Episode 397: Michael Easter on The Comfort Crisis: Is Optimizing Life Making Us Weaker?

In conversations do you tend to dominate or take a backseat?  In this Habits and Hustle episode, I’m re-sharing a conversation I had with etiquette expert Sara Jane Ho about using guidelines to foster a more interactive, balanced dialogue, and deeper connection.  Listen as we discuss the challenge of dancing around the fine line between curiosity and intrusiveness, noting cultural differences in what's considered polite or rude, and the intersection of East meets West and female empowerment - especially in business! She also shares the true impact of making a strong first impression, especially in the world of modern dating, and the evolving norms of social etiquette in the post-COVID world.  Sara Jane Ho is the star of Netflix’s “Mind Your Manners”, author of the book of the same name, founder of Chinese finishing school, Institute Sarita, where students are taught etiquette and lifetime skills. What We Discuss: (11:00) The legacy of etiquette and charm schools  (20:00) How to master etiquette and dating in the modern world  (22:18) The impact of a first impression  (37:00) The essential guide to exceptional table manners  (51:10) The key differences between curiosity and intrusiveness  (58:34) Career choices and female empowerment (01:01:51 Herbal remedies and Eastern medicine  (01:11:50) Innovative intimate wellness company and proper vulva hygiene education  (01:25:14) Avoiding graveyard energy in your home, and the 20 second/40 second rule  …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: AquaTru: Get 20% off any purifier at aquatru.com with code HUSTLE Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohen and use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.    Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Sara Jane Ho: Website:https://www.sarajaneho.com/  Book: Mind Your Manners Instagram: @sarajaneho

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/VKvDPETfoIM?si=jiFLE73nwYdcNQb3  Do you ever feel like you're just putting on an act to get attention and love from others? In this bonus episode, I talk with Robert Greene who dives deep into the concept of narcissism and how it affects all of us. We discuss how narcissism develops, and how each person has a “thermostat” for regulating self-absorption. We also share the key for developing healthy relationships despite our selfishness.  Robert Greene is an American author known for his books on strategy, power, and seduction. He is the man behind the international bestsellers: The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, The 33 Strategies of War, The 50th Law (with rapper 50 Cent), Mastery, and The Laws of Human Nature.  What we discuss:   All humans have narcissistic tendencies Narcissism develops in childhood as a coping mechanism We are drawn to people who reinforce our self-image Deep narcissism results from dysfunctional parenting Attention-seeking behavior stems from inner emptiness We have a "thermostat" regulating self-absorption And more…  Thank you to our sponsors: Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohenand use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.  Find more from Jen: Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen  Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagements Find more about Robert Greene’s:  Website - https://powerseductionandwar.com/

What does it take to turn life's darkest moments into stepping stones for success? In this Habits and Hustle episode, I talk with entrepreneur Michael Chernow, founder of Kreatures of Habit, to discuss how structured routines and intentional habits can transform lives.  We dive into Michael’s journey from addiction to becoming a successful entrepreneur, devoted father, and advocate for healthy living. We also discuss intentional parenting, the power of morning and night routines, and the vital importance of asking for help. Michael Chernow is a transformative figure in entrepreneurship and wellness who turned his life around after battling addiction in his early years, achieving two decades of sobriety through commitment to positive habits and routines. As a restaurateur, he co-founded The Meatball Shop and founded Seamore's in New York City, scaling both concepts to six locations each, while also creating Kreatures of Habit, a lifestyle brand focused on optimized nutrition and apparel. Beyond his business ventures, Chernow is deeply committed to helping others transform their lives through fitness, nutrition, and mindset coaching, hosting The Kreatures of Habit podcast where he explores the daily habits that drive success.  What We Discuss: (05:03) Nurturing Marriage Through Routine and Affection (16:15) Nurturing Intimacy Through Communication (25:09) Embracing Fear for Freedom (29:27) Developing Courage Through Commitment (33:57) Transforming Life Through Fitness and Commitment (39:33) Overcoming Addiction and Pursuing Success (42:24) Surviving Childhood Trauma and Abuse (55:57) Exploring Childhood Trauma and Healing (01:07:06) Teaching Values and Parenting Strategies (01:19:14) Morning Routine and Gratitude Practice (01:26:12) The Importance of Asking for Help …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: AquaTru: Get 20% off any purifier at aquatru.com with code HUSTLE Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohen and use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.    Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Michael Chernow: Website: https://www.michaelchernow.com/  Podcast: Kreatures of Habit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow

