavitt, Ichiban Karate Studio, Wakefield, RI

“I have just joined NAPMA in Australia and received my start up kit, and I have watched your video and thoroughly enjoyed myself. It is so refreshing to find an organization with the blinkers off! I am so glad I found NAPMA and I just wanted to touch base and say well done!”
— Hugh Burns, Success Self Defense, Brisbane, Australia

“9 1/2 years as a NAPMA member and I still get excited with my packages! I want to congratulate and thank NAPMA for an awesome monthly package in April and May. I know that you have to vary the content since NAPMA members come from different styles and backgrounds, yet you guys catered directly to my interest these last two months with Kathy Long’s reality based self defense and Danny Driggs’ functional training. I’m a student for life and truly appreciate what NAPMA is doing.”
— Julio Anta, Hung Gar Kung Fu Master, Anta’s Fitness and Self Defense

“I personally feel that you and your organization have revolutionized the martial arts industry, and I think being a member of NAPMA is a wonderful value for all school owners. You guys are good. Once again, I just wanted to share my thoughts. Keep up the good work.”
— Lance Farrell, Farrells USA Martial Arts and Fitness

“From less than 50 students, to today I have close to 250. I’ve been a member for several years now. When I first joined NAPMA I had less than 50 students; today I have close to 250! I think NAPMA is a great organization and is a great window into the professional martial arts industry for those of us who live far from the US. The style of martial arts I teach is called Zen-Do Kickboxing. Zen-Do Bahrain is probably the largest school in the Middle East. My membership has been worth every penny. Thank you for making it such a great success.”
— Suhail G. Algosaibi, Head Instructor and Founding Director, Zen-Do Bahrain

“I’ve been a coaching member with Stephen Oliver for about one year now, and the biggest thing I’d like to mention was my fear of getting into the coaching program and thinking, ‘My gosh, it’s not cheap. Am I going to see my return?’ His key is retention, just like in his schools. If he’s going to keep his coaching clients, he’s got to make sure that he’s making you earn some money. And he’s been doing that for us. He’s helped double our gross. It’s really been paying off.”
— Duncan Richardson, Academy of World Tae Kwon Do, Boise, ID

“I am a full-time martial arts instructor and have been teaching on my own for 12 years. I would not have been able to go full-time without the many ideas and motivation I have received from NAPMA. I owe it all to your organization. By contributing to the monthly package, I truly feel I have given something back to the organization I owe so much to.”
— Raffi A. Dederian, Dederian Academy of Martial Arts

“I would have to say that the Little Ninjas Program has probably been the biggest benefit to our school. This is our third year in our area and we have parents begging to get into our program. We always have a waiting list for this. The next biggest benefit would have to be the Random Acts of Kindness program. I have implemented this into the karate kids as part of their Black Belt Training. I also have to say another huge benefit are the brochures and cards to choose from; I use them every day in some way. The posters are awesome too. Thank you, you all are awesome and have helped me to get where I am today.”
— Geer Patrick, Low Country Karate, LLC, 2nd-Degree Black Belt

“If you are not yet a member of NAPMA (National Association of Professional Martial Artists) I highly recommend you become one. They were kind enough to bless me with a sample package of what they have to offer and it’s already been a tremendous help to me. I’m currently organizing a martial arts program for the local community college, and NAPMA will be the first tool I obtain to help me maintain the program once it’s operational.”
— Jason Hunt, Shinja Martial Arts

“From 0 to over 300 students in our first year. We moved to Santa Barbara where we knew one person and opened up a studio. We decided that it would be a good idea to go to the NAPMA convention and pick up a few ideas. What we found were programs that we could use to build and manage our business, an experienced, professional, helpful NAPMA staff, and other successful martial arts business owners that were happy to share their ideas on how to make a business grow. We’ve been in business now for a little over a year, have over 300 students and we’re still growing. For over 30 years I’ve kept my martial arts sword sharp by daily training; now I keep my business sword sharp with NAPMA. We couldn’t have done it without you.”
— Dave Wheaton, President, Hapkido International

