#11 Maxx Chewning - From Corporate America to a $40M Brand

Welcome back to another episode of The Game Plan podcast!

We got a special one today as Mike Thurston joins us in Dubai to unwrap his eclectic past, from his university antics in Newcastle to becoming a successful entrepreneur, YouTuber and fitness model.

In this episode, we delve into the ethics of product promotion, founding Aurora Athletics, the shift from training to content creation, and the nuances of building a successful YouTube channel. We also discuss the importance of consistent training, good nutrition and the impact of alcohol on your social life, health and productivity.

Enjoyed the conversation? Leave a like, comment and subscribe for more!


Set up your Dubai company today with Creative Zone: https://www.creativezone.ae/ad/rob-lipsett/


Mike Thurston’s Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MikeThurston

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikethurston/?hl=en


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(00:00) Preview and Intro
(03:08 Mike’s Early Life and Education
(06:17) Transition to Personal Training and Starting Aurora Athletics
(11:12) Building a YouTube Presence 
(17:44) Mike Thurston Advice for Young Entrepreneurs
(18:53) Thoughts on Sam Sulek And New Age YouTubers
(23:58) Life in Dubai
(25:42) Mike Thurston Reveals His Income Streams
(29:26) Is Mike Thurston Natty or Not?
(34:38) Training and Nutrition Philosophy 
(39:55) Importance of Training With Purpose
(45:47) Why is Your Diet Important?
(50:04)The Impact of Alcohol on Fitness and Lifestyle
(01:00:04) Dating Scene in Dubai
(01:06:38) Having a Family 
(01:08:57) What’s Mike’s 2024 Looking Like?

This episode is sponsored by Oracle. Harness the power of AI without overspending with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). Ideal for AI model training, OCI offers 4-8x more bandwidth than competitors at half the cost. 

Transform your business like Uber and Cohere with OCI. Try it free at https://oracle.com/gameplan


We're diving deep in this week's episode of The Game Plan podcast as we sit down with Hassan Haider a.k.a Mr Overpaid, a multifaceted entrepreneur who's mastered the art of resilience and diversified success.

From overcoming personal tragedies to building a global network, Hassan's journey is nothing short of inspirational.

We explore a wealth of topics including the power of mindset shifts, the essence of networking, and the pivotal role of ethical considerations in business. Hassan shares his insights on leveraging cryptocurrencies, managing OnlyFans accounts ethically, and the impact of social dynamics in entrepreneurial success.

This episode is crafted to motivate and equip you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern entrepreneurship, invest in personal growth, and cultivate a success-oriented mindset.

Hassan's Socials:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HassanOverpaid

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mroverpaid/


Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ


(00:00) Introduction to Success Mindset
(00:44) Meet Hassan Haider a.k.a Mr. Overpaid
(08:33) Education vs. Experience
(12:20) Importance of Networking in Business Growth
(18:15) Diversifying Income Streams
(24:40) Establishing the New Money Network
(31:50) Leveraging Social Proof The Right Way
(38:00) How Did Hassan Build a Global Community?
(45:50) What’s The Millionaire Lifestyle Like?
(50:30) The Role of Religion and Beliefs
(54:10) The Infinite Monkey Theorem and
(59:00) Choosing The Right Business Model
(01:05:20) The Importance of Moving Out
(01:12:45) Balancing Ambition and Reality
(01:15:00) Lessons from Personal Experiences
(01:27:47) Hassan’s Advice To Young Entrepreneurs

This episode is sponsored by Oracle. Harness the power of AI without overspending with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). Ideal for AI model training, OCI offers 4-8x more bandwidth than competitors at half the cost. 

Transform your business like Uber and Cohere with OCI. Try it free at https://oracle.com/gameplan

We’re back with another episode of The Game Plan podcast and today, we’re making sure you've got your finances in order for long term success. 

In this episode, we sat down with Eoin McGee, renowned financial planner and author of “How to Be Good With Money”.

