First Things THRST

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Sabri Suby, founder of King Kong agency and Shark Tank investor, went from making 600 cold calls daily selling Sky TV to building a marketing empire by applying one principle: take what works face-to-face and scale it to the masses.After burning through multiple businesses and hitting rock bottom with $600 in his bank account following his wedding, Sabri rebuilt by cold-calling 150 business owners daily from his bedroom. Tune in for his specific framework for transitioning from selling one-to-one to selling one-to-many.00:00 Introduction01:20 Starting in LA, the energy and entrepreneurial spirit04:36 Why Australian culture can stall ambitious people08:26 Having three daughters and choosing to travel anyway11:27 Cold calling ink cartridges at 16 in a shipping container16:06 The moment of desperation that rewired his sales script19:17 Sales lessons that can’t be taught in books or videos24:01 Moving to London and becoming Sky’s top salesperson29:00 How rejection taught him to embrace hard things34:53 Dropping out of uni after building a profitable agency39:15 Broke after his wedding, back to cold calling with $5045:34 Building King Kong from his bedroom into a real office51:41 Scaling with a lean team and long-time staff56:38 From individual sales to direct response ad mastery01:00:35 What makes his YouTube ads stand out and convert01:05:12 Copywriting inspiration from legendary advertisers01:10:13 Rolex sent a cease and desist over one of his videos01:12:22 How luxury brands engineer desire and loyalty01:14:03 Tactics he's borrowed from high-end retail brands01:17:57 Keeping it focused: agency, SaaS, Shark Tank investments01:19:31 Shark Tank versus YouTube for personal brand growth» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Sabri«YouTube: @SabriSubyOfficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabrisuby/?hl=enWebsite: https://selllikecrazybook.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/David Kipping studies exoplanets and the search for life beyond Earth, but he's grounded about what we actually know versus what we hope for. He's spent his career looking for moons around distant planets, while most astronomers thought it was a waste of time.In this conversation, we unpack why finding microbial life on Mars would actually create more questions than answers, how the "doomsday argument" suggests humanity has less time than we think, and why competition might be both the driver of technological progress and the cause of our extinction.00:00 Introduction03:14 How rogue planets drift through darkness06:09 Earth's billion-year countdown to doom09:46 Why bigger stars blow our minds12:21 What came before the Big Bang?16:43 The haunting question: why does anything exist?21:06 Life appeared fast but we can't recreate it26:13 Could aliens hide under Jupiter's moons?29:14 How we actually detect distant planets34:20 The challenge of confirming alien life39:46 The Fermi Paradox gets worse with Mars life44:18 Accelerating toward our own extinction50:45 Our obsession with the present over survival56:26 What a trillion-dollar NASA could achieve1:00:12 Ancient civilisations on Earth before us?1:04:38 Why space hoaxes thrive1:13:26 Debating alien spacecraft theories1:22:38 Could we nuke a comet to survive?1:27:28 Mars versus Moon colonisation1:30:07 Sci-fi that gets the science right1:38:06 How talking science improves research1:42:21 What David wants to be remembered for1:44:21 What finding aliens would really look like» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow David«YouTube: @CoolWorldsLabInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cool.worlds/?hl=enX: https://x.com/david_kipping?lang=en

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Michael Franzese was pulling in $10 million a week from a gas tax scheme that made him one of America's most powerful mobsters. Then he did something almost nobody survives: he walked away alive.In this conversation, Franzese strips away the Hollywood mythology and breaks down what real power looks like when your life depends on reading people correctly. We unpack the brutal stress of criminal operations, why most "tough guys" don't last, and how the negotiation tactics that kept him alive now close business deals.00:00 Introduction to Michael Franzese03:49 First arrests and early surveillance from law enforcement06:08 Building businesses and the multimillion-dollar gas tax scam08:00 Knowing it wouldn’t last and how the scheme eventually collapsed11:04 What he misses about mob life and the lifestyle12:40 Cleaning millions in cash and dealing with foreign banks15:30 Whether the mob still operates in New York and Italy today18:10 Reputation, respect, and fearing the people above you19:33 Reflections on Frank Costello and doing business without violence22:02 Applying mob skills to legitimate business and negotiation23:31 Taking a plea deal and liquidating assets before prison26:30 Solitary, diesel therapy, and finding faith behind bars29:06 Rumours, witness lists, and suspicion after leaving the life32:14 The few mobsters who actually walked away successfully34:49 Becoming a global speaker and finding purpose in storytelling39:20 Pizza, vending machines, and building a new empire51:05 How the Armenian wine business unexpectedly took off57:16 Delegation, treating people well, and earning respect01:02:51 Missed opportunities, like