Feedback on Working with Stephen Oliver
School owners, industry leaders and readers have shared feedback on working with Grand Master Stephen Oliver, the 10th Degree Black Belt who founded Mile High Karate and Martial Arts Wealth Mastery and serves as CEO and Chairman of NAPMA and Publisher of Martial Arts Professional magazine. This page collects 161 of those testimonials and endorsements in one place, from world champions and association founders to school owners describing the results they reached through his coaching.
The testimonials below are reproduced as published on the Martial Arts Wealth Mastery reviews and testimonials page, which also includes praise for the coaching team, Grand Master Jeff Smith and Chief Master Greg Moody, Ph.D. Results described by individual school owners are their own and are not a guarantee of what any other school will achieve.
Jump to: Industry Legends and Experts on Stephen Oliver · School Owner Results, in Their Own Words · What Coaching Members Say · Book Reviews and Endorsements · The Way of the Mile High Maverick and Live Events · Congratulations on the Lifetime Achievement Award
Industry Legends and Experts on Stephen Oliver
Champions, association founders, authors and marketing experts who have worked alongside Stephen Oliver.
“My student, Stephen Oliver is the new generation of leaders in the Martial Arts Industry. It’s important to me to have him on my Team to really continue developing my business.”
— Jhoon Rhee, Father of American Tae Kwon Do
“I have always been impressed with your serious, studied and carefully planned approach to the development of your business. I have said it many times to others; your follow through is exemplary. Most of all, I am impressed because you DO what you say you are going to do. I have always enjoyed our relationship because you keep an open mind, listen to ideas and have the best implementation I have ever seen. I have always found you to be bright and honest. These qualities are refreshing, especially in the martial arts field.”
— Nick Cokinos, Founder and Chairman of the Board, Educational Funding Company (EFC), in a letter to Stephen Oliver
“I know of no other martial arts professional who has more business experience and knowledge of how to maximize profits in the martial arts.”
— Don “The Dragon” Wilson, World Kickboxing Champion, actor/producer (Facebook review)
“A work of quality… thoughtful, practical, smart and an invaluable guide for anyone seeking success and not only financially. Your book should be a text in every MBA program.”
— Walter Anderson, Retired Chairman, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, Parade Magazine
“I have known and worked with Stephen Oliver for many years and personally witnessed the profound impact he has on individual Martial Arts School owners, and on the industry as a whole. Maybe viewed by some as heretic, and by others as the deliverer of inconvenient, uncomfortable truths, it is undeniable that, with the school owners who have been mindset ready, he has brought a tested, proven, thorough business growth blueprint. And not just revenue growth, but growth in the owner’s pride and satisfaction with the way the greater income is created.”
— Dan Kennedy, Marketing Strategist, Entrepreneur, Famous Author of the “No B.S.” book series
“Stephen Oliver knows the martial arts profession as well as anyone. He brings an amazing intellect and a unique perspective honed from years in the trenches.”
— Dave Kovar, Founder, Kovar’s Satori Academy (LinkedIn recommendation)
“Stephen Oliver is a unique force in our field of martial arts… his methods, when applied, insure the success of his clients.”
— Joe Corley, PKA co-founder; promoter, Battle of Atlanta (LinkedIn recommendation)
“I’ve personally helped hundreds of BJJ and MMA school owners build 6- and 7-figure schools, and I can tell you without hesitation — Stephen’s material is some of the most sound, reliable business and teaching methodology in the martial arts industry.”
— Lloyd Irvin, BJJ/MMA coaching legend
“My friend Stephen Oliver is one such master who has invested years to build and test his program for creating martial arts school success. Get his book and study it.”
— Stephen K. Hayes, Black Belt Hall of Fame; founder, To-Shin Do; author of 20 books
“When it comes to combining martial art marketing genius with the latest technologies, Stephen Oliver is the proven authority.”
— Keith Hafner, Most Profitable Single-School Operator in the U.S.; EFC Hall of Fame
“I believe Steve to be the premier martial arts school business adviser in the world today. He is someone I trust explicitly.”
— Mike McCoy, Co-promoter, the U.S. Open; NASKA President
“Stephen Oliver is the ‘Maverick of Martial Arts’. His book is inspirational!”
— Bill Clark, Industry pioneer
“I’ve known Stephen Oliver for over 40 years. He’s now the ‘Go To’ expert for veterans like myself as well as the ‘Young Guns’ in the top 1% of school owners.”
— Pat Worley, 10th Degree Black Belt; founder, USA Karate
“One of the nation’s most respected authorities on the ownership, management and promotion of martial arts schools.”
— John Worley, National Karate Schools; co-promoter, Diamond Nationals (LinkedIn recommendation)
“You can be the best instructor in the world but that does not mean you will be a great school owner. With this man’s expertise and help, I know I am well on my way to joining him in the top 1%.”
— John Chung, Legendary World Forms Champion
“Extraordinary Teaching captures the depth of that knowledge and shows exactly how true mastery on the mat translates into mastery in the classroom and the business.”
— Troy Dorsey, 8-Time World Kickboxing & Boxing Champion
“Oliver and Smith have cracked the code that has eluded our industry for generations… a blueprint for building institutions that forge genuine leaders while ensuring your school thrives for decades.”
— Dr. Robert Goldman, MD, PhD, DO, FAASP, Co-founder, World Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine; 9th Degree Black Belt
“For the first time, there is a comprehensive guide designed specifically for serious martial arts school owners… a proven, step-by-step system.”
