Kreatures Of Habit Podcast: Day One to Day Done with Carl Daikeler

Introduction

In the June 4, 2025 episode of the Kreatures Of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow sits down with Carl Daikeler, CEO and Co-Founder of BODi. Carl brings decades of experience in the wellness industry, having been instrumental in the success of renowned programs like P90X. The conversation delves into the nuances of habit formation, the evolution of the wellness industry, and Carl’s entrepreneurial journey.

Project-Based Approach to Habits

Carl Daikeler opens the discussion by challenging the conventional notion of making wellness a lifestyle. Instead, he advocates for treating wellness as a project.

Carl Daikeler [00:00]: "So for me, making it a lifestyle never worked for me... make it a project. Just be like, let's use a metaphor. You want to build a coffee table for yourself, doesn't mean you're going to build a house."

Carl emphasizes the importance of setting short-term goals, such as committing to a 90-day wellness project, to foster consistency and observe tangible results. He likens this approach to experiments, encouraging individuals to track their progress daily, much like someone in recovery would.

BODi's Philosophy and Programs

Michael Chernow acknowledges that many people struggle with consistency in their wellness journeys, resonating with Carl’s perspective.

Michael Chernow [05:04]: "It's for me, too, you know, I feel kind of blessed that I've been given this drive to want to stick to these habits because of the outcomes that I receive on a daily basis."

Carl explains how BODi is designed to cater to those who find it challenging to turn wellness into a lifestyle. Instead of promoting perpetual habits, BODi offers structured programs with clear start and end points, making it easier for individuals to commit without feeling overwhelmed.

Carl Daikeler [20:08]: "Just build the coffee table and see it through... get yourself a calendar. Draw X's through every day that you manage to do it."

He further elaborates on BODi’s step-by-step programs, which are cost-effective alternatives to personal trainers, and highlights the community support system that helps individuals stay accountable.

Shifts in the Wellness Industry

Carl discusses significant changes in the wellness landscape over the past 25 years, particularly the rise of pharmaceuticals like GLP1s (e.g., Ozempic) and extreme biohacking trends.

Carl Daikeler [15:57]: "Certainly the advent of semi-glutides and GLP1s... the danger is... people are thinking there's a pill for that."

He expresses concern that reliance on pharmaceutical solutions may lead individuals to neglect fundamental practices like regular exercise and balanced nutrition. Additionally, Carl criticizes the rise of extreme biohacking showcased on social media, which often alienates those seeking simple, sustainable wellness practices.

Advice for Beginners Overwhelmed by Choices

When asked to provide guidance for listeners feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of wellness options, Carl reiterates his project-based approach.

Carl Daikeler [20:08]: "Make it a project... make it a calendar. Draw X's through every day that you manage to do it."

He recommends starting with a manageable commitment, such as a 90-day program, and utilizing BODi’s structured plans to simplify the decision-making process. Carl emphasizes the importance of having a support system to help navigate setbacks.

Entrepreneurial Insights

Michael shifts the conversation to entrepreneurship, seeking Carl’s insights on what has contributed to his success.

Carl Daikeler [39:48]: "Zero quit, relentless persistence... nobody is going to outwork me."

Carl attributes his entrepreneurial success to relentless persistence, continuous learning, and an obsessive drive to improve. He highlights the importance of studying other successful entrepreneurs and adapting their strategies to his own ventures.

Furthermore, Carl discusses the challenges he faced, such as the transition during the pandemic and the realization that being the "Netflix of fitness" wasn't effective because fitness consumption differs from entertainment consumption.

Carl Daikeler [50:11]: "When I put up the whole thing, crickets... people don't consume fitness content the way they consume entertainment content."

Personal Accomplishments and Reflections

Carl shares a poignant moment that reaffirmed his commitment to the wellness industry. Reviewing before-and-after transformations of BODi users moved him deeply, reinforcing the impact of his work.

Carl Daikeler [55:56]: "These little ideas that I have... could end up turning into something that would touch somebody's life like that... That's a life well lived."

He also recounts the creation and success of P90X, highlighting its unexpected popularity and its recognition by high-profile figures, including President Obama.

Carl Daikeler [61:22]: "I had a chance to meet Obama at a fundraiser... He's like, P90X. My wife does P90X."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Michael Chernow urging listeners to take actionable steps toward their wellness goals, inspired by Carl Daikeler’s insights and experiences. The conversation underscores the importance of manageable commitments, community support, and relentless persistence in both personal wellness and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Notable Quotes

• Carl Daikeler [00:00]: "Make it a project. Just be like, let's use a metaphor. You want to build a coffee table for yourself, doesn't mean you're going to build a house."

• Michael Chernow [05:04]: "I'm an entrepreneur, I'm a husband, father. I show up better in those roles when I take care of the foundational things that make me happy."

• Carl Daikeler [15:57]: "The danger is... people are thinking there's a pill for that. So I'm gonna see this all the way through."

• Michael Chernow [39:48]: "You don't have to be the fucking smartest. You don't have to be the toughest, you don't have to be the most creative."

• Carl Daikeler [55:56]: "These little ideas that I have... could end up turning into something that would touch somebody's life like that... That's a life well lived."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Kreatures Of Habit offers a deep dive into the interplay between habit formation, wellness, and entrepreneurship. Carl Daikeler’s pragmatic approach to building sustainable wellness projects provides valuable insights for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their lives. His candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of running a successful wellness business serve as inspiration for both aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals striving for personal growth.