Hidden Gems: Meet David Jackson of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Goodlettsville

Today we’d like to introduce you to David Jackson.

Hi David, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I first stepped onto Jiu-Jitsu back in 2019 while I was serving as a youth pastor in Mississippi. At the time, I was out of shape—physically and mentally—and needed something to challenge me in a positive way. I tried out a class and was immediately drawn to the fact that it wasn’t about competition or brute strength. Everything relied on technique, leverage, and timing, which meant it worked for anyone—kids, women, men—regardless of size or athletic ability.

When my family and I later moved to Virginia, I continued training and eventually became a certified instructor in the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Combatives Program. For me, it was never just about learning techniques—it was about growth, balance, and finding a way to serve others through what I was learning.

After 10 years in vocational ministry, my wife Katie and I felt called to continue serving, just in a different way. That’s what led us to open Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Goodlettsville. Today, instead of leading from a pulpit, I serve on the mats—teaching practical self-defense skills that really work and building a safe, welcoming community where families can grow stronger together.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but it’s been worth it. When we first started, we didn’t have many resources, so it was just me, my wife Katie, and our two kids, Ben and Izzy, doing the work ourselves, to get the gym ready. Building it together as a family is a big part of what makes this place special.

Another challenge has been helping people understand what makes us different. When many hear “Jiu-Jitsu,” they think of competition or cage fighting. From the beginning, we’ve had to show that our focus is practical self-defense—techniques based on leverage and timing that work for anyone. Those struggles shaped us, and they made our mission clear: to serve our community together as a family.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Goodlettsville is a family-focused gym on a mission to empower the community with practical self-defense skills. Our approach emphasizes technique over strength so that anyone—regardless of size, age, or athletic ability—can learn to protect themselves effectively. All of our classes are group sessions, creating a welcoming environment where families grow stronger together.

We offer programs designed for every age and stage:

Bullyproof® (Kids Program): Divided by age—Mat Munchkins® (3–5), Little Champs® (5–9), and Jr. Grapplers® (9–13)—our kids’ classes teach the physical skills to defend themselves and the verbal skills to avoid confrontation in the first place. We focus on confidence, resilience, respect, and situational awareness in a fun, structured environment—all without teaching punching or kicking.

Women Empowered®: This program gives women the tools and confidence to protect themselves in everyday life. Through situational awareness, practical self-defense techniques, and a supportive community, participants grow stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Combatives®: Our adult program teaches real-world self-defense, functional fitness, and Jiu-Jitsu skills that work for anyone. Students build confidence, problem-solving skills, and resilience in a non-competitive, welcoming environment.

Master Cycle®: For those who have progressed through Combatives®, Master Cycle® refines advanced techniques and prepares students to respond effectively in more complex scenarios. This track develops strategic thinking, confidence, and mastery of practical skills.

What makes Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Goodlettsville unique is our focus on practical skills, family, and community. We’re not about competition or tournaments—we’re about equipping people with techniques that actually work in real life. We’re proud of the culture we’ve created: kids growing confident through Bullyproof®, women empowered to protect themselves, and adults developing real-world skills while building lasting relationships.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Goodlettsville isn’t just a gym—it’s a place to grow, serve, and be prepared for life, together.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
For anyone just starting out in Jiu-Jitsu—or really any new skill—the most important thing is to be patient and consistent. Progress doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s easy to compare yourself to others, but everyone’s journey is different. Focus on learning the fundamentals and building a strong foundation, because that’s what will carry you through the tougher challenges down the road.

I also wish I had known how much mindset matters. It’s not just about learning techniques—it’s about growing confidence, discipline, and resilience. Approach every class with curiosity, be willing to make mistakes, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Finally, find a community you can trust. For me, that was the biggest game-changer. Being part of a supportive environment makes learning fun, keeps you motivated, and reminds you that Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just about self-defense—it’s about building relationships, character, and personal growth.

Pricing:

• Starting at $105/mo

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Graciegoodlettsville.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graciegoodlettsville/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graciegoodlettsville