We recently connected with Phakapan Salao and have shared our conversation below.
Phakapan, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
My Idea started Mongkol Muaythai Fight gear business started from pursuing my master’s in global Management opened my eyes to opportunities. I wanted to break the mold-no Thai restaurants or massage parlors. I saw a gap in Muaythai gear market and seized it. I ‘m proud to be the first Thai person to create a Muaythai brand in the US, blending heritage with innovation. It’s about carving a unique path and inpiring others to do the same.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
About myself I coming from a family of educators, that made me to break the mold and start a business! I growing up in a family of teachers, I was always encouraged to pursue my passions. as the Youngest, I wanted to forge my own path-and entrepreneurship chose me! Mongkol Muaythai is my way of blending creativity, culture and business.
I’ve been fueled by “ambition” since I was 6, it’s more than a word- it’s my motto. I believe in turning passion into purpose, and that’s what drives me to innovate and inspire others. The story behind my love the word ” Ambition” I stumbled upon it in my sister’s dictionary as a kid in Thailand, where English wasn’t widely spoken. Playing with the book, I fell in love with the word. its stuck with me since- and now it’s my driving force.
My brand “Mongkol” my shop name Mongkol Muay Thai Fight gear shop located San Diego downtown , what inspired me to create Mongkol Muay Thai ; I growing up saw my brother traing in Muaythai in Thailand. I saw an opportunity to modernize traditional gear. I wanted to create products that’d inspire a new generation to train and love the sport, blending heritage with modern style. I blend the rich heritage of Muaythai with modern materials and styles. Its about creating gear that’s both authentic and functional for today’s athletes and enthusiasts. The goal is to inspire people to train, look good, and feel great doing it.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn the idea that success means doing things the conventional way. Growing up in a family of educators, there was an excetation to follow a traditional path. But my passion for muaythai and entrepreneurship led me to break those rules. I also had to unlearn sef-doubt-trusting my instincts and vision, even when others didn’t understand, has been key. My motto “Ambition” reminds me to stay true to myself and forge my own path.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
When counterfeit products started appearing. it was another challenge. but we took action, protecting our brand and ensuring customers get authentic gear. That’s resilience- staying true to your vision and fighting for it.
Dealing with counterfeit products has been one of toughest challenges. it drained my energy and cost time and money. but it also reinforced why I started Mongkol Muaythai-to provide authentic, high-quality gear. Protecting our brand and customers is non-negotiable. it’s a reminder that resilience isn’t just about pushing forward, but standing firm on what’s important.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mongkolmt.com
- Instagram: mongkolmuaythai9
- Facebook: mongkol muay Thai fight gear
- Linkedin: phakapan salao
- Yelp: mongkol muaythai fight gear shop
Image Credits
CEO Club network team