E070 - The Michael Jordan Method: How to Build Self-Discipline for 2025 | Fadi El Khatib

This week, I'm joined by 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 Khatib1:46 Transition from soccer to basketball and early challenges3:24 Influence of high school coach and first international success6:35 Key moments in Asian championships and training with Michael Jordan10:44 Evolution of basketball, competition, and its popularity in Lebanon16:47 Overview of Asian basketball league structures31:41 Lessons from Michael Jordan and insights from The Last Dance35:11 Mental toughness in sports, handling loss, and resilience38:33 Transition to Dubai, Champs academies, and gym business advice51:23 Financing and managing gym facilities, team growth, and leadership1:02:46 Balancing fitness with a busy lifestyle and encouraging others1:10:20 Dealing with criticism and negativity, and promoting mental fitness1:17:54 Fadi's role in Dubai Sports Council and balancing family life1:24:16 Raising mentally tough kids and criticism for leaving Lebanon1:30:26 Business and government challenges in Lebanon, love for Dubai1:36:12 Fadi's nickname and new energy drink launch1:40:58 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: 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 FadiWebsite: https://tinyurl.com/mrjwch49Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fadielkhatib15