Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Speakers

A Brazilian jiu-jitsu speaker is someone who shares insights, stories, and expertise related to the martial art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) in a public speaking format. This could be on a podcast, at a virtual summit, during a corporate workshop, or on a stage at a sports expo.

These speakers typically have a background in BJJ-ranging from competitors and coaches to gym owners and mindset mentors. But their role isn't limited to teaching techniques. They often explore broader themes like discipline, resilience, leadership, and personal growth through the lens of jiu-jitsu.

For example, a speaker like Renzo Gracie might talk about the evolution of BJJ globally, while someone like Nic Gregoriades could focus on the spiritual and philosophical aspects of the practice. Others might dive into how BJJ helps with mental health, stress management, or even business strategy.

In essence, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu speaker acts as a bridge between the martial arts world and a wider audience. They translate the lessons learned on the mat into actionable insights for everyday life, making them valuable contributors to events far beyond the dojo.

Whether they're speaking to athletes, entrepreneurs, or educators, their goal is to inspire, educate, and connect through the powerful medium of storytelling and lived experience in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

When you're curating an event or podcast that aims to deliver real value, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu speaker can bring a unique and often underrepresented perspective. Their importance lies not just in their martial arts expertise, but in the life lessons they extract from it.

First, BJJ is a discipline that demands humility, adaptability, and perseverance. Speakers who come from this world often carry those traits into their talks. They can speak authentically about failure, growth, and the long game-concepts that resonate across industries, from tech startups to education.

Second, Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers often appeal to diverse audiences. For example, a corporate wellness summit might feature a speaker discussing how BJJ improves focus and stress management. A youth leadership event could benefit from a speaker who uses BJJ to teach confidence and self-control.

Third, these speakers often challenge stereotypes. BJJ is practiced by people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. A female black belt speaker from Brazil might share her journey navigating a male-dominated sport, offering insights into gender equity and cultural resilience.

Finally, they bring energy. Whether it's a story about a tournament in Abu Dhabi or a lesson learned from a white belt class, Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers bring a grounded, real-world intensity that audiences find refreshing. Their talks aren't fluff-they're forged from sweat, setbacks, and small victories.

So, if you're looking to add depth, authenticity, and a fresh perspective to your lineup, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu speaker might be exactly what your audience didn't know they needed.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers educate, motivate, and connect with audiences by sharing insights drawn from their experience in the martial art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. But their role goes far beyond technique breakdowns or fight recaps.

They often tailor their talks to specific themes. For example:
- Mindset and resilience. Many speakers focus on how BJJ teaches mental toughness, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
- Leadership and coaching. Gym owners or head instructors might speak about building teams, managing egos, and fostering growth in students.
- Health and wellness. Some highlight the physical and mental health benefits of BJJ, making them ideal for wellness summits or corporate retreats.
- Cultural and social impact. Speakers from underserved communities may discuss how BJJ helped them escape violence or poverty, offering powerful narratives of transformation.

In practical terms, Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers:
- Appear on podcasts, virtual summits, and live panels.
- Deliver keynote speeches or workshops.
- Participate in Q&A sessions, often sharing personal stories and answering technical or philosophical questions.
- Collaborate with hosts to shape content that resonates with specific audiences.

Their impact lies in their ability to translate the lessons of the mat into universal truths. Whether they're speaking to a room full of athletes, executives, or students, Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers bring a grounded, disciplined, and often deeply human perspective that sticks with people long after the event ends.

If you're passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and want to share your insights on stage, podcast, or online summits, becoming a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speaker is a solid path. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- Are you focused on competition strategy, self-defense, mental resilience, or coaching methods?
- Your message should be clear and relevant to your audience. For example, if you're a black belt with a background in law enforcement, your talks might center around real-world application of BJJ.

2. Build Credibility in the BJJ Community.
- Compete in tournaments, teach classes, or publish content.
- Create a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co to showcase your experience, topics, and testimonials.

3. Develop Your Speaking Skills.
- Practice storytelling, timing, and clarity. Consider joining Toastmasters or hiring a coach.
- Record yourself giving short talks and review them critically.