skipping Starbucks stock early on01:05:46 Wanting peace, purpose, and more freedom in his 70s01:11:36 The weight of regret, purpose, and giving advice to youth01:16:44 Faith, fear of hell, and the path to redemption01:29:47 Beating the odds while nearly everyone else ends up dead or jailed» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Michael«YouTube: @michaelfranzeseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelfranzese_/?hl=enWine: https://franzesewine.com/Community: https://michaelfranzese.com/family/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Dan Koe has built a reputation around deep thinking and high output, but in this conversation, he strips productivity down to its fundamentals. No hacks, no hype, just a grounded breakdown of how to create focus, structure your time around creativity, and make work feel meaningful again.We unpack how identity shapes output, the cost of always chasing growth, and why doing less (but better) is often the smartest move. If you’re overwhelmed, distracted, or feel like you’re always “on,” this one offers a sharp reset.00:00 Introduction01:30 Arriving in Arizona and first impressions of Scottsdale03:25 College life, switching majors, and chasing business ideas06:11 Trying seven business models before finding traction08:57 Learning to build an audience while selling services11:14 Posting content without a product figured out yet13:49 The challenge of being a young coach15:42 How to build authority when you're inexperienced21:15 Daily routine, writing-focused business, and content flow25:43 Avoiding big teams and staying hands-on with content27:19 Authenticity vs optimisation in the creator economy32:09 Why people connect with your deeper philosophy36:15 Dialling in diet and the illusion of progress39:07 Writing consistently without relying on motivation43:04 The real value and stigma around online courses54:18 Clarity comes from doing, not waiting to find purpose58:07 Buying flashy cars and getting over material status01:00:28 Business is the ultimate vehicle for self-development01:06:11 Rebuilding his software startup from scratch in Japan01:10:56 Turning down ideas like starting a dream gym» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Dan«YouTube: https://www.youtube/com/DanKoeTalksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedankoe/Website: https://thedankoe.com/

Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Hudson Leogrande is the founder of Comfrt, a rapidly growing apparel brand that’s rethinking the way creators build businesses. In this episode, we unpack how he’s scaled a brand to seven figures while staying almost entirely behind the scenes, and why he believes most creators are missing the mark when it comes to monetisation.Hudson shares hard-won lessons on building a product people actually want, crafting content that drives sales without being salesy, and the mindset shift from influencer to entrepreneur. A must-listen for anyone serious about turning creativity into real commerce.00:00 Introduction01:20 Kicking things off in NYC with viral hoodie success04:40 Finding the right manufacturers and negotiating better terms07:36 Using mentors and AI to scale smarter and faster10:52 How AI automates content and creator approval13:36 Purely White’s rise through Snapchat before pivoting to TikTok16:45 How changes in algorithms nearly sank the business19:17 What makes a good media buyer and how to track performance22:26 Scripting influencer content and learning from audience behaviour25:15 Street interviews and podcast clips as powerful ad formats28:52 Getting copied by Gap and taking it as a compliment32:11 Learning from global brands to prep for international expansion36:10 Why Europe, UK, Canada and cold climates are next39:34 What they look for in creators beyond follower count42:05 Why talking on camera builds stronger consumer trust47:09 TikTok Shops vs Meta for content and sales strategy50:00 Testing blankets, tees, snack hoodies and what to avoid53:25 Why top creators rarely leave to start their own brands56:56 In-house hires over agencies and building a loyal team60:00 What his day-to-day actually looks like as a founder62:11 Scaling Nude while keeping focus on what’s workingEscape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.comCustom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PROJoin our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrstFollow HudsonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/itshudson/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hudson-leogrande-112891231/Website: https://link.me/itshudson

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Daniel Priestley returns to the show for a timely conversation on what he sees as the single most disruptive force facing entrepreneurs today: the AI wave. With his signature clarity and founder-first mindset, Daniel breaks down how AI is rapidly reshaping the business landscape, from product creation and hiring to client acquisition and competitive positioning.If you’re a business owner still on the fence, this episode will challenge you to adapt fast or risk falling behind. Packed with practical insights, it’s a sharp reminder that the way we build, grow, and think about businesses is changing quickly.00:00 The return of Daniel Priestley01:30 The podcast tipping point and monetising with PE deals04:33 How big podcasters use influence to build real wealth08:44 