What If Belts Didn’t Exist in Jiu Jitsu? | Kyvann Gonzalez

In this episode of Forever White Belt, I sit down with Kyvann Gonzalez, black belt and co-owner of Bodega Jiu Jitsu in Maplewood, New Jersey.

Kyvann has built a unique academy culture focused on skill development, time efficiency, and community. At Bodega, the emphasis isn’t on chasing belts or stripes, it’s on showing up, learning, and improving together.

We talk about Kyvann’s journey through jiu jitsu, how his perspective on training and teaching has evolved, and what it really takes to build a successful academy in today’s jiu jitsu landscape.

We also dive into:

• Why Bodega runs one-hour classes

• Concept-based coaching vs technique-based instruction

• Why social media doesn’t necessarily grow a gym (but can help retention)

• Opening and running a jiu jitsu academy

• Reinventing your jiu jitsu over time

• ADHD, creativity, and learning

Kyvann shares thoughtful insights about teaching, culture, and the long-term journey of jiu jitsu that will resonate with students, coaches, and academy owners alike.

If you train jiu jitsu, teach, or have ever thought about opening a gym, this conversation offers a lot to think about.

Kyvann Gonzalez @kyvanng

Black Belt

Co-Owner – Bodega Jiu Jitsu https://www.bodegajiujitsu.com/

Maplewood, New Jersey

https://www.instagram.com/kyvanng/

https://linqapp.com/Bodegajiujitsu

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