4. Start Small and Local.
- Offer to speak at local gyms, martial arts expos, or community events.
- These early gigs help you refine your message and build a reel.

5. Leverage Online Platforms.
- Apply to speak at virtual summits or podcasts using sites like Talks.co, which connects hosts and guests.
- Share clips of your talks on YouTube, Instagram, or LinkedIn to attract more opportunities.

6. Network with Other Speakers and Event Hosts.
- Attend BJJ events and connect with organizers.
- Reach out to podcast hosts or summit curators in the martial arts and fitness space.

7. Iterate and Expand.
- Gather feedback, refine your delivery, and expand your topics.
- As your brand grows, you can branch into leadership, mindset, or even entrepreneurship in martial arts.

Becoming a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speaker isn't just about belts and medals. It's about translating your experience into value for others. Start where you are, use what you have, and build from there.

To be a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speaker, you need more than just a black belt or a few tournament wins. It's about combining your expertise with communication skills, a clear message, and the right platforms to share it. Here's what it takes:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't have to be a world champion, but you do need real experience. Whether you're a coach, competitor, or long-time practitioner, your insights should come from lived knowledge. Audiences connect with authenticity.

2. A Defined Topic or Angle
What makes your perspective unique? Maybe you specialize in BJJ for women, or you teach adaptive jiu-jitsu for people with disabilities. Having a clear angle helps you stand out and makes it easier for event organizers to book you.

3. Communication Skills
You need to be able to explain complex techniques or philosophies in a way that resonates with your audience. This includes storytelling, pacing, and using analogies that make sense to non-practitioners too.

4. A Speaker Profile
Create a professional speaker page on platforms like Talks.co. Include your bio, topics you cover, past speaking engagements, and a short video reel. This makes it easier for hosts to vet and book you.

5. Tech Readiness for Virtual Events
Many speaking gigs today are online. You'll need a good mic, camera, lighting, and stable internet. If you're doing demos, consider how to film them clearly.

6. A Network
Connections matter. Engage with the BJJ community online and offline. Comment on others' content, attend events, and reach out to podcast hosts or summit organizers.

Being a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speaker is about translating your mat experience into meaningful lessons for others. Whether you're teaching mindset, discipline, or technique, your voice matters when it's backed by clarity and purpose.

Yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and the type of event. Let's break it down:

Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Unpaid gigs: Common for beginners or when speaking at community events, podcasts, or summits where exposure is the main reward.
- Paid gigs: More likely at industry conferences, corporate wellness programs, or as keynote speakers at martial arts expos.

Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience and Recognition: A speaker like John Danaher or Renzo Gracie commands higher fees due to their reputation.
- Event Type: Corporate events or leadership summits often pay more than local gym seminars.
- Format: In-person keynotes typically pay more than online panels or podcast interviews.

Typical Payment Ranges
- Beginner speakers: $0 to $500 per event.
- Mid-level speakers: $500 to $2,000, especially if they have a niche following.
- Top-tier speakers: $5,000 and up, particularly if they bring a large audience or unique insights.

Pros of Paid Speaking
- Generates income.
- Builds authority.
- Opens doors to coaching or product sales.

Cons
- Competitive field.
- Requires marketing and networking.
- Not always consistent.

In short, yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speakers can get paid, but it often starts with unpaid gigs that build your platform. As your reputation grows, so does your earning potential.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speakers make money in several ways, often combining multiple income streams to build a sustainable speaking career. Here's a breakdown of the most common revenue models:

1. Speaking Fees
- Direct payments for keynotes, panels, or workshops.
- Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and event type.

2. Online Summits and Virtual Events
- Speakers may be paid a flat fee or earn affiliate commissions for ticket sales.
- Platforms like Talks.co help speakers connect with virtual event hosts.

3. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
- BJJ gear companies, supplement brands, or fitness tech startups may pay speakers to mention or represent their products.
- Example: A speaker might wear a sponsored gi during a demo or plug a brand during a podcast appearance.

