Podcast
First Things THRST
Hosted by Mike Thurston · EN
‘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.
52episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
E115 - How To Actually Get Ahead With AI (Before It’s Too Late) | Dan Martell
Nov 6Tap to summarize» 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 Martell is using AI to replace what used to require entire departments, but most founders are implementing it completely wrong.After building multiple businesses the traditional way with large teams, Dan's discovered AI can handle 60–70% of what he used to hire people for, from customer success to content creation to research. You'll hear his framework for deciding what to automate first, why most founders waste time on the wrong AI implementations, and the specific prompts and systems he uses to run leaner teams that move faster.Plus, his take on which roles AI will eliminate in the next 12 months and why resistance to AI in your company is actually a gift, showing you who's thinking long-term.0:00 Introduction01:35 Why Dan loves Dubai’s safety and privacy03:02 Travelling the world while raising and “world-schooling” kids06:20 Building a team that runs with you, not behind you11:24 How deep trust transformed company culture17:42 The real reason most founders bottleneck their team20:39 Dan’s framework for handling mistakes and underperformers23:22 Separating friendship from leadership with healthy boundaries26:15 Why insecure founders sabotage growth by hiring “yes” people30:11 The buyback rate concept for valuing your time33:07 Four skills that build unstoppable leverage36:02 Learning vs shipping and what’s actually stopping you41:23 Why doing things before you’re ready still works43:20 Personal productivity hacks using everyday AI46:04 How Dan uses AI to replace thinking, not just tasks51:38 What robot-powered superintelligence could trigger globally57:47 Why the AI creator economy will collapse old models01:04:14 What really matters in a world of infinite content01:13:53 Preparing your team for full AI automation01:19:00 Living with full freedom and choosing how to serve» 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«Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danmartell/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.danmartell.com/Buy Back Your Time: https://www.buybackyourtime.com/
Transcribe →E108 - Disappear (This Winter) If You Want To Improve Your Life | Dan Koe | Dan Koe
Sep 18Tap to summarize» 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/
Transcribe →EP100 Q&A: Relationship Lessons, Life Advice & My Worst Podcast Guest
Jul 24, 2025Tap to summarize» 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
Transcribe →E089 - Why Do We Feel So Empty Inside? (Psychologist Reveals Fixes) | Dr. Saliha Afridi
May 14, 2025Tap to summarizeDr. Saliha Afridi, clinical psychologist and founder of The Lighthouse Arabia, joins us for a powerful conversation on the true path to mental well-being. In a world obsessed with hacks, shortcuts, and surface-level wellness, Saliha offers a grounded perspective: healing isn’t quick—it’s deep, reflective work. From high-performing clients masking trauma to the emotional isolation men often face, this episode dives into what genuine mental health progress really looks like.00:00 Introduction01:00 Working in Dubai among high-achievers04:00 Psychedelic therapy: potential vs pitfalls11:09 How to choose a great therapist13:10 Therapy as lifelong self-work16:46 Founding The Lighthouse Arabia17:26 Why men struggle with emotional support21:47 Helping men connect to their inner world27:17 Emotional regulation vs repression35:08 Why we sabotage ourselves50:02 Purpose beyond success58:58 Sadness vs clinical depression1:14:30 The impact of social media on relationships→ Download your free playbook: digitalplaybook.net→ Join our newsletter for key takeaways: thrst-letter.beehiiv.com→ Shop THRST fitness gear: thrstofficial.com→ Custom Bioniq supplements: bioniq.com/mikethurston• Use code for 40% off your first month of Bioniq GO• Use code for 20% off your first month of Bioniq PROJoin WHOOP for free: join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrstFollow Dr. Saliha Afridi:Instagram: @drsalihaafridiWebsite: lighthousearabia.comThis is a must-listen if you're seeking meaningful growth, emotional intelligence, or a deeper understanding of how to navigate modern life with clarity.
Transcribe →E072 - How to Become Irreplaceable in the AI Revolution (Silicon Valley Guide) | Marina Mogilko
Jan 19, 2025Tap to summarizeIt is with great pleasure to welcome Marina Mogilko onto the show this week, a multilingual entrepreneur, YouTube sensation, and co-founder of LinguaTrip and Fluent Express. Marina has captivated millions with her journey from Russia to Silicon Valley, building a global brand that bridges cultures, languages, and innovation. Her expertise in language learning, content creation, and entrepreneurship has made her a sought-after voice in the tech and education spaces.Join us as Marina explores how AI is revolutionising content creation, from streamlining production workflows to shaping the future of education and fitness coaching. She shares insights into how she leverages AI to break down cultural barriers and create content that resonates across diverse audiences. Alongside her exploration of AI, Marina delves into the challenges of building a high-performing team, balancing family life with business demands, and staying creative while navigating cultural differences. From Silicon Valley's fast-paced tech scene to her daily rituals for health and biohacking, Marina offers a compelling look at how innovation and adaptability drive long-term success.00:00 Introduction to Marina's multilingual journey02:05 Breaking into Spanish markets through YouTube04:40 Taking the leap to Silicon Valley06:45 Debunking myths about learning languages10:00 Why these three languages matter most14:00 Building the right team through trial and error18:10 Getting comfortable on camera in Tokyo19:45 Streamlining content with teleprompters24:25 Dealing with creative frustrations27:40 Making content work across cultures29:25 How AI is reshaping content creation37:40 Where AI meets viral content41:05 AI's future in fitness coaching42:30 Life in Silicon Valley's tech scene47:20 Understanding YouTube's gender divide49:15 Making time for business and family51:50 Tackling the school lunch challenge59:15 Finding the right business partners1:02:50 Investing in health's future1:07:30 Innovation in protein snacks1:14:25 Finding inspiration in Musk's bold approach1:19:25 Daily health rituals and biohacking1:22:30 Public speaking» 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 - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrstFollow MarinaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/linguamarinaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@linguamarina?lang=enWebsite: https://tinyurl.com/yp6wc9ar
