First Things THRST

Mike Thurston
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  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
First Things THRST

‘First Things THRST’ is a weekly masterclass that explores the secrets and experiences of entrepreneurs and content creators from across the globe. Each episode is unfiltered and guided by the premise of leaving no stone unturned, which is accountable for the deep discussions into the backgrounds, hardships and confessions of my guests. My goal is simple, to share insights and fresh perspectives on topics like entrepreneurship, success and fitness. Join me on this exciting adventure, and I'm hoping you gain as much from these discussions as I do.

  1. 2D AGO

    E085 - Guaranteed Ways to Become a Better Looking Man (2025 Guide) | Alex Costa

    Fashion, grooming, and self-improvement are often treated as separate lanes—but Alex Costa has built a global brand by blending all three into one simple message: confidence is built, not bought. From posting gaming videos in Brazil to becoming one of the most influential voices in men’s lifestyle content, Alex’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention.In this episode, Alex breaks down how he transitioned from corporate life at Google to full-time content creation, why men’s fashion in the US still has room to grow, and how simple grooming tips can radically shift how you carry yourself. He also opens up about hair loss, facial structure, and the small changes men can make to look and feel more confident without chasing perfection. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by men’s style or self-care, this conversation will give you the tools to simplify, sharpen, and show up better.00:00 Alex’s move from Brazil and starting out in LA 02:42 From gaming to lifestyle: YouTube evolution 06:00 Leaving Google to pursue content full-time 10:13 Early wins and using corporate skills on YouTube 12:02 Hair loss journey and treatments explored 16:11 Future of hair care and facial hair trends 25:34 Picking the right barber and grooming habits 28:10 Health checkups, diet, and sleep routine 36:00 Personal style and struggles with fit 41:28 Staying motivated to dress well 47:32 Favourite brands and fashion trends 53:40 Dressing for occasions and travel looks 56:02 Colour matching and tanning tips 1:02:45 Skincare and tattoo care for men 1:08:18 Managing different hair types 1:10:51 Forte Series and expanding to retail 1:15:18 Fragrances, future plans, and product ideas 1:23:51 Content's role in brand building 1:30:59 Staying creative without burning out» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow Alex«YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZyCposXwcyopaACep44maQInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexcosta/?hl=enMen's Image Lab: https://www.skool.com/mens-image-lab/about

    1h 36m

  2. APR 13

    E084 - You’re Not Lazy, Your Brain is Just F*CKED (How to Fully Reset) | Heba Ali

    Social media is designed to keep you hooked—dopamine hits, endless comparison, and the pressure to constantly perform. As a hybrid athlete and fitness creator, Heba Ali knows this all too well. She’s built a massive following by pushing limits—but behind the training videos was a growing awareness of how the platforms were rewiring her mind.In this episode, Heba gets real about the psychological cost of content culture—how chasing likes and virality can quietly erode confidence, clarity, and self-worth. Breaking down the addictive nature of validation, the blurred line between discipline and obsession, and why so many creators feel burnt out despite outward success. This isn’t about quitting social media—it’s about taking back control.00:00 Heba Ali Introduction04:00 Mastering focus in a distracted world05:46 From first jobs to entrepreneurship10:16 Finding strength through athletics14:04 The birth of EvolveNation18:24 The journey of becoming yourself21:44 How social media reshapes identity25:00 Healing through life's challenges30:39 Balancing luxury with simplicity35:31 The entrepreneur's responsibility dilemma39:16 Creating content with integrity43:24 The psychology behind what sells47:11 Breaking free from digital addiction53:39 Using distractions to avoid deeper questions59:39 Community care across cultures1:04:49 Making health choices amid fear1:09:25 Building relationships that matter1:19:43 The mindset behind effective training1:25:35 Healing through questioning1:32:11 Redefining roles in relationships1:38:38 Relationships in the social media age1:44:03 Leading with values and purpose1:49:50 Speaking each other's love languages1:56:12 Finding truth in a filtered world2:04:02 Beauty beyond society's narrow lens2:12:05 Creating balance in public life2:18:36 The true currency of life: time» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow Heba«YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvolveNationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hybridheba/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hybridheba?lang=en

