Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in performance training, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Derek Bindner, owner of Bindner Academy, based out of London, UK.

Tell us all about your business...

This is an adventure-based personal growth and self-defense training and coaching community. We teach Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and Fusion Jiu-jitsu to kids as young as 3 to adults as old as 73. We are people of value who add value to others and multiply value to the world.

What's your background and motivation to grow as a business?

Since I was a teenager, I have had an entrepreneurial spirit. It started with lawn cutting and rototilling gardens in my local town. I loved the idea that I could make as much money as I was willing to work for, and the ceiling is endless. However, seeing a Bruce Lee movie on T.V. in 1982 inspired me to do what I do now, since 1997. I love how martial arts transforms individuals into more substantial and better humans.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Surviving the COVID 19 pandemic of 2020 and 2021, with major pivoting and shifting. Teaching martial arts is a very hands-on industry and is most effective and impactful when experienced in person.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?

Leading, and learning/up-dating technology, and making the major and minor decisions every day.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?

  1. Find a mentor that inspires you.
  2. Find a successful business model that you would like to follow.
  3. Don't reinvent the wheel. You will pay a coach/mentor upfront, but it will be worth it. Otherwise, you will continue to pay significantly for your mistakes when you could be moving forward.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Prepare to work hard, long and bright for many years after starting your business, and make sure that it is your passion.

Where can people find you online?

Website: https://www.bindner.academy/
Email: info@bindnerbjj.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bindner-Academy-103469938017791
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bindneracademy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoZoWPdNEzzIiXPlpPDDwvA

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.