Shows
The Habit ArchitectTHA S02 EP#13 - Ghosts in the Code: AI’s Hidden Influence on Our HabitsFor those of you who can't believe it's almost Christmas already, let's go back to the end of October with this episode. AI promises to make life easier, but what happens when these tools actually hijack our habits instead? In this conversation, host Michael Cupps talks with Cortnie Abercrombie, author of "What You Don't Know" and founder of AITruth.orgThey discuss why 90% of AI problems trace back to data, how algorithms reflect human biases, the difference between productivity monitoring and toxic surveillance, and what the new Texas Responsible AI Governance Act means for businesses. Whether you...
2025-12-1540 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S02 EP#12 - Inclusive Leadership Starts with Curiosity, Not ComplianceMichael Cupps sits down with Rachel Shaw, CEO of Shaw HR, to explore creating inclusive workplaces for employees with disabilities. Rachel shares her journey from handling ADA compliance to building a career helping organizations move beyond checkbox compliance toward human-centric decision making.Learn why diverse workforces are 20% more profitable, the critical difference between starting with "no" versus curiosity, and how to build processes that find more yeses for reasonable accommodations. Rachel reveals common leadership mistakes and practical frameworks for disability accommodation. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show...
2025-12-1034 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S02 EP#8 - Why AI Projects Fail: It’s Not the Tech, It’s the Team Why do AI projects fail when the tech works? Michael Cupps and returning guest Tony Castelli, PhD (Rulesware; ex-Accenture, IBM, Pegasystems) explain how change management, trust, and team habits determine AI adoption. We cover shadow resistance, the role of middle management, and simple ways to move from AI drafting content to assisting real decisions. Practical takeaways: continuous learning, smart experimentation, and a people-first AI strategy you can actually run. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show Events here: The Habit Architect Live ShowSubscribe to our New...
2025-10-0632 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S02 EP#7 - Turning Stories Into Influence: LinkedIn Habits That WorkMichael Cupps is joined by Ivana Brutenic and Kristina kováčiková from SUNDAYFLIES, a sister-led consultancy helping people and companies show up authentically on LinkedIn. Learn how to turn content creation, comments, and storytelling into simple daily habits that build real engagement and trust—without spamming your feed. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show Events here: The Habit Architect Live ShowSubscribe to our Newsletter: The Habit Architect Newsletter
2025-09-1645 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S2 EP#5 - Fueling Focus: How Smart Eating Shapes Productive Days If your habits are inconsistent and your energy constantly dips, the issue might not be your willpower. it might be your nutrition. In this episode of The Habit Architect, Michael Cupps speaks with registered dietitian Marissa Dankosky from Foodsmart about how food choices impact focus, consistency, and long-term habit formation. They explore the real reasons it’s hard to stick to healthy routines—and why your favorite FoodTok advice might be making it harder, not easier. This isn’t a conversation about diets or discipline. It’s about realistic, sustainable shifts that support your goals...
2025-09-0433 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S2 EP#4 - Micro-Learning: Small Habits, Big Results with Ana MashchukCan 10 minutes of focused learning change how you lead and grow? In this episode, Michael Cupps talks with Ana Mashchuk of Headway Inc to explore how micro-learning helps busy professionals build better habits, sharpen leadership skills, and boost team performance.What you’ll learn: ✔️ What micro-learning looks like in real life ✔️ How top teams use it to build stronger culture ✔️ Tips to start a 10-minute learning habitListen in and make learning part of your daily rhythm. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show Events here...
2025-08-2625 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S2 EP#2 - Meetings with Meaning: How to Fix the Time WastersIn this episode of The Habit Architect, Michael Cupps sits down with Benj Miller, co-founder of System & Soul and a leadership coach who helps companies align people, processes, and purpose. Together, they unpack why so many business meetings become time-wasters, how company culture shows up in the way meetings are run, and what leaders can do to make every meeting count.You’ll discover how:Business growth creates complexity that clutters calendars and stalls progressMeetings can reveal deep truths about leadership style and team alignmentA single habit shift can transform meetings into engines of cl...
2025-08-1334 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA S2 EP#1 - Becoming the Dream: From Nigeria to Tech LeaderIn the Season 2 premiere of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps sits down with Andrew Olowu, CTO of Axxess, to explore the habits, mindset, and personal journey behind his remarkable career.Born and raised in Nigeria, Andrew shares how an early curiosity about computers led him to the U.S., where he steadily built a path from student to global tech leader. This episode goes beyond career milestones to unpack the quiet discipline and intentional routines that helped him overcome imposter syndrome, navigate cultural change, and lead with purpose.From growing companies across continents to...
2025-07-3131 minThe Habit ArchitectThe Habits That Shaped Us: 19 Episodes Later – Season Recap Pt 2In this Season 1 finale of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps and co-host Reem Metawei return for Part 2 of our reflection, revisiting Episodes 11 through 19.These conversations went beyond productivity and into the habits that carry us through real-life transformation: recovery, reinvention, caregiving, and confident aging.Fiona Ross challenged long-held leadership scripts and asked us to upgrade the “operating systems” we live by. Sophie Stardust reframed structure as a form of freedom, while Jonathan Hunt-Glassman showed how disrupting one small habit can reset your life...
