EDIBLES.COM | EDIBLE BRANDS THOMAS WINSTANLEY

We caught up with Thomas Winstanley, who is heading up the new Edibles.com platform powered by Edible Brands, of Edible Arrangements fame. They had tried the chocolate-dipped CBD strawberry route in 2019+, but was very early in the market. Now their edibles platform features various tried and true gummies, chews and more with the goal to destigmatize the edibles space further and safely curate some of the best brands for veteran and curious consumers who are looking to be Healthy Not High.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Great to chat with you Thomas, tell our readers more about your background, and what led you to working with Edibles.com and Edibles Brands.

THOMAS WINSTANLEY: Prior to coming to Edibles, I was the CMO for Theory Wellness and Hi5. I joined Theory when it was just two medical stores in Massachusetts, and I came on, you know, there were maybe 35 to 40 people in the company. And over the course of 6 years, I just have always been a fan of these products, of the industry. Even before, when I was in my teenage years. I was always the guy who loved cannabis and THC.

I started my professional career in pharmaceutical advertising, one into CPG, one into alcohol, worked on, you know, Remy Martin, worked on Tampax, worked on big blockbuster drugs, really understood the regulated markets. And then went home and smoked a joint after work almost every night when I lived in New York. Fast forward, it’s once I moved out of New York, we went out west, I saw the early inklings of the Colorado cannabis market, and as a marketer it really made me think about, basically the 16-year-old’s dream of what happens if this is legal? How do you build a better brand? How do you build a better mousetrap?

So at Theory, when I got linked in with them, it was kind of an amazing kind of synergy with their team of two founders, where as a passionate steward of these products it was amazing to be able to say, OK let’s go commercialize this. And at Theory, as their CMO, I got to design retail, I got to design brands and products within our portfolio of about 250 products. And I got to architect a lot of the brand, I’d basically write the briefs of what new products do we want to make. And then Hi5 came along, and we did the beverage thing, and that was always this major unlock to the category. By the time I left, we had operations in about 7 States, with around 18 retail stores, we’re the largest independently owned cannabis company on the East Coast.

And to have somebody who’s for the better part of my life, loved these products and this plant, to be able to bring it into a place where people have access to, and that’s really what we were all about, was how do we connect more people to safe, trusted access to these products? And not just products that met a baseline need, but I always go back to a Steve Jobs quote, ‘give the people what they want, and then introduce them to the things they didn’t know they needed.’

And that became very clear, I’ve always loved these products. I’m somebody who now that I’m almost 40, with 2 kids, my relationship has evolved with the category, but I’ve always been a big believer in the health efficacy of this category. People think I’m crazy, my most common use cases during the time that I’ve used cannabis have been around tennis, cross-country skiing, running - I’ve always found it to be a great complement to that. That’s more of my core usage outside of, kind of, evenings of relax and unwind.

And a lot of this all led to one day, Edible Brands reached out and said, hey, we have a crazy idea. We own edibles.com, looking to commercialize this at scale nationally, and we need somebody to help guide us in building a business around this category. I was skeptical, to put it lightly, because I didn’t want to be a part of a cash grab. [A]s I went deeper and deeper into conversations, my skepticism was alleviated, because philosophically and fundamentally, we were very aligned on how we wanted Edibles.com to become as a company. A lot of my business around this category. I was skeptical, to put it lightly, because I didn’t want to be a part of a cash grab. As I went deeper and deeper into conversations, my skepticism was alleviated, because philosophically and fundamentally, we were very aligned on how we wanted Edibles.com to become as a company. A lot of my non-negotiables were; I want to do this around health and wellness; have curation of products - don’t want the Cheesecake Factory menu; an outcome-based focus on our category; work with the best brands who have been doing this for a long time; and use our name of edible brands and edible arrangements as a sign of permission for consumers to step into the category who may not have ever stepped into the category. And it’s similar to what we did at Theory when you were introducing this novel concept of buying legal cannabis for the first time. We’re kind of doing the same thing with hemp today.

And what really pushed me over the edge is that in a lot of ways, the mission for me hasn’t really changed of connecting more people with THC. We can just do it at a much bigger scale, and in many ways, I think hemp has succeeded where cannabis has failed in terms of access to the economics and the commercial supply lines of this industry. Hemp is the equalizer of THC access, and so for all those reasons, you know, Edible Brands has an amazing supply chain, they have an amazing brick-and-mortar presence, they have a lot of brand affinity. What was a crazy idea actually became something very material, and Somia Farid Silber, who’s the second-generation CEO of the company within her family - she and I were very much in alignment on all of these points.

