Meet Gabriel Goulart | Jiu Jitsu Martial Arts

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabriel Goulart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabriel, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was a natural extension of my life in Jiu Jitsu. After so many years as a competitor and instructor, I felt a strong calling to create a space where I could share not only the technical side of the sport, but also the values that shaped my life: discipline, resilience, and community. My thought process was deeply rooted in legacy. I wanted to build something lasting, that could help transform people’s lives the way Jiu Jitsu transformed mine. It wasn’t just about opening a gym; it was about creating a home for personal growth, for families, and for the next generation of athletes

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Our business, Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Fernando Valley, is more than just a martial arts academy it’s a community built on discipline, respect, and personal growth. What sets us apart is the culture we’ve created. We don’t just teach techniques; we help people transform their lives, build confidence, and connect with a powerful support system through Jiu Jitsu.

Opening this academy has been a dream years in the making. As a lifelong competitor and instructor, I always knew I wanted to create a space where I could share the values and lessons Jiu Jitsu taught me not only on the mat but in life. It wasn’t easy. We faced so many challenges and the biggest challenges were definitely the time, which took about a year just to get off the ground, and all the bureaucracy involved in the city of Los Angeles. Everything was a challenge, from finding the location to actually making the dreams come true.
But we kept pushing forward with a clear purpose.

I’m most proud of the community we’ve already started building seeing families training together, kids becoming more disciplined and focused, and adults finding stress relief and strength in the sport. Every day reminds us why we do this.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success comes from consistency, not perfection. You show up every day, you give your best, and you stay humble and hungry to grow.
What I want the world to know is that our story is built on real passion and purpose. Our academy isn’t just a business it’s a home for anyone looking to become stronger, more confident, and part of something greater than themselves.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect mix of what makes this area so special great food, beautiful nature, vibrant culture, and of course, some Jiu Jitsu!

Day 1: We’d start local with a really nice breakfast at home and then head to Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Fernando Valley for a training session and to introduce them to our amazing community. Lunch maybe at some Brazilian steakhouse.

Day 2: We’d hit the beach probably Malibu or Santa Monica, for the views and peaceful vibe. Lunch by the ocean, at Tender Greens.

Day 3: Time for some L.A. energy. Morning coffee at The Grove, visiting LACMA museum or LACMA lights, and then a walk on Melrose Avenue. Dinner at Robata Jinya at 3rd street or Murakami sushi at Melrose, two of my favorite spots in the city.

Day 4: A wellness day hiking, followed by a relaxing stop at some park. Dinner would be bbq at home.

Day 5: Jiu Jitsu again (of course!), followed by a trip to Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Studio Tour always a hit with out-of-town friends. Sunset at the beach.

Day 6: We’d take a drive to Santa Barbara , walk around, to explore local shops, and soak in the small town California charm.

Day7 :Brunch at Republic at La Brea, last walk through The Grove for shopping, and maybe a final roll at the academy before they fly out.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely. My journey in Jiu Jitsu and in life has been shaped by the incredible people around me. First and foremost, I have to give a huge shoutout to my wife her unwavering support, belief in our vision, and partnership in building our business have been everything. I also owe a lot to my professor and mentor, Fábio Gurgel, whose leadership and guidance helped shape me not only as an athlete but also as a person.
The Alliance Jiu Jitsu team as a whole has been a constant source of inspiration, discipline, and community. I’m also deeply grateful to every student who has trusted us and shown up on the mats they motivate me every single day to keep growing.

And finally, I’ve learned so much from books on mindset, leadership, and entrepreneurship. They’ve helped me understand the importance of purpose, humility, and long-term vision.

Success is never a solo journey. I’m here because of the people who believed and invested in me and also for my great passion to develop and grow myself in every aspect of life.

Website: https://Alliancejjsanfernandovalley.com

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