— Gerard Robbins, 9th Dan; founder, Official Taekwondo Hall of Fame
“An invaluable resource for school operators and educators alike. The perfect synergy between sound business practices and martial excellence.”
— Cezar Borkowski, Founder, Northern Karate Schools — Canada’s largest multi-dojo organization
“Long recognized as one of the sharpest marketers in the industry… while the rest of the industry is just discovering the web, he has already written a book on it.”
— John Graden, Founder, NAPMA and the Martial Arts Teachers’ Association (MATA)
“Not only was it educational and motivating, it was truly inspiring. As for the school owner in me, the knowledge was priceless.”
— Frank Silverman, MAIA and MA Success Magazine; owner of five schools
“Stephen was my mentor in the late 80’s and helped me take a brand new martial art school, enroll 180 students in 90 days, open 4 schools and gross over $1 million in 18 months.”
— Terry Bryan, President, Black Belt Investor (LinkedIn recommendation)
“He has become one of the top thought leaders in the world for the business of martial arts. Lots of people have come and gone… Stephen Oliver is still there leading the industry!”
— Andrew Wood, Founder, Legendary Marketing; author of 70+ books (LinkedIn recommendation)
“If you’re in the martial arts world, you know Stephen Oliver’s name — and if you don’t, you should. I’ve been attending his seminars since I was a teenager. Stephen Oliver is a well-respected martial arts school owner, entrepreneur, consultant, and coach.”
— Matthew Brenner, Host, Black Belt Business Podcast; CEO, Double Your Dojo
“There are few people in our industry today that have the educational background and the practical experience that Steve does. He’s also way, way ahead of his time.”
— Tom Callos, Martial arts industry educator
“I’ve written extensively on the subject of the business of teaching martial arts, both through my blog and in books such as The Best of Martial Arts Business Daily. So, I know something about the martial arts industry and what instructors need to know to succeed.
The thing is, so often in this industry we’re told that you have to do things a certain way in order to be a successful studio owner. Yet, a lot of what Oliver says flies in the face of the status quo. I like that, and I appreciate the fact that he shares his experiences so candidly here. With all the ‘experts’ who are now offering books, coaching, and seminars on martial arts business management, you could do much worse than to have Stephen Oliver giving you advice.”
— Mike Massie, Author, Small Dojo Big Profits
“Most books on martial arts business stop at marketing and enrollment. Extraordinary Teaching goes where others don’t — into the art and science of retention, leadership, and legacy.”
— Mike Massie, Author, Small Dojo Big Profits
“Stephen’s ideas, strategies and tactics are so powerful he teaches them to other business owners. I teach his philosophies to dentists, would you believe.”
— Tony Gedge, Founder, Marketing Pirates of Dentistry (Facebook review)
“A great organization run by people who deeply care about their members.”
— Dave Dee, Speaker and marketing expert (Facebook review)
“He has made many a millionaire… His expertise and knowledge about martial arts businesses is by far the best in the industry. Highest recommendation!”
— Clara E. Minor, CEO, MINORSAN Self-Defense & Fitness
“I’ve known Stephen Oliver and Jeff Smith for more than 30 years… a must-read for any instructor who wants to reignite their passion for teaching.”
— Greg Silva, Martial arts industry leader
“Stephen Oliver is an exceptional human being. Many people have master’s degrees. Many people know how to speak well. Many people may be famous, successful, or wealthy. But that is not what impressed me about Stephen Oliver.
What impressed me was his character. He showed deep respect, dedication, and loyalty. Even with his own responsibilities, speaking engagements, conventions, and travel, he demonstrated the kind of honor and commitment that comes from the heart.
I am not easily impressed by fame, money, or titles. I was impressed by Stephen Oliver because he is an outstanding man — a man of respect, loyalty, and integrity. I am proud to recognize Stephen Oliver as an exceptional man and a true leader in the martial arts.”
— Grand Master Y.K. Kim (Young-kun Kim), Korean-born Taekwondo grandmaster, author, speaker, and entrepreneur; founder of Martial Arts World, AMS (a martial arts billing and consulting company), and Atlas Software — a martial arts school and leadership-development organization, based in Florida.
“Stephen Oliver is a remarkable individual that stands as a true Martial Arts legend, a globally acclaimed mentor, and an industry trailblazer dedicated to nurturing the growth of fellow school owners. He has profoundly impacted the lives of numerous school owners. His unparalleled ability to uplift Martial Arts school owners worldwide is truly awe-inspiring.”
— Tracy Lee Thomas, 8th-Degree Black Belt, Founder of Go2 Karate
“Stephen Oliver is without a doubt one of the most educated martial arts businessmen in America — his ability to identify and simplify the critical success factors involved in running a martial arts school is what makes his marketing seminar the best I’ve seen. Stephen Oliver knows how to make a lot of money teaching martial arts, and school owners can make a fortune doing what he says.”
— Rick Bell, Author and Speaker
“We were truly impressed by the caliber of speakers and the quality of ‘real-life-scenario’ topics presented at your last boot camp. You bring a fresh perspective that simplifies the business of Martial Arts while providing the essential business tools school owners need to succeed in their market.”
— Sean P. Kirby, National Sales Director, ASF International
“I would personally recommend this Bootcamp to anyone and everyone interested. I’m so impressed with your program that you may give out my number if anyone needs a testimonial to make them come to your next event.”