Fast forward a year and a half later, here we are with national shipping, last mile services, and what I would argue is probably the most eclectic group of products available today outside of a dispensary that can be sent to your doorstep. That’s something that you could never do in cannabis, and that’s what really fuels me around this project.

AM: So when I first heard about this, I thought am I’m going to see edible THC arrangement bouquets, something like edibles on stems was going to be the vibe? And then I learned about the CBD-dipped edibles from 2019, so it would be good to start there as that was definitely very innovative.

TW: It was! So, in so many ways, the Farid family, Tariq Farid, who’s the original founder, who has stepped back.. his daughter runs the show now, but in 2019, this was actually the first iteration of what Edibles.com became. So, back then, it was called Incredible Edibles, and they were going in that direction of basically blending CBD, and then doing chocolate-dipped CBD strawberries, and the idea was incredible for so many reasons, but the challenge was it was so early after the Farm Bill. You know, they were almost too far ahead of where the category was going to have the connectivity to what consumers were expecting back then. And it really wasn’t until about 2019, when hemp really started to get this gravity that we see today. They had the right idea, but they were just way too early, and from what I’ve understood, I think they had a retail play at one point, and they had tried to engineer this thing.. the consumers weren’t ready for it yet, because CBD was still kind of a ‘snake oil-esque type’ of category, where it showed up everywhere, and there wasn’t that level of differentiation at the time. They were trying to commercialize it at scale, but I think they also realized too, that the manufacturing and production side of making a finished good using these type of blended cannabinoids that were non-intoxicating was a very different ballgame and that the market was still not totally matured into. So they knew they were onto something, and I think they were actually up in Connecticut at the time, too.

That’s when Theory was also starting to really build, so they knew about Theory at the time.

But they were just too early into the market, and the idea was right, and they had vending machines, they had some products too, and they just didn’t quite land, I think, in the zeitgeist of where things were heading, but they were positioned in advance of the market, where the market was going. I think they tried it again in 2020 and 2021, but it was still just too early.

Hemp accelerated beyond what anybody really was anticipating, and as a Pakistani Muslim-run group, you know, the intoxicating side was an interesting angle that we’ve talked about, where health and wellness is the driver of the success of this category, and for them, that was something that they wanted to hold very tightly. I didn’t want to touch inhalables, because I don’t think inhalables.. anything other than air in your lungs is not healthy. And I think where I see this amazing ingestible category is much more akin to a nutraceutical type of product category, Ollie’s and all of these new classes of these nutraceuticals that folks take.

And so we were very philosophically aligned on that, that this is their first real foray as a corporate enterprise to touch something that has potentially intoxicating effects. But I think they were missing the other component of the THC side, which, truthfully, does unlock the efficacy of CBD in a much grander way.

AM: I agree.

TW: I know what these products are, I’ve tried them, I know that we have the opportunity to use our scale and sphere to connect something that consumers really want in terms of their health and wellness. And how can we be an arbiter to create that point of access? And that’s really where Edible Brands is really remarkable. They want to curate these experiences with edible arrangements - gifting those moments of wow for consumers to get something on a certain day.

We just acquired a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant out of bankruptcy called Roti, to bring more nourishment and healthy eating.. And safe access to health and wellness products all focus on a consumer [online]. So now you have these moments of wow for consumers with the gifting side; you have nourishment through the food piece; and now you have this wellness angle with these products.

AM: Tell me about the Edibles.com marketplace you’re building out, how you curate, the brands that you’re selecting, and how you’re going to promote them.

TW: When I first joined, I literally went to my chief legal officer here and I told him compliance is paramount. That became kind of the first lens of looking at products. And the first calls that I made were to Jake Bullock over at Cann. You know, I knew all of these brands from the cannabis world, because we were buying it wholesale, I was in the beverage space, and I built the first beverage dispensary in the country with Theory. And so I had this kind of short list, you know, Cann, Wana, Ayrloom was a great team, like, Mack [Hueber] and Eddie [Brennan] are just wonderful guys. And the first two calls were, yes, Jake Bullock, I had him NDA’d up, and Joe Hodas over at Wana.

