#004 Meet Thomas

Thomas Brag is one of the founders of Yes Theory, a group of guys who make famous YouTube videos. But Thomas and the other two hosts of Yes Theory aren’t interested in performing dangerous stunts or hazardous pranks to attract views. Instead, they are into creating challenges for themselves that have purpose.

Their motto is “Seek Discomfort.” In each video, they step outside their comfort zones and challenge themselves to grow stronger and become better humans. And they’re creating a community of people who are trying to do the same.

Sometimes they do physical challenges — like skydiving. At other times, they do social challenges — like asking a stranger if they can swim in their pool. In each challenge, they find they’re more capable and competent than they thought. They also show how many of their challenges turn out better than they might expect. (People are generally kinder to strangers than you might imagine.)

I met Thomas and the other people behind Yes Theory last year when they invited me to speak at their first live event. They called me on a Tuesday and said, “Can you come to LA on Saturday?” Keeping in line with their whole motto, I said yes. They had challenged themselves to put together an event in less than a week — and they pulled it off beautifully.

All three guys have been open about their struggles with mental health issues, like depression and anxiety. And they share their struggles with others as a way to show people that they’re not alone—and to encourage them to get help if they need it.

Yes Theory has 6 million YouTube subscribers. I suspect it’s because their followers recognize just how genuine and kind these three guys are. Clearly, their efforts are making the world a better place.

Thomas and I discuss: