Joining me today is Fadi El Khatib, legendary athlete turned entrepreneur and one of the most influential figures in sports and business across the Middle East. Known as "The Lebanese Tiger," Fadi shares how he transitioned from basketball stardom to building thriving ventures, including Champs Academies and gym facilities in Dubai.

In this episode, Fadi opens up about the key lessons he learned training alongside Michael Jordan, including the importance of discipline, resilience, and mental toughness—principles he now applies to his entrepreneurial journey. He dives into building successful fitness businesses, financing and scaling gym operations, and launching his latest venture, a new energy drink, while taking advantage of Dubai’s unparalleled opportunities for growth and networking.

Fadi also reflects on handling criticism, raising mentally tough kids, and balancing family life with business. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, grit, and transforming passion into a legacy that inspires others to thrive.

0:00 Introduction and background of Fadi El Khatib
1:46 Transition from soccer to basketball and early challenges
3:24 Influence of high school coach and first international success
6:35 Key moments in Asian championships and training with Michael Jordan
10:44 Evolution of basketball, competition, and its popularity in Lebanon
16:47 Overview of Asian basketball league structures
31:41 Lessons from Michael Jordan and insights from The Last Dance
35:11 Mental toughness in sports, handling loss, and resilience
38:33 Transition to Dubai, Champs academies, and gym business advice
51:23 Financing and managing gym facilities, team growth, and leadership
1:02:46 Balancing fitness with a busy lifestyle and encouraging others
1:10:20 Dealing with criticism and negativity, and promoting mental fitness
1:17:54 Fadi's role in Dubai Sports Council and balancing family life
1:24:16 Raising mentally tough kids and criticism for leaving Lebanon
1:30:26 Business and government challenges in Lebanon, love for Dubai
1:36:12 Fadi's nickname and new energy drink launch
1:40:58 Networking in Dubai

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Fadi «
Website: https://tinyurl.com/mrjwch49
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fadielkhatib15/?hl=en

Joining me today is Dr. Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor, behavioral scientist, and best-selling author known for his groundbreaking work on the science of happiness. Once a professional classical musician, Dr. Brooks made a transformative leap into academia, where he now guides the next generation of leaders in understanding what it truly means to lead a fulfilling life.

In this episode, we explore the intricate balance between success and satisfaction, the pitfalls of chasing money, fame, and power, and the surprising keys to lasting happiness. Dr. Brooks shares the role of self-reflection, the importance of boredom in finding meaning, and why spending time wisely can be more valuable than accumulating wealth. We also dive into his personal journey, from his early days in music to leading one of the world’s most influential think tanks, uncovering the life lessons that shaped his philosophy along the way.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a lifelong learner, or simply curious about what it takes to live a purpose-driven life, this conversation with Dr. Brooks will inspire and challenge you to rethink your path to happiness.

00:00 Introduction
02:00 The ways in which entrepreneurship brings freedom
06:00 Arthur's journey from musician to behavioral scientist
12:00 Bringing happiness science to Harvard's halls
18:00 Breaking free from success hierarchies
25:00 Why meaning matters more than happiness
31:00 Learning to sit with boredom and find yourself
39:00 Finding the sweet spot between solitude and connection
46:00 Keeping faith while building a business
54:00 Spending wisely on what truly matters
01:03:00 Understanding our modern obsessions
01:17:00 The power of knowing yourself
01:24:00 How different cultures view happiness
01:30:00 Building healthy habits that last
01:37:00 Where spirituality meets meaning
01:44:00 Making better choices with money
01:50:00 The core values you should live by
01:54:00 Staying grounded in the spotlight
02:00:00 How to avoid burnout
02:10:00 Looking back on success and legacy

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Arthur «
Website: https://arthurbrooks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arthurcbrooks/?hl=en

Joining me today is ‪@CodieSanchezCT‬  a renowned investor, entrepreneur, and the author of the newly released book Main Street Millionaire, a no-nonsense guide to building wealth. She unpacks pivotal lessons learned during the 2008 financial crisis, her approach to building wealth through buying—not starting—businesses, and the “three C’s” that have been the foundation of her success: curiosity, crowd, and cash.

