The Michael Chernow Podcast

Latest Episodes:

How I Stay Sober During the Most Tempting Season of the Year | Monday Moments Dec 15, 2025

Show notes

The holidays can be tough when you’re staying sober, and in this episode of The Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow shares practical tips to help you thrive. Learn how to keep non-alcoholic drinks close, take mental breaks, and lean on sober friends for support. Michael emphasizes being present, enjoying the season, and embracing the benefits of sobriety while handling stressful moments with confidence.

Whether you’re in recovery or just sober-curious, this episode is packed with advice and encouragement to make your holidays joyful and alcohol-free.

Your Back Pain Isn’t What You Think, Dr. Amir Reveals the REAL Cause | Kreatures of Habit Dec 10, 2025

Show notes

True healing goes far beyond fixing pain — it’s about understanding the body, the mind, and the stories we carry.

In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow sits down with Dr. Amir Vokshoor, a world–renowned neurosurgeon based in Santa Monica, CA, to explore a holistic, integrated approach to spinal health. Together, they break down the connection between anatomy, physiology, psychology, and the deeply personal experiences that shape our perception of pain.

Dr. Amir shares what he’s learned from helping countless patients heal from cutting-edge surgical innovations like artificial disc replacement to the powerful role of mindset, emotional well-being, and recovery routines. Michael opens up about his own spinal injuries, revealing how cognitive discipline, daily practices, and intentional physical training transformed his relationship with pain.

This is an eye-opening conversation about the future of spine care, the healing potential of mental health, and why true recovery requires caring for the whole human being.

You’ll hear insights on:

The holistic view of spinal pain — and why the mind plays a bigger role than most realize
How artificial disc replacement works and who it can help
The importance of mental and emotional resilience in pain recovery
Nutritional supplements and emerging therapies that support spinal health
Ketamine-assisted therapy and its potential role in healing
Michael’s personal journey through spinal injuries and rebuilding strength
Daily habits that create long-term stability, clarity, and balance

Whether you’re navigating chronic pain, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about how the brain and spine work together, this episode offers practical wisdom and empowering perspectives to help you take ownership of your health.

If today’s conversation with Dr. Amir Vokshoor resonated with you, share it with someone who needs clarity on their healing journey — and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to support more meaningful conversations like this.

Like & Subscribe for more real conversations

Follow Dr. Amir Vokshoor: https://www.instagram.com/drvokshoor/?hl=en

Connect with Michael: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow/?hl=en

#spinehealth #mentalhealth #neuroscience #dramirvokshoor #michaelchernow #wellness #recovery #backpain #kreaturesofhabit #mindbodyconnection #holistichealth #healingjourney

00:00 Holistic Approach to Spinal Care

03:52 Artificial Disc Replacement Explained

05:27 Personal Back Injury Story

08:07 Holistic Pain Management Strategies

18:25 Morning Routines and Mental Health

28:43 Exploring Alternative Therapies

40:23 The Role of Psychedelics in Therapy

51:50 Eastern Practices and Gentle Exercises

54:34 Sleep and Intermittent Fasting

56:47 Lumbar Disc Replacement Insights

01:02:24 Piriformis Syndrome and Sciatica

01:09:27 Healthy Habits and Overcoming Addiction

01:18:38 Conclusion and Call to Action

This NEW Protein Bar Might Change the Entire Industry | Monday Moments Dec 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow introduces the all-new Daily Bar, a clean, functional protein bar designed for everyday performance and wellness. Featuring 20 grams of plant-based protein sourced from brown rice and 3 grams of creatine monohydrate, the Daily Bar supports strength, recovery, and energy.

Michael reveals the two debut flavors the Chocolate Peanut Butter Banger and the Cookie Dough Dazzler and explains the commitment to high-quality ingredients: no sugar alcohols, no seed oils, and no artificial additives.