    2h 23m

  3. APR 6

    E083 - $100M/Entrepreneur's Framework to Scale Your Business (copy & paste) | Maxx Chewning

    The entrepreneurial journey is often glamorised—start a business, build a following, and success will come easy. But Maxx Chewning's story reveals a different reality: one built on consistency, calculated risk, and staying true to your passions. From juggling a corporate job while building a YouTube channel, to turning his love for candy into the wildly successful Sour Strips brand, Maxx has never taken the easy route.In this episode, Maxx opens up about the years of trial and error behind his fitness content, why he walked away from his clothing brand, and how reinvesting, storytelling, and community built a brand that now sits on the shelves of major retailers. We also dive into what it really takes to scale a business without giving up control—and why doing what you love can be your most strategic move.0:00 Introduction to Maxx Chewning1:37 Mike's experiences in America and Texas weather3:29 Maxx Chewning's relocation and starting District Barbell gym6:50 Early collaborations and decisions in Texas10:00 Building a niche in YouTube and bodybuilding forums13:35 Juggling a job with YouTube and early sponsorships17:45 Launch and evolution of Ever Forward and Sour Strips25:38 Challenges and strategies in starting and scaling Sour Strips34:55 Influencer marketing and brand differentiation41:22 Business growth, employee care, and COVID's impact44:21 Retail approaches and protecting the business50:41 Financial risks and strategies in retail expansion53:20 Preparing for business exit and Hershey's acquisition1:02:46 Post-acquisition obligations and Sour Strips' legacy1:07:24 Maxx Chewning's personal life and future endeavors1:12:20 Discussing candy in the fitness industry1:15:52 Balancing fitness with candy entrepreneurship1:19:29 Instilling ambition in children and managing creativity1:23:00 Personal life balance and content planning1:28:38 Audience engagement and content relatability1:33:01 Home building and design collaboration» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow Maxx«YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRZAa0ay5dZT71_efD-YlOgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxxchewning/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maxxchewning?lang=en

    1h 38m

  4. MAR 30

    E082 - Mark Tilbury’s Simple Guide to Making Your First $1Million (From ZERO)

    Investing is often made to feel complicated—full of risky strategies and advice that feels out of reach for the average person. But this week’s guest Mark Tilbury is here to cut through the BS. After leaving school at 16 and building multiple successful businesses, Mark has spent decades proving that smart investing is simple, accessible, and life-changing when done right.In this episode, Mark breaks down the basics of financial literacy, the power of starting early, and why consistency always beats chasing quick wins. He explains how index funds quietly build wealth, why personal branding matters more than ever, and how learning the value of money through “boring” jobs can be the foundation for long-term success. Whether you're 18 or 38, this conversation is packed with practical, down-to-earth advice that makes investing feel like something anyone can do.00:00 Meeting Mark and his content journey03:00 Understanding audience spending habits05:52 Learning from financial missteps10:21 Living with location freedom15:11 The constant pursuit of knowledge23:10 Daily habits of successful entrepreneurs25:01 Why passion needs financial planning29:05 Choosing the right business partners34:09 Teaching family about wealth42:21 Social media's double-edged sword47:32 Side hustles for teenagers52:28 Financial education and the story behind Century UK56:16 Manufacturing challenges and adapting to online sales59:28 Navigating real estate through downturns1:02:49 Property investing for beginners1:04:00 Why restaurants are challenging businesses1:07:04 The truth about franchising and day trading1:09:47 Finding mentors who've been there1:14:00 Managing unexpected fame1:18:23 Starting your first business right1:21:09 Smart approaches to cryptocurrency1:25:03 Building a personal brand that lasts1:26:21 Balancing ambition with life1:29:00 The entrepreneur's fitness formula» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston » Follow Mark « YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/marktilbury Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marktilbury/?hl=en Website: https://marktilbury.com/