Fail-forward culture, AI bonuses, and Stephen’s team structure11:06 Using AI to stress-test your business before it’s disrupted15:29 Vitality vs functionality and putting AI around the human work20:42 Loops and groups mindset for post-AI entrepreneurs25:50 Scaling teams with the 2-4-8-30 framework29:00 Why writing a book unlocks creativity and closes chapters32:56 Splitting your fitness phase and longevity phase with books36:01 When to kill a business vs betting on its exponential upside41:48 Why Prime Energy missed the long tail and lost relevance45:43 Lighter fluid vs hot coals and surviving beyond the hype49:00 Why Neutonic could work where others failed52:42 Beverage market landmines and the path to $1B exits55:19 Meme culture and TikTok attention hacks58:25 LinkedIn’s underrated leverage and 1% post advantage01:01:31 Building equity by trading influence, not just capital01:08:15 Millionaire migration trends and why the UK is bleeding01:14:27 Who’s buying up Britain and what it really costs the country01:19:01 Why left-leaning policy sounds good but wrecks economies01:26:35 What Daniel would do as PM?» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow DanielInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielpriestley/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielpriestley/Website: https://danielpriestley.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/ Russ Cook (AKA Hardest Geezer) is the first person in history to run the entire length of Africa, over 16,000km through deserts, mountains, war zones and everything in between. But this episode isn’t just about the miles. It’s about the mindset behind them.We dig into how Russ built his pain tolerance, what it really took to push through the darkest moments, and how ordinary people can unlock extraordinary levels of discipline. It’s raw, honest, and wildly motivating, exactly what you’d expect from the Hardest Geezer.00:00 Introduction01:40 Kicking off in London and where “Hardest Geezer” came from03:15 Growing up in sleepy Worthing and building resilience through banter06:45 The early gym days and getting roasted for self-improvement08:05 Reigniting running after a rough patch of drinking and gambling10:10 Running as a mental battlefield more than a physical one13:00 Influences like Goggins and Gooch and redefining mental toughness14:01 When the idea to run the length of Africa was born15:32 Meeting a world-travelling cyclist and deciding to run instead17:24 Running 66 days from Asia to London with a hammock and little money20:24 Wild solo travel stories including wolves, prostitutes, and relentless hunger22:50 The allure and quiet intensity of running alone with your thoughts25:34 British culture, team sports, and outgrowing binge drinking28:46 Staying shredded with gym consistency and knowing your limits31:07 Body dysmorphia, competing, and finding a healthier relationship with fitness33:54 Life after success and why fulfilment beats chasing numbers36:40 Realising chasing status symbols like cars and watches means little41:48 Planning the Africa run and navigating dangerous, unstable regions46:57 Starting in South Africa with £10k and no sponsors51:33 Hostage situation in Congo54:11 Crossing the Tunisia finish line and feeling true fulfilment58:09 What comes after Africa and why pole-to-pole might be next01:11:15 Launching Hardest Adventures to help others transform through challenge01:14:11 Rediscovering discipline, soft patches, and mental toughness post-Africa» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Russ«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardestgeezer/?hl=enWebsite: https://linktr.ee/hardestgeezer

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Brandon Carter (AKA King Keto) isn’t just about aesthetics. He’s built an empire helping men master their bodies, finances, and mindsets. In this episode, we unpack the philosophy behind his intense approach to discipline, why modern men are struggling with consistency, and how building a strong body is often the gateway to building a strong life.From entrepreneurship training, we explore the mindsets that fuel long-term success and how Brandon thinks about masculinity, influence, and leaving a mark.00:00 Introduction01:00 Growing up in Chicago during the murder capital era04:36 Military school, discipline, and escaping a destructive path06:06 His dad’s rise to millions and sudden collapse08:39 Losing his father during the 2008 financial crisis09:51 Working multiple jobs and chasing stability in New York11:50 Starting online fitness before it was a thing14:03 Blending intermittent fasting and HIIT on YouTube16:19 Impostor syndrome and early content struggles18:28 The rise of fitness vlogs and content evolution20:06 Living in New York vs Miami in terms of opportunities22:51 Miami’s wealth, reputation, and spotting authenticity30:52 Outgrowing nightlife and shifting to long-term discipline34:00 Getting on TRT and the shift in energy, sleep and mood36:38 Managing sex drive, relationships, and time like an entrepreneur40:44 Regretting time spent chasing women over building legacy47:06 Natty debates, genetics, and what people don’t understand54:31 The truth about Miami, party scene vs focused lifestyle1:02:56 Why he trains his son and lives to impress a 7-year-old1:10:44 Avoiding novelty traps and dopamine addictions1:13:26 Embracing clean living, structure, and delayed gratification» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow BrandonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingketo/?hl=enWebsite: https://event.webinarjam.com/login/m9986u74t8srsgsg