And Jake was terrific. I mean, I always remember this call, because he and I had worked together on some projects when I was at Theory, he said to me this is a little bit of a bellwether moment for hemp, because we just had DoorDash. And they’re not really promoting this. We had Total Wine, which was just coming on board. And, you know, when I started to really think about what a portfolio would look like, it’s how do you bring together these cannabis-adjacent brands who are currently now emerging into hemp and leading into hemp. How do I bring together the largest kind of market share of leaders on beverage and gummy and chews? How do I bring them under a portfolio, the likes of which maybe hasn’t been seen outside of a dispensary?

The reason I chose some of these folks is that, you know, you look at Wana, they started in 2010, they’ve been doing this for 15 years. They know the regulatory risks, they know compliance, they have really great formulations, they take it seriously, they’re not a fly-by-night group. Same thing with Cann. Cann broke the mold. I always remember the first time I had a beverage was Cann Cranberry Sage, and I remember drinking and thinking, whoa this changes everything when I was at Theory. What we’ve done is really tried to, with the starting group, the kind of first cohort, was to work with the brands that I know are making great products that are going by the rules, that aren’t going be a risk or compliance issue for us.

As a former CMO, marketing is powerful, and you can have a good brand and a bad product, or a great product and a bad brand. I was building this a lot behind the scenes, and nobody knew, and I didn’t want anybody to know. I wanted to have that moment where you pull the cover off and people go Whoa, this is big, but also like, Thomas is working on this, he knows these products, he’s not a shill.

You know, my goal is really to have a portfolio that is well-curated around these buckets of sleep, relaxation, uplift, energy, you know, really focused on outcome-based purchase habits versus get a distillate gummy at a good cost per milligram ratio. Anybody can do that. And it also aligns, I think, with the sentiment of the consumer base of the hemp industry, of the consumers, where you have so many of these new consumers coming in who are curious about these products. They see them everywhere, they hear about them. How do we do the homework for them where they can come and shop based on an outcome that they’re looking for?

I want to sell the Health Not High, a drumbeat that some people - [does] everybody want to get high?

AM: Yeah, it might be a healthy high for me. That’s a Yeah.

TW: And for me, it’s like, I think a lot of, when I talk to consumers, you know, and I talk to people who… my wife, my in-laws are conservative doctors from the South. They now went from being very skeptical about this category into saying, you know, oh, well, I don’t take it to get high. I take it for sleep, or I take it for my back, or I take it for relaxation and all these things. And it is true for me. It’s like, I’m not really here to get people high. People will do it on their own. I don’t want to sell people getting overly intoxicated, that’s not really my bag, it’s more about creating functional, health-based outcomes. It’s more akin to nutraceutical or supplements that add the efficacy.

And it’s like nobody goes and markets alcohol to get drunk? Do we all know we can get drunk by drinking more beers than we need to? Sure. But you don’t need to market that. I don’t think we need to market getting high, because when I talk to lobbyists and regulators and senators about this, one gummy is no more intoxicating to me than one beer or glass of wine.

What does become intoxicating is if you have multiple servings and irresponsible use, and frankly, I have no shame on consumers who want to do that, like, that’s totally up to them, but my goal is to really help people understand the functional properties of this hemp category, and introduce them to these things that maybe don’t take an Ambien at night, maybe take a Wana stay asleep chew, or a fast asleep chew, and see how that works for you, and maybe give somebody else an alternative. And so, you know, all of this kind of health-not-high criteria is something I strongly believe in as a consumer. And I also like getting high, too. So, like, again, no shame there, like there’s always a time and a place for it.

And I think that a lot of our strategy is emanating out of this Health Not High, because a lot of the consumers we want to have on here, these 60 and older folks who are part of the Reagan era. We’re trying to demystify a little bit of that stigma, and it’s not that we have anything against getting high, like, again, totally fine. But our mission is very critical, and so when we look at portfolio, we want that to be the reflection of outcomes. And that’s always how I’ve loved these products, too, you know?

AM: And looking at your project, one of the things I loved seeing was the educational part. So, when it comes to hemp-derived you obviously are a wealth of knowledge. I would love to talk about that a little more detail, because I do think it’s super confusing out there. There’s been a lot of quick progress, and consumers just are trying, experimenting, but I don’t think they fully understand what they’re getting.

TW: No. I spend a lot of time lobbying. We’re, you know, executive board members of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, the largest trade association. Education is paramount in this category. You know, the most frequently asked questions we get when we run social ads or I talk to consumers are, how is this legal, is the first question. I always give a very simple answer. 2018, we had a Farm Bill, and in that bill, 0.3% dry weight equivalency of THC can be commercialized into products. That small percentage is actually enough to have the impact that we want for consumers, which are functional outcomes that can help with sleep, relaxation, all these things.