We delve into essential financial strategies for every individual out there covering effective financial planning, smart investment tactics, and practical budgeting and saving tips. Eoin reveals the secret to navigating market fluctuations and the intricacies of property investment no one is talking about. 

Eoin also shares crucial advice on retirement planning and managing debt, providing listeners with comprehensive, actionable insights for achieving financial stability and growth.

This episode is all about empowering you with strategies to manage your finances better, invest wisely, and plan for a secure future, so make sure you watch till the end!

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ

(00:00) Introduction and Eoin McGee's Journey to Financial Planning

(04:30) What Motivated Eoin to Become a Financial Planner?

(07:35) If Someone Needs Financial Help, Where Do They Begin?

(13:08) How Do You Approach Sudden Wealth or Financial Windfalls?

(16:36) Eoin’s Journey and Personal Life Decisions

(26:38) How Important is Having a Clear Purpose in Business?

(30:11) Financial Services Landscape in Dubai and other Foreign Countries

(32:51) Eoin’s Main Marketing Channel

(34:40) Effective Money Management and Rules for Day-to-Day Finance

(36:42) Conscious vs. Subconscious Spending

(43:35) Saving Money vs. Earning More – What's More Important?

(50:54) Eoin's Personal Investment Choices

(54:07) How and Where to Start Investing in Ireland

(59:17) Cryptocurrency and Its Future in Investing

(01:05:27) Property Investments in Ireland and EU

(01:16:43) Financial Traps You Should Avoid

(01:20:50) Is Formal Education Worth it?

(01:25:20) Pursuing Passion vs. High Paying Jobs

(01:28:56) Eoin Advocates for Open Conversations About Money

(01:31:58) Importance of Doing the Right Thing in Business

(01:33:33) Leveraging Social Media and Public Speaking To Build Your Brand

(01:34:09) Eoin Reflects on Financial Planning and His Relationship with Money

This episode is sponsored by Oracle. Harness the power of AI without overspending with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). Ideal for AI model training, OCI offers 4-8x more bandwidth than competitors at half the cost. 

Transform your business like Uber and Cohere with OCI. Try it free at https://oracle.com/gameplan


Welcome to episode #16 of The Game Plan podcast.

In today’s Q&A, I delve into a range of topics - from setting impactful goals for the New Year to managing fitness routines, social media predictions, and personal development.

I reflect on my experiences and share advice on fitness, diet, personal finance, relationships, and mental health. Tune is as I unravel the intricacies of balancing life's demands while pursuing success and well-being.

If you love what you're hearing and want to support the podcast, please drop a 5-star rating on Spotify and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. 

This episode is sponsored by Babbel. Babbel is conversation-based learning built with science-backed cognitive tools like spaced repetition and interactive lessons created by real language teachers and voiced by real native speakers.

Get 55% off your Babbel subscription 👉 babbel.com/GAMEPLAN

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ

(00:00) Preview 
(02:31) Planning The New Year: Goal Setting, Vision Boards, Habit Building
(08:52) 2024 Social Media Trends
(09:40) Diet Soda vs Water for Fat Loss
(10:31) Diet Tips For Weight Loss
(12:50) Coping With Christmas Weight Gain
(14:22) Do I Track Water and Fibre Intake?
(16:16) My Role Models 
(17:26) New Projects for 2024
(18:16) Wedding Plans and Future Plans for Villa Lipsett 
(19:47) Will I Always Live in Marbella?
(21:52) Three Tips For Someone Moving Abroad
(32:43) Being Single vs Dating in Your 20s
(35:17) How to Become Better on Camera?
(36:51) Do I Eat Junk Food?
(38:19) Hardest Period of My Life
(41:39) My Advice on Investing
(44:16) Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
(47:11) How to Build a Fitness Routine That Lasts?
(48:50) My Thoughts on the Carnivore Diet 
(53:06) Social Media’s Effects on Mental Health

This episode is sponsored by Oracle. AI is revolutionising industries, but needs power without breaking the bank. Enter Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI): the one-stop platform for all your AI needs, with 4-8x the bandwidth of other clouds. Train AI models faster and at half the cost. Be ahead like Uber and Cohere.