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Devon Levesque is known for pushing limits, both mentally and physically. But behind the headline-grabbing challenges like bear-crawling a marathon is a founder who’s as focused on discipline and service as he is on strength.In this episode, we get into the mindset behind Devon’s training, his philosophy on building resilience, and how he’s scaling businesses with the same intensity he brings to fitness. We also talk about routine, self-imposed suffering, and why the hardest part of any challenge is often what happens after.00:00 Introduction01:00 Devon’s early years on a farm and complete lifestyle shift04:25 Running nightclubs before transitioning into personal training06:10 Partnering with Promix and revamping the supplement brand09:09 Scaling a business through community and customer retention12:38 Building a supportive network of high performers15:01 Bear crawling a marathon and raising $2M for suicide prevention18:58 Processing his father’s death through physical and mental endurance21:35 Life-changing breakthroughs at a weeklong therapy institute24:14 The impact of podcasting on personal growth and EQ29:01 Summiting Everest, doing a backflip, and facing real fear33:20 Near-death moment and watching others fall on Everest36:57 Finnish sauna culture and chasing discomfort for growth38:49 Playing like a kid daily as a form of therapy41:14 Investing only in businesses aligned with his values46:40 Devon breaks down his scaling strategy49:06 Blending wellness, community, and nature51:33 Building a values-based daily routine and protecting time54:17 Getting too comfortable in Dubai and seeking new challenges» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements - https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode - https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow DevonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/devonlevesque/?hl=enWebsite: https://hoo.be/devonlevesque

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Hair loss is one of the most common and misunderstood issues in men’s health. In this episode, Dr. Raghu Reddy, one of the UK’s leading hair restoration experts, joins the show for a deep dive into everything you need to know about prevention, treatment, and long-term strategy.Going over my own transplant, why I did it, how the process actually works, and what most people don’t understand going into it. From Finasteride and PRP to stem cells and transplants, Dr. Reddy breaks down what really works and what to avoid.00:00 Introduction01:40 Why Mike chose to document his hair transplant on YouTube04:12 Breaking taboos around male cosmetic procedures06:45 The risks of going to cheap, unregulated hair transplant clinics09:11 Planning for long-term hair preservation with fewer grafts12:29 Advances in surgical techniques vs stalled innovation in cloning14:41 Causes of hair loss: genes, stress, hormones and ageing17:36 Steroids, DHT and hair loss acceleration in fitness culture19:08 What made Mike an ideal candidate for a successful transplant22:49 Managing expectations and styling post-transplant26:05 Why a two-day procedure leads to more precision and safety29:00 The gym, healing, and avoiding early mistakes after surgery32:21 Hair shedding timeline and what to expect in regrowth34:01 Rise in beard transplants and cultural beauty standards36:40 What causes a procedure to fail and how they fix it40:38 Tips for recovery, swelling, and avoiding sun damage43:21 Finasteride myths, side effects and how to dose it smartly51:26 Topical vs oral treatments and new options like Dutasteride56:03 Everyday habits that protect and support healthy hair growth59:00 Greying hair, copper deficiency and potential solutions1:02:21 Can you regrow lost hair or just preserve what’s left1:04:42 PRP, stem cells and the ethics of unproven treatments1:07:26 What’s next for Raghu and the future of hair restoration1:11:19 Advice for young men losing hair too earlyMy full hair transplant process: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKKpjoA1Byw3RLRhdFNe_DqiwL62UFfbN&si=GH0z1QciFKvqDePNEscape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.comCustom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston40% off your first month of Bioniq GO20% off your first month of Bioniq PROJoin our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/Join Whoop and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrstFollow Dr. ReddyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drraghureddy/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.drraghureddy.