Get Yours Today!

https://kreaturesofhabit.com/products/daily-bar

Redefining Rich: Friendship, Purpose, and Life’s Real Rewards with Pathos | Kreatures of Habit Podcast Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful roundtable episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow brings together an inspiring group of thinkers, creators, and community builders, the founders of Pathos, along with guests Josh Bodkin, Brian Pruett, Colin Pasque, and Ryan Tuttle, for a deep conversation about connection, meaning, and the future of male friendship.

The group explores what it truly means to live with intention in a world overflowing with distraction. They dive into the mission behind Pathos, the importance of emotional honesty, and why cultivating real friendships has become one of the greatest challenges and greatest opportunities for men today.

This roundtable opens up about purpose, vulnerability, daily habits, and the kind of community that actually nourishes you. Their perspectives blend story and strategy, offering listeners a grounded roadmap for living more authentically.

You’ll hear insights on:

Why success is really about meaning, connection, and emotional courage
The heart behind Pathos and how it’s building a new culture of deeper relationships
How men can create real, consistent friendships that last
Escaping comparison and tech-induced numbness
The power of vulnerability, rest, and spiritual alignment
How intentional habits can transform purpose and self-worth

This episode is a reminder to slow down, choose depth over distraction, and build a life rooted in the relationships that matter most.

If this conversation resonated, share it with someone who could use the encouragement and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to support more meaningful discussions.

See you next week, Kreatures!

Follow the guests:
Pathos → https://www.instagram.com/pathos.community/
Colin Pasque → https://www.instagram.com/flolyfe/
Josh Bodkin → https://www.instagram.com/joshbodkin/
Brian Pruett → https://www.instagram.com/brian_pruett/
Ryan Tuttle → https://www.instagram.com/inquirywithin/

#kreaturesofhabit #pathos #mensmentalhealth #community #friendship #mindset #wellness #intentionality #selfcare #connection #purpose #brotherhood

01:30 The Importance of Community and Men's Mental Health

06:54 The Birth and Growth of Pathos

10:45 Balancing Work, Family, and Personal Well-being

17:43 The True Meaning of Success and Happiness

34:47 Embracing Playfulness in Work

40:04 The Importance of Self-Care and Routine

51:44 Overcoming Distractions and Embracing Potential

01:04:10 Final Thoughts on Community and Authenticity

The REAL Reason Intermittent Fasting Isn’t Working for You | Monday Moments Dec 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast's Monday Moments, we break down the real drawbacks of intermittent fasting and how rigid eating windows can add unnecessary stress and anxiety to your life. Instead of overthinking food, we encourage a simpler, more sustainable approach: eating balanced meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—along with healthy snacks when you need them.The episode highlights the importance of making smart, nourishing choices and building a healthy relationship with food. Tune in to discover how to create a stress-free, sustainable eating routine during the holiday season and beyond.Follow Michael Chernow:Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernowKreatures of Habit → https://kreaturesofhabit.com/ #IntermittentFasting#HealthyEating#NutritionTips#KreaturesOfHabit#MondayMoments#WellnessJourney#HealthyHabits

Overcoming Addiction Through Routine and Prayer with Mindless Labs | Kreatures of Habit Nov 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, entrepreneur and mental health advocate Michael Chernow opens up about his personal journey of overcoming addiction through daily habits, spirituality, and fitness. He shares the role of the Serenity Prayer and his morning routines, highlighting how small, consistent actions can create profound shifts in mental well-being and overall life satisfaction.

Michael dives into the power of positive habits, the importance of prayer and evolving spiritual practices, and how routines can provide structure and clarity in challenging times. He also discusses the impact of community, love, and support in navigating life’s hardships. Along the way, Michael introduces new products from Kreatures of Habit and shares feedback on flavors, routines, and how these offerings tie into living a purposeful, balanced life.

