Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Josh Guerra. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Josh , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu when I was 10 years old as a way to lose weight and build my self confidence as I was being bullied in school. I knew from the day I did my first class that I was going to do Jiu-Jitsu for the rest of my life. It wasn’t until I started teaching that I realized that my purpose was giving back and working to influence people’s lives in a positive way. I believe God put this vision on my heart and I have faith that in the work that I’m doing at my academy Refuge BJJ. God gave me vision and gives me the strength to see it through.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My name is Josh Guerra and I’m currently a top 20 ranked Adult Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Head Instructor at Refuge Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Phoenix Arizona.
I started Jiu-Jitsu because I was being bullied in school and it forever changed and shaped my life. I’ve met some of my very best friends and created some of my most amazing memories through this sport. I’ve been able to travel the world to teach and compete and now have been blessed with the opportunity to make a living doing what I love. I am fortunate to have amazing people in my corner and great sponsors who believe in my work.
My goal and focus currently is to keep competing at the highest level and make my way up the rankings as well continue to grow my academy. My goal for Refuge BJJ is to build one of the best programs in Arizona. We are currently the #1 ranked Youth team in the state and I’m seeking the same ranking for our adult team.
Besides competition, I also want to continue building up and helping my students reach their goals. I want to inspire, encourage and motivate those around me to believe in their dreams and faith to chase the vision that God has put on their hearts. I want to share my faith through my passion and allow strong bonds to be formed with everyone at our academy.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I needed to surround myself with positive and encouraging people that were supporting my dreams. Having strong faith was also very important. My best friend is a Christian and him and myself talk daily about our walks with God and how important a strong relationship with God is to stay strong mentally and spiritual through running a business, having a family, being a father, husband and trying to compete at the highest level.
My suggestion would be to have people around you that will support you and love you no matter what. Seek advice and help from those who are or have done what you want to accomplish. Pray daily, everyday and let God lead the way.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Without a doubt my best friend and business partner Daniel Johnson. He has shown me what true friendship looks like and has supported me through thick and thin. I couldn’t do what I do without his help or support. He helps guide me through this journey and together we are doing everything possible to be successful and be a light for Christ in our community.
Thank you Daniel for showing me the greatest friendship.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.refugebjj.com
- Instagram: Refuge_bjj
- Facebook: Refuge BJJ
