I was primarily homeschooled in Jiu-Jitsu, but that doesn’t mean I conducted all my training at home—I definitely didn’t. Rather, it means that I took the initiative to actively manage my own Jiu-Jitsu journey and progression. While most practitioners typically focus their training at only one school, I chose to train at a variety of schools to gather insights from as many practitioners as possible during my journey. My approach was different; I studied at numerous academies under several black belts and made it a point to participate in as many open mats, seminars, private lessons, and training camps whenever my busy career allowed. Moreover, I supplemented my learning by extensively utilizing Jiu-Jitsu digital instructionals, books, and insights from influential figures in the martial arts community, which enabled me to continue progressing at an impressive pace. Through this multifaceted approach, I not only honed my skills but also developed a comprehensive and diversified understanding of Jiu-Jitsu.
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I just kept asking myself, "How can I get better while trying to train SAFELY and balancing my BUSY life ?"
As a busy professional, I recognized the need to carve out an alternative route that focused on innovative time management and safe training practices. Much of my understanding of effective time management comes from my experiences as a 13-time Ironman competitor, where I learned to navigate the challenges of balancing a demanding career and family obligations while pursuing my passion for endurance sports. I aimed for Jiu-Jitsu to be not just a hobby, but also a pathway to enhancing my physical and mental well-being. Throughout my journey, I encountered numerous professionals who struggled to incorporate the conventional training routine into their busy lives. Whether training alongside doctors, engineers, and lawyers, or with actors and musicians, it became evident that many faced the constant risk of injuries that could jeopardize their careers. This realization reinforced my commitment to developing a training approach that emphasizes safety and efficiency, allowing us to pursue our passions without sacrificing our professional responsibilities.
I’m committed to helping you to take control of your training by introducing innovative ways to excel while enjoying the process and staying safe. Through my own journey, I aim to inspire you to embrace a balanced Jiu Jitsu lifestyle, supported by unique strategies derived from a homeschool perspective.
Not Everyone Will Understand Your Journey. THAT'S FINE.
It's not their journey to Understand. IT'S YOURS.
It's absolutely okay if competition isn't on your radar; our priority is to help you develop a love for Jiu-Jitsu and ensure you enjoy a safe training experience.
Competing is something I have always enjoyed so YES I did compete (a lot) almost exclusively on the IBJJF circuit as opposed to regional and local events. But let's face it: less than 5% of practitioners regularly compete, and less than 2% at the IBJJF level. We believe that jiu-jitsu should be available to all, particularly for those who want to train in a non-competitive environment.
However, my methods utilized in homeschooling for technique and training proved to be remarkably effective and efficient. I did my first IBJJF competition as a white belt. At Blue Belt, I was ranked #1 at lightweight and overall, in the IBJJF rankings (M4/Male/Blue/Light). For purple belt, I was ranked #1 in lightweight and #2 in the overall Master 5 purple IBJJF rankings (M5/Male/Purple/Light). I was ranked #1 at lightweight and #17 in the overall in the IBJJF rankings (M5/Brown/Light) at brown belt.
Paul's Black Belt Day
A Milestone in My Jiu-Jitsu Journey
October 19th, 2024
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For those of you that want to know about my life before Jiu-Jitsu keep reading.
I grew up in the 1970’s and 1980’s in Niagara Falls, New York which is a blue collar city on the western end of New York right on the Canadian border. I did not grow up with money. I was raised in a family with 6 children. For a period of time, my great-grandmother even lived with us. The 9 of us would have to share a single bathroom. My father was a union electrician who worked commercial construction jobs often in chemical plants with hazardous materials. My mother was a stay-at-home Mom but was educated as a nurse. Living on a single inconsistent construction paycheck was no easy task for my parents.
To earn additional income, my parents opened and operated a bait and tackle store as we lived extremely close to the lower Niagara River across from the Canadian border. That’s where I got my first taste of hands-on business experience. We sold worms, crabs, leeches, minnows, grubs and fishing tackle. I was the kid who got on the school bus while other kids yelled, “WORMS!”
Most kids enjoyed playing with Gi I Joe's but I was the nerdy kid that carried around a brief case and counted my money.
