Issue #2- Building Community and "Thrive Live" Launch
Fuel Your Day with Ideas, Reflection, and Motivation
August 10th, 2025
Issue #2 - Building Community and "Thrive Live" Launch
Last week, I told you about landing in Dubai, eating my body weight in shawarma, and pressing “send” on the first newsletter in months.
The past week has been full of new lessons, unexpected insights on various cultures, and the kind of growth that only comes when you step into something new.
If you’re new to the newsletter, this is Five to Thrive. I send it out every Sunday with now six parts designed to spark your curiosity, push you to explore, and remind you that life’s too short to sit on the sidelines.
Every week, you’ll get:
• One Life List Highlight
• One Adventure Idea
• One Quote to Motivate
• One Question for Reflection
• One Song to Inspire
• One Cool Person I’ve Met
Last week’s relaunch had more reads than I could’ve imagined and I’m extremely grateful! Let’s keep the streak alive.
Newsletter is released every Sun at 9:05am EST. (That’s 5:05pm here in Dubai!)
1 Life List Highlight
One thing still on my Life List: having a conversation with Matthew McConaughey. I know the old saying “never meet your heroes,” but his outlook on life truly inspires me. I believe that just the simple act of having a meaningful conversation with someone can be tremendously important.
This value inspired me to start a weekly Zoom call for this community which will be a space to grow, hear from “cool people” I know, and give you the chance to ask questions and learn directly.
1 Adventure Idea
Join my new weekly Zoom called “Five to Thrive Live”! Starting next Sunday at 10 AM EST, I’ll host a live meeting where we dive into a specific topic, person, or industry. Each week will feature a special guest who’ll share their experiences briefly, answer a few questions of mine, and then open the floor for questions and group discussion. No pressure to even turn on your camera, you can just be a fly on the wall.
I’d love for you to be part of the inaugural call next Sunday!
1 Quote to Motivate
“Life’s barely long enough to get good at one thing. So be careful what you get good at.”
— Matthew McConaughey
1 Question for Reflection
What’s one skill or habit you’re willing to commit to improving this month no matter how small the step?
1 Song to Listen To
“Nine Ball” by Zach Bryan – Enjoy the music video featuring Matthew McConaughey
1 Cool Person
While I haven’t locked in the guest for next week’s Five to Thrive Live call just yet, I want to give you a sneak peek into the kind of inspiring people you can expect.
These may not be your typical “experts” or “influencers” simply sharing surface-level advice. Instead, I’m inviting friends and acquaintances who are deeply passionate about what they do. People who live their purpose every day, whether it’s in business, creativity, personal growth, or some unexpected corner of life.
Think of entrepreneurs who started from scratch, artists who use their craft to inspire others, coaches who have transformed lives through authentic connection, and adventurers who push past fear to explore new areas of the world.
Each guest will bring their unique stories, lessons learned, and practical wisdom and you’ll get the chance to ask them your questions live.
I want this community to be about real talk, meaningful growth, and expanding your perspective by learning from people who walk the path with intention.
I can’t wait to introduce you to the first of these incredible people soon.
Here’s to thriving together one step at a time. Thanks for being part of the journey!
If this newsletter made you think, smile, or inspired you to try something new I’d love if you shared it with a friend.
Also, if you or someone you know would make a great guest for Five to Thrive Live, feel free to reply to this email or DM me on Instagram @Johnny.Kennevan. I’d love to hear your suggestions!
You can also follow more of the journey over on Instagram: @Johnny.Kennevan
Thanks for being here.
Dream big, do bigger,
Johnny Kennevan