— Tommy Lee, East Coast Martial Arts, SBSS Success Systems
“I learned a tremendous amount at Stephen Oliver’s Ultimate Martial Arts Marketing Bootcamp. I highly encourage you to attend, have a great time, mastermind with some of the best minds in the industry — be challenged to take your school to the next level. By the way, you might just end up being a millionaire.”
— Tim Kovar
“I have worked with Stephen Oliver and his Martial Arts Wealth Mastery for years, and I am always still VERY IMPRESSED with the quality of knowledge, usable strategies, mindset, and practical skills he shares.”
— Lee Milteer, performance and productivity coach
“Stephen Oliver has built the longest running, most successful Martial Arts Business Coaching program of its kind in the industry. He coaches some of the highest grossing and highest net profit martial arts schools in the industry.”
— Master Toby Milroy, Atlas Software
“Stephen Oliver is a leader in the industry — a legend when it comes to coaching martial arts schools.”
— Allie Alberigo, School Owner Talk
School Owner Results, in Their Own Words
Martial arts school, BJJ academy and MMA gym owners describing what changed after working with Stephen Oliver and the Martial Arts Wealth Mastery coaching team.
“Coming out of COVID in Seattle, I was down to just $13,000 a month… Today, I’m hitting $100,000 months with 240 active students — and there’s still so much room to grow!”
— Krista Wells, Mercer Island Martial Arts, Mercer Island, WA
“We were running in the low $20,000s per month… Then last month we hit $109,000 in revenue.”
— Scott & Brandi Sullivan, Bam Bam Martial Arts, Houston, TX
“We went from facing closure at $7,500 to building a sustainable $100,000/month business. This program literally saved my career.”
— Jason Purcell, Family Black Belt Academy, Seattle, WA
“After 20 years struggling at $16,000 gross monthly, within six months I skyrocketed to $59,000 (I have the financials to prove it). I’m now consistently over $80,000 a month.”
— Ben Brown, Owner/Head Coach, PHAS3 Muay Thai, Santa Rosa, CA
“When we began, our gross was $25,000 to $30,000. We have grown all the way to $94,000 in February… We grossed $900,000 last year and went from 120 students to almost 300.”
— Sebastian Mejias, Honor & Samurai / TI Martial Arts, Frisco, TX
“When we first joined the group we were averaging about $23 to $25,000 a month… so far this year we’re averaging $110,000 a month.”
— Tim Harrison, TM Martial Arts, Joliet, IL
“COVID cut me in half to $15,000… Within the first year, I doubled to $60,000. Last March, we hit $94,000 in a single month.”
— Stephen Del Castillo, Founder, KMMA Black Belt Leadership Academy, Tampa, FL
“My net income has gone from $22,000 to $200,000+ in a year and a half with the program.”
— David Grout, Karate organization owner
“My first August and September after joining, I enrolled 60 students… I went from $7,000–$8,000 a month to hitting $50,000 this September.”
— Riley Fyfe, Martial arts school owner
“When we first started, my tuition billing was roughly $13,000 a month and we were making about $25,000. Currently, my billing is close to $50,000 and our gross income is close to $75,000.”
— Delfino Candia, America’s Best Karate Center, El Paso, TX
“When we started with Master Oliver’s Wealth Mastery Group we were struggling; now we are on track for $1 million this year.”
— Jan Lappin & Rachel Luton, Middleburg Martial Arts, Jacksonville, FL
“He helped me bring my business from failing to now bringing in over $70,000 a month!”
— Simon Chang, BJJ & Muay Thai academy, Columbus, GA (Facebook review)
“We closed out our renewal blitz at just over $200,000 for the month of December. For the first time in 15 years of school ownership we have more than a hope of an abundantly profitable school.”
— Colby Winkler, Lee’s Champion TaeKwonDo Academy, Mankato, MN ( full case study )
“We have gone from 250 students to 330 and our income went from $23K to $30K every month — and this last month, $41K.”
— Brad Wenneberg, Fullerton Martial Arts Academy, Fullerton, CA
“Our monthly was probably around $16,000 to $18,000. Now we’re about $50,000–$55,000 and still climbing. We’ve now become a professional school.”
— John Cantu, South East Texas Martial Arts, Houston, TX
“My normal gross was about $19,000, and that June — the month I actually implemented everything — I did $47,000.”
— Duane Brumitt, Tri-Star Martial Arts Academy, Bradley, IL
“I could talk for days about how your program has changed my business. The price is a drop in the bucket compared to the value.”
— Lloyd Irvin Jr., Lloyd Irvin’s Martial Arts Academy (added $300,000 in 12 months)
“You provided the most impressive representation of Martial Arts success I have ever seen in one place.”
— David Shirley, 8th Degree Black Belt, Villari’s Martial Arts Centers (added $250,000 in 12 months)
“Because of last year’s Bootcamp, my company had a major jump in quality, gross and net.”
— Terry W. Brumley, President, Taekwondo University (added $180,000 in 12 months)
“My own personal school grew from about 40 students to just under 200 in less than two years… Stephen Oliver, in my opinion, is a business and marketing genius.”
— Larry D. Shealy, BS, MBA, Jacksonville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (LinkedIn recommendation)
“Within 5 years we doubled our monthly revenue. And within the last 2 years it has doubled again!”
— Karis Velut, MAW member since 2014
“We were able to add over $10,000 to our monthly billing in a very short period by following the tuition and upgrade strategies.”
— Michael Parella, Master Parella’s ATA, North Kingstown, RI
“We were able to grow past 300 students and finally operate like a professional business… work on the business, not just in it.”
