For a good part of the past twelves years of my training I've had a hand in the creative aspect in some way or another. I started blogging when I was a White Belt. I loved writing and wanted to put a voice to what I was doing, almost opening a window so that others who were considering trying Jiu-Jitsu would be encouraged to do so. I love this sport, Martial Art, and culture.
After getting my Blue Belt I decided to release my first eBook. I thought that there was a space for me to get into. In researching the niche, there weren't that many books geared around being a new student to the culture of Jiu-Jitsu. I will not lie to you and say that I was sure of myself or that it would be successful in any way. Again, I wanted to help people who were new to the culture and needed some guidance.
I made sure of that the Bjj White Belt Handbook: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Thoughts and Processes had nothing to do with technique and everything to do with how a new student could assimilate to the culture fastest. With all the unwritten rules, it can be confusing for someone to navigate.
Having been released in 2014, the eBook currently has 4 out of 5 stars with great reviews.
While I loved writing the book, I'll admit I hated putting it and myself out there. I generally shy away from attention and like to stay in the background whenever possible.
Now almost a decade later, I feel like I've come into my own. I'm far more comfortable in my own skin and feel like I can have opinions that stand their own merits thanks to the experiences that I've had. This past year, I began a campaign to establish more of an online presence through my website and Instagram account adding to what I was already doing with JiuJitsuJournal on Twitter.
With that being said, I recently decided to take on another endeavor. I have never owned or ran a business but felt really passionate about the DawnBreakersBjj idea. I've been teaching the 5a group for almost a year and a half and also taught some 7a classes at San Diego. I personally love the morning groups. The overall vibe and comradery are unlike any other time slot that I've taught.
The idea was triggered by a custom rashguard that the group put together through Retro Grappler, I HIGHLY recommend him and his services. The design has been pretty popular for Retro, so much so that they currently have it on sale again.
After some thought, I decided to push the brand and start selling some shirts and stickers through Etsy. I am by no means looking to get rich, but my goal is to highlight the community of early morning grapplers through the merchandise and our Instagram account. This is a community of hard workers, people with families and jobs, who's responsibilities don't necessarily allow them to train at any other time but early in the morning. There's a special type of grind that's applied when you have to get up and out of bed before the sun is up.
I want to highlight and promote that grind and mindset. So, please send us your promotion and competitions videos and pictures. Send us the techniques that you're working on. We would love to post them and tag you in order to share how hard you're grinding and how amazing this group of students is.
Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will go to my students who want to compete but sometimes find the entrance fees pricy. I want to be able to sponsor those competitors so it's one less thing that they have to worry about.
I love this community and would greatly appreciate any support that anyone could give.
Instagram: DawnBreakersBjj
The Shop: https://dawnbreakersbjj.etsy.com/
Thank you in advance, it is much appreciated.
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