2025-07-1124 minThe Habit ArchitectThe Habits That Shaped Us: 19 Episodes Later – Season Recap Pt 1In Part 1 of this special two-part finale, co-host Reem Metawei joins me to revisit the first 10 episodes that built the foundation for The Habit Architect.These conversations shaped not just a podcast but a mindset.We uncovered powerful truths about identity, discipline, resilience, and how intentional habits shape the way we lead and live.We heard how Brandon Lee treats digital presence like a daily credibility practice.Russ West and Danielle W. shared how check-in rituals strengthen connection before conflict ever begins.
2025-07-0426 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#20 - The Habit Architect – Reflections from France 🇫🇷In this special episode recorded from the French coast, Michael Cupps shares reflections on the first season of The Habit Architect and previews what’s ahead.With two recap episodes coming soon, joined by Reem Metawei to unpack the top insights from 19 powerful conversations, this episode is a short solo moment to reconnect.Michael also shares a personal lesson: how trading up your time, letting go of what’s good for what’s great, is the key to growth. Through habits and priorities, you can transform your time into somethi...
2025-06-1912 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#19 - Designing Independence: Habits That Support Safer AgingIn this powerful and practical episode, host Michael Cupps sits down with Cathy Minter, Co-Founder and CEO of Wisdom.io, to explore how intentional habits and respectful technology can support older adults as they age with confidence in the homes they love.Cathy shares the heart behind Wisdom.io | an innovative, privacy-first smart system that detects routine changes, supports caregivers, and helps families stay connected without creating stress or intrusion.But this conversation goes far beyond the tech. It dives deep into the daily habits and design principles that preserve dignity, autonomy, and peace of...
2025-06-0537 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#18 - Scaling Smart: The Habits Behind Modern Demand Gen MasteryWhat separates high-growth tech companies from those stuck in stagnant lead funnels? It’s not just tools. It’s not just talent. It’s habits, the daily, intentional actions that compound into sustainable demand.In this episode, Michael Cupps is joined by Shannon Prager, President of Leadit Marketing. Shannon helps tech companies with complex offerings untangle their go-to-market chaos and rebuild around clarity, alignment, and strategic focus. Together, they unpack how AI is forcing a new level of discipline in demand generation and why leaders must shift from campaign thinking to system thinking to thrive.This is a mast...
2025-05-2935 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#17 - Structure and Excellence: Making Transformation StickBehind every stalled transformation is a system without structure or habits without reinforcement. In this episode, Michael Cupps is joined by Tony Castelli, Executive Vice President at Rulesware and former Pega, Accenture, and IBM leader, to explore how successful enterprise transformation depends not only on strategy, but on disciplined execution.Tony brings decades of experience guiding enterprise organizations through AI adoption, business process redesign, and operational change. He shares hard-earned lessons on what makes transformation stick, starting with a well-designed system, and continuing with the habits that reinforce it every single day.This episode is a...
2025-05-2242 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#16 - The Hidden Curve: Why High-Achieving Women Leave at MidlifeIn this insightful episode of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps is joined by Dr. Jennifer Churchill, a management psychologist, high-performance executive coach, and Certified Hormone Health Coach. Together, they confront a growing and often ignored crisis: the quiet exit of high-potential women from the workforce during midlife.Dr. Churchill shares her deep expertise on the intersection of hormonal health, identity, and leadership performance — revealing why so many accomplished women begin to feel disconnected, depleted, and doubtful during a stage of life that should be defined by strength and wisdom.With her Feminine Genius Method, she outlines a...
2025-05-0843 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#14 - After the Drink: Building Habits That Redefine Your LifeWhat does it take to feel more in control of your choices and routines? Whether you are looking to moderate or stop drinking, bring more intention into your day, or simply design habits that better reflect who you want to be.In this episode, Cupps sits down with Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, CEO and founder of Oar Health, to talk about how thoughtful habit design can support long term personal change. Jonathan shares his own story of rethinking routines and building a system that helps people make confident and sustainable choices in everyday life....
2025-04-2443 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#13 - Where Did the Day Go? Spotting and Stopping Time Wasters.Ever reach the end of the day wondering where the time went?In this episode of The Habit Architect, Michael Cupps and Reem Metawei dig into the hidden habits that quietly drain our focus like nonstop notifications, endless meetings, and mindless scrolling.They reveal how these distractions sneak in, what they’re really costing us, and how to take back control with simple intentional shifts.If you’re ready to stop feeling busy and start making real progress, this conversation is for you. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Che...
2025-04-2144 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#12 - Joyful Habits: Crafting a Business That Doesn’t Burn You Out🎙️ On this episode of 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘈𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵, host Michael Cupps and co-host Reem Metawei are joined by business strategist and mentor Sophie Stardust to explore how intentional habits and simple systems can create space for sustainable success, with more clarity, calm, and joy.Sophie works with creative entrepreneurs and business owners to design habits that align with their values, energy, and vision. She shares how she moved from a chaotic, fast-paced approach to a more intentional rhythm that supports both her business and overall well-being.💡 This conversation dives into the difference between routines that truly serve you and those t...
