Today we’d like to introduce you to Sam Joseph.
Sam, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I had spent the previous 10 plus years in sales management for a top telecom company. At the same time, I was still training and actively competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. One day, while discussing career options, my brother Derek Kaivani challenged me to think about “doing something I could be great at that I would love”. A couple of months later, I quit my job and rented out the space that is now Buckhead Jiu-Jitsu with no students. Almost 4 years later, we are a thriving academy where a diverse group of people with a variety of goals have formed a special community. Men, women and children all come to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and participate as hobbyists, athletes and serious competitors.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The main struggles were in the first 2 years as I started from scratch…no students and empty classes! I had given up a lucrative career and started from the bottom. My brother, Paul Creighton (owner of Creighton MMA in Suwanee, GA), literally talked to and encouraged me every night as 15 years ago, he walked the same path and now runs an incredible academy. I also had the active support of my mother (Vel Pierre), brother and his wife (Jean and Tracy Joseph)…without all these people and other friends, I would not have made it past the first 18-24 months. Starting something brand new, while richly rewarding, can be incredibly draining and terrifying! My faith, family and friends kept me going when all the tangible signs told me to “go back”!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Buckhead Jiu-Jitsu story. Tell us more about the business.
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (bjj) and Group Personal Training programs for men/women of all fitness levels in a fun, positive and safe environment! What we are most proud of is the environment and community we have created. There is a place for everyone and anyone at Buckhead JJ: from hobbyist to serious athlete, from casual practitioner to active competitor.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe in “luck”. 🙂 I believe in faith and blessings and I thank God that I get to do something I love with a great group of people!
Pricing:
- We offer 3 FREE trial classes (Intro to BJJ) to anyone potentially interested in BJJ!
Contact Info:
- Address: 2144 HIlls Ave, Suite C
Atlanta, Georgia - Website: www.buckheadjj.com
- Phone: 678 515 0472
- Email: sam@buckheadjj.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/buckheadjj
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/buckheadjj
Image Credit:
Kenneth Yeung
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