“I briefly cancelled my membership to NAPMA but soon realized how big a mistake I had made by canceling. I am now a member once again; I reactivated my membership yesterday. NAPMA helps me to not only increase my profits each time without fail, but also serves as a monthly motivational tool for all areas of my life. I would like to thank the NAPMA team and take this opportunity to congratulate you on a truly excellent service.”
— Danilo Dusoswa, Kerry Region Karate Schools, Ireland

“We doubled our tuition on a monthly basis and more than tripled our cash flow and gross revenue. I own three Tae Kwon Do-based schools and I’ve been working with Master Oliver for about three months. My initial hesitation was not so much whether the investment would be worth it, but whether I could fit it into our cash flow because our schools always had a really strapped budget. But I gathered my courage and took the leap. The first month I got all of the information, the second month I learned about it, and the third month I implemented it. That third month, we doubled our tuition on a monthly basis and more than tripled our cash flow and gross revenue.”
— Scott Manning, S J Manning’s Family Tae Kwon Do, Terre Haute, IN

“Your monthly support materials are worth 10 times what you charge. When my wife and I decided to open a martial arts school, we had practically no business experience. With your monthly business tips, eye-catching ad material, and video support, we’ve grown by leaps and bounds. When we first joined NAPMA, we had approximately 25 students and were teaching in an old television repair shop out of the city limits. We were years ahead in offering cardio karate in this area because we took NAPMA’s advice. We now have a student base of 130, and have recently expanded our school to double the size. This is now our full-time job.”
— Mark Myers, Myers Family Karate Center, LLC, Hammond, LA

“I teach traditional karate-do. I joined the National Association of Professional Martial Artists because their advice made sense and didn’t compromise the integrity of my art or my position as a teacher. NAPMA is about education and raising the standards of professionalism in the martial arts. For a few dollars a day, I’ve hired a prolific team of graphic artists, marketing experts, martial arts business consultants and researchers that have helped me become financially independent and have allowed me to pursue the essence of karate without selling out. If you’re passionate about teaching the martial arts, NAPMA membership is an absolute must.”
— Brad Jones, Brad Jones Karate Do and Fitness Training Centre, Traditional Shotokan Karate, Newmarket, ON, Canada

“You have helped me grow into a successful business with two studios, five recreation centers, over 450 students and 11 instructors. I wanted to express my satisfaction with the NAPMA product and what it has done for my business. For ten years I worked out of recreation centers and sports clubs. NAPMA helped me transition from a part time karate teacher to a full time karate school owner. I have been in business for 17 years and a NAPMA member for the past nine years, and I can proudly report that you have helped me grow into a successful business with two studios, five recreation centers, over 450 students and 11 instructors.”
— Ken Klotz, Klotz Institute of Karate

“Since 1997 NAPMA has had a tremendous impact on how we run our martial arts business. They have given us many tools to implement. In turn, this has helped us to elevate the professionalism of our staff, the amount of students we teach, and the quality of the programs we offer. Now in our 10th year of operation we have over 550 active members and seven satellite locations. Thank you NAPMA!”
— Steve Stewart, SSMMA Family Fitness Center, Canada

“I think the meeting was fantastic. I have been to many seminars and meetings over the years and I must say this one tops them all! I received lots of information from the group and feel I walked away with a group of new friends. I am very impressed with your wealth of knowledge. I can see this year being our best in terms of organizing the office, profit increases and improving the student service. I walked away with a ton of questions and ideas. Now I just have to prioritize all of them and put a plan together to implement.”
— Chuck Crone, Master Instructor, Crone’s Tae Kwon Do School

“I gained 100 students in 100 days, I now have 400 students! My NAPMA membership has influenced my business enough that it changed my standard of living. Seven years ago I received my NAPMA package announcing a new program, Fitness Kickboxing. I followed the video, instructions and marketing ideas. I launched my program and gained 100 students in 100 days. My program grew to 400 students and is at that level today! I would like to thank NAPMA for providing me with the information, marketing tools, education and programs that took my school from 150 students to 600 students. I’ve looked at many so-called marketing packages throughout the years and none compare with the content of the NAPMA package.”
— Charlie Foxman, Midwest Martial Arts