— Mike Gobbi, Professional Martial Arts Academy, Rocky Hill, CT
“If you want to be one of the best (and earn more than the rest) you must be taught by the best. Just enrolled 17 new members in the first 8 days of January.”
— Oliver Drexler, School owner, Germany
“Following their advice I had 50 more leads than usual check out my academy my first month in the program.”
— Hayden Buckner, Academy owner (Google review)
“With the ideas and help of Master Oliver we will likely quadruple our gross at each of four locations. It is truly the difference between feast and famine!”
— Art Mason, Founder, The Peaceful Warriors’ Martial Arts Institute; 6th Dan
“I learned more about teaching and running a school in two days than I had in the previous twenty years. Your knowledge is universal, as evidenced by our success in New Zealand.”
— Grant Buchanan, 6th Degree Black Belt, Mile High Karate Tauranga, New Zealand
“I couldn’t break $30,000–$35,000 a month running my school on my own. Now I’m at $80,000–$82,000 most months, with about 170 students.”
— Heidi Gilbert, Elevate Martial Arts, Woodinville, WA
“They helped me completely restructure my program — a new curriculum, a new schedule, new classes. It’s been an absolute game changer. There is truly nothing this group doesn’t have an answer for.”
— Jeff Kash, Laguna Beach Dojo, Laguna Beach, CA
“We’ve grown from approximately 70 students to about 225, on our way to 300. We’re grossing on average $64,000 a month now — we did almost $750,000 last year, up from about $120,000 when we started.”
— Steve Seme, USA Karate, Rosemont, MN
“I was grossing about $12,000 to $18,000 a month. I decided to join with uncertainty — I was either going to crash and burn or thrive. I got flooded with new students.”
— William Wong, Lincoln Family Martial Arts, Lincoln, CA
“We went from a 500-student school barely breaking even to averaging $80,000 a month with $30,000 a month+ net after 18 months with Martial Arts Wealth Mastery.”
— Amanda Olson, Olson’s Martial Arts, Johnson City, Tennessee
What Coaching Members Say
Comments from members of Martial Arts Wealth Mastery and attendees of Stephen Oliver’s live events, seminars and boot camps.
“I’m partners with Elite MMA in Houston and we have about 650 students at our main location and 200 at our second location . I really thought I didn’t have enough time to be here this weekend, and what I really got was that it was invaluable — I took the time out to work on the business instead of in the business.”
— Eric Williams, Elite MMA, Houston, TX
“My school has never been stronger. My retention has never been better and my grosses have grown consistently. Stephen Oliver is one of the finest minds in the martial arts business — if you want to make changes to your business, you want to improve, you want to grow, this is absolutely essential. I can’t recommend it more.”
— Shihan Mike Pace, 9th Degree Black Belt, Goshin Ryu Karate
“Stephen Oliver’s Program is the Disney of Martial Arts Business! This program has taught me more in the past 2 years than in the previous decade.”
— Travis Tooke, Team Tooke Mixed Martial Arts, Houston, TX (Facebook review)
“Other than finding my wife, meeting him and deciding to work with him was the best business decision I have ever made.”
— Marty Callahan, Chief Instructor, Shotokan Karate Leadership School, Santa Rosa, CA
“Master Oliver’s depth of knowledge, real life experience and sincere desire for you to succeed makes it an easy choice in a sea of consultants… a person of unwavering INTEGRITY.”
— Geoff Cielo, King Tiger Martial Arts, Virginia Beach, VA (31 years in business)
“In just one year with the program, I gained the business expertise that four years of traditional martial arts training never provided.”
— Paul Gruschow, Rochester Kung Fu & Fitness, Rochester, NY
“I had been in business for 20 years and thought I had it all figured out. I was wrong… His insights on digital marketing are what kept our school thriving and growing.”
— Shane Tassoul, Tassoul’s ATA Martial Arts, Green Bay, WI
“What Stephen Oliver provides is a complete A-to-Z business system… the confidence of knowing we had a proven plan for any challenge.”
— Tracy Lee, Victory Martial Arts, Olive Branch, MS
“Should your school qualify to work with Grandmaster Oliver, do so… you’ll earn back whatever his fee is exponentially.”
— Joseph Preira, Success Martial Arts
“He helped our school to the next level (like ‘The Ivy League of Martial Arts’)… the most expensive school in the area with top quality martial arts.”
— Jae Jo, Martial arts school owner
“Master Oliver has been at the top of this industry for decades and has really given everyone a way to succeed.”
— Richard Hackworth, Owner, American Dragon Martial Arts
“Master Oliver and his team can and will teach you the systems needed to run a high-quality, professional school that is profitable and remains true to your style and culture.”
— Eric Sbarge, The Peaceful Dragon, Charlotte, NC
“They have helped me view myself and my business with fresh eyes and regain the passion and vision for making an enormous impact as a professional martial arts academy.”
— Andre T. Johnson, Quest Martial Arts, South Florida (Facebook review)
“Grand Master Oliver has been a mentor to me for over 27 years. He introduced me to Tony Robbins, Chuck Norris, Grand Master Jhoon Rhee — concepts, networks, and people that have profoundly changed my life.”
— Harrison Snider, School owner; 27-year student (Facebook review)
“He really knows his market and how to take a martial arts business and turn it into sizeable profit… If you are looking for the answer on how to better market and manage your martial arts business, this is your guy!”
— James Murphy, School owner (Facebook review)
“If you want insight into what the top 1% are doing and thinking, listen to Mr. Oliver. He provides the cutting edge of successful martial arts business systems… His information applies to ALL styles of martial art.”