You’ll hear insights on:

-Overcoming hardships through faith and spirituality

-Building positive daily habits for mental wellness

-Morning routines, prayer, and evolving spiritual practices

-The role of community and love in mental health recovery

-Michael’s journey with Kreatures of Habit and new product launches

Whether you’re seeking inspiration to establish meaningful routines, strengthen your mental health, or find guidance through life’s challenges, this episode offers actionable advice and heartfelt stories to help you thrive.

Like & Subscribe for more real conversations

Follow Mindless Labs: https://www.instagram.com/mindlesslabsConnect with Michael Chernow: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernowListen on

Timestamps:

01:20 The Power of Positive Habits

07:35 Spirituality and Mental Health

19:00 Commitment to Habits

24:26 Introducing Mindless Labs

28:08 Introducing the New Protein Bar

33:12 The Journey of Kreatures of Habit

38:17 Mental Health and Personal Stories

42:32 The Importance of Love and Support

48:47 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

#mentalhealth #addictionrecovery #habits #mindfulness #spirituality #kreaturesofhabit #morningroutine #wellness #prayer #community #personaldevelopment

Sobriety Is the Ultimate Life Hack Nov 24, 2025

Show notes

In this week's Monday Moment, Michael Chernow opens up about his 21-year journey of sobriety, and how recovery became the ultimate tool for life optimization, clarity, and purpose.

Speaking directly to anyone struggling with alcohol, marijuana, or substance addiction, Michael shares a message of hope and transformation: change is possible, and you are capable of so much more than you think.

Through faith, discipline, and a commitment to daily growth, he’s discovered that sobriety isn’t about giving something up — it’s about gaining everything.

If you’re on your own path of recovery, or know someone who needs to hear this, this short episode will remind you that the comeback is always stronger than the setback.

If this story inspired you, share it with someone who needs hope today.
Leave a 5-star review to help us keep sharing these powerful conversations.

Subscribe for weekly episodes that feed the mind, body, and soul.

Follow Michael Chernow:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow

Kreatures of Habit → https://kreaturesofhabit.com/

#sobriety #addictionrecovery #michaelchernow #Kreaturesofhabit #motivation #faith #discipline #mindset #mondaymotivation

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Sobriety

05:30 Life Beyond Addiction

07:05 A Message of Hope and Support

How Technology is Hijacking Our Minds with Mindless Labs | Kreatures of Habit Nov 19, 2025

Show notes

We live in a world where connection is constant — but presence is becoming harder to find. In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with the founders of Mindless Labs to explore how our ever-growing relationship with technology is quietly reshaping our mental health, emotional resilience, and day-to-day well-being.

Together, they dive deep into the rise of digital dependence and the hidden cost of our phones — how what we consume, both digitally and nutritionally, directly impacts our mood, focus, stress levels, and overall mental clarity. The conversation opens up about stigma, isolation, and the lasting effects of the pandemic on human connection, shining a light on why so many people are struggling silently in today’s hyper-connected world.

Michael also shares his own “phone detox” journey, trading in his smartphone for a minimalist device to regain presence, intention, and peace of mind. Along the way, they explore the importance of routines, meditation, breath work, prayer, movement, and nature as essential tools for grounding and healing in the digital age.

You’ll hear insights on:

How digital consumption influences your emotions and mental well-being
The subtle ways technology shapes your habits, reactions, and focus
Simple practices to reset your relationship with your phone
The role breath-work, spirituality, and movement play in mental recovery
How Mindless Labs is breaking barriers in mental health access and awareness
Michael’s personal journey toward balance, family, and intentional living

Whether you’re feeling distracted, overwhelmed by screens, or simply craving more mindfulness and presence, this episode will encourage you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters.

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with someone who could use a reminder to unplug — and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to help us keep these meaningful conversations going. See you next week, Kreatures!