If you want to do more and spend less, take a free test drive of OCI at https://oracle.com/gameplan


Welcome to episode #15 with your host Rob Lipsett. In this episode we sit down with Aidan O'Brien, leadership coach and entrepreneur, best known for his transformative approach to personal and professional development.

From his early days as a basketball player and DJ to his transition into an entrepreneur and leadership coach, Aidan shares insights into overcoming mental barriers, aligning personal values with professional goals, and redefining the metrics of success.

We go deep into Aidan's unique perspectives on business, the importance of self-awareness in achieving objectives, and his unique approach to life coaching that goes beyond conventional tactics. 

If you love what you're hearing and want to support the podcast, please drop a 5-star rating on Spotify and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. 

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ


Aidan is an accomplished mindset & high-performance coach for entrepreneurs & executives, a corporate mentor & trainer and an international keynote speaker.

With 15 years experience working with people and companies from all over the world Aidan's knowledge, expertise and ability to engage will inform, inspire and empower you to find the clarity, confidence and strategy you need to reveal the true you.

To work with Aidan please schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/aidanobrien/workwithaidan-roblipsettoffer

Aidans Website: https://theaidanobrien.com

Aidans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?i=kno3qwbkwz5x&utm_content=659ken

Aidans Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/35mFCfqKsGTUwvjKs4UkXZ?si=yTs4NbObQWC3WEdxGCNQpw

Aidans YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@aidanobrienofficial

(00:00) Preview and Introduction
(01:44) Introducing Aidan O'Brien
(01:56) Early Life and Pursuits
(04:27) Aidan’s Early Entrepreneurial Experiences
(10:37) Exploring Aidan’s Coaching Philosophy
(15:41) The Role of Motion and Emotion in Personal Development
(22:03) What Is Aidan’s Approach to Life?
(28:39) How Do You Build  A Winner's Mindset?
(31:45) Finding One's Path and Purpose
(35:35) The Power of Visualization 
(40:04) Aidan’s Experience with Ayahuasca 
(47:12) Overcoming Fear and Finding Inner Strength
(51:32) The Role of Relationships and Spirituality in Personal Growth
(57:44) The Power of Curiosity and Coaching
(59:33) Is Investing in Personal Development Worth It?
(01:02:11) What’s Aidan’s Daily Routine Like?
(01:10:46) The Importance of Having a Vision and Ambition
(01:17:08) How Do You Prepare Yourself For The Future?
(01:27:37) Closing Thoughts and A Word From Our Sponsors

This episode is sponsored by Babbel. Babbel is conversation-based learning built with science-backed cognitive tools like spaced repetition and interactive lessons created by real language teachers and voiced by real native speakers.

Get 55% off your Babbel subscription 👉 babbel.com/GAMEPLAN


Welcome back to episode #14 of The Game Plan podcast, where it's just you and me today. In this special solo Q&A episode, I dive into the world of fitness, personal development, and the secrets to thriving in both life and business.

In today's chat, I'm sharing my personal journey, the habits that have been game-changers for me, and some key advice for anyone looking to succeed in the fitness world or any aspect of their life. From staying motivated to navigating the business side of fitness, I've got a ton of insights and personal stories to share with you.

If you love what you're hearing and want to support the podcast, please drop a 5-star rating on Spotify and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. 


This episode is sponsored by Oracle. Harness the power of AI without overspending with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). Ideal for AI model training, OCI offers 4-8x more bandwidth than competitors at half the cost. 