Do you struggle to fall asleep at night, tossing and turning for hours? Many people turn to magnesium supplements, alcohol, or even marijuana gummies to help them drift off. But did you know these supposed solutions could be doing more harm than good? In this Fitness Friday episode, I am joined by Ana Marie Schick to discuss how to reach the deep, restorative stages of sleep your body needs to truly rest and recover. We discuss the surprising truth about magnesium supplements and sleep and why alcohol and marijuana gummies sabotage your sleep quality. We also share simple, effective strategies to wind down and get the restful sleep you need. Ana Marie discovered through three decades of training and coaching athletes, executives, and individuals that sleep was a critical yet overlooked component of recovery and optimal performance. Noticing a significant gap in sleep knowledge and practical solutions, she joined forces with the co-founders of Sleepme Inc. Her expertise in health, fitness, and sleep enabled her to develop innovative approaches to improve sleep quality while serving as a subject matter expert at Sleepme. She contributes to developing effective sleep solutions for individuals seeking to enhance their overall well-being.  What we discuss:   Magnesium and its role in promoting sleep Different forms of magnesium  The negative effects of using alcohol, marijuana gummies, and sleep medications  Falling asleep too quickly can be a sign of sleep deprivation  The importance of establishing a personalized pre-sleep routine Thank you to our sponsors: Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohenand use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.  Find more from Jen: Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen  Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagements Find more about Ana Marie Schick:  Website: https://sleep.me/experts/ana-marie-schick

Ever wondered how astrology could help you understand your work style and productivity patterns? In this Habits and Hustle episode, celebrity astrologer Tali Edut of the Astro Twins joins me to break down how your complete astrological chart can reveal your natural leadership style, work preferences, and productivity patterns.  We discuss her "I AM" system (Innovator, Authority, Maven), what your complete birth chart reveals about your work style, and how planetary movements might affect the housing market and tech innovations in 2025. We also discuss why some well-known public figures align perfectly with their astrological profiles and whether your astrological makeup matches your current work approach.  Identical twin sisters Ophira and Tali Edut, known as the AstroTwins, are professional astrologers who reach millions worldwide. As the official astrologers for ELLE magazine and the matchmakers on Amazon Prime Video’s Cosmic Love they bring the stars down to earth with their empowering approach to horoscopes. Bestselling authors, they’ve written a collection of books, including Love Zodiac and Momstrology (their #1 Amazon bestselling parenting guide) and their own brand imprint annual horoscope guides. What We Discuss: (05:03) Exploring Astrology and Personalities (12:11) Exploring Zodiac Sign Archetypes (20:17) Astrology and Personal Traits (34:43) Dating Success and Astrology's Evolution (40:36) Astrology Apps and Chart Interpretation (44:15) Astrological Insights and Future Trends (58:17) Astrology Predictions and Delving Deep (01:07:42) Astrology Predictions 2025 (01:13:58) Astro Twins 2024 Horoscope Interview …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: AquaTru: Get 20% off any purifier at aquatru.com with code HUSTLE Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohen and use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.    Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Tali Edut: Website:https://astrostyle.com/  Instagram: @astrotwins

Is ADD a superpower or an excuse? In this Fitness Friday episode, fitness expert Liron Kayvan and I dive deep into this controversial topic, exploring the rising trend of ADD diagnoses and the potential impact on individuals and society. We discuss misdiagnosed and overmedicated children, instant gratification culture and its effect on mental health. We dive into social media's role in exacerbating ADD-like symptoms. We also discuss the mismatch between human nature and the modern environment and share strategies for channeling ADD productively.  Liron Kayvan founded BFLA in 2019. He’s a NASM Certified Group Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer, and Transformative Life Coach. Liron has competed in Amateur MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Rugby and has been a Fitness Coach for over 10 years. What we discuss:   ADD: Misdiagnosis, overmedication, and the potential to be a superpower The impact of labeling and using labels as an excuse for behavior The rise of therapy and medication among children Instant gratification culture and its effect on mental health Social media's role in exacerbating ADD-like symptoms The importance of delayed gratification and resilience Obsession and the difference between being obsessed with the craft vs. the results The mismatch between human nature and the modern environment Strategies for channeling ADD productively and developing coping skills Thank you to our sponsors: Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohenand use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.  Find more from Jen: Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen  Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagements Find more about Liron Kayvan:  Website: https://www.beyondfitnessla.com/  Instagram: @beyondfitnessla

