Changing Habits and Rediscovering Sobriety with Mike Hardenbrook | Episode 225

In this episode of the Neuroflex podcast, host Toby Passman interviews Mike Hardenbrook, a lifelong entrepreneur, tech executive, digital nomad, and author of "No Willpower Required". Mike shares insights from his personal journey through habitual drinking, eventual sobriety, and the neuroscience behind habit change. He discusses his initial struggles with alcohol during college and how his lifestyle of high achievement coexisted with nightly drinking. Mike"s turning point came with the realization that he needed to change his relationship with alcohol, particularly with the approaching birth of his first daughter. He emphasizes the importance of replacing bad habits with new ones rather than relying on willpower alone, and shares how integrating mindfulness and neuroplasticity through practices such as breath work and the use of supplements helped him recalibrate his habits.  The episode also covers the potential of psychedelics in facilitating habit change, underscoring the importance of a controlled environment and integration work post-experience. Mike highlights ongoing research into the efficacy of psilocybin and MDMA in reducing alcohol dependency and promoting healthier habits. The discussion also touches on the misconception of "addictive personalities" and the need for a nuanced perspective towards moderation and abstinence. Mike conveys that changing one"s habits around alcohol doesn"t necessarily require hitting "rock bottom" but rather understanding and addressing the root causes of one"s drinking habits. 00:00 Welcome to the Neuroflex Podcast with Special Guest Mike Hardenbrook 01:13 Mike Hardenbrook"s Journey: From Party Guy to Entrepreneur and Author 05:03 The Science of Habit Change and Alcohol Recovery 07:44 Exploring the Role of Willpower in Habit Formation 24:52 The Impact of Psychedelics on Habit Change and Recovery 35:36 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Connect with Mike Hardenbrook⬇️⬇️⬇️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael.hardenbrook/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhardenbrook/ Website: https://www.hardenbrook.com/ Twitter:https://twitter.com/hardenbrook?lang=en Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/neuroflex/discovery