Like & Subscribe for more real conversationsFollow Mindless Labs: https://www.instagram.com/mindlesslabsConnect with Michael Chernow: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow

Listen on Spotify/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kreatures-of-habit-podcast/id1497757053 https://open.spotify.com/show/55aRcnBD5UoOgxTYUwtUVL

#mentalhealth #technology #mindfulliving #michaelchernow #kreaturesofhabit #wellness #mindfulness #digitaldetox #mentalwellness #habitbuilding #selfawareness #presence

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health

00:47 Understanding the Human Condition

01:36 Mental Health: A Personal Journey

03:20 Mindless Labs: Breaking Barriers in Mental Health

04:51 Mental Health Spectrum and Stigma

07:15 The Power of Breath Work

19:24 Balancing Work and Family Life

25:58 The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media

27:02 The Human Condition and Perception

29:47 Choosing to Disconnect: A Personal Journey

33:16 The Impact of Technology on Relationships

48:43 The Importance of Routine and Habits

The Morning Routine That Saved My Life Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

Michael Chernow shares his 20-year sobriety journey — a story of discipline, faith, fitness, and purpose. Learn the habits, routines, and mindset shifts that helped him rebuild his life and inspire others through Kreatures of Habit.

If this story inspired you, share it with someone who needs hope today.
Leave a 5-star review to help us keep sharing these powerful conversations.

Subscribe for weekly episodes that feed the mind, body, and soul.

Follow Michael Chernow:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow

Kreatures of Habit → https://kreaturesofhabit.com/

#sobriety #discipline #michaelchernow #kreaturesofhabit #motivation #faith #fitness

01:20 The Importance of Consistency

05:29 Connecting with People: A Source of Fulfillment

09:58 Kreatures of Habit: Changing Lives One Meal at a Time

Whole30, Food Sensitivities, and Self-Experiments with Melissa Urban |Kreatures of Habit Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

True health isn’t just about what you eat, it’s about awareness, balance, and learning how your body responds to the world around you.

In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with Melissa Urban, co-founder and CEO of Whole30, to unpack how food, mindset, and self-awareness intersect on the path to optimal well-being.

Together, they dive into the origins of Whole30, the power of dietary experimentation, and how Melissa’s personal journey has reshaped the way she approaches nutrition, fitness, and life. From training and running to gut health and emotional honesty, this conversation is filled with wisdom on living with intention, inside and out.

You’ll hear insights on:

-How the Whole30 program helps uncover food sensitivities and transform habits

-Building a sustainable, personalized approach to eating and health

-The connection between gut health and emotional well-being

-Navigating marriage and parenting with transparency and communication

-Daily routines that support focus, balance, and resilience

-Michael’s journey in creating The Daily Bar and exploring therapies for Lyme disease

Whether you’re on a wellness journey, rebuilding balance in your life, or simply curious about what it means to truly listen to your body, this episode offers practical lessons and deep inspiration.

If today’s conversation with Melissa Urban resonated with you, share it with someone who’s ready to take control of their health, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to keep these meaningful conversations coming.

Like & Subscribe for more real conversations

Follow Melissa Urban: https://www.instagram.com/melissau

Connect with Michael Chernow: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow

Listen on Spotify/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kreatures-of-habit-podcast/id1497757053 https://open.spotify.com/show/55aRcnBD5UoOgxTYUwtUVL

#whole30 #melissaurban #michaelchernow #nutrition #guthealth #wellness #fitnessjourney #healthylifestyle #mindfulness #Kreaturesofhabit

TIME STAMPS:

01:13 Michael Chernow's Entrepreneurial Journey

03:45 Whole 30 Program Details

07:15 Personal Food Sensitivities and Experiences

08:57 Impact of Physical Activity on Nutrition

19:26 Intermittent Fasting and Its Implications

28:56 Melissa Urban's Daily Routine

39:12 Exploring Biohacking and Ozone Therapy

43:24 The Whole 30 and Autoimmune Conditions

47:28 Introducing The Daily Bar

54:53 Insights on Marriage and Communication