4. Product Sales and Upsells
- Many speakers sell digital products like instructional videos, eBooks, or online courses.
- Speaking gigs often act as lead generators for these offers.

5. Coaching and Consulting
- After a talk, some attendees may hire the speaker for 1-on-1 coaching or gym consulting.
- This is especially common for speakers who specialize in gym business growth or athlete mindset.

6. Retainers or Recurring Contracts
- Some companies or academies hire speakers on a monthly basis to deliver regular training or motivation sessions.

7. Affiliate Marketing
- Promoting gear, books, or services with affiliate links during or after talks.

In essence, successful Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speakers treat their speaking as a business. They diversify income, build funnels, and use every stage appearance to grow their brand and bottom line.

The income of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speakers varies widely depending on their reputation, niche, and business model. Here's a closer look at the earning potential:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn between $0 to $500 per event.
- Most income at this stage comes from exposure, networking, and upsells like private lessons or online courses.
Mid-Tier Speakers
- Can earn $500 to $2,000 per engagement.
- These speakers often have a niche following, a solid speaker page (like on Talks.co), and a few notable appearances.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Earn $5,000 to $20,000+ per keynote.
- Usually world champions, renowned coaches, or thought leaders in BJJ philosophy or business.
Annual Income Estimates

Speaker Level	Avg. Events/Year	Avg. Fee/Event	Estimated Annual Income
Beginner	10	$250	$2,500
Mid-Tier	20	$1,000	$20,000
Top-Tier	30	$7,500	$225,000

Variables That Affect Income
- Geography: Speakers in the US or Europe may command higher fees than those in smaller markets.
- Language: Bilingual speakers can access more events globally.
- Digital Presence: A strong online brand boosts demand and pricing.
So while some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speakers treat it as a side hustle, others turn it into a six-figure business. It all depends on how you position yourself and diversify your revenue streams.

Hiring a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several key factors. Here's a breakdown of what influences the cost:
1. Speaker Reputation and Experience
- Local instructors or rising voices: $250 to $1,000 per event.
- Established competitors or coaches: $1,000 to $5,000.
- Elite names like John Danaher or Roger Gracie: $10,000 to $25,000+, especially for keynotes or international events.
2. Event Type and Format
- Podcasts or virtual panels: Often free or under $500.
- Workshops or seminars: $1,000 to $3,000 for half-day events.
- Corporate or leadership events: $5,000 and up.
3. Location and Travel
- In-person events may require covering travel, lodging, and per diem.
- Virtual events eliminate those costs but may still include tech fees or studio rental.
4. Customization and Deliverables
- A standard talk costs less than a custom workshop with demos, Q&A, and follow-up materials.
5. Booking Platform and Timing
- Booking through platforms like Talks.co may include service fees.
- Last-minute bookings can cost more due to schedule adjustments.
Sample Cost Table

Speaker Type	Cost Range
Local BJJ Coach	$250 - $1,000
National Competitor	$1,000 - $3,000
International Champion	$5,000 - $15,000
Thought Leader (e.g., mindset, business)	$7,500 - $25,000

Ultimately, the cost reflects not just the speaker's name but the value they bring to your audience. Whether you're hosting a gym seminar or a global summit, there's a speaker for every budget.

Rickson Gracie: A legend in both competition and philosophy. His talks often blend martial arts with life lessons on discipline and presence.

John Danaher: Known for his cerebral approach, Danaher delivers deep, structured insights on technique, strategy, and learning systems.

Renzo Gracie: Charismatic and humorous, Renzo combines storytelling with practical wisdom, making him a favorite at seminars and interviews.

Saulo Ribeiro: Author of 'Jiu-Jitsu University', Saulo is a respected speaker on BJJ progression and mindset.

Marcelo Garcia: Though more reserved, his seminars and instructional talks are revered for clarity and humility.

Rener Gracie: A dynamic speaker who excels at breaking down complex ideas for beginners and professionals alike.

Robert Drysdale: Historian and speaker, Drysdale blends BJJ history with modern insights, especially through his documentary work.