Transform your business like Uber and Cohere with OCI. Try it free at https://oracle.com/gameplan

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ


(00:00) Preview
(00:30) Oracle Cloud Infrastructure
(01:50) Daily Habits That Have Had The Largest Impact on Me
(04:00) Do I Offer Fitness Business Coaching?
(05:45) Best Split To Follow For Football Players
(06:30) My Thoughts on Creatine
(07:39) Can You Make Decent Income Through Personal Training?
(09:30) Thoughts on Tulum
(10:12) Why Marbella?
(11:33) Best Rep Range To Maintain While Bulking
(12:28) My Advice To The Younger Generation
(18:22) How Has My Approach To Fitness Evolved Over The Years?
(19:30) My Biggest Personal Setback 
(21:45) Role of Mental Health in Overall Fitness
(23:40) Can You Balance Work, Personal Life and Fitness?
(27:30) Babbel
(29:21) How Do I Stay Informed About Health and Fitness?
(31:26) Thoughts on Dana White’s 86 Hour Fast
(32:56) My Diet Preferences
(34:21) Is Technology Shaping Our Approach To Fitness?
(37:06) How Do You Maintain a Positive Body Image?
(39:07) Best Way To Build Confidence and Find Motivation
(42:02) How Do I Manage My Time Effectively?
(45:47) Overcoming Anxiety
(49:15) Advice to My Younger Self
(50:47) Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle with A Busy Schedule
(53:22) What's New in My Routine Now?

Welcome back to another episode of The Game Plan podcast. We're kicking off our first podcast with Luke Barnatt, former UFC Middleweight turned entrepreneur.

We explore Luke's evolution from UFC fame to developing an unmatched business mindset. Luke reveals his perspectives on overcoming adversity, transitioning from sports to business, and the lessons learned along the way. He also shares his approach to balancing mental and physical wellness, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to life.

If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a 5 star rating on Spotify and a review on Apple podcasts.

This episode is sponsored by Oracle. Harness the power of AI without overspending with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). Ideal for AI model training, OCI offers 4-8x more bandwidth than competitors at half the cost.

Transform your business like Uber and Cohere with OCI. Try it free at https://oracle.com/gameplan

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/


🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ


(00:00) Preview and Intro
(01:19) Luke’s First Experience with Fighting
(02:51) What Was Luke’s Early Life Like?School Life and Personality
(07:11) Th Real Life Consequences of Gaming
(17:45) Luke’s Introduction to Wrestling and MMA
(20:36) Dealing with an Addictive Personality
(24:39) Lessons from Fighting At The Highest Level
(33:59) How Did Luke Get To The UFC
(40:12) Luke’s Most Memorable Fights 
(48:42) Journey to Vegas and 'The Ultimate Fighter' Tryouts
(59:15) Importance of Cardio in Fighting 
(01:05:14) The Dangers of Weight Cutting
(01:16:02) PED Use in UFC 
(01:25:34) Training with Chael Sonnen 
(01:34:56) Balancing Personal Growth, Business, and Health
(01:40:37) What’s The Optimal Training Frequency 
(01:43:20) Life Post-UFC 
(01:54:00) Finding Purpose Through Entrepreneurship
(01:56:00) Impact of Andrew Tate's Mentorship
(02:02:00) Exploring New Business Ventures
(02:06:00) The Importance of Mentorship and Helping Others 
(02:14:00) What’s The Real Value of Authenticity and Hard Work

We’re back with episode #12 of The Game Plan podcast with your host Rob Lipsett. In this special episode we're sitting down with my fiancée, Linda Smyth.

We explore our engagement, travel, and the joys and challenges of building our dream home in Marbella. as Linda shares her evolution from art student to fashion. We discuss our passions, the challenges in maintaining a strong connection, future aspirations and planning our wedding. 

If you enjoy this podcast, please leave a 5 star rating on Spotify and a review on Apple podcasts.

This episode is sponsored by Oracle. AI is revolutionising industries, but needs power without breaking the bank. Enter Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI): the one-stop platform for all your AI needs, with 4-8x the bandwidth of other clouds. Train AI models faster and at half the cost. Be ahead like Uber and Cohere.