— David Arnebeck, Warrior’s Cove Martial Arts (Facebook review)
“When it comes to teaching martial arts or the business of martial arts, Stephen is the real deal.”
— David Crum, School owner (Facebook review)
“Great opportunity to dramatically increase your bottom line. Very well done seminars and good follow up.”
— Don Willis, School owner (Facebook review)
“You need someone to set the course and throw you the rope. Master Oliver has climbed the mountain many, many times over, and he’ll get you where you want to be.”
— Jeff Bartsch, School owner (Facebook review)
“Master Oliver has ‘been there, done that’ in every aspect of this business! He can tell you what you are doing wrong; what you are doing right; and what you need to do next.”
— Bob Olinghouse, School owner (Facebook review)
“Stephen Oliver is the go to guy in Martial Art Business!”
— Troy Cheatwood, School owner (Facebook review)
“Want to take your business to the next level… this is the guy to work with!”
— Jeff Klaubert, School owner (Facebook review)
“Master Oliver is uniquely positioned to help others be successful in the martial arts business… he helps others gain the knowledge needed to be a success too.”
— Mindi Godfrey, School owner (Facebook review)
“This is exactly why any professional martial artist should be in this group. I’d been cruising in the comfort zone for years — getting here, getting stretched, and seeing what’s truly possible has let us do what we love and get the kind of results that let us live the life we should be living.”
— Nathan Ray, World Karate-Do, North Carolina
“The live events are 100% worth shutting your whole school down for — you get three months’ worth of information in three days. Everyone is incredibly generous with their knowledge and genuinely kind. My advice is simple: just go. It’s invaluable.”
— Sherry Shaoling, Martial Arts Wealth Mastery member
“The live event was fantastic — especially being around all the successful big schools. Being in the room with everyone at that level makes a huge difference.”
— Christian Arias, America’s Best Karate, El Paso, TX
“They don’t always tell you what you want to hear (rarely) — but they always tell you what you need to hear. Stephen Oliver listens to what your goals are and then gives you a clear (simple, rarely easy) path to get there. If you want your students to receive the best possible service you can offer while growing your own financial wealth, this is where you want to be.”
— Amanda Christensen, Martial Arts Wealth member
“Master Oliver has the experience that helped me get my martial arts school in the right direction. With an emphasis on training our students and staff to be successful in life as well as martial arts, and marketing with systems that really work, we have grown every month since joining two years ago. THIS is the right group to learn from.”
— Thomas Wright, Martial Arts Wealth member
“Master Oliver and company have a true wealth of knowledge to impart to those wise enough to listen. If you own a martial arts school and you want to be more successful, these are unquestionably the right people to get you there.”
— James DeGrechie, Martial arts school owner
“Unparalleled coaching and education for the serious martial arts professional.”
— Rob Atalick, Nakkuma Academy
“Unparalleled business master! Thank you for all your help and guidance over the last year and a half.”
— Walter Bergeron, Martial Arts Wealth member
“For the professional martial arts school owner, Stephen’s depth of knowledge and experience make him the undisputed leader.”
— Don Southerton
“Growth happens outside our comfort zone. It’s not easy, but it IS worth it. If you wish to expand the positive impact you’re having in your students’, community’s, and family’s lives, seek out Master Oliver — operations and systems based on doing the greater good for your students and your life.”
— DojoUSA WTC, school owner
“From running multiple schools to maximizing revenue in a single school, Grand Master Oliver’s team will put you on the fast track to success and make your life easier! With 35 years of experience running extremely successful schools, he is the industry expert in every aspect of starting, growing, or reinventing your school. Before making any major decision I check in with him and his team for consultation and guidance — I don’t have to worry about advice from someone with no real-life experience. There’s a lot of crummy advice out there… don’t be fooled!”
— Greg Macy, martial arts school owner
“I’ve been amazed at Master Oliver’s willingness to sit down with me and openly share everything about his program. I highly recommend this to anybody who wants to take it to the next level — Master Oliver will do anything he can to help you be the greatest success you can be.”
— Robert Austin, International Black Belt Academy
“This is probably the best-packed weekend of information you could possibly get. You’ve got the elite — the top echelon of school owners — giving you this information. It’s probably the best thing you could ever do.”
— Mark McCumber, former Oliver school operator
“Master Stephen is a great instructor and his business skills are amazing. He has the tools to take your school to the top.”
— William Hernandez, School owner (Facebook review)
“Some of the best martial arts professionals in the world listen to what this fine sir has to say when he speaks about their business. Keep that in mind when deciding who to take business advice from.”
— Tim Nelson, School owner (Facebook review)
“Embrace the model! There is always something to learn from Stephen Oliver.”
— Clay Worley, School owner (Facebook review)
“Looking for more business and more students? Grandmaster Stephen Oliver is THE MAN!”
— Gilbert René Boutoumou, School owner (Facebook review)
“Over the last 30+ years in the martial arts profession, I have had the good fortune to work with many of top consultants in the industry. Master Oliver and his crew are lightyears ahead of them all. They don’t give theory, they don’t give ideas, the give effective systems to build an outstanding martial arts school that build outstanding students. Disclaimer: It is work! But man it works!”
— Jon Penny, Jon Penny’s Black Belt Academy
“Incredible mentor. The people Master Oliver surrounds you with are truly top notch. I couldn’t ask for a better group to help push us and take us to the next level.”
— Christian Arias, America’s Best Karate, El Paso, Texas
“The guys really know their stuff on how to implement systems in the school. I can highly recommend it to anybody interested in growing their gym.”