    1h 34m

  5. MAR 23

    E081 - Give Me 90 Minutes and I'll FORCE You to Lock in This 2025 | William Goodge

    Pain is often seen as something to overcome, but for William Goodge, it became the driving force behind his greatest achievements. After losing his mother, William turned to running—not just as an escape, but as a way to transform grief into purpose. What started as a coping mechanism became an obsession, pushing him to complete ultra-endurance challenges that test the limits of human resilience.In this episode, William shares how loss shaped his mindset, why suffering can be a tool for growth, and the mental battle of running thousands of miles. From his first marathon on Christmas Day to running across entire countries, he explains how endurance sports became his way of finding meaning in hardship. Tune in to hear how turning pain into fuel can unlock an entirely new level of drive, focus, and achievement.00:00 William and his nomad spirit02:34 Early modelling days and industry reality03:51 Finding running on Santa Monica beach07:02 Running barefoot through blood blisters08:49 Dealing with loss through movement10:32 Using exercise to process emotions14:51 Mental strength in endurance sports18:14 Pushing through pain with codeine21:49 Turning suffering into strength24:38 Making marathons accessible for everyone26:12 Finding beauty in earned pain28:37 Breaking down major running achievements31:06 The Africa run possibility35:06 Balancing extremes: trails to fashion shows38:22 Life lessons from Hollister days42:01 Having freedom to explore in your twenties46:19 How Australia shaped his outlook50:06 Going for the cross-country record54:23 Training data and recovery secrets56:08 The special meaning behind Japan58:13 Why Cape Town feels like home1:00:01 Making adventures sustainable1:05:46 Living simply while dreaming big1:25:04 Finding peace in a simpler 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: https://www.bioniq.com/mikethurston • 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO • 20% off your first month of Bioniq PRO» Join ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow William«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/williamgoodge/?hl=enWebsite: https://tinyurl.com/4vy6pvn5

    1h 33m

  6. MAR 16

    E080 - Powerful Flirting Habits to Create S*xual Chemistry With Any Woman (easy to follow) | Blaine Anderson

    Modern dating is often reduced to swiping, algorithms, and endless messaging, yet many men still find themselves struggling to make real connections. Blaine Anderson, a dating coach who has helped thousands of men improve their love lives, is here to cut through the noise. Dating isn’t about tricks or perfect pick-up lines—it’s about confidence, presence, and understanding what truly attracts women.In this episode, Blaine breaks down why men struggle to stand out, the common mistakes that turn women off, and how technology has reshaped modern relationships. She shares insights on navigating dating apps, approaching women in real life, and creating real chemistry without relying on outdated tactics. Whether you’re looking for a serious relationship or just trying to improve your dating confidence, this conversation is packed with practical advice on becoming the kind of man women genuinely want to be around.00:00 Meeting Blaine and her coaching story02:28 Modern dating's biggest hurdles06:24 Dating apps vs. meeting in real life09:42 Simple upgrades for men's dating success14:41 Reading signals and making approaches24:51 Mastering the first date experience30:51 Body language that speaks volumes35:31 Why ghosting happens and how to handle it39:12 What truly attracts women47:40 Navigating casual versus serious dating52:08 Inside the matchmaking process56:32 Should men listen to women's dating advice?1:00:26 Finding love while building a career1:05:04 Dating in Dubai's unique landscape1:08:19 How technology is changing romance» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow Blaine«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/datingbyblaine/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.datingbyblaine.com/

    1h 13m

  7. MAR 9

    E079 - I Found the Protocol to FIX 99% of Health Conditions (naturally) | Dr. Josh Axe

