On this episode of The A Game Podcast: Real Estate Investing for Entrepreneurs, Nick Lamagna sits down with Din Thomas — UFC pioneer, elite coach, commentator, storyteller, comedian, actor, and one of the most unique minds in the fight game by building skills not excuses.

Din is the definition of reinvention. From early MMA days and building a life through grit and constant pivots, to coaching world-class athletes (including champions like Amanda Nunes) and becoming a standout voice in combat sports media, Din breaks down what it really takes to succeed when the path isn't clear and he is proof that legends aren't born, they're molded—in backyards and barber shops with VHS tapes and a whole lot of grit.

He went from a former barber to cell phone activator to fighter and is a martyr for amateur mma in Florida even getting put in a cage for having people fight in one before it was a sanctioned thing!  He made a bold decision to bet on himself leaving the well known ATT gym in Florida and went solo to follow his own vision for athletes he can mold and has made quite a name for himself as he went from the fighter to the coach and the business man now coaching up and comers and champions.

You can find him everywhere including behind the mic on UFC BJJ events, Karate Combat events, behind the desk at UFC events and on Dana White's Looking for a fight with Matt Serra.  Please welcome a true MMA original,  the fighter, the philosopher, the master of reinvention

This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for entrepreneurs, investors, athletes, and anyone chasing personal growth:

✅  How mental toughness is built (not inherited) — and how to develop grit through "small bites" and patience

✅  Why decision-making is the ultimate success skill in business, investing, and fighting

✅  The real secret behind top performers: saying "yes" fast, then adapting and pivoting when needed

✅  How to handle feedback and criticism without ego — and use it as fuel to grow

✅  Why social media can be a competitive disadvantage — and how Din protects his focus

✅  Communication, performance, and confidence: how Din used skills like acting/improv to level up in life and career

✅  Betting on yourself: leaving comfort, creating space, and letting the next opportunity find you

Whether you're building wealth through real estate investing, scaling a business, trying to get your mindset right, or you're a UFC/MMA/Jiu-Jitsu fan who loves the behind-the-scenes journey of champions — this episode delivers.

🎧 If you enjoyed this, subscribe to The A Game Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube, and share this with an entrepreneur, investor, or training partner who needs a mindset upgrade.

See the show notes to connect with all things Din and his projects!

 

Connect with Din Thomas:

Din Thomas on Facebook

Din Thomas on LinkedIn

Din Thomas on Twitter