We had the good fortune of connecting with Algernon Lanier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Algernon, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Betting on myself didn’t feel like a risk. I knew I could do this. I didn’t view it as a gamble — it was just the life I always wanted. I’m doing what I love, on my own terms. That’s not a risk — that’s freedom.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I run Team Mana Muay Thai, a gym I opened after nearly two decades of coaching and managing at one of the biggest martial arts schools in LA. I built that program from the ground up and helped turn it into something special, but eventually it was time to create something fully my own.

What sets us apart? We focus on people. Not just fighters, not just fitness — but real community. We’ve got high-level coaching, yes, but also a space where people feel seen, supported, and motivated to grow. Students connect, train hard, and take care of each other. I’m proud of the vibe we’ve created — it’s real.

Was it easy? Not at all. I left behind stability, walked away from ownership, and started from scratch. But I believed in myself. I knew I could coach, lead, and build again — better this time. There were a lot of long days, legal stuff, financial risks — but all of it taught me to trust my gut and stay clear on my vision.

Biggest lesson? Build with people who believe in the mission. Keep your standards high, and don’t be afraid to start over if it means doing it right.

At the end of the day, I just want the world to know that Team Mana is more than a gym — it’s a team, a second home, and a place to grow through Muay Thai. Whether you’re trying to fight, get in shape, or just be around good energy — we got you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1 – Food & Vibes
Land, drop bags, straight to Kazunori for hand rolls.

Head to K-Town, grab coffee at Stagger, walk a bit, maybe stop in some shops.

Dinner at Budonoki — a must.

Late night eats at Nandarang. Open late, solid food, chill scene.

Day 2 – Train & Recover
Morning session at Team Mana Muay Thai — light pads or full class depending on their vibe.

Rooftop pool to recover, hang, reset.

End the night with a long session at a Korean spa — sauna, cold plunge, maybe even a scrub.

Day 3 – K-Town Night Out
Chill start, maybe coffee at Stagger again.

Day’s open — walk around K-Town, eat, snack, explore.

At night, drinks at Mama Lion, then maybe slide into General Lee’s if we want to keep going.

Day 4 – Train, Chill, Repeat
Back to the gym — maybe join sparring or just come through and watch the team work.

Cruise through the Arts District after — walk, maybe a gallery or shop.

Dinner? Could easily run Budonoki back, no complaints here.

Day 5 – Recovery Day
Long sauna session at the Korean spa again — steam, nap, cold plunge, relax.

Rooftop pool or beach for sunset if we’re feeling a change of scenery.

Keep the night mellow — dinner and chill.

Day 6 – Do What Feels Right
Light training or just hang at the gym.

Coffee or lunch in K-Town — keep it spontaneous.

Night depends on the energy — maybe link with friends, maybe stay in. Up to the mood.

Day 7 – Wrap-Up
Last coffee at Stagger.

Walk around K-Town one more time, grab any food they want before heading out.

Quick session at Team Mana or just come say bye to the crew.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to Coach Phoebe, Coach Cortes and Coach Mark. Having my back from day one.

Website: https://www.teammanamuaythai.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theliverkick & www.instagram.com/teammanamuaythai

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/team-mana-muay-thai-los-angeles

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@the_liverkick

Other: Personal TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theliverkick
TMMT TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@teammanamuaythai

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.