Kreatures Of Habit Podcast: How To Receive Feedback Like a Champ | Monday Moments
Host: Michael Chernow
Release Date: February 24, 2025

Introduction

In the February 24, 2025 episode of the Kreatures Of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow delves into the crucial topic of receiving feedback. This solo episode, titled "How To Receive Feedback Like a Champ | Monday Moments," offers listeners invaluable insights into transforming how they perceive and handle feedback in both personal and professional settings. Michael shares his personal journey, challenges, and the strategies that have empowered him to embrace feedback constructively, ultimately contributing to his success as an entrepreneur.

The Struggle with Receiving Feedback

Michael begins by candidly discussing his initial discomfort with receiving feedback. He reflects on how, early in his career, he found it challenging to accept criticism without becoming defensive.

Michael Chernow [00:31]: "I battled with receiving feedback for a long time. I did not like when people would tell me that what I was doing wasn't great or I should be thinking about it in a different way."

This resistance often led him to react impulsively, defending his actions instead of considering alternative perspectives. However, over time, Michael recognized the value of feedback in personal and professional growth.

Embracing Feedback in Business

A pivotal moment in Michael's journey was his collaboration with Victor Lee, the General Manager at Kreatures of Habit. Introduced by investor Gary Vaynerchuk, Victor brought a wealth of experience from his roles at rxbar and Hasbro.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "Victor is a veteran marketing executive. I'm so lucky to be able to have a guy like him that believes in the brand. He was the CMO at rxbar for a few years. He spent years at Hasbro. I mean the guy is like super smart and a tough cookie."

Victor's tough love approach initially intimidated Michael. Victor consistently challenged Michael's proposals, pushing him to think deeper and consider different angles. While Michael once perceived Victor's feedback as overly critical, he gradually came to appreciate the constructive pushback.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "He challenges almost everything I propose... I would never be able to do, to work with him. No way. Like I would just be like, no, this guy sees the negative in everything. And today I can honestly say that I'm so grateful to be able to work with him because he really does make me think."

Growth Through Constructive Criticism

Michael emphasizes that receiving feedback is not just about accepting praise or criticism but about engaging with it thoughtfully. By slowing down and actively listening, he learned to discern which pieces of feedback were beneficial and which weren’t.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "When somebody says something to me that I'm not, like, super excited about... I slow down and I listen and I'll ask questions and I'll try to understand."

This approach led Michael to rethink his decisions. Approximately 50% of the time, he would reconsider his stance based on the feedback received, leading to more informed and balanced decisions. This process not only enhanced his decision-making but also strengthened his leadership qualities.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "I feel like you graduate to another level of business ship entrepreneurship when you can hear what other people say or hear what other people’s opinions are... and actually appreciate and consider them."

The Importance of Diverse Perspectives

Michael underscores the significance of surrounding oneself with individuals who are willing to provide honest feedback. He highlights that diverse opinions foster an environment of continuous improvement and innovation.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "Everybody's different. Everybody's brain thinks differently. It would be insane to think that everybody would agree with you."

By valuing different viewpoints, Michael has been able to navigate challenges more effectively and drive his company forward with a well-rounded perspective.

Practical Strategies for Receiving Feedback

Drawing from his experiences, Michael offers listeners practical advice on how to handle feedback constructively:

1. Slow Down and Listen: Instead of reacting immediately, take a moment to absorb what is being said.

   Michael Chernow [01:29]: "But literally slow down. Like, actually when somebody says something... I slow down and I listen."

2. Ask Clarifying Questions: Engage with the feedback by seeking to understand the underlying reasons or perspectives.

   Michael Chernow [01:29]: "I'll ask questions and I'll try to understand."

3. Assess the Feedback Objectively: Determine whether the feedback has merit and how it can be applied to improve.

   Michael Chernow [01:29]: "Probably 50% of the time, I step off of my decision... in 50% of the cases, I would say they've got a real argument."

4. Empathize with the Speaker: Recognize that differing opinions are valid and can offer valuable insights.

   Michael Chernow [01:29]: "There is, there's got to be some reason why they don't agree with you..."

5. Maintain Confidence in Your Vision: While it's essential to consider feedback, also remain steadfast in your convictions when you believe in your direction.

   Michael Chernow [01:29]: "If there's something that I'm incredibly passionate about, I will most likely push forward..."

Overcoming Defensiveness and Embracing Maturity

Michael highlights that defensiveness often stems from a place of immaturity and can hinder growth. By confronting this tendency, entrepreneurs can evolve into better leaders.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "And it has been so helpful for me as I evolve as a business person... It has been so powerful."

He acknowledges that even the most successful individuals can struggle with accepting feedback, but emphasizes that overcoming this challenge is a sign of true leadership.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "Some of the greatest wealthiest people in the world struggle with this... if somebody's telling you that they don't believe in what you're doing. Don't take it personally."

Conclusion and Call to Action

In wrapping up, Michael encourages listeners to actively seek and embrace feedback as a pathway to personal and professional growth. He urges them to avoid defensiveness, engage with differing opinions, and use feedback as a tool for improvement.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "Receive it, think about it and then respond. It would mean the world."

Michael concludes the episode by inviting listeners to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast, expressing his gratitude and enthusiasm for the community's support.

Michael Chernow [01:29]: "If you can give us a five star rating and a review, it would mean the world. I love you all. I appreciate y'all. Until the next one, peace."

Key Takeaways

• Embrace Constructive Criticism: View feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than a personal attack.
• Slow Down and Listen: Take the time to understand the feedback before reacting.
• Engage and Ask Questions: Clarify the feedback to fully grasp the speaker's perspective.
• Value Diverse Perspectives: Recognize that differing opinions can lead to better decision-making.
• Maintain Confidence: While considering feedback, stay true to your core vision and values.
• Evolve as a Leader: Overcoming defensiveness and embracing feedback is a hallmark of mature leadership.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that the ability to receive and act on feedback is essential for anyone striving to succeed in business and life. Michael Chernow's personal anecdotes and actionable advice provide a roadmap for listeners to develop healthier, more productive relationships with feedback, ultimately enhancing their journey toward success.