We recently connected with Gregory Lewis and have shared our conversation below.
Gregory, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?
I didn’t expect a divorce and expensive court fight.
I took out two loans specifically for marketing and scaling my karate school. Shortly after doing this, my now ex-wife and mother of our son decided to leave the state without telling me.
I had the choice of proceeding as planned or using that money for finding my son and his mother.
Businesses come and go, I will always practice martial arts even if I don’t teach professionally anymore.
Children only grow up once.
I hired an attorney and a private investigator.
I eventually found them. My school continues to limp along as I go into greater debt struggling for my parental rights.
Gregory, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I started my martial arts journey in 1978, as a shy, often bullied 3rd grader.
I started with Boxing, then did Taekwondo throughout junior high and high school. Later, I would learn kickboxing, Karate, Wing Chun Kung Fu, Arnis, and Brazilian Jujitsu.
I earned my black belt in the early 2000s from Vernon Owens.
Since that time, I have continued my education through numerous organizations including SAFE International and the American Council on Exercise.
What I teach is real karate for the real world.
Yes, physical techniques are taught, but “self defense” is actually more psychological, sociological, and political than the public is led to believe. This school’s curriculum reflects this, in an age-appropriate way. And we have fun.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Google search. That is what usually has them contacting me. Word of mouth is a close second.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
In 1998 I was attacked by the police and used karate to defend myself.
After being found “not guilty” of assault upon an officer, I and my co-defendant (who was also aquitted) successfully sued the Seattle Police Department.
https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/20020326/settlement26m/2-men-settle-for-35000-each-in-suit-against-police
We had to endure around the clock surveillance and other forms of harassment after winning our case.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karatemeansemptyhand.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/senseigreg206/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karatemeansemptyhand/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-lewis-b6a15231?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
- Twitter: https://www.x.com/senseilewis
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/GLewis206