“From 3 students to 123 paying students. I would like to thank you for all the support that NAPMA has given me and is still giving me. I brought my school from three students to 123 paying students in less than a year, without a sign on the outside of the school, with no advertising, and no money to do so. I couldn’t have done it without the coaching of your great organization. I was a National Champion, but I didn’t know how to pass my knowledge to the students, and thanks to NAPMA I learned how to be an effective instructor.”
— Hender Alvarado, Gold Hender Martial Arts

“Grew to over 300 students. The best thing about NAPMA is that it has helped me realize the value of martial arts training. It was over 10 years ago that I quit my full time job in nursing to open my school. I’m glad I was insightful enough to join NAPMA six months before I even opened the doors! NAPMA has been there with me from the beginning, from how to choose a location, to systems for tracking enrollments and retention, to special events, and really effective ads. But best of all, NAPMA encouraged me to truly value the character development skills I teach and to price the training accordingly. Without that encouragement, I’m sure I couldn’t be where I am today.”
— Diane Reeve, Owner, Vision Martial Arts Center, Plano, Texas

“After belonging to NAPMA for several years, I decided that I no longer needed the tips, advice, and sounding board that offered me more training, teaching, and administrative ideas than I thought I could ever use. After ending my membership, I continued to receive NAPMA’s Martial Arts Professional Magazine month after month, and finally came to the realization that I needed to get back on the saddle. We recently signed up again and have become so excited that I kick myself for having ever left. Thanks, NAPMA, for being there for us!”
— Jim Sautel, Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts Institute, Colorado

“We were up $10,000 in November and are already up $7,000 in December. I am a diehard NAPMA fan. In the last 12 months, NAPMA has given me and my school ideas and plans that really cannot be fully equated to dollars. We have begun the NAPMA padded weapons program with unbelievable success. We have begun the NAPMA Little Ninjas program and it has been excellent as well. In November we had our first one-day holiday sale ever and grossed over $4,000.00 in retail sales. In my 9 community education schools I implemented portions of the theme-based curriculum with phenomenal success. We were up $10,000.00 in November and are already up $7,000.00 in December for month end, and I have 2 weeks left!”
— Jeff Duncan, Farmington Martial Arts

“I just want to say thanks for contacting me about NAPMA and its benefits. I’ve started applying the marketing ideas and improving some of my programs to benefit the students and the center better. The book is a great source of information and has given me a better understanding of the martial arts industry. I know that joining NAPMA is one of the best investments I have ever made.”
— James Isler, Chief Instructor, American Martial Arts Training Center, Eufaula, AL

“My personal income is well over $100,000.00 per year, and I look forward to coming to work each day! Starting with 60 students and most of their tuition already cashed out, bartered, or late, the school had a gross income of a whopping $6,000 per month! I got to work right away by applying all that I learned from my mentors at NAPMA. The curriculum was revamped to suit the needs of a modern martial art student, and I did not sell out or compromise the integrity of my style. Six months later the school was generating cash flow. Long story short, my school grosses on average $23,651.24, my personal income is well over $100,000.00 per year, and I love what I do! NAPMA has elevated my life to a higher level of growth, development and personal achievement.”
— Daniel Rominski, Olympic Karate Institute

“Before NAPMA I averaged around $150,000 per year; after I joined, my sales went through the roof to over $1,000,000 a year. I first joined NAPMA a few years after I opened my school in Houston, TX, Bear Creek Tae Kwon Do & Kid Fit Sports Camps. Before NAPMA I averaged around $150k per year; after I joined, my sales went through the roof to over $1,000,000 a year, in only a few years. Without NAPMA I would have never reached such a huge goal. Not only did it teach me how to grow, but how to grow it correctly and retain what I had. NAPMA was one of the biggest reasons for my success.”
— Master James T. Stoval, Bear Creek Tae Kwon Do & Kid Fit Sports Camps, Houston, TX

