Podcast
Kreatures Of Habit Podcast
Hosted by Michael Chernow · EN
Michael Chernow, host and founder of Kreatures of Habit, hosts discussions with his guests about their routines and habits, and how committing to them has helped their paths to success. In each episode, Michael asks about the guest’s morning and evening routines, 3 habits that have changed their life, and one habit that they've broken, and how they stay committed to it.
146episodes
Episodes
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Why Athletic Brewing Is Winning the NA Beer Market | Bill Shufelt | Kreatures of Habit
Yesterday00:57:02Summary readyBill Shufelt, co-founder of Athletic Brewing, shares the full story behind leaving a demanding career in finance to build the #1 non-alcoholic beer company in the United States. After realiziång that traditional success wasn’t delivering fulfillment, he made the decision to quit alcohol—a move that led to major improvements in his productivity, sleep, relationships, and overall clarity. That shift became the foundation for Athletic Brewing, built around the belief that health, performance, and social connection don’t have to come at the expense of each other.In this conversation, Bill breaks down the early days of building Athletic Brewing from nights and weekends into a category-defining brand, including how he identified the health and wellness megatrend before it became mainstream. He talks about the importance of having a strong partner, taking calculated risks, and maintaining optimism while navigating uncertainty as an entrepreneur. The episode also explores the cultural shift toward moderation, how Athletic Brewing helped destigmatize non-alcoholic beer, and why more high performers are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. Bill shares practical insight into balancing leadership of a 300-person company with family life, developing systems for growth and delegation, and what it really takes to walk away from stability to build something meaningful.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 The Pivot: Finance to Non-Alcoholic Beer 01:47 Spotting Trends Before They Explode 02:42 The Decision to Quit Alcohol 03:49 Why Success in Finance Felt Empty 06:26 The Leap: Walking Away from Stability 11:32 The Role of a Strong Partner 14:25 Building the Right Team Early 15:38 Who Actually Thrives in Finance 21:15 Optimism vs Risk in Business 25:05 The First Sign It Would Work 27:39 Selling Out Online—Proof of Demand 28:28 The Gratitude Behind the Movement 32:13 Breaking the Stigma Around Not Drinking 36:32 Moderation as a Lifestyle Shift 41:22 Balancing Business and Family 46:49 Learning to Delegate as a Founder 49:00 Advice for Career Switchers 51:10 Where to Find Athletic Brewing 51:49 Closing Thoughts 52:52 Final Takeaways
SummaryEmbracing Resilience & Conquering Entrepreneurial Challenges | Michael Chernow | Monday Moments
3d ago00:12:55Summary readyIn this Monday Moment episode of the Kreatures of Habit podcast, Michael Chernow shares a real-world look at entrepreneurship as a constant cycle of ebbs and flows, where even successful businesses face moments that feel close to the end. He explains that business is ultimately about solving problems for people, but that the work is often harder than it is easy, requiring relentless hustle, fast problem-solving, and sometimes major pivots—something he’s experienced across all of his business endeavors. Michael breaks down why money and communication matter, how building a network of believers can keep a business moving, and why mindset is the deciding factor in performance. His core message: the only thing you have to do perfectly is get back up—and never quit.
SummaryInterview Your Parents Before It’s Too Late | Kyle Thiermann | Kreatures of Habit
1w ago01:29:04Summary readyKyle Thiermann—writer, journalist, big-wave surfer, and podcast host—breaks down why writing is one of the most powerful tools for thinking clearly, processing life, and escaping what he calls “informational grazing.” He explains how writing forces depth in a distracted world, how to build a repeatable creative system, and why analog tools like longhand drafting and structured research still outperform digital shortcuts. The conversation explores how storytelling, curiosity, and asking better questions can transform not only your work, but your relationships—especially when it comes to documenting family history and interviewing your parents before it’s too late.They also go deep on fear and performance. Kyle shares how big-wave surfing trains real-time emotional control, including a near-death hold-down in Ireland, and how that same mindset applies to jiu-jitsu, business, and everyday stress. The episode covers breathwork practices ranging from Wim Hof to rebirthing, the role of somatic experiences, and a grounded, honest take on psychedelics—focusing on intention, caution, and integration rather than hype. You’ll also hear Kyle’s full morning routine, his perspective on creativity in the age of AI, and practical ways to live with more intention, ask better questions, and create a life that’s actually worth writing about.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Why Writing Beats Passive Consumption 03:36 The Truth About Pro Surfing Careers 06:32 Writing Without Self-Censorship 09:36 Why Reporting Improves Writing 13:52 Training Fear Through Big Waves 17:33 Near-Death Wipeout in Ireland 21:23 Breathwork Fundamentals 26:49 Breathwork vs Psychedelics 37:29 Using Psychedelics With Intention 44:43 Morning Routine for Focus 47:22 Creating in the Age of AI 50:06 Better Questions, Better Life 55:11 Navigating Family Trauma 59:39 The Best Questions to Ask 01:07:57 Questions for Depression 01:12:57 Rosebud Thorn Seed Practice 01:16:49 Choosing Fun Over Approval 01:20:29 Capturing Legacy Stories 01:23:23 Where to Find the Book 01:24:02 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
SummaryHow to Take Control of Your Money and Reach Financial Freedom | Michael Chernow | Monday Moments
1w ago00:10:05Summary readyIn this Monday Moments episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow shares the practical financial habits he’s built over the last decade, starting with how he raised his credit score from the low 300s—after unpaid parking tickets and a defaulted Sallie Mae student loan—to 847 (near the 850 max). He explains how using a prepaid credit card and consistently reloading and paying it monthly helped him rebuild credit and gain peace of mind and flexibility for financing. Michael also breaks down his automatic money system: weekly $200 crypto investing, monthly transfers to a high-yield tax savings account to avoid tax-time surprises, and monthly contributions to a portfolio account for his children. He emphasizes automation as the key to saving consistently and avoiding “get rich quick” financial scams.
