Kreatures Of Habit Podcast

Author, speaker, and entrepreneur Robert Glazer joins Michael Chernow for a deep dive into what core values really mean — and why most of us get them totally wrong. Forget the corporate fluff and buzzwords. This episode of The Kreatures of Habit Podcast breaks down how to actually define, live, and lead through authentic values that align with who you are.Robert shares insights from his book The Compass Within, exploring how core values shape your decisions, relationships, and long-term success. You’ll learn how to uncover your true non-negotiables, create alignment in your work and personal life, and understand the values that drive others so you can build stronger teams, businesses, and connections.If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the phrase “core values,” this episode will change that for good.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:How to identify and define your real core valuesWhy most “company core values” failHow shared values build trust and authentic cultureWhat The Compass Within teaches about alignment and purposeWhy understanding others’ values improves every relationshipIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to The Kreatures of Habit Podcast so you never miss a new drop. Rate and review the show — it helps us reach more people who are ready to level up their habits, mindset, and life. See you next week, Kreatures!TIMESTAMPS:0:53 What core values actually are11:13 Relatability: Why people love Curb Your Enthusiasm and Seinfeld33:59 How to uncover your true core values51:27 Why you should align values before starting a business1:03:25 The difference between keeping and earning trustSnag FREE access to Glazer’s Core Value Course for being a KOH Podcast Listener: https://robertglazer.com/compass-kreatures/

In today’s episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, host Michael Chernow sits down with acclaimed NYC chef, author, restaurateur, and filmmaker Chris Scott for a raw and inspiring conversation about what life in the hospitality industry is really like—beyond the recipes and restaurants.Chris and Michael take a look under the hood (yes, this pun applies to restaurants, too):The state of the restaurant business in New York City and what makes it such a high-stakes environment.The major difference between restaurants and retail—and why staffing is the ultimate game-changer.Culinary training and fundamentals: why mastering the basics is the heartbeat of every successful chef.Nightmares from the kitchen that will make you cringe, laugh, and nod in recognition.The unique personalities in restaurants—employees, managers, and customers—and how to navigate them all.The humanity behind hospitality, where every employee is balancing their own ups and downs while serving others.From sink-or-swim environments to personal growth forged in the fire of the kitchen, this episode is packed with real stories, raw truths, and powerful life lessons. If you can’t take the heat, stay out of the kitchen—but if you can, this conversation will light you up. See you next week, Kreatures!TIMESTAMPS: 2:22 – The state of the restaurant business in New York 12:40 – Sink or swim environments 26:02 – Chris's stories about Al Paris 40:34 – The restaurant Michael worked in when he got sober 46:35 – How restaurants differ from other businesses

What happens when a pro athlete decides to reinvent recovery? You get Kane Footwear—a brand that’s not just about shoes, but about movement, community, sustainability, and building better habits.In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with John Gagliardi, the founder of Kane Footwear. They dive into John’s wild entrepreneurial ride, the obsession with footwear, and how Kane built a cult-like community in the direct-to-consumer footwear game.You’ll also hear how Kane Footwear is made with sustainably-sourced, sugarcane-based materials, giving the recovery shoe its lightweight feel while keeping it eco-friendly and planet-conscious. It’s footwear designed for athletes and everyday movers who care about performance and impact.If you’re an entrepreneur, a fitness junkie, or just someone fired up about creating something that matters, this conversation is stacked with gems.The two explore:Why Kane Footwear has athletes and everyday movers hookedWhat Kane shoes are made of and why eco-friendly design mattersThe lessons John learned from building and exiting a companyHow community fuels brand loyalty and long-term successThe athlete mindset behind Kane’s design and missionJohn’s personal routine to stay sharp as an entrepreneurIf today’s conversation with John Gagliardi lit a spark for you, don’t keep it to yourself—share this episode with a friend who’s building better habits and chasing big goals. And, if you have a minute, we’d greatly appreciate a 5-star rating and review! See you next week, Kreatures!TIMESTAMPS:1:24 Kane Footwear & shoe obsessions12:18 Building and exiting a company25:00 The importance of being IN community when building DTC business47:59 John’s daily routine as an entrepreneur