Are you living in possibility or probability? In this Habits and Hustle episode, I am joined by Cathy Heller as she shares her incredible journey from struggling artist to successful entrepreneur and author. Her story is a testament to the power of living in possibility rather than probability. We dive into her new book Abundant Ever After and discuss the importance of taking action, being resourceful, and embracing an optimistic mindset to achieve one's goals. We also discuss the stigma around women and wealth, encouraging listeners to unapologetically declare their desire for financial abundance while using it to make a positive impact. Cathy Heller is a renowned teacher, podcaster and author. She hosts one of the top spiritual podcasts, Abundant Ever After, which has been downloaded more than 45 million times. She’s a practitioner of the law of reception, and has a deep understanding of the universal principles of manifestation. Check out her new book Abundant Ever After.  What We Discuss: (01:07) Friendship and Support in Success (05:01) Exploring Jewish Manifestation and Energy (11:20) Changing Energy Through Mindful Awareness (19:31) From Record Deal to Music Licensing (31:02) Breaking Free From Past Trauma (36:54) Optimism, Wealth, and Transformative Courses (45:03) Female Entrepreneurship and Authenticity (57:42) Balance Between Spirituality and Action …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: AquaTru: Get 20% off any purifier at aquatru.com with code HUSTLE Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohen and use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.    Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Cathy Heller: Website: https://www.cathyheller.com/  Book: Abundant Ever After Podcast: Abundant Ever After

Are plant-based diets less than optimal for health and fitness? In this Fitness Friday episode, Liron Kayvan and I dive into the pros and cons of creatine supplementation and explore whether plant-based diets can fully support optimal health, especially for women. We also discuss why muscle mass is critical for longevity and how animal protein makes it much easier to build and maintain lean muscle as you age. Listen now for our candid take on why going completely meatless may mean compromising your well-being - no matter what supplements you take.   Liron Kayvan founded BFLA in 2019. He’s a NASM Certified Group Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer, and Transformative Life Coach. Liron has competed in Amateur MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Rugby and has been a Fitness Coach for over 10 years. What we discuss:   Creatine: most scientifically studied supplement, safe and natural Benefits of creatine for muscle mass, brain health, and pregnancy Plant-based vs. animal protein diets Importance of animal protein, especially red meat, for building muscle Recommended creatine dosage Creatine supplementation is less necessary if regularly eating red meat Thank you to our sponsors: Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohenand use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.  Find more from Jen: Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagements Find more about Liron Kayvan:  Website: https://www.beyondfitnessla.com/  Instagram: @beyondfitnessla

Is 93.2% of America metabolically unhealthy? According to Dr. Mark Hyman, yes. In this Habits and Hustle episode, I am joined by functional medicine pioneer Dr. Mark Hyman, to discuss America’s declining health due to our ultra-processed diet and lifestyle choices. We dive into why we need simple changes to food quality, his practical approach to supplements, and controversial topics like Ozempic. We also discuss an exclusive discount code for listeners to get early access to Dr. Hyman’s comprehensive health testing. Mark Hyman, MD is a practicing family physician and an internationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of Functional Medicine. He is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, Founder and Senior Advisor for the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, a fifteen-time New York Times best-selling author, and Board President for Clinical Affairs for The Institute for Functional Medicine. He is the founder and chairman of the Food Fix Campaign, dedicated to transforming our food and agriculture system through policy. He is a co-founder and the Chief Medical Officer of Function Health. He is the host of one of the leading health podcasts, The Doctor’s Farmacy with 150+ million downloads. Dr. Hyman is a regular medical contributor to several television shows and networks, including CBS This Morning, Today, Good Morning America, The View, Fox, and CNN. What We Discuss: (00:00) Longevity, Aging, and Wellness (10:16) Functional Medicine and Inflammation Reset (15:47) Protein, Strength, and Cardio for Aging (25:25) Personalized Nutrition and Health Monitoring (35:23) Comprehensive Personalized Health Testing and Insights (48:00) America's Obesity Crisis and Chronic Disease (01:02:02) Body-Mind Connection in Longevity …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: AquaTru: Get 20% off any purifier at aquatru.com with code HUSTLE Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. BiOptimizers: Want to try Magnesium Breakthrough? Go to https://bioptimizers.com/jennifercohen and use promo code JC10 at checkout to save 10% off your purchase. Timeline Nutrition: Get 10% off your first order at timeline.com/cohen Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.    Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Dr. Mark Hyman: Website: https://drhyman.com/  www.functionhealth.com use code HUSTLE100 to save Podcast: The Doctor’s Pharmacy

Jaliyla Fraser is the Founder and CEO of Fraser’s Mathematics Solutions. What started as a STEAM summer camp for students, Fraser’s Mathematics Solutions now provides high-quality mathematics learning for administrators, teachers, and parents to help the students in their lives succeed. Fraser’s Mathematics Solutions also produces school supplies for students to help them reach their full potential. Listen to the Side Hustle to Small Business podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or visit: entm.ag/hiscox