SummaryRewiring the Brain After Trauma w/ Steve White | Kreatures of Habit
2w ago00:55:52Summary readyIn this powerful episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with Steve White to unpack a raw story of brain injury, addiction, and a relentless fight back to life. After years of football-related concussions, seizures, cognitive decline, and misdiagnoses, Steve hit a breaking point and made a decision to go “all in” on his recovery.Steve shares why discipline—not motivation—is the foundation of transformation, and how adopting a purpose-driven mindset he calls “hold the keep” became the anchor for his healing. He explains how cynicism shuts down growth and neuroplasticity, while urgency, belief, and focused thinking can accelerate recovery beyond what most people think is possible.The conversation dives into the exact tools and routines that fueled his comeback: daily movement, cold exposure, gratitude walks, brain training, supplementation, and stacking therapies with a team-based approach to health. Steve also discusses building a system for long-term healing and why it’s never too late to take ownership and fight for your life.This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter how far you’ve fallen, transformation is possible—but only if you’re willing to go all in.TIMESTAMPS:02:39 Urgency Builds Neuroplasticity03:49 Steve’s Injury Story04:27 Rock Bottom and Ownership08:26 Mentors and Team Health10:28 Replace Addiction With Discipline18:07 Never Too Late to Fight22:07 Discipline Applied Anywhere24:13 Imagination and Your Path28:17 Manifesting as Discipline31:08 Morning Routine Blueprint34:15 Cold Therapy and Recovery36:31 Brain Hits and Cognitive Gains38:06 Train the Brain Daily40:23 Mind Muscle Connection43:52 Clinic and Home Teams Mission50:51 Purpose Kindness and Never Quitting54:43 Where to Follow and Final Wrap
SummaryWhy Sleep Is My #1 Performance Tool | Michael Chernow | Monday Moments
2w ago00:14:19Summary readyIn this Monday Moments episode, Michael Chernow breaks down his exact sleep protocol for consistently getting 7+ hours of high-quality sleep without relying on melatonin. He explains why sleep is his number one tool for recovery, performance, and long-term health, and how dialing in his nighttime routine has improved everything from energy to focus to overall well-being.Michael walks through his full evening system, starting with shutting down work around 6 PM, putting his phone away, and using breathwork to transition from work mode to family time. He shares the specific breathing techniques he uses, his consistent dinner and bedtime schedule, and how he structures his evenings with his family to support better sleep. He also details his full sleep setup, including temperature control, blackout environment, sound management, and tools that help him stay asleep through the night. He explains why he avoids melatonin, how he created a melatonin-free sleep drink instead, and the importance of consistent sleep and wake times. This episode is a practical, no-BS blueprint for anyone looking to improve sleep, recovery, and daily performance.