When my grandmother gave me cash for birthdays I would ask her to give me single bills instead of a $10 so I could fill my briefcase faster. And that's how my 35+ years in finance started. I earned my undergraduate accounting degree from the State University of New York (1992) and an MBA in corporate finance from the State University of New York (1994) . Then my career started as a CPA and consultant at the international firm Ernst & Young LLP working in both the Atlanta, GA office and in the national headquarters office in Cleveland, Ohio. With my desire to work with individual clients rather than corporate entities, I left the corporate world and became the original founder of Niagara Financial Advisors, LLC an SEC registered investment advisory firm in Alpharetta, Georgia. as a Certified Financial Planner. With a goal of assisting clients to achieve a wealthy, healthy, and happy lifestyle that is geared towards meaning and personal fulfillment, he then founded Kindzia Investments which is now located in Johns Creek, Georgia.
With 6 kids in the house fishing was the one thing that bonded us as father and son.
Growing up fishing with my dad holds some of my fondest memories. As a child the time we spent together created a unique bond between us, filled with laughter, stories, and life lessons that shaped my love for the sport.
My Years As An Ironman Triathlete
2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run = 140.6 miles of endurance
Completing an Ironman is not just about the race itself; it's the culmination of unwavering commitment and extensive training. Preparing for this grueling event requires consistent dedication to both endurance and strength training. Athletes must also learn how to effectively fuel their bodies to maximize performance over a long day of racing. This experience parallels my love for Jiu-Jitsu, where the dedication to continuous improvement keeps me invested in both pursuits. Once I crossed that finish line, the exhilaration ignited a plan for my next race.
In Jiu-Jitsu, the relationships formed are built through mutual respect and technical sparring, but in Ironman, the camaraderie takes on a different flavor. While training for endurance events, all participants have a common goal, and this shared journey encourages us to support each other wholeheartedly. Whether it's celebrating personal triumphs or offering words of encouragement during tough times, the friendships created through Ironman training are truly special.
The End Of My Ironman Journey
My last Ironman, which marked my 13th race, proved to be a challenging and unexpected journey, as it didn’t unfold as I had hoped. Leading up to the event, I had trained diligently, yet something felt off. Little did I know that I was grappling with a significant health issue: my first brain tumor, which would later explain the struggles I faced during the race. As I crossed the finish line I felt such a bittersweet mix of accomplishment and frustration. From that moment on, Angela (my wife) and I closed the chapter on our Ironman experiences.
4 Brain Tumors Over 14 Years
My 14-year battle with four brain tumors has been a journey filled with challenges, resilience, and unwavering determination. Diagnosed years ago, I faced an uncertain future that required me to adapt and learn to navigate the complexities of living with tumors that affected my daily life. Through countless medical appointments, treatments, surgeries, and the ups and downs of managing symptoms, I discovered the strength within myself to confront adversity head-on. This experience not only taught me the importance of perseverance but also deepened my appreciation for the small, everyday moments that often go unnoticed. Along the way, I received immense support from my family, friends, and medical professionals, who became my pillars of strength and encouragement. Despite the hurdles, I've found ways to embrace life, pursue my Jiu-Jitsu passion, and inspire others facing similar challenges, transforming what could have been a limiting diagnosis into a testament of resilience and hope.
My love for music
Piano & Bass
My Family
I met my wife Angela in 2007 and I knew she was the one when she told me she was "debt free, loved Ironman Triathlon, and had a passion for helping animals."
We often joke that our household runs on my love for Jiu-Jitsu and her love for animals. I immerse myself in the world of Jiu-Jitsu while she dedicates her time to rescuing and caring for animals in need.
My wife's love for rescuing animals is as intense as my passion for Jiu-Jitsu, creating a unique dynamic in our lives that highlights our shared commitment to making a difference. Over the past 15 years, we have dedicated ourselves—primarily Angela—to rescuing and nurturing hundreds of dogs and feral cats in need. Angela’s tireless efforts to trap and release feral cats exemplify her unwavering compassion and determination, as she engages in this never-ending endeavor to help reduce the stray population and improve their quality of life. Each animal she rescues becomes a part of our journey, bringing joy and fulfillment to our lives, while simultaneously presenting new challenges and adventures. Watching her work selflessly to provide these animals with a second chance inspires me as we blend our passions into a shared mission of care and compassion. Our home has become a haven for these rescued creatures, filled with love and dedication, reflecting our belief that every life, no matter how small, deserves a fighting chance.
We both thrive in an active lifestyle, finding joy in activities that challenge our bodies and invigorate our spirits. Colorado, with its stunning landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas, holds a special place in our hearts.
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