From Sobriety to Success: A Personal Journey

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 life

10:47 Commitment in sobriety: the secret weapon for addicts & alcoholics

20:48 Pivoting during the pandemic → moving into D2C

35:20 Why being a dad is the most important job

42:00 Meeting Gary Vee & adopting a “NO MATTER WHAT” mentality

51:42 The power of work ethic in business & life

1:01:14 Why most restaurants fail (and what to do differently)