Instructors at
Smart Girl Self Defense
Mike Winkeljohn
Head Coach
Coach Mike Winkeljohn is widely recognized as one of the most sought-after coaches in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) today. With a 5th Degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate, he has an impressive background as a multiple-time ISKA, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai World Champion.
Heather Winkeljohn
Head Coach
Heather Winkeljohn has been teaching all ages and abilities in fitness and self-defense for several years. Heather holds a Black Belt from the Jackson Wink Academy for her skills and contributions to Smart Girl Self Defense and the formation of IncredAble Adaptive MMA, two degrees in Education and Psychology and is a registered nurse with a BSN.
Dayna
Coach
A Marine Corp Veteran. Dayna earned her Bachelor’s degree in fashion design. She is a personal trainer, and a Coach for Smart Girl Self Defense and the IncredAble Adaptive MMA program.
Jordan
Coach
Jordan joined Jackson Wink/Wink’s Gym Kickboxing and has since been honored to become an instructor. Jordan loves bringing cardio, strength training, and teamwork into her workouts and thrives on seeing her students improve each and every day in the physical, mental, and emotional form.
Dalea
Coach
Feeling a need to expand her education and ability to defend herself and her family, Dalea started to train in MMA and learn about firearms several years ago. She has a unique perspective, easily relating to those who didn’t grow up with firearms.
Not sure where to start?
We’re happy to help you choose the right class.
What to expect when you step into class
Each session is guided, beginner-friendly, and focused on helping you
apply what you learn—not just watch or memorize.
STEP 1
Learn the Situation
You’ll be walked through common
real-life scenarios—so you understand what to look for and exactly when you need to act to stay safe.
STEP 2
Practice with Guidance
Instructors demonstrate each movement, then guide you step-by-step as you practice in a controlled, supportive environment.
STEP 3
Repeat Until “Natural”
You’ll drill the techniques so your response becomes more automatic—not something you have to think through under pressure.
Join women who started with
no experience—and now feel prepared
From first-time students to parents and professionals,
these reviews reflect what people actually take away from the training.
Trained by experienced coaches
with a world-class training background
Smart Girl Self Defense is backed by the experience of Greg Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn, co-founders of Jackson Wink MMA Academy—an internationally recognized training center in mixed martial arts.
The program is led day-to-day by Heather Winkeljohn, who works directly with students to build real-world awareness, confidence, and practical self-defense skills in a supportive environment.
You’re not learning from hobbyists—you’re training under instructors with decades of experience working with athletes, professionals, and everyday individuals.
GET STARTED NOW
Start learning what to do—
before you ever need it
You don’t need experience to begin. You just need a starting point.
In one class, you’ll learn how to recognize risk, respond with confidence,
and take control of situations that used to feel uncertain.
Start with a class. Build from there.
Keep training—even outside the gym
Access guided training and real-world insights anytime through the app and podcast.
Train anytime with the
Smart Girl Self Defense App
Available on iOS and Android
Reinforce what you learn in class with guided workouts, technique breakdowns, and structured training you can follow at your own pace.
On-demand workouts and drills
Train on your own schedule
Flexible one-on-one or small group sessions, and more!
Listen to the
Unstoppable Podcast Network
Available on all major digital streaming platforms
Hear real stories and insights from women athletes and individuals navigating pressure, resilience, and personal safety—featuring shows like Unstoppable and She Fights.
Real-world stories and perspectives
Insights on resilience, awareness, and mindset
Conversations with experienced voices and guests