We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful John Roberts. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with John below.
John, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I had served several years in the US Army in special intelligence units and had acquired particular skills over the years. I had always been an expert marksman professionally and wanted to bring my skills to the civilian market. During the pandemic there was a massive uptick in new firearms owners, particularly in the African American community. There had always been a stigma associated with Black Americans owning firearms and I wanted to change that dynamic. I was at the range one day and saw other instructors teaching and my arrogance kicked in and I said “who are these people?” What experience or training do they have that makes them a subject matter expert? Many of them had a fraction of my experience or knowledge yet they are here. Many of whom didn’t reflect my community. I set out to get all my commercial certifications and licenses and I established my business Maroon Defense Solutions and it took off.
John, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I grew up in Jersey City,NJ before attending Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD. The environment was challenging to say the least and being able to defend yourself and your home was always important. After graduating college in enlisted in the Army as an Intelligence Specialist. I acquired defensive skills that I would use over the years in different situations that offered me a sense of security in the fact that I could go home safely. I always wanted to defend those who couldn’t defend themselves or speak for the unheard. I have seen far too many situations in my life where men and woman find themselves in situations they didn’t have the requisite skills to navigate successfully. It bothered me. I felt as if they needed someone who cared enough to teach them what they needed to know things could be different. People defending their homes. Women fending off sexual assault. Common violent crimes. These were things happening every day at a high rate that I felt compelled to confront. So as opposed to focusing on military style tactical training I focused on the everyday common scenarios that people find themselves in that are life changing. From there I help to build confidence, competence, and a comfortability with defensive tactics that can be learned by all at any level. I even offer youth classes for children to become knowledgeable, and most importantly responsible defenders of themselves and others. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my students change the way they look at themselves and grow in their confidence.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy I have used to grow my clientele has been really showing my deep passion for my craft and demonstrating my proficiency in every area with every opportunity. There are tons of people in the business who have never actually done the things they are teaching and it shows over time. I teach my students with a level of detailed knowledge that is far and distinct from other instructors and companies. I also competitively shoot in multiple categories routinely and show people I can walk the walk. This has been a huge advertising success for me. People stop me at the range every day and ask me for my card and typically book sessions immediately. I travel from state to state doing this and it has been a great strategy to broaden my base.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
What helped build my reputation has been the dedication to my clients and the ongoing communication and commitment to them. I routinely offer follow on training for prior students and their families. I offer specialized courses that aren’t just a money grab or a licensing course. I provide you with skills you can be confident in a defend your love and loved ones with. This dedication comes out in the classroom and In the community and people gravitate to it.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Maroondefensesolutions.com
- Instagram: @MaroonDefense
- Facebook: Maroon Defense Solutions