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Ben Pakulski is widely known for his success in bodybuilding, but what sets him apart is how he thinks. In this episode, Ben breaks down the mental frameworks, lifestyle protocols, and deep internal work that drive high performance – physically and mentally.We go beyond muscle and talk about how to build a system for self-mastery. From testosterone optimisation and training efficiency to breath work, fatherhood, and identity, Ben lays out a sharp, structured take on what it means to grow with intention.00:00 Reuniting with Ben01:40 Reflecting on brutal past workouts04:09 How bodybuilding became therapy07:56 The tension training revolution11:27 Building MI40 from necessity15:41 Four pillars that limit fitness progress19:14 Why energy crashes and motivation dies21:05 Travel routines and staying consistent23:44 Making training sustainable for life27:38 Training beyond just looking good31:13 The psychological warfare of bodybuilding33:23 Learning to embrace discomfort37:37 Shoulder mechanics and coaching philosophy40:07 High-performance habit optimisation44:15 Why people unconsciously abandon goals47:13 How trauma shaped Ben's character50:19 Healing through psychedelics and therapy55:08 Balancing ambition with inner peace58:34 Finding fulfilment versus chasing happiness1:04:35 Business evolution and future gym plans1:08:04 Training for athletic longevity1:11:31 Personalised health through supplements1:13:36 Using genetics and blood work for peak health» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life – https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique – https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST – https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join Whoop and get your first month for free – join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Ben«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpakfitness/Website: https://www.benpakulski.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/From navigating modern dating and building real confidence, to the realities of entrepreneurship, personal branding, and staying disciplined when no one’s watching, join us for a special Q&A to celebrate 100 episodes of First Things THRST.We talk content strategy, mindset shifts, and the behind-the-scenes lessons that don’t make it into the full episodes.Thank you to everyone who’s tuned in, shared an episode, or supported the journey so far. Here’s to the next 100.Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:07 Have I hit my prime yet?03:28 What my 80-year-old self would be proud of04:23 How my brand will evolve with age09:58 My biggest relationship lesson12:29 Guest wisdom on financial success14:41 What keeps me positive in life16:10 What I'd do differently starting over18:59 My favourite quality about myself21:20 Would I sacrifice physique for success?22:58 Is entrepreneurship really for everyone?25:25 Coming back from my podcasting break27:14 Dating advice for guys in their late 20s32:05 Being a role model for teenage boys35:28 My personal definition of success36:56 Following passion versus building skills37:55 The most challenging part of my journey40:00 When men really take off financially41:25 Do I struggle with relationship contentment?45:24 The moment I realised I'd made it46:40 Disagreeing with guests but staying quiet49:18 What I still struggle with after success51:30 Will I make it to 500 or 1000 episodes?53:05 Building a life like mine54:54 What genuinely makes me happy57:35 Cutting off friends to build this life59:55 Finding inspiration when things go wrong1:01:40 Finding wife material in DubaiResources:» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life – https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique – https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST – https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements – https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free – join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Before Reebok became a global sportswear giant, it was just Joe Foster and a vision. One shaped in a small UK workshop and fuelled by persistence, not funding. In this episode, Joe breaks down the early days of building Reebok from the ground up: cold calls, missed opportunities, and the moment aerobics unexpectedly catapulted the brand into the mainstream.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:46 Turning 90, family history and surviving against the odds04:26 Brand building, luck and why fun matters most06:40 Why sports brands thrived through recessions09:27 The innovation that started with spiked running shoes11:48 Leaving the family business and starting from zero14:15 Launching Mercury Sports and the early branding struggle16:25 Losing the Mercury name and the birth of Reebok18:50 How a childhood dictionary led to the Reebok name22:23 The move from athletic spikes to casual sneakers26:55 Breaking into UK market through local clubs29:57 Club-level selling and dominating UK athletes31:56 Choosing white space over battling Adidas and Nike33:23 First trip to America and navigating early export failures37:47 The Runners World five-star rating breakthrough43:52 Choosing Paul Fireman over Kmart and scaling US reach49:28 Reebok's biggest challenge: the EVA foam failure52:15 Crisis with a UK distributor and surviving with direct sales56:05 The rise of aerobics and Reebok’s pivot to women’s fitness59:26 Becoming number one globally with an unexpected audience1:04:23 Expanding into tennis, basketball and new categories1:13:05 Going up against Nike, using celebrities, and staying innovative1:17:00 3D-printed AI shoes and what they reveal about new brand strategy1:24:03 Losing momentum, big changes and the need for reinvention1:31:53 Advice on building stories, visibility and modern branding1:37:29 UK vs Dubai: Entrepreneurial energy and global opportunity1:43:22 Final advice for founders» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life: https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique: https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST: https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston  • 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO  • 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free: join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow JoeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/founderrbk/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.reebokthefounder.