— Jeff Patterson, Northwest Fighting Arts, Portland, Oregon
Book Reviews and Endorsements
What readers say about Stephen Oliver’s books on martial arts school business and teaching, including Extraordinary Teaching with Grand Master Jeff Smith.
“I want to congratulate you on writing a very fine piece of literature that I think will greatly help the martial arts community, as well as other small businesses that might use it… Every page is useful and filled with the ‘do’s and don’ts’… I never knew you could produce a book that was in a format so easy to read, grasp and put into action.”
— Jim Clapp, American Karate Studios, Newark, DE; EFC Board of Directors
“I have finally completed reading your manuscript. Being computer-illiterate I found it quite interesting, to my surprise, and an easy read. The ideas from a marketing stand point are wonderful.”
— David Deaton, NASKA World Tour Promoter, David Deaton Karate Schools
“What an outstanding book, not only for a Karate school, but for any local business that wants to market them self more effectively online. Tons of resources and details that will save hours and lots of dollars.”
— Jonathan Mizel, The Online Marketing Letter
“After more than fifty years in this art, I can say with conviction: this is the finest modern work ever written on building a martial arts school that lasts.”
— Grand Master William Clark, 50+ years in the martial arts (The Leadership Factory)
“His approach to the attendance card alone could save a struggling school thousands of dollars a month. This is not theory. It’s a blueprint.”
— Shihan Marc Pamfilis, Founder, Shihan Marc’s Karate Academy; 50 years teaching (The Leadership Factory)
“A sharp wake-up call for martial arts instructors… essential reading for anyone who wants to teach with heart and excellence and build their school.”
— Marc Sigle, 7th Degree Black Belt; owner, Bushido Esslingen, Germany (Extraordinary Teaching)
“I’ve worked with them for over a decade and trained with them at live events across the United States. I’ve seen first hand how much they care about everyone they work with.”
— Adam Lux, 7th Degree Black Belt, DLux Martial Arts, Detroit, MI
“A remarkable hallmark writing of insights into martial arts leadership. I have used these lessons in my life achievements as a Doctor in Education and Juris Doctor of Law.”
— Lorenzo Trujillo, Ed.D., J.D., Attorney and educator; former Oliver school director
“I have been operating martial arts schools for over 30 years, and I wish I would have read this book back then. Get this book, read it, and apply it. It works.”
— Sascha Williams, School operator, 30+ years (Amazon review)
“Damn! I wish I had written this book! What decent instructor is not going to want to read this?”
— Marty Callahan, Shotokan Karate Leadership School
“I wish this book was available 18 years ago when I opened my first martial arts school. The concepts in Stephen Oliver and Jeff Smith’s ‘Extraordinary Teaching’ completely turned my school around — a clear route to marketing and sales, higher enrollments and long-term commitments, and continuous growth. Whether you are a new or seasoned school owner, you should consider this book indispensable.”
— Master Chuck Vertolli, Yi’s Karate (Amazon review)
“It is a book I require my staff to read in order to learn, think, and act like black belts in business. The staff is more aligned, classes have become more structured, standards have risen, and student and family satisfaction has improved. We are now over 215 active students and our number of students continues to increase every month.”
— Steven Seme, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)
“Candidly, I expected to be irritated. I’ve taught martial arts for 31 years, trained law enforcement from cadet to SWAT, and invested over $100,000 in my own instructor education. I ended up pleased — and a little embarrassed — that I was very wrong. I’ve learned dozens of new things I can do to become a better instructor. This is teaching and student retention on a whole different level than I’ve ever done before.”
— JP, 31-year instructor and law-enforcement trainer (Amazon review)
“I’m a little over double my monthly revenue and have significantly better retention. This book gave me a practical blueprint for growth and retention month over month — how to teach so students stay, build attendance habits and testing rhythm, and develop an instructor bench without burning people out.”
— Halima Kamani, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)
“As the owner of three performing arts academies, I picked up Extraordinary Teaching expecting insights for martial arts schools — but I quickly realized how relevant it is for anyone running a school that works with young people. The principles translate beautifully to music, theater, and other performing arts programs. For owners who care about building something meaningful and sustainable, this book offers a lot of practical ideas.”
— Antonius Bittmann, owner of three performing arts academies (Amazon review)
“For decades Stephen Oliver has been known as the GOAT of martial arts business and marketing. With this book he proves he’s just as brilliant when it comes to the teaching aspect of running a successful martial arts school — both big-picture concepts and implementable steps.”
— Ran Z (Amazon review)
“As a martial arts school owner, the business side often felt like a struggle — that changed when I discovered this book. It’s not just theory; it’s a proven blueprint for success. This book has made a profound impact at our school and business.”
— John Ramirez, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)
“This book is a MUST READ for any serious martial arts school owner. I’ve trained with Master Oliver for decades and there’s nobody who knows how to build a rock-solid school better than him. Do yourself a favor and get this book!”
— James Theros, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)
“Stephen Oliver is a martial artist and business guru. I have every book he has written, and they are filled with tons of practical, usable business insight. I love this book — five stars, pick up your copy today.”
— Nicole Alberigo, host, School Owner Talk podcast (Amazon review)
“This book is now mandatory reading for my staff. It was a complete game changer for both me and my school. I can’t recommend it enough!”
— Michael Corley, martial arts school owner (Amazon review)
The Way of the Mile High Maverick and Live Events
Readers of The Way of the Mile High Maverick, coaching clients and live-event attendees on the book and on working with Stephen Oliver.
