Meet Our First Dad of the Month: Chad Kneller

Local dad, veteran, and business owner inspiring kids to conquer obstacles—one jump at a time.

We’re excited to launch our very first Dad of the Month spotlight just in time for Father’s Day—and we’re kicking it off with a dad who’s making a powerful impact in our local community through family, fitness, and faith.

Chad Kneller, a Spring resident, entrepreneur, and proud father of three, is the co-owner of USA Ninja Challenge The Woodlands, a kids fitness facility in Conroe that helps children build strength, confidence, and courage—one obstacle at a time.

From Army Officer to Ninja Gym Owner

Chad and his family moved to Spring, TX, in 2021 after visiting friends and falling in love with the area. A former Army Officer, Chad has been a full-time entrepreneur since 2014.

He starts most days with quiet time, a workout with his son, and coffee with his wife. “No two days are typically the same,” Chad says, which is part of what he enjoys about his lifestyle.

When his longtime friend and business partner Sam Robins suggested going into business together, they began exploring franchise opportunities. After months of research, they decided to open USA Ninja Challenge, a decision that made perfect sense. “We already had three kids attending the gym and knew we could build something special using our military and marketing experience.”

About USA Ninja Challenge The Woodlands

Located at 21227 Blair Road in Conroe (77386), USA Ninja Challenge is a year-round obstacle course training program for kids ages 2–17. The gym combines elements of gymnastics, cross training, climbing, and track & field to create a fun, challenging environment where children can build both physical and emotional strength.

With six progressive levels of training, the program helps kids develop at their own pace. “We’re here to build self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment,” says Chad. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see kids overcome fears and celebrate their progress.”

To learn more about classes, camps, and party options, visit ninjawoodlands.com.

What Fatherhood Means to Chad

Chad and his wife have been married for 21 years and are raising three children, ages 14 to 27. “Watching each of them grow and develop has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Chad says.

When it comes to balancing parenting and business ownership, Chad offers a unique philosophy: “I don’t believe in balance, but I do believe in alignment.”

God first.
Then my wife and children.
Then career and friendships.
In that order.

He prioritizes quality time over quantity and believes that even 20 minutes of focused attention with each child daily can have a lasting impact.

Life in North Houston

The Kneller family is grateful to call this community home. “We’ve wanted to live in Texas for years,” Chad says. “We came to Spring in 2021 to visit friends, and started looking at houses the next week. We love the values this area represents.”

Fun Fact

Chad competed in the military’s version of American Idol, called Operation Rising Star, in 2009—and made it to the final six contestants worldwide. He also spent much of the 1990s singing in rock bands.

In addition to running a successful business, Chad is the author of Finding Happy and owns several short-term rentals in Nashville. His future goals include expanding to Airbnb properties in Orlando and Valdez, Alaska—and maybe even jamming with Jon Bon Jovi one day.

How the Community Can Support

Looking for a new activity your kids will love? Try a class or camp at USA Ninja Challenge The Woodlands. With a 4.9-star Google rating, the gym is known for being a welcoming and exciting environment for all ages and skill levels.

Chad encourages families to stop by, try a class, or reach out about party or partnership opportunities. Visit ninjawoodlands.com to learn more.

Final Words of Wisdom

Chad’s favorite quote is one that inspires him daily:

"Whatever you vividly imagine, ardently desire, sincerely believe, and enthusiastically act upon must inevitably come to pass."
– Paul J. Meyer

And he shares a meaningful poem that reminds him—and all of us—not to let life pass by:

There was a very cautious man, who never laughed or cried.
He never risked, he never lost, he never won nor tried.
And when one day he passed away, his insurance was denied.
For since he really never lived, they claimed he never died.
– Denis Waitley

Nominate a Dad!

Know a dad who deserves to be in the spotlight? Whether he’s running a business, giving back, or making a difference in our community, we want to hear about him! Nominate yourself or a friend for our next Dad of the Month feature — click the button below!