00:00 Introduction to Codie Sanchez
01:15 Managing projects and career transitions
05:52 From journalism to finance: Money lessons
10:25 The three C's for making money
12:36 Lessons from the 2008 financial crisis
14:45 The value of working for a company first
18:14 Hiring principles and ambition differences
27:44 Entrepreneurship: Risk and brain systems
32:16 Building teams and education critique
37:17 Wealth-building and networking strategies
44:41 Networking tips for introverts
51:29 Business mentorship
55:29 Buying businesses and sectors to avoid
01:03:07 Strategic focus and opportunity cost
01:08:39 Private equity vs accelerators
01:11:30 Mike's fitness app and scaling it
01:14:38 Reverse engineering and missed chances
01:17:26 Partnerships: Challenges and strategies
01:22:06 Delegating, hiring, and firing
01:31:17 Podcasting: Growth and challenges
01:37:06 Social media, assertiveness, and self-perception

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Codie «
Main Street Millionaire: https://codiesanchez.com/book/
Website: https://codiesanchez.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codiesanchez/?hl=en

This weeks episode, I'm joined by Tori Trades. A rising star in the trading world and a dynamic educator helping new traders break into the markets with confidence. Starting her journey under the guidance of her uncle, Tori has developed a unique, simplified approach to futures trading that’s accessible, effective, and perfect for beginners. With a thriving social media presence and an impressive track record, Tori is reshaping the narrative around trading for a new generation.

In this episode, Tori unpacks her journey from a $5,000 starting capital to scaling her success, the power of mentorship, and the surprising connections between trading strategies and fitness routines. She sheds light on navigating the noise of social media, her minimalist trend-following strategy, and why she believes futures markets offer the best opportunities for new traders.

From overcoming setbacks in the public eye to finding balance while scaling her business and personal goals, Tori’s story is packed with inspiration and actionable insights. Whether you’re a trading enthusiast or just curious about her journey, this conversation is a must-listen.

00:00 Introduction to Tori Trades and Background
01:18 Purpose of Visit and Public Speaking
02:34 International Travel and Trading Journey
03:18 Starting in Trading: Family Influence
04:36 Beginner's Guide: Mentors vs. Self-Learning
05:27 Tori's Blueprint for New Traders
06:22 Trading and Fitness: Strategy Comparisons
08:30 Tori's Visual Trading: Trend Lines and Price Action
11:27 Price Action vs. Fundamental Trading
13:44 Preferred Markets: Futures and Platinum
16:12 Advice for Beginners: Choosing Markets
18:25 Forex Challenges and Moving to Futures
20:24 Legitimacy Issues in the Trading Industry
21:33 Starting Capital and Audience Insights
23:22 Negative Months and Handling Criticism
24:39 Shifting Time Frames: Lessons Learned
29:53 Trading Learning Curve and Social Media
34:44 Social Media’s Role in Trading Growth
37:01 Balancing Trading Goals and Quality of Life
39:33 Managing Trading Stress
43:33 Networking in New York and Dubai Insights
50:44 Cost of Living in Dubai
54:18 Money Management and Team Dynamics
58:36 Working with Family and Resolving Conflicts
01:00:47 Dubai Life and Trading FOMO
01:03:57 Cryptocurrency Trends and Influencers
01:07:14 Trader Mindsets and Experimentation
01:12:33 Yearly Priorities and Work-Life Balance
01:18:56 Social Media Strategy and Vlogging
01:22:13 Final Thoughts and Travel 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

Joining me today for an unfiltered conversation about transformation, sales mastery, and leadership is Andy Elliot, a powerhouse entrepreneur who built a 9-figure business empire after starting from nothing. Beginning his journey as a car salesman at 18, Andy shattered industry records and managed to scale to over $1 million annually before revolutionising the sales training industry with his tough-love approach to coaching.

In this episode, Andy takes us through his journey from a troubled upbringing to becoming one of the most influential voices in personal development. He opens up about the psychological triggers that drive real change, his philosophy on physical fitness as a foundation for success, and why maintaining high standards in every area of life is non-negotiable.

His no-nonsense approach to transformation and success makes this conversation a must-listen for anyone committed to reaching their full potential.