What’s the real difference between passion and obsession? Hall of Fame ski mountaineer Mike Marolt sits down with Michael Chernow to dig in.Mike has spent over 30 years climbing and skiing 60+ of the world’s highest, most remote peaks. Coming from a family of Olympians, he’s seen how chasing greatness can fuel purpose—or spiral into obsession. For Mike, it’s always been about the journey, not the destination. And considering he’s repeatedly put himself through some of the toughest, coldest, gnarliest expeditions on Earth… that says a lot.This episode is about finding your why, building sustainable passion, and creating routines that keep you grounded—whether you’re skiing death-defying peaks, building a business, or simply trying to live a more meaningful life.TIMESTAMPS:4:31 The biggest challenges Mike has faced on his ski mountaineering journey18:45 Why passion is a state of mind (not just an outcome)30:02 Mike’s daily “coffee talk” routine with his wife39:27 Seasonal wind-down routines for balance44:12 The power of reflecting on your day52:37 How to unearth and nurture your passionIf you’re chasing goals, trying to avoid burnout, or just looking for inspiration from someone who’s literally lived life on the edge—this one’s for you. And if you loved the show, be sure to rate, review, and share with someone else that’d love it too! See you next week, Kreatures!

What happens when you lace up with 40 different NYC run clubs in just 25 days? For Matt Christopherson, it was a crash course in the culture, energy, and community that define New York City’s running scene.In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael and Matty break down the power of running culture—from the unique identities of each run club, to the unshakable sense of purpose and belonging found on the pavement. Matty shares how running communities are transforming lives, building resilience, and creating connections that go far beyond race day.They dive into the fear that holds people back, how habits shape growth, and the lessons Matty uncovered while logging miles across the city. Whether you’re training for your first 5K, chasing a marathon PR, or simply running for mental clarity, this conversation will inspire you to lean into discipline, community, and purpose.TIMESTAMPS1:38 The fear of not growing: Matt and Michael explore deepest fears13:32 Why running changes people’s lives: The gift of running18:59 What Matty learned from 40 run clubs in 25 days: Pavement, people, & purpose24:47 How fear forces people away: The importance of getting to the startline37:05 Sleep Routines: Why sleep has been tough for Matty recentlyIf this episode sparked something in you, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a friend who loves running or could use some inspiration. And if you’re enjoying the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen. It helps us grow this community and keep bringing you conversations that fuel your purpose.

After last week’s cliffhanger, let’s jump back in. If you missed it, Michael was on the Hopeaholic’s podcast and we’re running it back with Part 2 today!In this episode, Michael shares about his early days in sobriety, meeting the love of his life, and how becoming a father reshaped everything. He also dives into his journey of building restaurants in Manhattan, exiting for CPG, and what it really takes to run a successful D2C brand. Plus—his “no matter what” mindset, the value of commitment in sobriety, and the work ethic that continues to fuel every area of his life.Whether you’re chasing recovery, building a business, or just trying to level up your habits—this episode is packed with inspiration and real-life lessons.TIMESTAMPS:1:15 Meeting the love of his life10:47 Commitment in sobriety: the secret weapon for addicts & alcoholics20:48 Pivoting during the pandemic → moving into D2C35:20 Why being a dad is the most important job42:00 Meeting Gary Vee & adopting a “NO MATTER WHAT” mentality51:42 The power of work ethic in business & life1:01:14 Why most restaurants fail (and what to do differently)

In case you missed it… we’re running it back with Michael Chernow on the Hopeaholics Podcast — and this one goes deep. Michael gets real about the wild ride from his childhood days in New York, the addictive habits that almost took him out, and the exact tools and practices that helped him turn it all around.This conversation touches on it all: near-death experiences, EMDR therapy, sobriety, and even the story of how Michael met the love of his life (spoiler: it’s straight out of a Disney movie). It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s proof that no matter how far down you go, you can build your way back up with better habits. BETTER HABITS. BETTER LIFE.In today’s episode, Michael shares:How childhood chaos shaped Michael’s addictive patternsThe moment he realized addiction had him by the throatMichael’s experience with EMDR Therapy & Trauma-informed healing practicesThe “mirror moment” that forced him to changeWhat it really takes to build lasting sobriety and better habitsHow love showed up in the most unexpected wayWant more? We can’t blame you. Be sure to stick around for part two airing next week. Until then, BIG love to our whole Kreatures fam! TIMESTAMPS:5:59 Hunting in New York19:41 The moment Michael knew he had an addiction problem31:13 Diving into EMDR therapy36:28 His own reflection as the ultimate wake-up call49:48 Hope if you’re struggling: there’s always a way out