Mastering Growth: Matthew Brenner on Transforming Martial Arts Schools and Teaching Life’s Greatest Lessons

In this episode of Philly Fortune Talks, Jake Penny sits down with Matthew Brenner, an accomplished martial artist, school owner, and visionary entrepreneur dedicated to reshaping the way martial arts can serve young students and empower school owners. Matt shares his unique approach to martial arts as a tool for teaching essential life skills—confidence, resilience, and focus—that are rarely addressed in traditional classrooms. Through his teaching philosophy, Matt is helping kids build grit and overcome adversity in a safe, structured environment.

Beyond the mat, Matt’s passion extends to mentoring other martial arts school owners. He reveals his secrets to sustainable, organic growth without relying on ads, comparing his approach to “fishing in a barrel” by strategically partnering with schools, daycares, and local businesses to bring students directly to their dojos. Matt’s expertise has helped numerous school owners thrive, with his program, The Triangle Codex, now supporting dozens of locations across Philadelphia and New Jersey.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on:

• The role of martial arts in developing life skills for kids
• Key techniques for fostering confidence and resilience
• Matt’s tried-and-true methods for building a sustainable student base without heavy ad spending

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