00:00 Introduction to Andy Elliott
01:02 Early life, career start, and learning leadership
07:02 Struggles with self-image and pivotal moment with wife
13:02 Commitment to change and setting new intentions
16:56 Helping others and integrating faith with leadership
19:06 Fitness as a foundation for personal growth
20:28 Building a business vs. building a body
22:04 Breaking free from limiting beliefs
24:05 Influence, role models, and power of choice
28:02 Shifting content to inspire change
32:28 Discipline and challenges in seminars
40:12 Using pain and criticism as motivators
47:06 Importance of tough coaching and driven peers
54:08 Communication skills and ethics in sales
56:28 Advice for personal trainers on branding
1:05:26 Teaching standards: theory vs. application
1:08:51 Client acquisition via social media
1:12:04 Tough coaching and managing online interactions
1:16:43 Training style misconceptions and relationships
1:19:52 Work-family balance and partner support
1:22:03 Future vision and company goals

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Andy «
Website: https://tinyurl.com/3ubb4atv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialandyelliott/?hl=en

Joining us today is Vadim Fedotov, former elite athlete turned visionary entrepreneur and founder of Bioniq, a world leading supplement brand that tailors to your individual health needs. Reaching extraordinary success, Bioniq has managed to attract the likes of some of the world's greatest athletes, such as Diogo Dalot & Cristiano Ronaldo. novation that’s transforming the wellness industry.

00:00 Introduction
01:37 Vadim's background: from migrating to Germany for national basketball
04:32 How four torn ACL’s changed Vadim’s trajectory forever
05:54 Balancing college basketball and academics (emphasis on business)
08:06 Transition from top German athlete to humbled U.S. college player
10:08 Talent vs. hard work in sports and life lessons
11:42 Shift from sports to corporate life; the challenges of job hunting
14:15 How internships lead to career opportunities
17:09 Key Lessons from sports: dedication and work ethic in business
18:16 Handling physical setbacks; disciplined work mindset
19:38 Joining Groupon, rapid growth, and becoming the youngest CEO
21:48 High-pressure growth strategies and corporate lessons
23:08 Realising value and drive to create something impactful
24:08 Founding Bioniq: passion for health and education
25:27 Early investments and learning through failures
27:25 Finding a health market gap and Bioniq’s early concept
31:30 Developing Bioniq’s pilot and validating through feedback
36:18 Success of pilot, UFC partnership & London launch
37:49 Bioniq’s science-backed, personalised supplement approach
42:07 Founding team dynamics and startup challenges
45:00 Bioniq’s pricing strategy and perceived value
50:32 Launch of Bioniq Go for wider reach & use
53:34 Customer feedback and ongoing data collection
59:48 Scaling challenges, especially in U.S. market entry
1:04:28 U.S. marketing and brand-building strategies
1:09:44 How Diogo Dalot got involved with Bioniq
1:10:02 The big story behind Cristiano Ronaldo investing in Bioniq 
1:24:44 Why Mike invested in Bioniq back in 2021
1:27:11 Does CR7 Watch First Things THRST?! 
1:32:13 Bioniq’s long term vision for personalised 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

Dr. Steven Greer is one of the world’s foremost authorities on the subject of UFOs, extraterrestrial intelligence and technologies, and initiating peaceful contact with interstellar civilizations. For over more than 35 years, Dr. Greer has provided briefings for senior government officials across the globe, conducted numerous media interviews, and delivered hundreds of lectures. He has also written five books and produced 5 feature film documentaries that have been seen by hundreds of millions of people. 