    Modern medicine tells us chronic conditions require lifelong medications, but today's guest challenges this belief. Dr. Josh Axe reveals how he's spent twenty years proving that most "irreversible" conditions can actually be reversed through natural methods—inspired by watching his mother beat cancer without conventional treatments. We explore why sugar's impact varies dramatically depending on its source, how emotions physically manifest as disease in specific organs, and why Japanese elders maintain health without endless testing. From explaining practical approaches to optimising nutrition to sharing his remarkable recovery from a paralysing spinal infection, Dr. Axe offers a roadmap for anyone facing health challenges. This conversation will transform how you understand your body's capacity to heal.00:00 Dr. Josh Axe introduction01:13 The path to natural health04:39 How emotions shape physical wellbeing07:09 Breaking free from sugar addiction12:19 Why regular blood testing matters14:39 Self-awareness in health20:45 Fighting America's nutrient crisis27:03 When AI meets nutrition science35:06 The future of virtual healthcare40:29 Shopping for better health45:06 Big food's organic revolution46:20 Why pharma fears healthy eating47:51 Navigating supplement quality51:23 Understanding what "organic" really means55:14 Personalising your diet approach1:00:00 Timing nutrients for optimal health1:02:15 Reversing "impossible" health conditions1:08:31 Exploring cutting-edge therapies1:14:26 What your family history reveals1:20:50 Preventing cancer through lifestyle1:22:14 Sleep's hidden power for body composition1:27:05 Creating your perfect sleep environment1:29:43 Pre-sleep rituals for deeper rest1:31:30 Clearing mental fog naturally» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow Josh«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoshaxe/?hl=enWebsite: https://draxe.com/

    1h 34m

  8. MAR 2

    E078 - I Grew My Audience From 0 to 6.1 Million Followers With This Four-Step Framework

    When most people talk about creating content, they focus on equipment, expertise, or having something groundbreaking to say. But today's guest demolishes those excuses. Jun Yuh reveals how he built an audience of 8 million followers while studying biomedical engineering—not by creating perfect content, but by simply showing up every day. From filming quick videos during lunch breaks to posting consistently for 5 years straight without missing a day, Jun shows that consistency trumps perfection. We explore his "100 video rule" that turns experimentation into strategy, why most beginners focus on the wrong metrics, and how understanding your audience matters more than production quality. Whether you're struggling with impostor syndrome or wondering how to monetise your passion, this conversation offers practical insights from someone who's built a thriving content empire by valuing consistency over complexity.00:00 Jun’s start in content creation 02:30 TikTok’s influence on Jun’s journey 03:08 Staying consistent and understanding your audience 05:02 Hiring help for content production 06:13 Adapting to trends while staying authentic 09:47 Shifting content focus over time 14:06 Expanding to new platforms and camera confidence 22:34 Key advice for aspiring creators 28:09 Overcoming imposter syndrome 34:38 Knowing strengths and weaknesses in content 37:59 Planning content for efficiency 41:52 Short-form vs. long-form content 45:36 Strategies to grow and engage an audience 51:03 Managing time for content creation 58:48 Monetisation and reinvesting earnings 1:09:07 Staying consistent through creative blocks 1:18:29 Planning and working with a team 1:22:09 Future of social media and evolving strategies 1:29:22 Handling public scrutiny and criticism» 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 ​⁠@Whoop and get your first month for free - https://join.whoop.com/mikethurston» Follow Jun«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jun_yuh/?hl=enPrivate Mentorship: https://tinyurl.com/4yar2eyr

    1h 39m
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    4.9
    out of 5
    80 Ratings

    About

    ‘First Things THRST’ is a weekly masterclass that explores the secrets and experiences of entrepreneurs and content creators from across the globe. Each episode is unfiltered and guided by the premise of leaving no stone unturned, which is accountable for the deep discussions into the backgrounds, hardships and confessions of my guests. My goal is simple, to share insights and fresh perspectives on topics like entrepreneurship, success and fitness. Join me on this exciting adventure, and I'm hoping you gain as much from these discussions as I do.

    Information

    • Creator
      Mike Thurston
    • Years Active
      2022 - 2025
    • Episodes
      85
    • Rating
      Explicit
    • Copyright
      © Mike Thurston
    • Show Website
      First Things THRST

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