And it’s a low enough kind of threshold of a dose that, it’s not egregious, it’s not over the top, and we always recommend folks start low and go slow. The next question we always get is, but is it weed? It’s technically weed, because cannabis and hemp are the same plant. Like, they’re scientifically the same cannabis sativa plant. But our government assigned an arbitrary 0.3% number to say any plant that produces 0.3% THC and below is a hemp plant. Anything that is 0.31% is a cannabis plant. Two are regulated very, very differently. Cannabis is a lightning rod with over-regulation. Hemp is less regulated. But also, you know, essentially the same thing, but you don’t have any of the restrictions that cannabis has in terms of interstate commerce, shipping, you know, all this stuff, regulatory-wise.

And, you know, but really what it comes down to, we’re talking about regulating a molecule, not a plant. It’s the molecule. And that’s the third question, is the THC different in a Kiva gummy from edibles.com, from a Kiva gummy from a Colorado dispensary. The molecule does not change. That is the most important thing that we want people to take away, that these are not very different from dispensary products. The molecule doesn’t change, because it’s all the same. It’s just the amount of the molecule you can have.

I think that is one of the largest misunderstandings and perceptions about the category, is yes it’s legal, and I think that’s where we fill in a white space. If you send strawberry dipped strawberries to your grandmother on her birthday, and is also partaking in this category, well you actually know it’s probably not as bad as it seems by comparison to gas station products and, you know, all of these other areas that these products are being sold. We really want to be a leader in the safety, the security, the compliance, the regulations. We want to give that permission to those customers who say, yeah maybe I should try it. Well, if you come to edibles.com, you know you’re getting all of this, a half Billion dollar company wouldn’t step into this space if it wasn’t legal, and it wasn’t safe.

And that’s where I think, for me it becomes really exciting to be the first kind of handhold experience for folks who are coming into the category. And on the other side, you know the people who love Wana, Kiva, and Wyld. Well, now they can get it shipped to their door if they live in a market where these products aren’t sold. And it’s the first time you can get all 3 of them in a package delivered to your house in history. That, to me, is a powerful moment for consumers.

AM: That’s really cool. I want to ask you about best practices taking a gummy, because there are some…

TW: God bless.

AM: ..there are some gossip points about having fat content, or how long it would take to be acting, and I’m sure there’s different products, but any knowledge to pass along?

TW: Yeah, so I’ll say for a novice consumer, start low and go slow. You know, anywhere from a 2.5 to 5 milligram dose is a good starting point. I would argue 2.5mg is always the best place to start. That way, you can always take more, but you cannot take less. And that’s something that over the history of THC, everybody has that story where, they took a brownie, and then they didn’t feel anything, and then they took another one an hour later, and then all of a sudden they were on the moon, and it was, you know…

AM: Or just the batter making it.

TW: Yeah, exactly, right? It’s just kind of like one of these things, and you know. I want to hear that story for sure.

AM: You got it.

TW: The other thing that I think is really important that’s not talked about as much is there is a difference between regular kind of products that are just standard action products of how THC is delivered, and fast-acting products. And this is where the industry’s matured in the last 3 to 5 years, is we finally figured out that THC does not necessarily have to bind with lipids and proteins because of fast-acting technology, which is basically the reason beverages exist is because somebody figured out that you don’t need fats to carry the THC, because you could never make a beverage without having oil or something in there. Well, now this new technology, this fast-acting technology, allows a quicker onset of these products. So, standard products, which I would call 45 minutes to an hour to see how it affects. Fast-acting products that we see today, you can feel effects as quickly as 10 to 15 minutes. This is important, because if it’s standard, you’re metabolizing it and that can take longer, because your body has to break it down. If you eat a huge pancake breakfast and then take a standard acting gummy, your body’s going to take a lot longer to metabolize it, versus if you took a standard acting on an empty stomach, that’ll happen faster. Fast acting, that goes directly into your bloodstream. You absorb the THC faster.

And what’s great is once you start to get a comfort level on how your endocannabinoid system starts to respond, that’s where the fun begins. Because for me, mostly, I’m a non-school night user at this point in life with my two little kids. It’s mostly on the weekends. But I’ve been a big advocate, too, for folks who do play competitive tennis like I do, and are competitive runners to try this stuff when they do those types of activities. Like, that’s where the fun really begins, when you can start to introduce the molecule and these products into areas of your life that become really compatible and symbiotic with these types of products.