0:00 Introduction
3:02 Military defectors and whistleblowers
6:20 Ex-military personnel's disclosures; Legalities and self-censorship of whistleblowers
12:48 The beginnings of ET secrecy
17:00 Targeting ET crafts with advanced technology
21:30 ET civilisations: "there are DOZENS of them"
24:50 The reason there is a lack of Government knowledge on UFO projects
27:06 Hybrid covert operations and government collusion
31:05 How whistleblowers are threatened and targeted when speaking out on the subject
40:24 Dr. Greer's complete database of ET & UFO Proof (backed by 115 testimonials)
43:45 False narratives & media censorship
48:10 The reason why Dr. Greer's episode on Joe Rogan was taken down
50:20 Dr. Greer's documentary being blacklisted from the internet
52:26 Envisioning an ideal future and societal impacts (Dr. Greer's ambition)
56:27 Global destruction & population redudction
1:04:10 Can total peace ever be achieved on Earth?
1:10:52 Hollywood corruption & forced narratives
1:15:55 Did aliens help build the pyramids?
1:18:51 Free energy (and the implications)
1:24:22 Open-source energy lab and investor challenges
1:30:16 The importance of strategic intelligence
1:33:15 Crowdfunding initiatives and extraterrestrial consciousness
1:41:45 If ET existence was 100% confirmed, what would be the societal impact?
1:48:34 Dr. Greer's response to sceptics
1:52:04 Big tech influence and positive feedback from appearances
1:53:45 Encouraging whistleblowers and information sources

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Dr. Greer «
Website: https://drstevengreer.com
Archive: https://www.dpiarchive.com/#/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.steven.greer/

Joining me today is Marisa Peer, a world-renowned therapist, best-selling author and the visionary of Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT). With over 3 decades of experience, Marisa has helped thousands overcome issues related to self-esteem, confidence and love. Today’s episode touches upon key societal issues, such as the negative impact of social media, the root causes of low self-esteem and the best practises for fixing common adult fears and anxieties. Marisa also explores the dynamics of relationships and intimacy, revealing her top tips for deepening connections, having better sex and more. 

00:00 Introduction
03:02 The most common issues among clients over 30 years
03:22 Social media’s negative impact on youth self-esteem
03:54 Advice for dealing with social media addiction
06:34 Defining a fit and healthy mind
07:07 Importance of self-belief and confidence
08:15 Root causes of low self-esteem, especially from childhood
10:56 Childhood experiences shaping adult self-perception
13:04 Comparison between self-improvement and therapy
18:47 What is Rapid Transformational Therapy? (RTT)
21:04 How RTT differs from conventional therapy
22:48 Role of hypnosis in therapy
27:05 Impact of childhood experiences on adult behaviour
30:34 Common adult fears & anxieties (and how to fix)
32:49 Discussing relationships and intimacy dynamics
35:33 Eroticism and intimacy in long-term relationships
37:55 Parenting & raising children
38:49 Key components of a successful relationship
41:08 Sperm compounds and spermidine
42:15 The 5 love languages
47:28 How to communicate expressing personal needs in relationships
48:57 Navigating conflict in relationships
53:44 Emotional expression for men and its complexities
59:43 Mike reflects on losing his mother
1:02:41 Traits of men raised without a mother figure
1:10:07 Advice for young individuals feeling unloved
1:13:45 Embracing self-worth and understanding the concept of love
1:15:45 How to find love in today’s fast paced world
1:19:06 Learning and growing from previous relationships
1:21:02 Breaking the myth of perfect relationships
1:23:18 Vulnerability and relatability in relationships and life

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Marisa «
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarisaPeer/videos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marisapeertherapy/
Website: https://marisapeer.com/

This week, we’re joined by Menno Henselmans, a leading voice in evidence-based fitness. With a unique background in business and fitness, Menno has become a trusted expert for those looking to cut through fitness myths and focus on what really works. As the author of several books and a globally recognized coach, Menno shares actionable insights on everything from optimising strength training to debunking common nutrition misconceptions. Join us for the next two hours as we dive into topics like testosterone optimization, fasting, and the best approach to supplements, offering a no-nonsense guide to improving performance and well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Menno Henselmans and evidence-based fitness
01:52 Menno Henselmans' transition from business to fitness expert
03:20 Development and issues with fitness certifications
06:09 Bodybuilding and strength training misconceptions
07:22 Evaluating fitness studies and industry drama
11:14 Steroids, TRT, and natural testosterone improvement
16:23 The importance of blood work and nutrient absorption
19:22 Fasting: Benefits and misconceptions
23:30 Meal timing and protein synthesis
25:23 Protein intake requirements and sources
33:08 Selecting the right protein supplement
37:40 Creatine usage, benefits, and misconceptions
42:08 Hair loss and prevention strategies
48:05 Training approaches and injury management
52:07 Training philosophies and favourite exercises
1:00:00 Lat activation and rear delt training strategies
1:06:46 The role and implementation of deload weeks
1:10:01 Unanswered questions in fitness science
1:10:59 The future of fitness, training, and content censorship
1:15:01 Steroid normalisation and influencer scrutiny
1:20:51 Alcohol's effects on muscle growth and energy levels
1:25:38 Overcoming bad habits and future plans
1:28:52 Adherence in fitness and its impacts
1:29:26 Relationship dynamics and physical attraction
1:36:01 Personal development and changes in dating due to social media