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Nate Belmar doesn’t just train for aesthetics, he trains for clarity, resilience, and control. In this episode, we dive into the physical and mental transformation that took him from overweight and directionless to lean, disciplined, and deeply intentional.Nate shares the mindset shift that pulled him out of a low point, why most people are overtrained and under-recovered, and how fasting, metabolic flexibility, and environmental awareness shaped his approach to performance and life. We explore his views on social media pressure, identity, and why detaching from noise—digitally and socially—is often the unlock for growth. Timestamps:0:00 Introduction01:40 Origin story and early insecurities09:44 Hustling through low-level jobs and discovering crypto17:22 Anxiety from social media and limiting online exposure22:27 The viral Johnny Walker meme and meme culture30:06 Relationship with money, flex culture, and staying low-key34:04 Building a meaningful platform and helping people change38:20 Steroid accusations and genetic potential in fitness41:44 Fasted training, intuitive eating, and body awareness46:24 Finding healthy food while travelling and fasting hacks53:48 On relationships, distractions, and staying single58:13 Sex, soul ties, and celibacy as a conscious choice1:04:53 Building an online community and redirecting influence1:17:11 Navigating biohacking, placebo and intuitive wellness1:20:56 Experimenting with stem cells, and expectations1:25:23 The vegan phase, nutrition pitfalls, and personal baseline1:38:16 Anime, escapism, and choosing your inner hero wisely1:41:25 Launching supplements and living with purpose» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston • 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO • 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join @WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow NateInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrbelmar/?hl=enWebsite: https://animeshreds.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Cameron Zoub and Steven Zhang, co-founders of Whop join the show to discuss the mechanics of building a high-growth startup from the ground up. Whop has quietly become one of the most efficient digital marketplaces online, doing over $100M in GMV without relying on paid ads or loud marketing.We talk about the early days of building out of hacker houses, the decision to focus deeply on product before anything else, and the operational challenges that came with rapid scale. They also reflect on leadership, team dynamics, and what most founders underestimate when trying to build in public.00:00 Introduction02:00 Meeting at age 13 and bonding over sneaker reselling04:05 Building their first sneaker bot app and selling it on Facebook06:40 Dropping out of school and going all-in on internet startups07:55 Pivoting into websites for Twitch streamers during COVID10:29 Early experiments, failed apps, and lessons in product-market fit14:20 How WAP solved problems they faced as software sellers18:18 Expanding from software to Discord access and digital memberships20:17 Payments infrastructure and why it’s central to their platform25:28 Chasing shiny objects like NFTs and learning to refocus30:42 Co-founder dynamic, intense pressure, and emotional moments36:01 Competitors, cyberattacks, and the cost of success39:31 Staying out of the spotlight despite massive revenue44:30 Taking investment from figures like Peter Thiel and Tinder’s founder49:11 Making WAP the internet’s go-to for work and income54:25 Rethinking creator monetisation beyond courses or content» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Whop«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whop/?hl=enWebsite: https://whop.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Most people say they want more – more money, better health, stronger relationships – but few are willing to change the internal patterns that keep them stuck. In this episode, we explore what it actually takes to level up in every area of life.Afnan Khalifa, founder, entrepreneur and life coach, is sharing how she rebuilt her mindset from the ground up. We talk about moving from reaction to responsibility, what it looks like to lead without forcing, and how your energy – not just your strategy – shapes your results.No fluff, no shortcuts. Just the real work behind sustainable growth.