Many know Chris Kriebel as a teacher at GHS, but many would be surprised to know that he is also a business owner.
It is currently Kriebel’s third year running his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy, where they teach those from age five to adults. His inspiration for starting this business was his lifelong passion for martial arts. He grew up witnessing his father run his own academy, so he was consistently training and working at martial arts academies. He additionally adds that he has been fortunate enough to live in a multitude of places around the world, and believes this resulted in him gaining valuable insights that he is now eager to share with the community in Green.
“I saw a need for a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy here, and combining my passion for martial arts with my interest in business, I felt compelled to bring this art to everyone in the area,” Kriebel said.
Balancing teaching as well as running a business is challenging, but Kriebel is able to make it work by planning his days so that they are as efficient as possible. He starts his days early, offering classes at his academy before heading to the high school to commence a day of teaching. After school, Kriebel makes it a priority to spend an hour at home with his family, before making his way back to his martial arts academy for the evening classes.
“I’m lucky to have a dedicated team of instructors who can cover classes whenever I have school-related obligations. This support system and careful scheduling make it possible to balance both roles successfully,” Kriebel said.
Kriebel does not run this business alone. His wife is the co-owner of this business and Kriebel credits her with being its “key to success”. She is a Certified Public Accountant by trade, bringing a strong understanding of the financial and accounting side of the business.
“We also have other excellent instructors that help make the academy a success,” Kriebel said.
He believes that the business has brought them closer together and it makes the experience that much more rewarding.
For Kriebel, the business means more than just martial arts.
“My favorite part of running this business is seeing everything come together when it’s running smoothly—students are learning, and the academy is growing. Knowing that we’re delivering high-quality training and making a positive impact gives me a great sense of accomplishment,” Kriebel said.
Not only does Kriebel teach jiu jitsu but he also competes himself. This school year alone, Kriebel has competed in New Jersey, New York, Virgina, Toronto, North Carolina, and won in his division in Cleveland. He has set a goal to qualify and compete in the World Championship.
The business also has two functions to support the local community of Green. For Thanksgiving, the business holds a food drive and for Christmas there is a gift card drive for the Family Supports Specialists, who help those throughout our community that are in need.
“Starting and running a business has its challenges, but the opportunity to share what I love with others makes it all worthwhile,” Kriebel said.
Side Bar Q&A:
Q:When did you start your business?-
A: “We are currently in our 3rd year of running the business.”
Q: What’s your favorite age group to teach jiu jitsu? –
A: This is a good question. I would say the little kids 5-7yrs old are pretty fun.
Q: Has competing changed from when you were younger to now? –
A:Yeah for sure. Like any sport the techniques and strategies have evolved. When I first started everyone was pretty good at one thing, but now people are getting good at everything. Also, I didn’t have a child when I started and now I do, so that changes the dynamic as well. I now warm up walking my daughter around.
Q: What’s your favorite part about competing? –
A:When I step on the mat I am completely free, there is nothing on my mind, and then I get an adrenaline rush!
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