“A great big thank you to the staff at NAPMA for your willingness to help and answer the questions that I might have. After being in business for 26 years we had tried many things over the years to bring in new students, but for one reason or other some of those things weren’t working for us, so we needed to find the little thing that we are not doing right to turn these efforts into successes. The staff have always been helpful in helping me find the little thing that I might be missing. You provide an invaluable service. Keep up the wonderful work!”
— Fred Nicklaus, Martial Arts America, La Crosse, WI

“Our enrollment increased by 200 students. I became aware of NAPMA many years ago when I was training at B.C. Yu Martial Arts Center in Ann Arbor, MI. By following NAPMA’s lead, our enrollment increased by 200 students that year. The marketing materials were professional and easy to use and made a big impact on our marketing efforts. Through NAPMA, I learned how to teach exciting classes, how to motivate and inspire, and I learned about the true value of martial arts instructors and how we make such a positive impact on people’s lives. NAPMA gave me the knowledge, experience, support and encouragement to continue to reach success in my school.”
— Pat Cole, Owner and Master Instructor, Cole Martial Arts Center, LLC

“I was honored as BUSINESS MAN OF THE YEAR in a very influential newspaper in our region. I have been a member of NAPMA for a long time, and I have learned a great deal thanks to NAPMA and its core leaders. This past summer I co-organized a fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and through the martial arts and our family based school we were able to raise over 8,000 dollars. We also developed an adopt-a-soldier program that we ran for six months. The reason I am telling you all of this is because I was honored as BUSINESS MAN OF THE YEAR in a very influential newspaper in our region. I want to thank NAPMA for giving me the tools to succeed in my school and in the ways of business.”
— Andrew Stigliano, Owner/Chief Instructor, United Martial Arts Center

“For the wealth of information you get from NAPMA, it makes it well worth the money. I am a 5th-Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, and owner of Hyde Tae Kwon Do Inc. I have been a NAPMA member since 1999. When I first heard of NAPMA, I wasn’t interested in joining; I felt I didn’t need someone to tell me how to run my school. Boy, was I wrong. Since being with NAPMA, I now teach Grappling, Judo and Kickboxing, and I have been certified in CDT. I currently have 16 Black Belts under me and my retention rate is very high. It would be the best business decision you ever make.”
— Master Henry D. Hyde, Owner, Hyde Tae Kwon Do Inc., 5th-Degree Black Belt

“Not only have I been able to QUIT my Security Job of more than 12 years to teach full time, but I have also found that people understand that you get what you pay for. When I opened my school a year ago, my family and I had a dream. A year later, we have 90 students and are grossing over $5,500 a month. Some people said that a Martial Arts School would never be anything but a Part Time Hobby, that if you charge more than $45.00 a month, students will find somewhere cheaper to train. I am proud to say that because of NAPMA, I can finally live my dream, and I have time to spend with my children and wife.”
— Robert Staples, Staples Martial Arts

“I doubled the size of my school in two months, from 123 to 254 active. On January 1, 2002 our active enrollment was 123 students. With the help of NAPMA’s Little Ninjas preschool program and the Ultimate Body Shaping Course, I grew my school to 254 students by the end of February 2002. The momentum continued with 35 new students that March. I went from a 200-student school to a 400-student school since joining with them. I became a member before I even opened the doors to my school and I’m thankful that I did. Without the great new ideas and help from NAPMA I know all this wouldn’t have happened! Thank you NAPMA!”
— Keith Wilkes, Fear Knot Martial Arts

“We’ve become one of the most respected schools in our community, thanks NAPMA. Thanks to our membership in NAPMA, we are exposed to the techniques of the most successful businesses in our industry, allowing us to be the beneficiaries of what they have learned both artistically and financially. I want to extend my gratitude to NAPMA for helping Perfect Balance Martial Arts and Fitness become one of the most respected schools in our community and allowing us to coach, teach Martial Arts and transform lives while living our dreams. The medical profession has the AMA, the legal profession the ABA, and the Martial Artist has NAPMA.”
— Master Al Agon, Perfect Balance Martial Arts and Fitness, Coral Gables, FL