AM: And what would you say for those that might say they had a high tolerance, or found that they need to change… it worked for them, but they need to change up their routine somehow? (Editor’s Note: Asking for a friend)

TW: Yes. So, I think for people with high tolerances. I actually have somebody in my office that I don’t want to name-shame, because they have a really high trough tolerance, but what I always recommend is, Tolerance breaks are great if you medically can. Responsible consumption is always important. If you’re somebody who just kind of pushes the envelope on wanting to go further and further, well, at some point, you’re kind of removing the efficacy that you wanted in the first place.

The other thing that I always like to recommend for folks is if you have a high tolerance, it’s always good to take those kind of breaks to see if that drops down, and then there are some people who are just like, yeah, I need 100mg a dose, or I don’t feel anything. I might not be the right place for you. You’re probably a dispensary customer.

The other thing I’ll just add into all of this is I think CBD is one of these things that we’ve written off in some ways because of the CBD, you know, for the reason that Incredible Edibles was a CBD company originally. CBD is actually this molecule that you need THC to unlock the values of. And what I actually have recommended for folks who are looking for different types of efficacy is I’m a big believer in high doses of CBD with lower doses of THC, or nominal doses of THC, because I think you can find a different type of efficacy that, until, you know, I’ve been in the industry for almost 10 years. I always kind of wrote off CBD because I thought it was snake oil, but I’m seeing it come back more where there are some incredible brands who are just, like, a one-to-one, where it’s, like, 5mg of THC, 5mg of CBD. There are some brands that are doing amazing work where it’s, like, 25mg of CBD with 5 of THC. Those products are super interesting to me. And there are a couple of brands that I’m going to be bringing onto the platform, who are taking kind of the innovation side of these form factors and really peeling them a part in a way that traditional landscape of THC products hasn’t really done in a long time.

Cann was one of the first where they did a 2 to 1 with, you know, 2mg THC, 4mg of CBD. But there are some really great products that I’m so excited about, that are leaning in on more niche formulations than more of what we see, you know, on our website today. You’ll see kind of just, like, straight THC or one-to-ones. The ratio products actually are probably, over time, going to be more interesting to me, I think, as I look at the landscape. That doesn’t necessarily help the high-dose people, but it might be a different way of looking at consumption of these products, where maybe it’s combining a couple of different products to get the same outcome. Maybe it’s a little bit more CBD-focused with less THC that might get them to the same place. You know, and that to me is, again, where this landscape is fascinating with how people are starting to gravitate and find the right balance of what works for them.

AM: Sure, I would say there’s nothing like a week tolerance break. It’s on the other side, like your brain and your body just are born again naturally.

TW: You get used to the feeling of being high, which almost underrides the impact of the kind of the category at large. Like, if you take these products every night, you’re kind of building your own tolerance in some ways, and the same thing with alcohol. Like, if you drink alcohol every night, kind of the value of alcohol that you feel is tampered. And so, you know, that’s one of the reasons, you know, to be quite honest, that I like to reserve my consumption of these products to non-school nights, Friday nights, Saturdays, and Sundays, because for a long time in my life, I used them every day, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but I started to feel like the effects for me were dulled heavily, and I started to lose a little bit of the nuance of what I was actually seeking to achieve.

And there’s nothing like, you know - I’m a big fan of the… it’s not quite a wake-and-bake anymore, but, you know, Saturday mornings, having an infused beverage, you know, functional infused beverage. It always kind of fires me up, and then, man, when I play trains or Legos or whatever it is with my kids, it’s dialed up to 11, and so, you know, it’s one of these things where tolerance is really important.

But again, there’s so many reasons why people come to this category. It’s about finding the right balance for yourself, and really exploring, why do you want these products? Why do you need them? What are you looking to achieve? And then figuring out, in the same way we do with, like, supplements. When do you need to use them, how much do you need to use? And, like, what products work the best?

And I will say there are some products now that I have tried that I’m like, wow, this is a product that I’ve wanted forever, and now it exists. And I’ll shout out OFFIELD is, one of probably my favorite breakthrough category products, and they make athletic products. Athletic consumables, and they have gummies for pre-workouts and post-workouts, and they have an electrolyte, L-theanine, THC, basically a Gatorade equivalent. And I bring one on the tennis court during matches.

AM: Yeah, interesting!

TW: You know, and I just love now where we’re getting to a point where the category can really get more niche in terms of its focus and growth.

