How I Run A $25M Martial Arts Program

The Business Success Journey of Master Von Schmeling: From Paraguay to America

My name is Matthew Brenner, and today, I'm delighted to share with you the inspiring story of Master Von Schmeling. A dedicated martial artist and successful business owner, Master Von Schmeling began his journey in the 1980s in Paraguay and has since expanded his empire to 49 locations in the United States, with five new schools opened just this month, April 2024. Notably, these are not just franchise schools; Master Von Schmeling holds equity in all of them, generating over $2 million a month and about $25 million annually. Join me as we dive into his story and uncover the secrets behind his business success.

Early Beginnings in Paraguay

Master Von Schmeling's entrepreneurial journey began in Paraguay, where he owned and operated five martial arts schools before moving to the United States. His father was one of his initial mentors, playing a significant role in many aspects of his life. In South America, another mentor, Dr. César Osuna, was instrumental in his professional growth. Dr. Osuna brought the ATA to South America, and together, they developed its presence in the region.

The Move to the United States

In 1988, when Master Von Schmeling visited Little Rock, Arkansas, he became enamored with the United States. Motivated by the American dream, he decided to move, despite having a successful operation in Paraguay. He initially faced challenges, including the need to navigate the U.S. immigration system. His journey to secure a work visa was serendipitously aided by an immigration officer who turned out to be a former student of Grandmaster Clark, one of Master Von Schmeling’s key mentors in Jacksonville, Florida.

Establishing a Presence in the United States

After obtaining his visa, Master Von Schmeling worked closely with Grandmaster Clark, who supported him even as he prepared to branch out on his own. In 1993, he opened his first school in Central Florida. He started with the goal of having 300 active students within a year; by the end of the first year, he exceeded this goal, reaching 323 students and achieving financial success almost immediately.

Strategic Expansion

Master Von Schmeling’s success continued, marked by a strategic and deliberate expansion across various states, including California, Texas, Michigan, and Virginia. His approach focused on first establishing a flagship school to serve as a model for subsequent schools. This strategy ensured consistency and quality across all locations.

Business Philosophy and Mentorship

A key element of Master Von Schmeling's success is his investment in mentorship and continuous learning. He attributes much of his success to his mentors and believes in the importance of sharing knowledge with new generations of martial artists and business owners.

His strategy involves more than just opening schools; it's about creating a culture of excellence and community. Master Von Schmeling focuses on enrolling new members, retaining them, and upgrading their membership experiences. The business model he follows emphasizes both initial enrollments and providing exceptional value that encourages long-term commitment.

Training and Leadership

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Master Von Schmeling's business approach is his dedication to leadership and systems. He emphasizes that the secret to his and Victory Martial Arts’ success lies in the combination of robust systems and effective leadership. He has built a community and culture that values continuous improvement, accountability, and shared goals.

Partnerships and Acquisitions

Regarding expansion through acquisitions, Master Von Schmeling is selective. He looks for partners who share his values and vision. This selective approach ensures that any new school aligns with Victory Martial Arts' culture and operational standards. He believes in nurturing partnerships with like-minded individuals who are committed to growth and excellence.

Engaging in Continuous Learning

Master Von Schmeling is an advocate for continuous learning and self-improvement. He invests heavily in his education and mentors, including high-profile coaches like Tony Robbins and Joe Dispenza. This investment in personal and professional development keeps him ahead of the curve and fuels his sustained success.

Conclusion

Master Von Schmeling’s journey from Paraguay to building a martial arts empire in the United States is a testament to the power of vision, mentorship, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His success is not just in building a profitable business, but in creating a vibrant, supportive community that continues to thrive and expand. For anyone looking to emulate his success, his story offers valuable lessons in leadership, strategic growth, and the importance of fostering strong mentorship relationships.