2025-04-1345 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#11 - The Queen of Kings: Lead with the Habits No One SeesIn this week's episode of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps welcomes Fiona Ross—known as the Queen of Kings—for a powerful conversation on habits, leadership, and identity. Fiona has built her reputation coaching high-performing male leaders to find clarity, confidence, and direction through intentional habit transformation.From the boardroom to personal breakthroughs, Fiona helps C-suite executives and founders unlock their best selves by focusing on the routines that truly matter. In this episode, she dives into the emotional undercurrent of habits, how men can reshape their inner narrative, and why sustainable success always starts from within....
2025-03-2739 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#10 - Athlete to CEO: Habits That Drive Success and AdaptabilityIn this episode of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps sits down with Marin Varvodic to explore his remarkable journey from professional sports to tech entrepreneurship. They delve into the habits that fueled his successful transition, the role of resilience in facing unforeseen challenges, and how adaptability can lead to innovation. Marin shares practical strategies for cultivating a growth mindset and the importance of continuous learning in personal and professional development. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show Events here: The Habit Architect Live ShowSubscribe to...
2025-03-2234 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#09 - The Consistency Code: How Small Habits Create Big ResultsWhat do fitness and habit-building have in common? Everything. In the latest episode of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps sits down with CrossFit coach Kevin Wood to uncover the key principles that drive both physical and mental strength.Kevin shares how structured training mirrors the process of building discipline, resilience, and consistency in everyday life. From overcoming setbacks to developing a mindset of persistence, this conversation is packed with practical strategies for breaking through mental barriers and staying on track. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out ou...
2025-03-1438 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#08 - From Poised to Powerful: Master Leadership PresenceYour presence speaks before you do. Are you making the right impression?Early in your career, technical skills can get you in the door—but it’s your professional presence, communication, and etiquette that set you apart. In this episode of The Habit Architect, Michael Cupps sits down with Julie Jones, an expert in business etiquette and executive presence, to break down the workplace habits every young professional needs to master.Julie shares the unspoken rules of leadership—how small shifts in how you show up, speak, and int...
2025-03-0741 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#07 - Navigating the Unexpected: Resilience in Work & LifeMajor life changes, whether personal or professional, can shift our entire perspective. In this episode, Michael Cupps sits down with Emily Ackerman to explore the lessons she’s learned from stepping away from business development for seven weeks of maternity leave—and how returning with a new outlook has reshaped her approach to leadership, resilience, and success.Emily shares insights on navigating transitions, staying adaptable, and balancing high-performance careers with personal growth. Whether you’re leading a team, managing a business, or juggling multiple roles in life, this epi...
2025-02-2830 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#06 - The Success Symphony: Music & Mental Health Through Life’s Highs & LowsIn this episode of The Habit Architect, host Michael Cupps welcomes Tabby Kerwin, a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Performance Coach, and Music Educator who has built a life around resilience, balance, and personal growth. As a widow, single mom, and business owner, Tabby understands firsthand the challenges of managing work-life blend while prioritizing mental well-being.With a deep passion for both music and mental health, Tabby shares how the principles of music—rhythm, pauses, and harmony—can be applied to daily life to create sustainable habit...
2025-02-2145 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#04 - Automate to Elevate: Using AI in Daily Priorities & HabitsIn this episode of The Habit Architect, hosts Michael and Reem sit down with Nandan Mullakara, CEO of Bot Nirvana and a leading expert in Intelligent Automation. They explore how incorporating AI into your daily routines can streamline tasks, reduce decision fatigue, and free up time for more meaningful activities. Nandan shares practical strategies and real-life examples of how automation can be a powerful tool in habit formation, helping you design a more efficient and productive day. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show Events here: Th...
2025-02-0749 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#03 - Designing Habits For Intentional MarriagesIn this episode of The Habit Architect, we sit down with Danielle and Russ West from IntentionalMarriages.net to explore the power of weekly check-ins in building stronger relationships. Discover how this simple yet intentional habit fosters open communication, deeper sharing, and effective conflict resolution, creating a foundation for lasting connection and trust. Whether you're seeking to strengthen your marriage or improve your communication habits, this conversation offers valuable insights for every relationship. This Show is sponsored by TimeBandit.io Check out our Live Show Events here: The Habit Architect Live Show
2025-01-3149 minThe Habit ArchitectTHA EP#02 - From Reputation to Results: The Key to Meaningful Customer ConversationsHow to Build Revenue Through ReputationThe 2nd episode of The Habit Architect, hosted by Michael Cupps and co-hosted by Reem Metawei, featured Brandon Lee, the founder of Fist Bump, discussing the intersection of reputation and revenue. Brandon shared actionable insights into fostering trust, creating genuine connections, and implementing consistent strategies to drive meaningful results in sales and leadership.Key Takeaways:Consistency Builds Trust: Genuine interactions and consistent messaging foster lasting professional relationships. “Your human heart connects with theirs.”Know Your Audience: Regularly update your Ideal Customer Profi...
2025-01-2450 min