Kreatures Of Habit Podcast: "Return To Self | Monday Moments" Episode Summary

Host: Michael Chernow
Release Date: August 11, 2025

Introduction

In the solo episode titled "Return To Self | Monday Moments," Michael Chernow, the founder and host of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, delves deep into his personal experiences hosting a transformative men's retreat. Stepping away from his usual format of interviewing guests, Michael shares insightful reflections on the power of habits, vulnerability, and the critical need for men to connect and bond in today's fast-paced world.

The Vision Behind the Men's Retreat

Michael begins by recounting his long-held dream of organizing a men's retreat, emphasizing the scarcity of safe spaces for men to express and process their emotions. He states:

Michael (00:33): "Our habits will make us or they will break us. The decisions we make on a consistent basis truly define who we are as human beings."

The retreat, named "Return to Self," was held from June 19th to 23rd at his property, gathering 30 men ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and emotional cleansing. Unlike typical retreats focused on fitness or casual socializing, "Return to Self" was meticulously designed to facilitate deep emotional work through various structured activities.

Structured Activities and Practices

Michael details the comprehensive program of the retreat, highlighting several transformative practices:

1. Breathwork and Meditation:

   • Central to the retreat, these practices provided tools for participants to delve into their subconscious and confront suppressed emotions.
   • Michael shares the profound impact breathwork had on him personally:

     Michael (07:36): "Breathwork is just absolutely the most powerful form of therapy, self-development work I have ever experienced."

2. Traditional Plant Medicines:

   • Combina: Derived from Amazonian frog secretions, this cleansing medicine involves creating a small burn on the skin to purge toxins from the body. Although initially daunting, Michael found the experience deeply cleansing.

     Michael (04:50): "I was really scared to do it. We did sananga, which is an eye drop that burns like hell for about five minutes, but then you are crystal clear."

   • Sananga: An eye drop that induces intense burning sensations, leading to heightened mental clarity post-administration.

3. Rites of Passage:

   • Incorporating Native American traditions, these ceremonies were groundbreaking for the participants, fostering a sense of brotherhood and shared purpose.

4. Emotional Expression:

   • During the initial fire ceremony, the level of vulnerability among the men was palpable. Michael recounts how all participants began crying within the first five minutes, a testament to the retreat's safe and supportive environment.

Confronting Societal Pressures on Men

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the societal pressures that men face and the rarity of opportunities to relieve this stress:

Michael (05:00): "Men walk around with a lot of pressure. No matter where you're from, no matter what background you were raised in, men just walk around with a lot of pressure."

Michael contrasts this with the increasing consumption of time by phones, work, and family obligations, which often leaves little room for men to connect with each other on a deeper, more vulnerable level. He underscores the importance of creating intentional spaces for such connections.

Personal Reflections and Insights

One of the most poignant moments in the episode is Michael's reflection during a breathwork session, where he envisions his son Finn looking up at him with soulful eyes. This revelation reshaped his understanding of his role as a father:

Michael (07:36): "My sons are my freaking teachers. I could do what I think is right to lead them, but they are going to teach me."

Inspired by this vision, Michael instituted daily "staring contests" with his sons, Finn and his other son, as a method to build their confidence and strengthen their bond. This simple yet profound practice serves as a metaphor for the deep connection and mutual growth he aspires to foster within his family.

Commitment to Ongoing Men's Work

Fueled by the success and profound impact of the "Return to Self" retreat, Michael expresses a steadfast commitment to continuing this vital work:

Michael (07:36): "I felt so light. I felt so present on that last day. I was so in tune. I don't think I've ever been that in tune. And that was work. It was just work."

He emphasizes that while hosting retreats is a significant endeavor, promoting consistent connections among men outside of their familial and professional lives is equally important. Michael encourages listeners to organize or participate in such gatherings to foster vulnerability and mutual support.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Michael wraps up the episode by urging his audience to prioritize meaningful connections and to consider participating in or hosting men's retreats. He also invites listeners to share the podcast with those who might benefit from its message, especially significant others who could support their partners in embracing men's work.

Michael (End): "Pass this podcast off to somebody that you think may need to hear it. If you're a wife or a girlfriend and you think that your significant other could use this, send it their way."

He concludes with a heartfelt appreciation for his listeners and encourages them to subscribe and leave reviews to help the podcast grow.

Key Takeaways

• Importance of Vulnerability: Creating safe spaces for men to express emotions is crucial for mental and emotional well-being.
• Transformative Practices: Breathwork, traditional plant medicines, and rites of passage can facilitate deep personal growth and healing.
• Parental Influence: Active and intentional engagement with children can profoundly impact their development and confidence.
• Ongoing Commitment: Hosting regular retreats and fostering consistent connections among men can counteract societal pressures and isolation.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael (00:33): "Our habits will make us or they will break us. The decisions we make on a consistent basis truly define who we are as human beings."
• Michael (07:36): "My sons are my freaking teachers. I could do what I think is right to lead them, but they are going to teach me."
• Michael (07:36): "Breathwork is just absolutely the most powerful form of therapy, self-development work I have ever experienced."

This episode serves as a compelling narrative on the significance of men's emotional health and the transformative power of disciplined habits and intentional connections. Michael Chernow's candid sharing offers listeners not only inspiration but also practical insights into fostering a fulfilling and balanced life.