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Menno «
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@menno.henselmans
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menno.henselmans
Website: https://mennohenselmans.com/

This week’s podcast is a special solo Q&A with the head honcho himself, uncle Mike. We invited the First Things THRST community to ask their questions for an unfiltered take on topics such as business, fitness, personal branding and more. Get comfy for an hour of deep reflection as Mike shares his experiences and actionable advice on how to win at life. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply looking for some no-nonsense tips on improving self-improvement, this episode is not one to be missed. 

00:00:00 Introduction and gratitude for support
00:00:43 Morning routine and stress management in your early 20s
00:05:07 Top travel destinations
00:06:46 What makes Mike happy?
00:09:20 Parenting plans and five-year vision
00:12:03 Getting over a breakup (Mike’s raw advice)
00:18:14 Monk mode: get sh*t done
00:20:54 Pivotal life experiences & the biggest lessons learnt 
00:25:12 The optimal training split & workout frequency
00:27:19 Nutrition
00:29:53 Women training: the best way to lose weight & tone
00:32:00 Handling & overcoming training setbacks (injuries, time-constraints etc.) 
00:36:24 How to grow a personal training business in 2024
00:39:37 Fitness maintenance on vacation
00:42:19 Opening a gym
00:45:44 Mike’s first bodybuilding inspirations
00:46:10 The pivotal move from Newcastle to London (the struggles)
00:52:03 Goal setting
00:53:55 What would Mike do if he lost everything (step-by-step plan for come back)
00:57:46 Freedom & moving to Dubai
01:02:22 Content creation
01:07:32 #1 advice for scaling an online business
01:08:39 How to network with high-value individuals
01:10:28 Mastermind weekend
01:12:38 Organisational tips and digital product sales
01:14:30 Mike’s vision & goals for First Things THRST
01:16:03 Why did Mike start his podcast?
01:19:15 Valuable conversations
01:23:26 Future collaborations and guest selection
01:25:49 Podcast preparation and the value of an online presence

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

Today’s episode is all things exercise science and human performance with Dr. Andy Galpin, an acclaimed professor with a Phd in human Bioenergetics and over 100 peer-reviewed papers to his name. As the co-founder of BioMolecular Athlete and Vitality Blueprint, Dr. Galpin is at the forefront of personalised performance solutions and is associated with coaching world class athletes in the UFC, MLB and NBA. Dr. Galpin breaks down complex scientific concepts into actionable tips for everyday well-being and longevity, covering everything from sleep optimisation to enhancing workouts and more. 

0:00 Introduction
1:16 Andy’s sporting background and early career journey
4:44 Balancing coaching with revolutionary labs (peer-reviewed studies)
9:22 Female physiology and conflicting data
15:12 “Science is only the starting place” merging theory with practical methods
19:33 Challenging common strength & hypertrophy narratives with new research (i.e what is 
23:14 High rep ranges and different muscle group responses (find exercises that work for you)
30:44 Measuring training intensity and RPE
35:12 Can you out-train genetics? 
39:42 Training for aesthetics & improving cardiovascular fitness 
46:12 A scientific breakdown on sleep & performance trackers (i.e Garmin, Whoop, aura) 
55:01 Alcohol’s effects on athletic performance
1:02:22 Biohacking for recovery and longevity
1:06:33 How to increase your rate of recovery
1:13:12 Progressive overload and pushing through plateaus (bloodwork & micronutrient analysis) 
1:18:25 Pre-workout carbohydrates

» 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: CODEBQMIKETHURSTON - https://shorturl.at/fRV67

» Follow Dr. Galpin «
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drandygalpin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandygalpin/
Vitality Blueprint: https://www.vitalityblueprint.com/