SummaryFrom Victim to Warrior Mindset w/ Ben Bergeron (Mental Toughness Secrets)
3w ago01:25:45Summary readyIn this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with elite coach Ben Bergeron to break down the mindset behind high performance in sport, business, and life. Known for coaching some of the world’s top athletes, Ben shares why mental fitness—not just physical toughness—is the true separator, and how the stories we tell ourselves shape our reality.They dive into Ben’s “mindset ladder,” moving from victim to warrior, and explain how small, intentional shifts in thinking can unlock massive growth over time. The conversation explores the hidden “distractions” that sabotage performance—self-doubt, pressure, past experiences—and how to create space between stimulus and response to regain control. Ben also unpacks why chasing success and accolades can lead to imbalance, and how discipline, routines, and self-awareness create real freedom.This episode is a deep, practical look at mental resilience, emotional control, and what it actually takes to perform at a high level without losing yourself in the process. If you’re striving for growth in any area of life, this conversation will challenge your thinking and give you the tools to level up—one mindset shift at a time.00:00 Meet Ben Bergeron04:23 Mindset Beyond Fitness07:16 Quiet Distractions Explained09:22 Language Shapes Performance13:09 Seal Simulation Lesson18:28 Mindset Ladder Framework25:25 Realist Mindset Tools27:16 Warrior Mindset Defined31:04 Trigger Awareness Technique37:05 Addicted to Chaos41:36 Jordan Kobe and Competition44:49 Chasing Excellence vs Fulfillment51:13 Hustle Culture and Balance57:22 Work That Feels Like Play01:00:54 Love as the North Star01:04:22 High Performers Discipline and Pain01:10:15 Morning Night Routines and Health01:19:27 Flow State and Dropping Judgment01:22:01 Wrap Up and Where to Follow
SummaryThe 8-8-8 Rule That Changed My Life (Work-Life Balance) | Monday Moments
3w ago00:11:29Summary readyIn this Monday Moments episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow shares a deeply personal reflection on hustle culture, success, and his biggest regret—missing the first two years of his son’s life while chasing money and validation through nonstop work.He breaks down how that experience reshaped his priorities and led him to create his “triple eights” framework: eight hours of sleep, eight hours of focused work, and eight hours dedicated to life outside of work—family, relationships, and personal time. Michael explains how discipline, boundaries, and intentional scheduling make this balance not just possible, but sustainable.The episode dives into practical tools like time blocking, working in focused sprints, and creating structure in both your mornings and evenings to protect what matters most. His message is clear: success without balance isn’t success and building a life you actually enjoy requires just as much intention as building a business.If you’ve been stuck in hustle mode, feeling burned out, or questioning what it’s all for, this episode offers a simple, powerful framework to take your time and your life back.
SummaryWhy Culture Is Everything in Business & Life
Apr 1300:10:57Summary readyIn this Monday-style episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow breaks down a simple but powerful truth: business without culture is dead. Whether you’re leading a company, a team, or a family, culture is always being created—intentionally or by default—and the outcome depends on how deliberate you are.Drawing from his experience building brands like The Meatball Shop and Creatures of Habit, Michael shares why culture goes far beyond perks or slogans. It’s how people communicate, handle adversity, celebrate wins, and show up for one another daily. He reflects on a pivotal moment with retail legend Mickey Drexler that shaped his role as a “culture cowboy,” responsible for setting and protecting the heartbeat of a company.The conversation dives into practical ways to build culture in today’s world—from running effective remote teams with real human connection to simple rituals like starting meetings with personal check-ins. Michael also brings it home, explaining how culture starts within your family through consistent dinners, honest communication, and daily connection with your partner.This episode is a reminder that strong culture doesn’t happen by accident—and whether you’re a leader or not, you have the power to influence and elevate the environments you’re part of every day.
SummaryThe Longevity Antioxidant Nobody Talks About w/ David Watumull
Apr 801:09:37Summary readyIn this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with astaxanthin expert David Watumull to explore one of the most powerful—and overlooked—nutrients in health and longevity. Known as the pigment that gives salmon its pink color, astaxanthin is a marine antioxidant humans can’t produce, yet it plays a critical role in protecting the body at the cellular level.David breaks down how astaxanthin works differently from traditional antioxidants like vitamin C and E, explaining its unique ability to span cell membranes and reach key areas like mitochondria and even the nucleus. The conversation dives into its potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, improve endurance and recovery, support cardiovascular health, and influence longevity pathways like autophagy. They also discuss emerging research, including NIH-backed studies showing lifespan extension in animal models, and what that could mean for human healthspan.This episode is a deep, science-backed look at performance, recovery, and aging optimization—while reinforcing that no supplement replaces the fundamentals of sleep, movement, and daily habits. If you’re serious about longevity, energy, and operating at a high level, this conversation will open your eyes to what might be missing from your routine.00:00 Astaxanthin Explained04:22 Salmon Endurance Story06:21 Cell Membrane Superpower07:55 Performance and Daily Use09:46 Oxidative Stress 10116:32 Inflammation and CNS19:31 Autophagy Without Fasting24:19 Why Its Still Unknown30:25 Purity and Absorption Edge35:21 Mouse Study Breakthrough39:27 Lifespan Versus Healthspan41:53 Will Humans Live Longer47:34 High Performer Recovery50:28 Rest Recovery Advice52:17 Morning And Evening Routines56:03 Where To Buy Astaxanthin56:42 Research With Modern AI59:09 Wrap And Takeaways
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