AM: Yeah, I’ve had some interviews where it was interesting to see use for training, practicing, and playing in the sport, rather than just recovery or recreational.. And it was very interesting to hear, like, are you more focused? Are you enjoying the sport more? Is it adding focus or detracting from it, or parts? And when? For these people, and me, you know, of course it’s not about overdoing it.. It’s about being productive and healthy.

TW: Yeah, so I’ll give an example, right? So, I run, you know, probably 3 or 4 mornings a week, and it’s usually low Zone 1 thresholds, just kind of getting my legs going. But then on the weekends, when I want to go for a longer duration run when I take a dose of THC, I actually find I can get into my rhythm and flow state of a long run faster with a little THC, because it almost kind of takes away a little bit of the overthinking. When I first started running, I’m like why am I doing this to myself? Like, this is not fun, but I know I have to do it. But, you know, the THC actually kind of helps me kind of dissolve that a little bit, and I can actually feel.. be a little bit more in tune with my stride, my pacing, my steps per minute, so on and so forth.

And it’s the same thing on the tennis court. You know, instead of thinking about do I need to tune up my forehand a little bit? You know, am I over-extending or am I too close on my forehand?

It actually helps bleed away a lot of that where I can get into a flow state a little bit quicker, and it kind of dulls a little bit of the noise. It can be a little bit physical, but it can be very mental. It can give you a little bit less of that stream of consciousness when you’re doing something that’s very technical. And so, I’m surprised that athletes haven’t come more into that. Maybe they are, and maybe they’re not in a place where they can talk about that, but you know, for me this is the next phase of where we’re going, is I think there’s a lot of application today for THC in these types of products in those types of activities. And that is what really energizes me about the future growth of the category and the innovation that can come. And people think I’m crazy when I tell them that I like to take edibles and go running. They’re like how do you know how to do it? It’s like, no, it’s not what you think. You’re not kind of looking off in the distance, you’re getting into a very focused mind state, and you’re quieting your subconscious a little bit.

But it’s again - right products, right time, right outcomes.

AM: Yeah, also as a celebrity photographer, I’ve vaped before and during most shoots.

TW: I love that call.

AM: Yeah. I think for me, it’s about loosing up, mood, creativity, picking up on lighting, poses, opportunities and context. Improv is very much about being open and adaptive, so many nuanced aspects light up for positive productivity.. so when you’re saying healthy, not high, I’m hearing for wellness, fitness/sport, recreation, also for art and creatives and, and.. Being productive is healthy and also, you have to be true to yourself that you have, in my opinion, you need to tell yourself you could easily do it without it as well. So it shouldn’t take over though.

TW: Right? That is one of the most important things, like, you have to be able to do it without it. And that’s where I look at my comparison of running during the week and on the weekends. On the weekends, I’m stoned and I’m running. During the weekdays, I’m sober. Because I want to be able to say, yeah it’s still fun either way, I could use it or lose it, and it wouldn’t really impact my interest in this activity. Right.

AM: It’s often a big net plus.

TW: Yeah, and I spend a lot of Sunday afternoons when I have a really interesting strategic problem to solve for. I will, on my own time, on the weekends, have a couple of infused beverages, and lay out a design, or look at a problem I dealt with during the week with a different lens. And, you know, that to me is that duality of these products have this really wonderful massive benefits when used responsibly.. can be used creatively, you know, physically, mentally, all of these things - this category can unlock a different type of value set, that most consumers, unfortunately, haven’t had the privilege of engaging in. And I think over time, we know that more and more consumers are going to start to engage it this way. And we want to be the person who can recommend to you to try this, and this may help. It may not, but, you can try it and see if it works for you, and if it doesn’t, that’s also okay. And if it does, great! And if you like it, then there’s more that you can try, too. And that’s usually where what we see is we have a very high retention rate right now of return customers, because they try something, and then they come back and try 3 more things, and then they come back.

AM: Yep.

TW: Building on that, because there is an educational curve, like everything, but once you find that right balance.

AM: Now, let me ask you, are we going to see a lot more products on the edibles.com marketplace coming up?

TW: Yeah, and we once crossed our national shipping kind of expansion that put us into the 65-plus percent of households in the country.. But this is where it becomes really exciting for me, because we have all these big, major brands, right? There are a lot of smaller brands that deserve to be discovered. OFFIELD is one of them. Todd Hunter, who’s the CEO, he’s a great guy, and I think he created this product, this brand of products that I’m really interested in, and I want to continue to grow the portfolio, because I think the future of this category is going to be very specific to needs, states, and outcomes.