“From having approximately 60 active students to now over 200 active students, and still growing! NAPMA has been a great source of strength for my school and myself. The Annual World Conference has always left my wife and myself hungering for more of what NAPMA has to offer. We became NAPMA members after being members of another organization for many years, during which our school would climb a little and then sink back down. Since joining NAPMA we have left our old location of approximately 1,000 sq. feet and opened up in a prime new location with 3,000 sq. feet. From almost Day 1 with NAPMA we have always felt like we were part of a family.”
— Robert M. Chester, East Coast Martial Arts Center, Groton, CT

“My school has brought in more than a million dollars because of NAPMA. NAPMA has had a very positive influence on my school. It has provided my school with resources for good advertising and marketing strategies. In particular, it has helped both our children’s and Cardio-Kickboxing programs to grow tremendously. I would say that my school has brought in more than a million dollars because of NAPMA’s supplements. NAPMA has taught me that you do not have to have a big school or chain of schools to be successful. NAPMA helps schools to form a strong management foundation. These supplements, if used properly, increase your chances of becoming a highly successful school.”
— Sam An, Rockford Academy of Tae Kwon Do, Rockford, IL

“From 60 students to 180, and my dream house thanks to NAPMA. Two years ago, I decided to start teaching karate on my own and I joined NAPMA. I started with 60 students, teaching for the Stratford Recreation Dept. Since then, I started two more programs. I now have my own business teaching full-time and have 180 quality students! I bought my dream house six months ago and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. I use many of the drills and business and marketing ideas that I get from my NAPMA packages every month. My business is growing faster than I ever imagined! Thanks NAPMA for helping me become a professional martial arts instructor.”
— Chris Sansonetti, Stratford Rec. Karate, Milford, CT

“The NAPMA kits you send out monthly are a godsend to schools both small and large. I wanted to drop you a line to tell you what a fantastic job you and your staff have done to renew my faith and interest in NAPMA. I am a direct response marketer and dojo owner and have for the last eight years helped to produce a perennial top ten infomercial. I have never held much faith in print, but to be honest, your creative staff have, month in and month out, created emotive copy and striking graphics that have changed my whole perspective on print advertising. Your audio CD series is innovative and informative and the rest of the package is top notch as well.”
— Grandmaster Kevin Huunjin Cullen

“From part time hobby to full time enjoyment! I opened my first studio at the age of 21. My vision was to teach martial arts as a hobby while I pursued a career in law enforcement. I never realized that martial arts could be a serious profession, let alone a profitable one. When I connected with the people at NAPMA, I learned that becoming a professional martial arts studio owner was more than just a daydream. They taught me how to run a professional studio, integrate new and exciting programs, and turn my vision into reality. My vision has changed, my studio has grown and my way of life has improved dramatically.”
— Shane G. Weaver, Senior Instructor/Owner, Red Griffin Martial Arts Studio, Canada

“From running a school part time to become a full time martial artist! I was one of NAPMA’s original members in ’95. At that time I was a part-time martial artist with lots of talent and no business sense. Since then I have learned so much from my relationship with NAPMA that I have gone from running a school part time to become a full time martial artist! As the years went by NAPMA gave me a vision, and through the seminars of Joe Lewis and Ernie Reyes and others I developed the confidence to go out and JUST DO IT. At this point I am doing better than I ever have before. I have taken this knowledge and mentored many of my students, and as a result five schools have spawned from this inspiration.”
— Mike Fillmore, Ultimate Challenge TaeKwonDo / Ultimate Force Martial Arts, Stafford, TX

“I’m from Unlimited Success in Allen, Texas, and the reason I joined the Martial Arts Wealth group was to help myself promote my school more effectively and to be able to get more students and up my student body. What I’ve taken away from this weekend is to better market my school. I want to make sure that I get into more magazines of different levels, not just penny magazines but also higher level magazines. Make sure that I get more lead generation and therefore get the numbers of people coming into my school to make it better. So over the next 90 days: better marketing, better lead generation, double, triple my efforts for that.”
— Mark McGee, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, Allen, TX

