Kreatures Of Habit Podcast
Episode: Against All Odds with Matt Johnson: Marathons, Mindset, and Defining Moments
Release Date: March 12, 2025
Host: Michael Chernow

Introduction

In this compelling episode of the Kreatures Of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow engages in an in-depth conversation with Matt Johnson, an extreme endurance athlete whose journey from a challenging upbringing to conquering monumental races serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and the power of habits. Released on March 12, 2025, this episode delves into Matt's personal struggles, his unwavering mindset, and the routines that have propelled him to success.

Early Life and Struggles

Matt Johnson opens up about his tumultuous childhood, highlighting the adversity he faced growing up in a small-town Iowa environment. Raised by a single mother who juggled multiple jobs, Matt endured physical and mental abuse within his family. This period of his life laid the foundation for the resilience that would later define his athletic pursuits.

Quote:
"All of these instances of trauma that I've been through in my life, you know, and then, you know, going into the military and, you know, getting in trouble... I grew up super late, you know, but like, once, like, like 25, like, I didn't understand anything until, like, 25."
— Matt Johnson [00:41]

Discovering Running and Military Experience

Matt discusses his late start in running, beginning in 2021 at the age of 24. His entry into endurance sports coincided with his time in the military, where he faced further challenges, including time in jail for fighting. Running became a means for Matt to regain control over his life, a stark contrast to the chaos of his past.

Quote:
"When I put myself through these events, like, I know, like, I have control."
— Matt Johnson [04:30]

Mindset and Resilience

A central theme of the conversation is Matt's philosophy on quitting and building resilience. He emphasizes the importance of small wins and consistent effort, even in the face of setbacks. Matt believes that quitting is not an option and that failure should not deter one's progress.

Quote:
"The problem with quitters is that they fail once and they don't continue to do."
— Matt Johnson [00:00]

Quote:
"Just keep going. It's a little bit at a time. It's what's on my shirt? Right. It's 1% better. Every single day."
— Matt Johnson [12:19]

Faith and Routine

Faith plays a pivotal role in Matt's life. He shares how reconnecting with his Christian roots and re-establishing his relationship with God provided him with a sense of calm and purpose. Additionally, Matt outlines his daily habits, which include running, recovery practices like sauna and ice baths, and maintaining a flexible yet consistent routine that adapts to his training needs.

Quote:
"I'm a firm believer in it is already written. And I believe that like. Like, I am here to put in the work, but. But what is meant to be is already meant to be."
— Matt Johnson [17:24]

Achieving and Overcoming Genetic Limitations

Matt shares his experiences of defying genetic expectations. Despite genetic tests suggesting limitations in endurance and fat metabolism, Matt successfully completed the "Run Across Texas" and other grueling races by adhering to rigorous training and nutrition plans. His achievements underscore the idea that determination can overcome perceived genetic barriers.

Quote:
"They are totally against your genetics. Bang."
— Matt Johnson [39:18]

Building a Brand and Coaching

Transitioning from an athlete to a coach, Matt discusses the challenges and rewards of building his brand. He recounts his humble beginnings, including periods of financial struggle and homelessness, and how strategic partnerships and mentorships propelled his brand forward. Matt now coaches a select group of athletes, driven not by income but by a genuine desire to help others succeed.

Quote:
"I coach because I love it. I don't coach because I need the income. I coach because it fires me up to see people win."
— Matt Johnson [61:15]

Giving Back and Inspiring Others

Matt emphasizes the importance of using his platform to inspire and support others facing their own struggles. Whether it's through charity runs or personal mentorship, Matt aims to demonstrate that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve remarkable feats through perseverance and the right habits.

Quote:
"I have this platform to be able to show people that it is possible no matter who you are, and to be able to show them that if I can do it, you can do it too."
— Matt Johnson [38:44]

Conclusion and Final Advice

As the conversation winds down, Matt reiterates the core message of the podcast: the power of habits to either make or break us. He encourages listeners to embrace resilience, stay consistent, and never allow failure to define their journey.

Quote:
"When you fail and bad happens, you can't just sit there and be like, well, I'm fucked. Guess I'm done. Guess I quit... you have to get back up and keep taking that step."
— Matt Johnson [57:56]

Key Takeaways

• Resilience Through Adversity: Matt's early life challenges built a foundation of resilience crucial for his success in extreme endurance sports.

• Mindset Over Genetics: Determination and the right mindset can override genetic limitations, allowing individuals to achieve remarkable feats.

• Faith and Routine: Reconnecting with faith and maintaining consistent habits play a significant role in sustaining long-term success and personal fulfillment.

• Giving Back: Using one's platform to inspire and support others creates a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment.

• Never Quitting: Embracing a "never quit" mentality and continuously taking small steps forward are essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving goals.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matt Johnson [00:00]: "The problem with quitters is that they fail once and they don't continue to do."

• Matt Johnson [04:30]: "When I put myself through these events, like, I know, like, I have control."

• Matt Johnson [12:19]: "Just keep going. It's a little bit at a time. It's what's on my shirt? Right. It's 1% better. Every single day."

• Matt Johnson [17:24]: "I'm a firm believer in it is already written. And I believe that like. Like, I am here to put in the work, but. But what is meant to be is already meant to be."

• Matt Johnson [39:18]: "They are totally against your genetics. Bang."

• Matt Johnson [61:15]: "I coach because I love it. I don't coach because I need the income. I coach because it fires me up to see people win."

• Matt Johnson [38:44]: "I have this platform to be able to show people that it is possible no matter who you are, and to be able to show them that if I can do it, you can do it too."

• Matt Johnson [57:56]: "When you fail and bad happens, you can't just sit there and be like, well, I'm fucked. Guess I'm done. Guess I quit... you have to get back up and keep taking that step."

Final Thoughts

This episode of the Kreatures Of Habit Podcast serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that consistent habits, resilient mindset, and unwavering faith can have on an individual's journey. Matt Johnson's story is not just about running marathons or enduring extreme physical challenges; it's about overcoming life's adversities and inspiring others to do the same. Whether you're an aspiring athlete or someone facing personal struggles, Matt's insights offer valuable lessons on building a life defined by perseverance and purposeful action.