Andre Galvao: Known for his leadership at Atos and motivational speaking at team events and summits.

Kurt Osiander: Unfiltered and entertaining, Kurt brings raw energy and real talk to every seminar.

Xande Ribeiro: A thoughtful speaker who emphasizes longevity, technique, and personal growth through BJJ.

Rener Gracie (USA): Co-founder of Gracie University, Rener is a sought-after speaker for corporate wellness and law enforcement training.

John Danaher (New Zealand/USA): A former philosophy professor turned BJJ mastermind, Danaher is globally respected for his articulate, system-based teaching.

Roger Gracie (UK/Brazil): A 10-time world champion, Roger speaks at international events about legacy, pressure, and technique.

Mikey Musumeci (USA): Known for his analytical mind and ability to explain complex positions, Mikey is a rising voice in seminars and interviews.

Ffion Davies (Wales): One of the top female competitors, Ffion speaks on resilience, training culture, and women's representation in BJJ.

Leandro Lo (Brazil): Remembered not just for his titles but for his humble, inspiring talks at seminars and community events.

Lachlan Giles (Australia): A PhD and coach, Lachlan combines science and BJJ to deliver highly informative, structured talks.

Andre Galvao (Brazil/USA): A powerhouse speaker and coach, Galvao speaks on leadership, faith, and competitive mindset.

Braulio Estima (UK/Brazil): Known for his eloquence and technical depth, Braulio is a frequent speaker at global BJJ events.

Keenan Cornelius (USA): With a unique style and business savvy, Keenan speaks on innovation in BJJ and gym entrepreneurship.

Myth 1: Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers only talk about fighting.
Sure, BJJ is a martial art, but assuming every speaker is just walking through chokeholds and takedowns on stage? That's missing the bigger picture. Many Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers focus on mindset, discipline, resilience, and personal growth-lessons learned on the mat that apply far beyond it. For instance, Rickson Gracie has spoken about breathing techniques and mental control, not just submissions.

Myth 2: You need to be a world champion to speak about BJJ.
This one keeps a lot of great voices silent. The truth? Some of the most impactful speakers in this space aren't gold medalists. They're coaches, gym owners, or practitioners who've transformed lives through BJJ. Their credibility comes from lived experience, not just podium finishes. Think of someone like Nic Gregoriades, who built a speaking and coaching career around the philosophy of BJJ, not just competition wins.

Myth 3: Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers only appeal to martial arts audiences.
Actually, corporate events, wellness retreats, and leadership summits have all welcomed BJJ speakers. Why? Because the principles of BJJ-adaptability, patience, strategy-resonate with entrepreneurs, executives, and educators alike. The mat becomes a metaphor, and suddenly, a talk about guard passing becomes a lesson in navigating business challenges.

Myth 4: Speaking is just a side gig for these athletes.
Not anymore. With the rise of personal branding and digital platforms, many Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers have turned this into a full-time career. They run online academies, host seminars, and speak at international conferences. Their speaking isn't a hobby-it's a business model.

Myth 5: You have to be extroverted to succeed as a speaker.
Plenty of BJJ speakers are introverts. What sets them apart isn't volume-it's clarity and authenticity. They connect through storytelling, not shouting. If you've ever heard someone like John Danaher speak, you know it's not about charisma-it's about depth, logic, and delivery.

When Bernardo Faria transitioned from five-time world champion to entrepreneur and speaker, many were skeptical. But he saw something others didn't: a hunger for practical, humble insights from someone who had lived the grind. His seminars, often packed with both white belts and seasoned black belts, became known for their simplicity and relatability. He didn't just teach techniques-he told stories of failure, persistence, and adaptation. That authenticity built trust, and trust built a global audience.

Then there's Emily Kwok. A pioneer for women in BJJ, Emily used her platform not only to teach but to advocate. Her talks at women's leadership events and self-defense workshops blend technical knowledge with empowerment. She doesn't just talk about armbars-she talks about boundaries, confidence, and navigating male-dominated spaces. Her voice resonates far beyond the mats.

