Kreatures Of Habit Podcast Summary
Episode: Small Actions. BIG Impact. | Monday Moments
Host: Michael Chernow
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Introduction
In the Monday Moments episode of the Kreatures Of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow delves into the profound impact of small, consistent actions. Breaking from the usual guest interviews, Michael presents a solo episode where he shares personal insights, routines, and philosophies that have shaped his journey toward success.
The Power of Small Actions
Michael opens the episode with a compelling metaphor about a horse race, emphasizing the pitfalls of overconfidence and the importance of a strong start:
"You're watching a horse race... True Believer trips, True Believer trips. And the chances of True Believers catching up to the rest of the pack are slim to none. Don't be True Believer. Don't trip out the gate."
— Michael Chernow [00:00]
This sets the stage for his core message: small, consistent actions can lead to significant, compounded results over time. Comparing these actions to financial compounding, he illustrates how daily efforts, though seemingly minor, accumulate to produce substantial outcomes.
Michael's Morning Routine
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Michael's evolving morning routine, highlighting how simplicity and consistency can enhance daily productivity and well-being. Over the past few months, Michael has streamlined his morning practices to focus on non-negotiable habits that feed his mental and physical health.
Key Components of His Routine:
-
Wake-Up Time:
Michael now allows himself an extra 30 to 45 minutes of sleep by waking up slightly later than his previous 5 AM schedule. This adjustment underscores the importance of adequate rest. -
Hydration and Nutrition:
He starts the day with a "morning cocktail," a jug of water mixed with various supplements to kickstart his metabolism and energy levels. -
Oral Care:
Inspired by Dr. Jonathan Levin, Michael has intensified his oral hygiene routine:"I brush my teeth with an electric toothbrush for two minutes, I scrape my tongue, I floss, and then I rinse with a mouth rinse to set my pH in my mouth."
— Michael Chernow [05:00] -
Skincare:
A consistent skincare regimen using products from Caldera Lab helps Michael feel refreshed and confident. -
Prayer and Mindfulness:
Michael dedicates time to prayer, viewing it as a daily check-in with a higher power. This practice isn't tied to religious doctrine but serves as a source of hope and strength."Prayer is checking in with a power greater than myself that is essentially my hope rope."
— Michael Chernow [07:30] -
Physical Exercise:
Incorporating 60 push-ups each morning, Michael challenges his body and boosts cardiovascular health. He follows this with stretching exercises like down dog and cat cow to ensure flexibility and reduce stress. -
Affirmations and Positive Mindset:
Shifting his prayer focus, Michael now asks for the addition of positive attributes such as love, courage, and kindness, rather than seeking the removal of negative traits.
Evolving Prayer Practices
Michael shares a transformative change in his prayer routine that has deepened his daily practice:
"Instead of asking God to help remove certain things, ask God to add certain things, like please bring love and light, bring joy, bring courage, bring confidence, bring risk-taking, bring kindness, allow me to be of service."
— Michael Chernow [12:15]
This shift from a deficit-focused approach to one of abundance and growth has empowered him to cultivate positive habits and a resilient mindset.
Emphasis on Living in the Present
A recurring theme in the episode is the importance of focusing on the present moment rather than dwelling on past mistakes. Michael reinforces this by encouraging listeners to embrace each day as a fresh start:
"Today is the fucking day. Today is the day. Yesterday is gone. Not a single human being or living thing has ever been able to go back to yesterday and live."
— Michael Chernow [18:45]
He emphasizes that while learning from the past is valuable, obsessing over it can drain energy and hinder future progress.
Key Insights and Takeaways
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Consistency Over Intensity:
Small, manageable habits are more sustainable and can lead to significant long-term benefits compared to sporadic, intense efforts. -
Simplify to Amplify:
Reducing the complexity of routines can make them easier to maintain, allowing for greater focus and effectiveness. -
Mind-Body Connection:
Integrating physical exercise with mental practices like prayer can enhance overall well-being and productivity. -
Positive Affirmations:
Focusing on adding positive qualities rather than removing negatives fosters a growth-oriented mindset. -
Living in the Now:
Prioritizing the present moment ensures that energy is directed toward actionable steps rather than unchangeable past events.
Notable Quotes
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On Habits:
"The decisions we make on a consistent basis truly define who we are as human beings."
— Michael Chernow [00:33] -
On Morning Routines:
"Small actions, little things done on a consistent basis make big wins. It's just a fact."
— Michael Chernow [02:10] -
On Prayer:
"Prayer has to do with checking in with a power greater than myself... it’s my hope rope."
— Michael Chernow [07:30] -
On Starting the Day Right:
"Start right, start. Start strong. And you have complete control over that, and that's a fact."
— Michael Chernow [22:20]
Conclusion
In this insightful solo episode, Michael Chernow masterfully illustrates how small, deliberate actions can lead to significant, lasting change. By sharing his personal routines and the philosophies that underpin them, he provides listeners with practical strategies to enhance their own lives. Emphasizing consistency, simplicity, and a positive mindset, Michael offers a roadmap for anyone looking to harness the power of habits to achieve success and fulfillment.
"Start right, start. Start strong."
— Michael Chernow
Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Kreatures Of Habit Podcast. Whether you're embarking on a new morning routine or fine-tuning existing habits, remember that today is the day to make impactful changes.