“As someone who grew up in Mile High Karate and had the opportunity to know Stephen Oliver as both an instructor, employer, business owner, and mentor, I can tell you first hand he knows what he is talking about. In my 25 years as a part of the Mile High Karate organization, I have experienced first hand the dramatic effects of what Stephen Oliver’s business models can do for new schools and established schools alike. I have seen him walk into schools with 20 students and within weeks have the school flooded with hundreds of new students. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone in the martial arts industry looking to move to the next level.”
— Korey and Sara Stites, Personal Achievement Martial Arts, Wheat Ridge, CO
“I HATE, HATE, HATE it when one of my competitors produces an incredible resource. I read Master Oliver’s The Way of the Mile High Maverick and was blown away by his content, insight and ‘just tell it how it is’ style, complete with facts and figures. This is an absolute MUST read for EVERY Martial Arts School owner out there. I hate to admit it but it is GREAT! Get and read this book NOW!”
— Leigh Childs, The MA Success Guy
“OK, I am blown away with the content of your book. There is so much. I need to study all of it! God Bless You and Thank You. I do not think there is another publication out there that can come close to your book!”
— Keith Joseph Bennett
“If you are a professional martial arts instructor and are fed up and ready to take your school to the next level, there is no other choice but the one. Read his book The Way of The Mile High Maverick and you too will be the top 1%. I lingered in the lower 90% for six years thinking I knew the answer. Thanks to Master Stephen Oliver I learned that you can be the best instructor in the world but that does not mean you will be a great school owner. With this man’s expertise and help, along with this amazing book, I know I am well on my way to joining him in the top 1%. Worth its weight in gold!”
— Adam DiStefano
“Stephen Oliver has set the standard in true Martial Artist professionalism. I have known Mr. Oliver for three decades, and he had my attention when he produced a national tournament, the Mile High NASKA event, but it was behind the scenes that really impressed me. His organizational skills are the standard for the industry. He is my friend and fellow martial artist who will continually be in the eyes of the martial arts community for progressive progress in the business world of martial arts. He is what we say at the Museum: ‘a Professional Maximizer.’”
— Professor Gary Lee, Founder, National Sport Karate Museum, 9th-Dan
“History allows us to take a step back and evaluate the impact of those before us. Stephen Oliver is not only a man who has had his share of battles, but has proven to overcome all obstacles and establish one of the most successful martial arts organizations today. In this new book, he provides a unique way of examining our own history and taking our passion into a more rewarding and even profitable industry. It is not a how-to book, but a book on philosophy and reshaping our mindset to make a successful living on something we love. Stephen doesn’t hold back; he says it like it is, and he provides a series of concepts that will have an immediate and direct effect on school enrollment and a pathway to running a more successful school.”
— Michael Matsuda, President, Martial Arts History Museum
“Master Stephen Oliver is without a doubt one of the martial arts industry leaders in combining martial arts training with tried and true business skills. This book is a must in recommended reading for anyone considering opening up a martial arts school!”
— Master Karen Eden
“Ignorance is not bliss, it’s torture. I didn’t know what I didn’t know. Once I read this book, The Way of the Mile High Maverick, I realized how deep the rabbit hole goes. This book is the tipping point from mediocrity to excellence in Martial Arts business management: comprehensive, thorough and to the point. Beware, a read through means you can no longer use the excuse, ‘I didn’t know.’”
— Peter Johnson, NAPMA Peak Performer; Elite Billy Blanks TaeBo Instructor; Ultimate Black Belt Graduate Team
“Mr. Oliver gave me about 4 sentences of advice which changed one of my lead strategies tremendously. Instead of getting 20 leads from this activity, now I get 200 plus. By listening to his advice, I received more leads in a week’s time than I have in 4 months.”
— Brad Fantle, President, Tallahassee Taekwondo Academy, Tallahassee, FL
“I’ve been a coaching member with Stephen Oliver for about one year now, and the biggest thing I’d like to mention was my fear of getting into the coaching program and thinking, ‘My gosh, it’s not cheap. Am I going to see my return?’ His key is retention, just like in his schools. If he’s going to keep his coaching clients, he’s got to make sure that he’s making you earn some money. And he’s been doing that for us. He’s helped double our gross. It’s really been paying off.”
— Duncan Richardson, Academy of World Tae Kwon Do, Boise, ID
“We doubled our tuition on a monthly basis and more than tripled our cash flow and gross revenue. I own three Tae Kwon Do-based schools and I’ve been working with Master Oliver for about three months. My initial hesitation was not so much whether the investment would be worth it, but whether I could fit it into our cash flow because our schools always had a really strapped budget. But I gathered my courage and took the leap. The first month I got all of the information, the second month I learned about it, and the third month I implemented it. That third month, we doubled our tuition on a monthly basis and more than tripled our cash flow and gross revenue.”
— Scott Manning, S J Manning’s Family Tae Kwon Do, Terre Haute, IN
“I’m from Unlimited Success in Allen, Texas, and the reason I joined the Martial Arts Wealth group was to help myself promote my school more effectively and to be able to get more students and up my student body. What I’ve taken away from this weekend is to better market my school. I want to make sure that I get into more magazines of different levels, not just penny magazines but also higher level magazines. Make sure that I get more lead generation and therefore get the numbers of people coming into my school to make it better. So over the next 90 days: better marketing, better lead generation, double, triple my efforts for that.”
