What It Takes to Grow a Strong Jiu-Jitsu Community | The Academia BJJ Story

In this episode, Gymdesk CEO Alex Cuevas visits Academia BJJ in Beamsville, Canada, to discover what makes this gym’s community so vibrant and welcoming. He sits down with owners Steve Camara and Jeff Wellwood, who share their origin stories, how martial arts shaped their lives, and the intentional choices behind the gym’s warm, inclusive atmosphere. From the moment Alex enters, he’s greeted by a palpable energy, friendly faces, and an environment designed to make members feel at home.

In this episode, you’ll learn how Steve Camara and Jeff Wellwood believe that the “secret sauce” to building a strong jiu-jitsu community is fostering trust, vulnerability, and genuine friendships. They discuss the importance of creating fun and memorable experiences both on and off the mats, and how the sport’s challenges—like being humbled by a younger, smaller opponent—help break down egos and connect people from all walks of life. The hosts emphasize that their focus isn’t just on producing world-class competitors but on sustainable jiu-jitsu for everyone, where emotional connection and personal growth take center stage.

This episode also highlights how Academia BJJ uses Gymdesk to streamline admin work—giving the owners and staff more time to focus on their core mission of community-building. Steve Camara and Jeff Wellwood explain how Gymdesk’s features support visitor tracking, communication, and event follow-ups, helping them nurture relationships and keep the gym’s vibe personal, even as their membership grows. The conversation wraps up with insights into fostering meaningful culture, maintaining high energy, and making jiu-jitsu accessible for newcomers, all supported by the efficiencies and growth that Gymdesk provides.