If you want to do more and spend less like Uber, 8x8, and Databricks Mosaic - take a free test drive of OCI at https://oracle.com/gameplan

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ


(00:00) Preview
(00:25) Introducing Linda and How We Met.
(03:49) Our First Adventures Together
(06:28) Settling Down in Marbella
(10:36) Our Engagement 
(17:01) The Proposal Story
(22:50) Planning our Wedding 
(26:40) Dream Homes and Relationship Keys
(31:17) Choosing The Right Partner and Having Shared Interests
(35:36) Managing  The Fast Paced Life
(39:40) Relationship Dynamics and Handling Red Flags

Check out the best protein pancakes in the world at Fuel Cakes: https://fuelcakes.com/

If you want an energizing breakfast, our pancakes provide a sustained release of energy, making them an ideal choice for kick-starting your day. Say goodbye to mid-morning energy crashes with these power-packed delights. Fuel Cakes supports weight management with the high protein content that can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing unhealthy snacking and supporting your weight management goals.

Join us on The Game Plan podcast with Rob Lipsett as we sit down with Maxx Chewning. Maxx has carved a unique space in content creation and business. In this episode, he shares his journey from the corporate world to YouTube, turning his passion for content into a viable career and business.

Learn about his experiences in business and powerlifting, shaping his content and desires. Maxx discusses the evolving YouTube fitness scene and growing Sour Strips without external investments.

Beyond business, he opens up about relationships, traditional living, work-life balance, and future plans.

If you enjoy this pod, please leave a 5 star rating on Spotify and a review on Apple podcasts.

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ

(00:00) Preview
(00:36) Max Chewning’s Journey Creating Content
(05:28) Traditional Job to YouTube Career
(12:12) Powerlifting Journey and Body Image Perspectives
(18:21) Evolution of the YouTube Fitness Scene
(21:45) Starting Instagram, Making Money Through Content
(29:11) The Rise of Sour Strips
(37:42) Lessons Learned From Building a Business
(48:00) Sour Strips’ Growth and Financials
(59:02) Defining Financial Success and Priorities
(01:08:05) The Journey to Success and Gratitude
(01:11:11) Exploring Relationships and Dynamics
(01:16:10) Views on Relationships and Masculinity
(01:19:05) Traditional Living and Aligned Values
(01:31:17) Max’s Work-Life Balance and Future Plans
(01:38:25) Self-Promotion and Admiration for Accomplishments

Follow Rob Lipsett:

Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZBokKu
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2LJERpL

We’re back with episode 10 of The Game Plan podcast with Jack Hopkins, better known as CEO of Testosterone.

We dive into Jack's experience in Thailand, taking the risk of leaving his job to chase his dreams, and the encounters that shaped his perspective. From exploring the dating scene in Thailand and Dubai to his experience in Ibiza, Jack's journey is a rollercoaster of stories and life lessons. 

If you enjoy this pod, please leave a 5 star rating on Spotify and a review on Apple podcasts.

🎥 Subscribe to The Game Plan Clips: https://bit.ly/409UGfs

🏋️ Game Plan: https://bit.ly/3nJeuss

🥞 Fuel Cakes: https://bit.ly/3GbAwdQ

(00:00) Preview
(01:03) Early Experiences of the CEO of Testosterone 
(12:41) Advice and Mindset Shifts for a Better Life
(17:46)The importance of Sales & Strategies 
(23:12) Building Relationships & Network 
(27:25) Moving to Thailand and Chasing Dreams
(35:59) Dating Scene in Bangkok and Dubai
(48:05) Why is Personal Development Important
(57:34) Adventure, Theft, and Partying in Ibiza
(1:07:04) The Power of Making Connections

Follow Rob Lipsett:

Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZBokKu
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2LJERpL

Follow Jack Hopkins:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackhopfitness/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CEOofTestosterone