— Mark McGee, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, Allen, TX
“This weekend has been a great opportunity for me. I always look forward to the opportunity to network with other people in the industry. There’s a lot of stuff going on in the economy right now, but you surround yourself with a group of other people who are committed to making a difference, to still growing their business, to overcoming any kind of challenges in front of you, and a lot of resources for new information. The main thing I want to bring back to our staff and all of our schools is the concept that during the recession, maybe the print ads aren’t working as well as they used to, but the one thing that’s going to always work well is that belly-to-belly, face-to-face contact. That was a good message to hear and a good reminder to take back to my team.”
— Michael Mertens, Master Chongs Taekwondo, Buffalo, New York, 5 Locations, 2,000 Students
“Oh, it was a great experience. You get to rub elbows with some of the top business leaders in the industry and open your mind to new ways of thinking. In today’s economy, your knowledge is going to be very important and I like to gain as much knowledge about the industry as I can. I came away with a lot of great ideas, just the ideas of marketing, retention, staff training, all the vital areas to be successful. It was motivational as well, not just educational. The thing that separates the people that do real well from the people that just get by is that people that do well find out everything they can about the industry. They’ve been there, done it, and that’s the best way to learn.”
— Hilary Sandoval, America’s Best Karate Center, El Paso, TX, 22 Year Veteran Martial Arts School Owner
“UP 40%! I AM ON TRACK! My enrollment hit 310 yesterday, which was my June 1st goal! I have been blowing past my financial goals. My YTD goal was $215,887; but, in fact, I hit $261,584! That’s 20% over goal! Last year, for the first 5 months, I had made only $185,899, which is 40% growth! For the first time I can remember, students asked to upgrade. I’ve learned that Stephen Oliver and Dan Kennedy were right in their predictions. I raised my prices, increased my volume and closing rates, decreased complaints about money, and students are upgrading into even more expensive programs, even when consumer confidence is supposedly low. WOW!”
— Jonathan Metcalf, Enfield, CT
“I am projecting $1.15 Million. My number is still growing, and I am projecting $1.15 M for this year. NAPMA has been doing lots of changing and improving. NAPMA is always helpful to improve my martial arts school in business and my teaching skills since the first day of joining. The Martial Arts Wealth Meeting has been extremely helpful, and all members are very open minded and eager to work together. Again thank you for your help and all the great work in NAPMA.”
— Jason Yi, NAPMA Martial Arts Wealth Member, Woodbridge, VA
Congratulations on the Lifetime Achievement Award
Notes from students, black belts and fellow school owners.
“Well deserved, Grand Master Oliver — we’re so glad to be back at Mile High Karate. My husband received his black belt in 1996, and now my son will get his in about six months. They’re still going strong. Thank you, and congratulations, Sir!”
— Dwayne & Michael Bragg, Mile High Karate Thornton, Westminster, CO
“Congratulations, Grand Master Oliver, on this well-deserved lifetime achievement award. Crossing paths with you years ago and becoming a member of your group was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my school. Thank you, and congratulations.”
— Master Paul Prendergast, 7th-Degree Black Belt, Paul Prendergast Karate, Brick, NJ
“Well deserved, Oliver, Kwan Jang Nim! You and your team provide multiple schools that substantially contribute to the maturing and education of Colorado communities. Since we first met in 1984, you’ve continued to help many martial arts school owners understand what’s necessary to build proper income and financial stability while contributing real service to their communities — myself included, here in Santa Fe, Socorro, Las Cruces, and Las Vegas, NM, Orange County, CA, and Colonial Heights, VA. Thank you for sharing your best with our wonderful industry. Proud of you, Kwan Jang Nim!”
— Daniel Walker, 9th Dan Hapkido, Martial Arts Institute, Santa Fe, NM
“GM Oliver is a pioneer and a true legend. I can think of no one more deserving of such an award. Thank you, Sir, for paving the way for us all!”
— Jeffrey Konich, 4th-Degree Black Belt, Family Martial Arts, Hudson, MA
“Congratulations, Master Oliver! The lessons I learned as a kid from your school stuck with me well into adulthood — and now my husband and son get to learn those same life lessons!”
— Mindy Davis, Mile High Karate, Thornton, CO
“GM Oliver, I’ve been following you for many years. It’s my honor to congratulate you for representing our sport in such an outstanding way.”
— Mick Moore, 6th Dan, American Karate Institute, Victoria, TX
“Congratulations, Sir. This is so well deserved. Your contribution to the growth and success of martial arts and school owners is monumental. Thank you.”
— Jack DeSousa, 7th-Degree Black Belt, Martial Arts Advantage, Centerton, AR
“Congratulations, Grand Master Oliver! Training under you for over 20 years has been a privilege. You’ve built so many people up and helped improve martial arts across the world!”
— Ali Christensen, 3rd-Degree Black Belt, Mile High Karate, Thornton, CO
“Congratulations! Thanks for the opportunity to work with children, to make lifelong friends. Proud to be a Mile High Karate black belt.”
— Cindi Moulton, 2nd-Degree Black Belt, Northglenn, CO
“Grand Master Oliver is a true inspiration, having created an incredible legacy for himself and everyone he has worked with.”
— Blayne Bonfoco, Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Belize
Work with Stephen Oliver
To talk with Stephen Oliver and Grand Master Jeff Smith about your school, call or text National Director Bob Dunne at (720) 256-0208, use the contact page, or learn about Martial Arts Wealth Mastery business coaching. For his background, see the About page, his martial arts lineage, his books and his speaking and media kit.