In Brazil, André Galvão took a different route. Known for his explosive style and coaching success at Atos, he began speaking at youth development programs in São Paulo. His message? Discipline and faith. He weaves personal stories of struggle with lessons from coaching champions. His talks are less about winning and more about character. That shift opened doors to schools, churches, and nonprofits.

And let's not forget Tom DeBlass. With a massive online following, Tom turned vulnerability into a superpower. He speaks openly about mental health, addiction, and trauma-topics rarely addressed in martial arts circles. His honesty has landed him podcast interviews, keynote spots, and a loyal community that sees him as more than a fighter.

Each of these speakers carved a unique path. What they share isn't a belt color or a podium photo-it's a commitment to using their voice to serve others. Whether through seminars, keynotes, or digital platforms, they've shown that Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers can lead conversations that matter.

The landscape for Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers is shifting, and not just because of the sport's growing popularity. We're seeing a convergence of wellness, leadership, and digital education-and BJJ voices are stepping into those spaces.

One major trend: hybrid speaking formats. As more events go virtual or hybrid, BJJ speakers are adapting. Expect to see more online summits, interactive webinars, and even VR-based seminars where speakers demonstrate techniques in immersive environments. This opens doors for speakers in rural areas or those without access to major event circuits.

Another shift: cross-industry relevance. Companies are increasingly inviting BJJ speakers to talk about resilience, adaptability, and ego management. These aren't just sports talks-they're leadership lessons. Think of how mindfulness speakers broke into corporate wellness. BJJ is on a similar trajectory.

We're also seeing a rise in niche branding. Rather than appeal to all audiences, successful speakers are getting specific. Some focus on trauma recovery through BJJ. Others speak to educators about youth engagement. This specialization helps them stand out and build loyal followings.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Micro-communities. Speakers are building tight-knit online groups through platforms like Discord or Patreon, offering exclusive content and Q&A sessions.
- AI-enhanced training and speaking. Tools like ChatGPT and Synthesia are being used to script, rehearse, and even deliver parts of presentations.
- Global expansion. With BJJ growing in countries like the UAE, India, and South Korea, speakers fluent in multiple languages or culturally adaptive content are in demand.
- Mental health integration. Talks that blend BJJ with psychology, trauma healing, or stress management are gaining traction, especially in educational and therapeutic settings.

The takeaway? Brazilian jiu-jitsu speakers who embrace tech, tailor their message, and think beyond the mat will be the ones leading the next wave.

- Talks.co. A smart platform that connects speakers with podcast hosts. If you're just starting out or looking to expand your reach, this is a goldmine. Tip: Use their filters to find shows that align with your niche (e.g., wellness, leadership, martial arts).

- Canva. Not just for designers. Use it to create clean, professional slide decks for your talks. Their templates are easy to customize and perfect for visual storytelling. Pro tip: Use motion graphics sparingly to highlight key points without overwhelming your audience.

- Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual seminars and workshops. Practice your delivery using Zoom's recording feature so you can review your tone, pacing, and body language. Bonus: host Q&A sessions to build engagement with your audience.

- Otter.ai. This transcription tool is great for turning your recorded talks into written content. You can repurpose transcripts into blog posts, social media snippets, or even a book.

- Podmatch. Similar to Talks.co, but with a slightly different algorithm. It's great for finding podcast opportunities where your BJJ background can intersect with broader topics like mindset, entrepreneurship, or overcoming adversity.

- Notion. Organize your speaking topics, audience research, testimonials, and event notes all in one place. It's flexible and collaborative-ideal if you're working with a VA or manager.

- Descript. Edit your video and audio content with ease. If you're building a speaker reel or want to polish your seminar recordings, this tool is a game-changer.

- Eventbrite. Use it to host your own workshops or seminars. Even small local events can build your credibility and give you content to promote online.

Each of these tools can help you build momentum, but the key is consistency. Whether you're pitching podcasts or refining your keynote, keep showing up. The more you speak, the better you get-and the more people will want to hear what you have to say.