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:40 Growing up Saudi and embracing her cultural roots05:11 Breaking free at 18 and moving to Canada alone08:52 Learning sales, communication, and confidence13:27 Dropping out of uni and diving into finance16:07 Early success with crypto and earning six figures21:30 Getting rich young and the dangers of fast money25:55 Developing emotional resilience and embracing discomfort34:13 Balancing ambition, business, and personal relationships38:25 Personal branding versus chasing likes and virality43:16 Helping introverted women master visibility online47:43 Training confidence by filming solo and pushing comfort zones52:03 Managing pressure as the audience and responsibility grow57:27 Scaling coaching offers and building community for women1:02:16 The dark side of online money and fake success1:08:52 Rebranding beyond fitness and mistakes when launching courses1:14:18 Deciding who to partner with and protecting your public image1:27:06 Why she won’t date a man earning less than her1:33:02 Building respect over likability and staying grounded» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life: https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique: https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST: https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode:https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join WHOOP and get your first month for free:join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Afnan:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UChjKbov1cr0JczgIXLE-W3QInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theafnankhalifa/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.theafnankhalifa.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Looking and feeling your best doesn’t require living in the gym, and Greg O’Gallagher (AKA Kinobody) is here to prove that. He’s walking us through how training less, eating smarter, and managing stress can actually lead to better results, physically and hormonally. We talk about what it really takes to boost testosterone naturally, why walking is more powerful than most people realise, and how chasing size can backfire when your nervous system isn’t on board.Greg doesn’t just share what works – he breaks down why it works, and how he’s built a lifestyle and physique that’s dialled in, without being obsessive. This one challenges a lot of fitness stigma and offers a refreshingly simple, effective way to train, eat, and live with intention.00:00 Introduction02:23 Why Greg chose Miami over Canada for business and life04:01 Fitness obsession and childhood inspirations06:27 Outgrowing sports and finding a love for training07:11 Creating the Keno Body approach to fitness and aesthetics09:57 Debunking myths about needing to train every day11:13 How alcohol derailed recovery and performance after 3012:30 Strategies for tracking calories without losing your mind16:41 Building an empire around YouTube videos and bold marketing19:14 Lessons from early success and natural marketing instincts21:46 Helping his brothers transform and the reality of slow gains23:44 Staying natural and resisting pressure to chase size25:18 The worrying trend of young guys hopping on gear too early29:40 The real keys to boosting testosterone naturally41:02 Why overtraining wrecks fitness gains and how to fix it45:05 Scaling from fitness programs into building supplements49:24 Bloodwork revelations and optimising health in your 30s58:07 The underrated power of deep sleep for fat loss and testosterone1:14:30 Breakups, fat loss motivation, and emotional transformations1:20:05 Keeping relationships private and future family plans» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life: https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique: https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST: https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston• 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join Whoop and get your first month for free: join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow Greg«YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtBw4N4-EiaAqK9TvZGlGDwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregogallagher/?hl=enKinobody: https://kinobody.com/

» Produced by Hack You Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/Diego Perez, widely known by his pen name Yung Pueblo joins the show to share the inner journey that led him from emotional chaos to global recognition as a voice for self-awareness and healing. Before the books, the quotes, and the millions of readers, there was a personal reckoning: addiction, overstimulation, and the need to change from the inside out. Meditation became the turning point, helping him rebuild his relationship with stillness, discipline, and emotional honesty.Diego's new release "How to Love Better" is out now: https://lnk.bio/a8IF00:00 Introduction02:00 How Diego created the Young Pueblo pen name and what it means04:31 Partying hard at university and realising it was self-avoidance06:13 Health collapse at 23 and the wake-up call that changed everything08:46 Rugby, gym life, and how Mike avoided spiralling at university10:14 Early motivations behind Mike’s fitness journey11:47 Building discipline through meditation and the “mental gym” concept13:08 Why you don’t need to become a monk to master resilience14:38 How Silent 45-day retreats reset personal growth and relationships16:45 Why Diego invests heavily in silent retreats every year18:04 Meditation, scrolling addictions, and wisdom22:23 Diego’s relationship with emotions29:17 Why communication matters more than mind reading31:06 Should you grow with a partner or find someone already emotionally aware?35:03 Dating apps, and the dangers of chasing 2% better40:27 Mike’s experience thriving after living alone for the first time42:47 Solitude, presence, and why personal growth fuels better relationships51:11 Learning to trust your intuition over generic dating advice54:35 Mike and