And I love when, you know, I take it with a healthy dose of skepticism if somebody’s like, I have a creativity chew. And I’m like, yeah, like, I’ll try it and see if it does what it’s supposed to. I think over time, you know, now that we have so much capital coming into the space, we have so much innovation, we have people really pushing the boundaries in ways that maybe cannabis didn’t as much, because it was a very binary sales channel. Now we’re starting to see a much more nuanced approach to innovation of these new types of categories of products. You will see probably in the next couple of months, a lot of new brands coming on board. I have a list of folks that I have tried over the last year and a half and beyond that I want to be a part of this, and I want to have on, and nobody has said no to coming on the platform. We’ve had to say no to a lot of folks, unfortunately, but it’s really about making sure that we have this portfolio that continues to grow. And the other thing that we’re also looking at, too, is not just THC products, but we’re going to bring on a bunch of CBD products. I think it is another really important part of this portfolio that can be complementary to other products, and also stand alone. And furthermore, we’re also going to bring on likely some nutraceuticals as well. You know, so a lot of different types of non-infused, non-cannabinoid products that edibles over time will probably continue to expand into. Yeah, you may be able to get a magnesium sleep powder to mix in with tea, but you can also get your infused gummies that also help with sleep. We really want to build this as a wellness-focused platform, and that doesn’t just need cannabinoids, but it’s where we’re starting to open the door to great brands that we want to help bring to consumers in this marketplace type of approach. And it’s very novel in its kind of concept, because we’re In a white space today that we want to start to increase people’s appetite for alternative health products.

AM: Well, I think Edible Brands is super fortunate to have you, the space is fortunate to have you, and nothing bothers me more when I go into recreational or medicinal dispensaries, and they’re constantly just saying, this is the highest potency, and what is best for cheapest.

TW: Oh, yeah.

AM: Maybe many consumers are programmed to think bang for buck and all these things, but they’re not looking at the art and science of it, they’re not bettering themselves, maybe they’re not looking at wellness in other parts of their life also, but often the dispensaries are not curating or explaining things well, and I think it’s terrific that in leading in the edibles space, you’ll be able to educate people, safely destigmatize, and curate and help guide towards desired outcomes.

IG @ediblescom

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Edibles.com

Read the OCT ISSUE #118 of Athleisure Mag and see EDIBLES.COM | Edible Brands Thomas Winstanley in mag.

FITNESS ANGELS WITH KIRK MYERS

The month of Oct has a number of events that are iconic and one of them is the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show that blends the brand, models, personalities and entertainers together here in NYC. Walking the runway, rocking the wings and harnassing all of that energy means preparation. Some of that preparation involves working out so that each person has the confidence in how they feel and look. Kirk Myers, founder of DOGPOUND Gym has been working with models since 2016. We wanted to know more about how he approaches this show with his clients, how we can incorporate their workouts into our own sessions, and the power of recovery and hydration! If you missed the show, we have soem of our favorite moments.

ATHLEISURE MAG: How long have you been doing this runway-model prep work? What’s your ideal timeline when a client has a target date?

KIRK MYERS: I’ve been a trainer for over 20 years, and The Victoria’s Secret Angel work began around 2016 when I was introduced to Jasmine Tookes by her hairstylist Marty Harper. The ideal timeline would be around 12 -16 weeks, but can be adjusted according to their goals. If I know ahead of time that someone has a runway show, we can adjust quickly.

AM: What are your go-to tips you give in prep for the show?

KM: My go-to tips are:

○ Core control & breathing over “abs for show.” Engaging the core properly (with breathing) supports everything—not just aesthetics.

○ Train for function and movement, not just isolation. For models, strength, mobility, stability, sometimes boxing, and other low-impact work, like resistance bands, help keep the body balanced.

○ Volume + consistency wins. We usually go through repeated higher-rep cycles (bands, sliders, and bodyweight) to fatigue.

○ Recovery & rest built in. Models don’t want to be constantly sore. So I suggest rest days, lower-impact exercises, stretching, and hydration to aid recovery. Replenishing electrolytes with something like Vita Coco helps restore balance and supports muscle repair after training.

○ Tailor every plan - I like to tailor each plan to the client. Taking into account what they’ve done before, while adapting our training to include what they enjoy most.”

AM: For a beach-body runway feel (or just prepping for a vacation), what are 3 workouts to include?

