In this episode, Nick Castiglia interviews Megan Hodgen from Diamond MMA and Fitness. Megan shares her inspirational journey of starting her gym at a young age and overcoming challenges. The conversation covers topics such as the initial offerings of Diamond MMA, moving to a new location, success in personal fitness training, maximizing space and overlapping programs, challenges in the early days, going all in during COVID, lessons learned, impact on young females, advice for gym owners, finding balance and fulfillment, the importance of niche and connection, advice for struggling gym owners, biggest accomplishments, fulfillment from impacting lives, future plans for Diamond MMA, and the power of goal setting.

• Starting a gym at a young age is possible with determination and passion.
• Maximizing space and offering personal fitness training can be a successful source of income for a martial arts school.
• Location plays a crucial role in attracting customers and filling up programs.
• Going all in during challenging times can lead to success and inspire others.
• Finding a niche and creating a sense of community are important for gym owners.
• Goal setting is a powerful tool for business success.

Summary

Steve Poulin shares the story of how he started the Submission Academy and grew it into a successful martial arts gym. He discusses the challenges he faced, the decisions he made, and the importance of defining success on your own terms. Steve also talks about the transition from a hobby to a business, the importance of building a strong team, and the value of prioritizing time and happiness over money. Steve Poulin shares his journey from starting a martial arts gym in his garage to building a successful academy and hosting one of the biggest tournaments in Ontario. He emphasizes the importance of delegating and creating leaders within the gym to avoid burnout and ensure sustainability. Steve also discusses the value of not taking things personally and how it has helped him navigate challenges and criticism. He shares his experience in diversifying income streams through real estate and stock market investments. Steve finds fulfillment in coaching and changing lives, and he envisions a future where his gym continues to provide a positive and supportive environment for its members.

Takeaways

• Define success on your own terms and prioritize what truly matters to you.
• Build a strong team and focus on creating a positive and supportive culture.
• Transitioning from a hobby to a business requires dedication, learning, and taking risks.
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt is a common challenge, but believing in yourself and your abilities is crucial.
• Finding success is not just about financial gain, but also about personal fulfillment and happiness. Delegate and create leaders within your gym to avoid burnout and ensure sustainability.
• Don't take things personally, as success often breeds contempt and criticism.
• Diversify your income streams through investments in real estate and the stock market.
• Find fulfillment in coaching and changing lives, and strive for continuous improvement.

Summary

In this episode, Omar Kadi shares his journey from working in sales to becoming a successful martial arts school owner. He talks about his background growing up in New York and his experience working in various industries. Omar discusses the challenges he faced, including losing his job and supporting his family during difficult times. He also shares how he discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the impact it had on his life. Omar emphasizes the importance of mentors and consultants in his success and highlights the role of Legacy Martial Arts Consulting in his journey. He concludes by discussing the decision to open his own gym during the COVID-19 pandemic. Omar Kadi shares his journey of starting and growing Glory Martial Arts Center, emphasizing the importance of having a mentor and seeking coaching and consulting. He highlights the need to build a strong team and systemize the business for success. Omar also emphasizes the importance of finding balance and prioritizing family and relationships. He encourages gym owners to focus on the positives and learn from mistakes. Omar's story serves as an inspiration for those looking to achieve success in the martial arts industry.

Takeaways

• Having a mentor and seeking coaching and consulting can greatly benefit business owners.
• Building a strong team and systemizing the business are crucial for success.
• Finding balance and prioritizing family and relationships is essential.
• Focusing on the positives and learning from mistakes can lead to growth and success.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

01:11
From Sales to Martial Arts

05:11
Supporting Family and Starting a Business

06:00
Building an ATM Business

08:24
Tragedy and Challenges

09:21
Discovering Jiu-Jitsu

10:21
The Importance of Mentors and Consultants

11:46
Meeting Nick and Legacy Martial Arts Consulting

13:40
Challenges with Former Gym Owners

16:31
Transitioning to Marcelo Garcia's Gym

21:12
Competing and Achieving Black Belt

23:26
Deciding to Open a Gym

25:01
Opening the Gym During COVID-19

26:00
Starting Glory Martial Arts Center

27:12
The Importance of Having a Mentor

28:19
Lessons Learned from Consulting

30:02
The Value of Coaching and Consulting

31:01
Applying Lessons in Own Business

33:35
Expanding to a Second Gym

38:49
Top Three Factors for Success

46:57
Finding the Positives and Building a Strong Team

49:13
Closing Remarks