About this episode
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Miesha sits down with independent hip hop artist Jeff Thomas—better known as Ekoh—for an unfiltered conversation on music, loss, addiction, and resilience. From his early days at Encore Beach Club in Las Vegas to overcoming substance abuse, Jeff shares how life’s toughest battles shaped his art and purpose. We explore the healing power of vulnerability, the struggle behind success, and the universal need for connection. Jeff opens up about postponing his tour following the tragic loss of his brother, his journey through rehab, and how music became both his therapy and his calling. We also dive into topics like masculinity in modern society, the role of storytelling in sports and art, and the surprising ways life at a Vegas dayclub prepared him for the music industry. Whether you’re chasing a dream, overcoming hardship, or just looking for a raw and inspiring story, this episode will hit you right in the heart. Connect with Miesha: IG: https://www.instagram.com/mieshatate/ X: https://x.com/mieshatate FB: https://www.facebook.com/mieshatatefanpage/ Website: https://mieshatate.com/ Connect with Built For Growth Podcast: IG: https://www.instagram.com/builtforgrowthpodcast/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Built-For-Growth-Podcast/61567354560939/ Connect with Jeff: IG: https://www.instagram.com/ekohmusic/?hl=en Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Meeting Jeff “Ekoh” Thomas through Encore Beach Club 00:25 – The unique blend of hip hop, rock, and “heart hop” 01:17 – The story behind postponing his tour and opening up after tragedy 01:45 – Struggles with success and the reality it doesn’t “fix” you 02:09 – Diving into personal challenges and mental health 04:49 – Wrestling, fighting, and finding your passion 07:22 – UFC before it was mainstream & the power of storytelling 09:17 – Nostalgia for past chapters in life 11:11 – Ekoh’s path into the Vegas dayclub scene 17:07 – Sobriety, addiction, and the road to rehab 27:29 – The importance of connection and healthy role models 38:20 – Music as therapy and creative outlet 46:41 – The story behind “Zzyzx Road” 49:17 – The emotional connection to music in youth 54:08 – How success can amplify internal struggles #Ekoh #LasVegasMusic #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #IndependentArtist #MusicAndHealing #StorytellingInMusic #BuiltforGrowthPodcast #MieshaTate