Diego reflect on career, self-knowledge, and relationship priorities1:01:31 Handling conflict properly instead of expecting endless peace1:10:02 Compassionate venture capital investing and startup mental health1:18:16 Shifting social media landscapes and why newsletters matter more now1:21:03 Loving the creative process and protecting deep work» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life: https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique: https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST: https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston • 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO • 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join WHOOP – get your first month for free: https://join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow DiegoHow to Love Better: https://lnk.bio/a8IFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yung_puebloArticle: https://yungpueblo.substack.com/

Davis Diley, entrepreneur, content creator, and competitive strongman—joins the show to challenge one of the most common fitness myths: that more training equals better results. Drawing from his own journey pushing elite numbers in strength while juggling business and content, Davis breaks down why recovery, frequency, and nervous system management matter more than just intensity. He explains how training less—but smarter—has led to bigger lifts, fewer injuries, and more consistency over time. It’s a refreshing, no-BS take on performance, discipline, and letting go of the grind-for-grind’s-sake mindset.00:00 Introduction01:00 Kicking off inside a $55,000 home gym setup04:46 Planning and building a professional-grade home gym07:15 How the pandemic reshaped fitness content and workout habits08:10 Davis’ gym journey, football and a hunger for control10:47 Discovering bodybuilding as an outlet for personal responsibility14:17 How training helped avoid distractions and anchor discipline16:18 Is fitness coaching too saturated for newcomers?20:12 Navigating conflicting advice and finding trusted voices22:32 Trimming the fat from training as an advanced lifter25:36 Going all in on food, focus, and gym execution28:00 Building and scaling your own fitness app the hard way34:45 Davis’ unexpected viral moment sparks a new career path38:58 Why content creation never gets easier, just more demanding45:46 Crafting standout short-form videos with just a phone49:13 Shifting from aesthetics to long-form content and longevity51:00 Strongman days, extreme bulking, and chasing World’s Strongest Man58:09 Narrowly avoiding steroids after a career-altering back injury1:02:16 Staying lean, staying motivated, and the mental cost of shredding1:09:35 Meals, volume, and why boring food is killing your cut1:11:38 Travel routines, smart walking, and eating without spiralling» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life: https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique: https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST: https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston • 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO • 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join WHOOP – get your first month for free: https://join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow DavisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/davis.diley/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davis.diley?lang=en

Returning face and old friend Chris Williamson is back on the show to unpack the real cost of chasing self-improvement—and the trade-offs few people talk about.While the internet makes optimisation look effortless, Chris shares how his own journey has been marked by burnout, loneliness, and the pressure to always do more.He questions the myth that productivity equals purpose, and dives into the importance of slowing down, feeling safe in your body, and building a life that’s actually enjoyable—not just efficient.If you’re wired for growth but feeling stretched thin, this one’s a thoughtful reset.00:00 Reuniting in the heart of Austin01:37 Why everyone's moving to Texas02:40 Building habits that actually stick07:30 How guests reshape your thinking09:08 The passion behind the microphone13:29 Optimising your mental game15:39 Meeting heroes and battling nerves21:31 Choosing guests worth listening to24:46 The weight of public opinions29:43 Mastering the time management puzzle35:08 Life between the UK and Austin41:02 Building Neutonic from the ground up43:35 Bringing past skills to new ventures47:14 The hidden battle with mold toxicity49:45 Coming to terms with getting older52:47 Evolving as a better partner1:00:51 Knowing when to walk away1:10:16 Writing through health challenges1:13:56 AI's role in content creation1:21:04 Where AI falls short in fitness1:25:07 The art of high-quality podcasting1:30:18 Staying relevant in changing times1:35:04 Taking the leap into video content1:39:02 Facing criticism with grace1:43:29 Understanding our shared insecurities» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Custom Bioniq supplements: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston    • 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO    • 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join WHOOP and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow ChrisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx/?hl=enWebsite: https://chriswillx.com/