“Just wanted to say thank you for all you do for the industry and what I gain from it personally. I know I’m not the most vocal NAPMA member but I still listen to as much as I can and implement as many ideas as I can. The audio from your special Quantum Leap presentation was very inspiring, I LOVED it! You described my former approach to the art of JKD to a tee! I also wanted to commend you for the Brass Balls Factor you displayed in your recent anti-MMA cover story. As usual you’re correct and it was the best expression of my own thoughts I’ve seen. Down here in Miami I’m strategically working on attracting the contrarian remainder in our community through our websites and direct mail reactivation efforts.”
— Dwight Woods, Miami, FL

“NAPMA stands at the forefront of the industry, forging new ways of looking at things and developing new ideas. I have always been motivated more by ethics than by money, and NAPMA has, for the five years in which I have been a member, been honest, forthright, direct and ethical in all its actions. You have never been afraid to speak out where necessary and to break established paradigms in favor of a better way of doing things for the students. NAPMA has always been motivated by what is best for the industry and has consistently provided excellent service to its customers.”
— Dr. Chris Dewey, Starkville Martial Arts Academy

“I am proof that it’s possible to run a successful Martial Arts business, especially in the remotely populated Highlands of Scotland. I joined NAPMA in April 2006 when my organization’s billing company, NEST Management, became the NAPMA UK representative. Unlike the US, the vast majority of Martial Arts schools here in the UK are conducted in sports and community centres, and there are few professional, self-employed Martial Arts instructors. It wasn’t easy in the early days since I had to change our organization from an amateur club and make many syllabus, structure, and billing changes. I would like to publicly thank NAPMA for their assistance in enabling me to make a living from teaching Martial Arts!”
— Kyoshi Neil Hourston, Scottish Kempo Academy, Tain, Scotland

“This weekend has been a great opportunity for me. I always look forward to the opportunity to network with other people in the industry. There’s a lot of stuff going on in the economy right now, but you surround yourself with a group of other people who are committed to making a difference, to still growing their business, to overcoming any kind of challenges in front of you, and a lot of resources for new information. The main thing I want to bring back to our staff and all of our schools is the concept that during the recession, maybe the print ads aren’t working as well as they used to, but the one thing that’s going to always work well is that belly-to-belly, face-to-face contact. That was a good message to hear and a good reminder to take back to my team.”
— Michael Mertens, Master Chongs Taekwondo, Buffalo, New York, 5 Locations, 2,000 Students

“Since joining NAPMA in 1996, my schools have risen to the next level. Running a multi-school operation can be hectic, but fresh ideas and quality support from the entire NAPMA staff has allowed my organization to experience continuous growth. NAPMA has allowed me to compete and be successful in the modern martial arts industry without sacrificing the integrity of my traditional martial arts.”
— Roger A. Jarrett, President and Chief Instructor, USA Martial Arts Federation

“Oh, it was a great experience. You get to rub elbows with some of the top business leaders in the industry and open your mind to new ways of thinking. In today’s economy, your knowledge is going to be very important and I like to gain as much knowledge about the industry as I can. I came away with a lot of great ideas, just the ideas of marketing, retention, staff training, all the vital areas to be successful. It was motivational as well, not just educational. The thing that separates the people that do real well from the people that just get by is that people that do well find out everything they can about the industry. They’ve been there, done it, and that’s the best way to learn.”
— Hilary Sandoval, America’s Best Karate Center, El Paso, TX, 22 Year Veteran Martial Arts School Owner

“I am already seeing the results of the Peak Performers group. I just wanted to thank you for a copy of Think and Grow Rich. It was a pleasant surprise receiving it in the mail. I think it’s a great time to re-read it. May was our best month ever and I am hoping to see even better results in the following months. The information I got off the forum has helped greatly and I am learning from everyone on it. The future is looking great!”
— Sensei Tim Rosanelli, Maximum Impact Karate