Transcribe →E061 - Q&A: My Honest Dating Advice, Morning Routine, Personal Branding, Business Tips + MORE
Sep 22, 2024Tap to summarizeThis 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 support00:00:43 Morning routine and stress management in your early 20s00:05:07 Top travel destinations00:06:46 What makes Mike happy?00:09:20 Parenting plans and five-year vision00:12:03 Getting over a breakup (Mike’s raw advice)00:18:14 Monk mode: get sh*t done00:20:54 Pivotal life experiences & the biggest lessons learnt00:25:12 The optimal training split & workout frequency00:27:19 Nutrition00:29:53 Women training: the best way to lose weight & tone00:32:00 Handling & overcoming training setbacks (injuries, time-constraints etc.)00:36:24 How to grow a personal training business in 202400:39:37 Fitness maintenance on vacation00:42:19 Opening a gym00:45:44 Mike’s first bodybuilding inspirations00:46:10 The pivotal move from Newcastle to London (the struggles)00:52:03 Goal setting00:53:55 What would Mike do if he lost everything (step-by-step plan for come back)00:57:46 Freedom & moving to Dubai01:02:22 Content creation01:07:32 #1 advice for scaling an online business01:08:39 How to network with high-value individuals01:10:28 Mastermind weekend01:12:38 Organisational tips and digital product sales01:14:30 Mike’s vision & goals for First Things THRST01:16:03 Why did Mike start his podcast?01:19:15 Valuable conversations01:23:26 Future collaborations and guest selection01:25:49 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: 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 - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst
Transcribe →E051 - Unlock Your Potential: Master the Mind, Body and Spirit | Wim Hof
Jul 15, 2024Tap to summarizeJoining us for episode 51 is the legendary iceman who needs no introduction. Wim Hof is a motivational speaker and extreme athlete who revolutionised modern science with his ability to withstand freezing cold temperatures. Through his self-developed Wim Hof method, consisting of cold exposure, breath work and the power of the mind, he has achieved the un-thinkable and left health professionals speechless. Some notable feats include climbing Mount Everest in shorts, fighting off dangerous bact...
Transcribe →E048 - Proven Methods for Increasing Muscle, Strength & Gym Performance | Mike Israetel
Jun 23, 2024Tap to summarizeMike Israetel is an expert sports science and nutrition coach and the founder of Renaissance Periodization. With over 25 years of bodybuilding experience, Mike has empowered thousands to achieve their dream physiques through evidence-based strategies. If you’re at a standstill with your training and looking for a breakthrough, today’s episode is for you. Tune in for a two-hour masterclass as Mike and Mike dive into training splits, bodybuilding hacks, mindsets & nutrition.00:00 Introduction01:58 Luxury lifestyles in Dubai & why Mike Thurston has multiple gym memberships04:00 The pros & cons of owning a gym05:45 Why Mike Israetel trains in silence (how music can affect your workouts)11:00 Materialism & “flexing” wealth (old money vs new money)16:02 “I’ll die in the gym!”: Mike’s 25+ years & love for weightlifting18:22 Mike Israetel’s rant on growing a “next level physique”22:45 The deeper truth about low motivation & inconsistency28:55 Mike Israetel’s professional background & expertise in nutrition & physiology34:21 Nutrition controversies & illusion of expertise40:12 Advice for those confused by nutrition information42:45 Blending real-world training experience with academic theory48:00 Why teaching others consolidates your knowledge49:44 Social media & the rise of false expertise51:44 Most misunderstood bodybuilding beliefs55:12 Mike’s go-to exercises for each muscle group1:04:22 Genetics & muscle dominance1:10:00 Mike’s gym app (RP Periodization)1:14:02 The truth about DOMS & muscle soreness1:15:22 Content workflow & creator ambitions1:27:12 How to build an audience: 2 key traits1:28:59 Best celebrity physiques & Hollywood trainer myths1:40:00 Mike’s income from RP app & money mindset1:43:24 Investing strategies & ETFs1:50:00 Mike Thurston on spending & lifestyle1:55:22 Biohacking & anti-aging2:00:00 Mike Israetel’s future 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 @Whoop and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrstFollow MikeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@renaissanceperiodizationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmikeisraetelRP Strength: https://rpstrength.com/
Transcribe →E032 - How To Make Progress In Your Life *quickly* | Charlie Mardon
Feb 11, 2024Tap to summarizeCharlie Mardon is a serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist and founder of Sovereign Wealth, a consulting firm specialising in personal finance and investments. Concurrently, the 3x former IFBB pro has taken his love for bodybuilding to new heights, paving a new course for gyms across Europe with the launch of his highly anticipated chain “Ultraflex”. What sets Charlie apart is his ability to balance over 10+ career prospects while still finding time for his own health and family. He is livin...
Transcribe →E022 - Reece Wabara: Professional Football to £100m Fashion Brand
Oct 30, 2023Tap to summarizeIntroducing Reese Wabara, former Manchester City defender and CEO of one of Britain’s most successful fashion labels. With the help of Gymshark founder Lewis Morgan, Reese ventured into entrepreneurship whilst in the midst of his football career. Manière De Voir was established in 2013 with the clear goal of creating trend-focused contemporary designs at competitive prices. After retiring from football in 2017, MDV skyrocketed with a 187% YoY growth, whilst becoming a staple wardrobe choice f...
Transcribe →