The Team Chip Podcast

#60 RUNNING OUT OF GAS? How to Refuel Without Slowing Down w/ Chip Townsend

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip gets real about burnout—what it looks like, how to recognize it early, and most importantly, how to refuel without slowing down.

He shares simple, practical habits that help keep your tank full: five quiet minutes in the morning, moving your body, eating well when energy is low, and spending time outside. Chip also opens up about the importance of asking for help, delegating tasks, and giving yourself permission to take a break before you're completely drained.

If you’ve been feeling off, worn down, or just stretched too thin, this episode offers real tools to reset, refocus, and refuel without guilt and without losing momentum.

Want a deeper dive on this topic? Check out Episode 12 for more strategies on how to build margin, recover well, and stay in the game long-term.

#59 HOW TO BUILD A DEMO TEAM THAT DELIVERS w/ JT Cofer

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip is joined by JT Cofer, Chief Instructor at TC San Angelo, to dive into the how of building a demo team that actually works.

JT shares practical tips on where to start, what to look for in team members, and how to structure training that builds consistency and excitement. They also talk about how a demo team can become a powerful outreach tool, helping your school grow by showing up strong in the community.

If you're ready to build or level up your demo team, this episode gives you the roadmap to do it with purpose and excellence.

#58 THE POWER OF A DEMO TEAM: Why It Matters w/ Zeke Merchant

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip sits down with Zeke Merchant to talk about one of the most powerful tools for student growth and school visibility—a demo team.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a demo team is worth the time and energy, this episode breaks it down. Zeke shares his experience going from demo team student to leader, and how performing in public helped him build confidence, skills, and leadership.

They cover how demo teams can boost retention, give students something to strive for, and make your school stand out in the community. Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to level up what you already have, this conversation will give you clear reasons to take action.

#57 HANDLING CONFLICT BETWEEN INSTRUCTORS AND STUDENTS: Maintaining Respect & Authority

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip dives into a topic every martial arts school owner and instructor will face at some point—conflict between instructors and students.

What do you do when a student talks back, challenges your authority, or just won’t follow directions? Chip breaks down where these issues usually come from and how to handle them without losing control or respect. From staying calm and in charge to knowing when to bring parents into the conversation, this episode is full of practical tips to help you keep your mat culture strong.

If you’ve ever had that sick feeling before a tough conversation, you're not alone, but the truth is, dealing with it the right way lifts a huge weight and keeps your school moving forward.

#56 HANDLING YOUR STAFF VS. STAFF CONFLICT: Maintaining Respect and Authority w/ Glyn Ann Townsend

Staff conflict can quietly damage your school’s culture if left unaddressed. In this episode, Chip and Glyn Ann Townsend break down how to recognize early warning signs, guide team members through resolution, and set clear expectations for professionalism.

Key Points:

• Address issues early and privately
• Encourage direct, respectful communication
• Protect your culture with clear standards and tough calls when necessary

A strong martial arts school begins with a unified team. Tune in for real strategies you can put into practice right away.

#55 HANDLING PARENT CONFLICT WITH YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Without Throwing Your Team Under The Bus w/ Manny De Los Santos

What do you do when a parent is upset with one of your instructors? In this episode, Chip Townsend and guest Manny De Los Santos break down how to handle parent concerns without undermining your team. You’ll learn how to listen well, lead with clarity, and back your staff professionally even when emotions run high.

#54 HANDLING PARENT-TO-PARENT CONFLICT IN YOUR MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip Townsend is joined by Glyn Ann to tackle a challenge many martial arts school owners face but don’t often talk about: parent-to-parent conflict. Whether it’s tournament tension, drama in the seating area, or past personal issues creeping into the school, these situations can quietly chip away at your culture if left unchecked.

Chip and Glyn Ann break down where these conflicts come from, how to spot the early warning signs, and what to do when it’s time to step in. They share real stories, practical strategies, and the mindset it takes to lead with clarity, calm, and confidence.

If you’ve ever had to manage awkward tension between parents—or want to set a strong foundation that keeps your school family-focused and drama-free—this episode is packed with tools to help you lead well.

#53 HANDLING PARENT CONFLICT LIKE A PRO

Conflict is part of running a martial arts school, but handling it well is what sets strong leaders apart. In part one of our conflict resolution series, Chip Townsend shares why parent conflicts happen, how to respond with professionalism, and how to prevent issues before they start.

Learn how to stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and build the trust that makes future conflicts easier to manage.

Subscribe and stay tuned for part two of the series.

#52 FROM HOBBY TO BUSINESS: Shifting Your Mindset for Success

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip Townsend breaks down a major mindset shift: moving from treating your martial arts school like a hobby to running it like a serious business. Many school owners start with passion—but without structure, systems, and a business mindset, even the most dedicated instructors can burn out or stall out. Chip dives into what a hobby mindset looks like, why it holds school owners back, and what practical steps you can take to start building a strong, sustainable business that serves your students and community better.

#51 LEADING THE NEXT GENERATION: Managing Young Staff w/ Brian LaCroix

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip Townsend is joined by Brian Lacroix, local owner/operator at Chick-fil-A, to explore how to effectively manage and lead young staff.

Brian shares practical strategies for working with teens and young adults, including how to build accountability, create a culture of growth, and provide meaningful mentorship. If you’re leading a team of younger employees—whether in a martial arts school or another business—this episode is full of helpful insight.

If you enjoy the conversation, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps us reach more school owners and leaders like you.