“UP 40%! I AM ON TRACK! My enrollment hit 310 yesterday, which was my June 1st goal! I have been blowing past my financial goals. My YTD goal was $215,887; but, in fact, I hit $261,584! That’s 20% over goal! Last year, for the first 5 months, I had made only $185,899, which is 40% growth! For the first time I can remember, students asked to upgrade. I’ve learned that Stephen Oliver and Dan Kennedy were right in their predictions. I raised my prices, increased my volume and closing rates, decreased complaints about money, and students are upgrading into even more expensive programs, even when consumer confidence is supposedly low. WOW!”
— Jonathan Metcalf, Enfield, CT

“I am projecting $1.15 Million. My number is still growing, and I am projecting $1.15 M for this year. NAPMA has been doing lots of changing and improving. NAPMA is always helpful to improve my martial arts school in business and my teaching skills since the first day of joining. The Martial Arts Wealth Meeting has been extremely helpful, and all members are very open minded and eager to work together. Again thank you for your help and all the great work in NAPMA.”
— Jason Yi, NAPMA Martial Arts Wealth Member, Woodbridge, VA

“Stephen Oliver has built the longest running, most successful Martial Arts Business Coaching program of its kind in the industry. He coaches some of the highest grossing and highest net profit martial arts schools in the industry.”
— Master Toby Milroy, Atlas Software

“Well deserved, Grand Master Oliver — we’re so glad to be back at Mile High Karate. My husband received his black belt in 1996, and now my son will get his in about six months. They’re still going strong. Thank you, and congratulations, Sir!”
— Dwayne & Michael Bragg, Mile High Karate Thornton, Westminster, CO

“Congratulations, Grand Master Oliver, on this well-deserved lifetime achievement award. Crossing paths with you years ago and becoming a member of your group was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my school. Thank you, and congratulations.”
— Master Paul Prendergast, 7th-Degree Black Belt, Paul Prendergast Karate, Brick, NJ

“Well deserved, Oliver, Kwan Jang Nim! You and your team provide multiple schools that substantially contribute to the maturing and education of Colorado communities. Since we first met in 1984, you’ve continued to help many martial arts school owners understand what’s necessary to build proper income and financial stability while contributing real service to their communities — myself included, here in Santa Fe, Socorro, Las Cruces, and Las Vegas, NM, Orange County, CA, and Colonial Heights, VA. Thank you for sharing your best with our wonderful industry. Proud of you, Kwan Jang Nim!”
— Daniel Walker, 9th Dan Hapkido, Martial Arts Institute, Santa Fe, NM

“GM Oliver is a pioneer and a true legend. I can think of no one more deserving of such an award. Thank you, Sir, for paving the way for us all!”
— Jeffrey Konich, 4th-Degree Black Belt, Family Martial Arts, Hudson, MA

“Congratulations, Master Oliver! The lessons I learned as a kid from your school stuck with me well into adulthood — and now my husband and son get to learn those same life lessons!”
— Mindy Davis, Mile High Karate, Thornton, CO

“GM Oliver, I’ve been following you for many years. It’s my honor to congratulate you for representing our sport in such an outstanding way.”
— Mick Moore, 6th Dan, American Karate Institute, Victoria, TX

“Congratulations, Sir. This is so well deserved. Your contribution to the growth and success of martial arts and school owners is monumental. Thank you.”
— Jack DeSousa, 7th-Degree Black Belt, Martial Arts Advantage, Centerton, AR

“Congratulations, Grand Master Oliver! Training under you for over 20 years has been a privilege. You’ve built so many people up and helped improve martial arts across the world!”
— Ali Christensen, 3rd-Degree Black Belt, Mile High Karate, Thornton, CO

“Congratulations! Thanks for the opportunity to work with children, to make lifelong friends. Proud to be a Mile High Karate black belt.”
— Cindi Moulton, 2nd-Degree Black Belt, Northglenn, CO

“Grand Master Oliver is a true inspiration, having created an incredible legacy for himself and everyone he has worked with.”
— Blayne Bonfoco, Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Belize