KM: Here are three I would include with some variation:

○ Circuit of Resistance Bands + Bodyweight Supersets - Combine exercises like banded glute bridges, lateral band walks, pushups, inverted rows, core planks, etc., in supersets. Very model-prep friendly.

○ Core & Anti-Rotation Movements - Moves like planks, side planks, and medicine ball slams. These help define the waistline and improve posture.

○ Low-to-Moderate Load, Metabolic Strength Rounds - Use lighter weights with higher reps in a circuit style (e.g. walking lunges, dumbbell swings, overhead presses) to build lean muscle while metabolically challenging the body (i.e., burning fat). You can layer those with mobility work, active rest, and light cardio (walking, incline treadmill, etc.) for extra burn without overtaxing the body.

AM: How important is functional strength training and what does that look like?

KM: It’s pretty important to help create a balanced look. Functional strength means strength you can use: stability, balance, core control, coordination, and mobility integrated for daily life.

What that entails:

○ Multi-joint movements (squats, deadlifts, lunges, and presses)

○ Single-leg, unilateral work (e.g. single-leg deadlifts, Bulgarian split squats)

○ Core + anti-rotational work (to resist twist and torque)

○ Mobility + stability paired (e.g. loaded carries with anti-lateral fl exion as well as crawling patterns)

○ Dynamic & reactive work (e.g. plyometrics, mini bounds, and stability challenges) where appropriate

AM: Recovery is essential. What recovery rituals do you suggest?

KM: I would suggest the following:

○ Active recovery and mobility days (light movement, yoga, stretching, as well as foam rolling)

○ Massage, soft tissue work, and percussion devices

○ Quality sleep

○ Hydration + electrolytes through beverages such as Vita Coco

○ Compression and stretching post-workout

AM: Let’s talk hydration! How important is it before, during, and after a workout?

KM: It is important before and after! I recommend hydrating well in the hours leading up, especially with something electrolyte-heavy like Vita Coco. Coconut water is one of the most effective natural ways to hydrate since it is packed with potassium, magnesium, and sodium to help your muscles perform at their best. Bring a water bottle filled with Vita Coco to sip on throughout your workout; it’ll keep you refreshed without the artificial dyes found in many sports drinks.

Post-workout, hydration is just as key. Vita Coco helps replenish electrolytes lost through sweat, supporting faster recovery and preventing that sluggish, dehydrated feeling that can follow a tough session. Think of it as the natural way to power your performance and bounce back stronger.

AM: How can we juggle fitness goals and holiday season indulgences?

KM: I don’t want clients to go into guilt mode. We can plan to be smart, be fl exible, and stay consistent with habits even during the holiday season. Clients do virtual training to maintain balance and also focus on nutrition so they can continue to make healthier choices, even while traveling. Going for a walk is always a good idea!

IG @kirkmyersfitness

@vitacoco

@victoriassecret

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | PG 156/Kirk Myers | PG 159 - 161 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show |

IN PHOTO | CANDICE SWANEPOEL

IN THE PHOTOS | L: Angel Reese + R: Emily Ratajkowski

Read the OCT ISSUE #118 of Athleisure Mag and see FITNESS ANGELS WITH Kirk Myers in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | MINICIRCLE

Minicircle launched in 2019 with the goal of creating safe, accessible gene therapy treatments that could support human healthspan and mitigate suffering from preventable health conditions on a population level. Driven by my own personal experiences observing close friends and family with life-altering, incurable diseases, Minicircle’s primary goal is to improve quality of life for as many people as possible. The ultimate objective is to scale the treatments widely and make them increasingly easy to access in the years to come. We sat down with Mac Davis, CEO and Founder of Minicircle to find out more about them.

Minicircle has created a gene therapy platform that administers the treatment via non-invasive injection. This delivery method employs DNA plasmids, which are small, circular strands of DNA that are easy to inject subcutaneously and cheap to manufacture. These plasmids don’t directly integrate with or alter the recipient’s DNA, but rather add to existing DNA, making them transient, which is a strong differentiator compared to other gene therapy platforms.

Their current gene therapy offering revolves around a protein called follistatin, which has a number of different use cases. Follistatin is naturally occurring in the body and facilitates muscle growth by binding to myostatin, which inhibits muscle growth. Everyone who comes to Minicircle has a different goal in mind, from putting on muscle mass, to enhancing general longevity and healthspan, to mitigating frailty - but it generally boils down to improving quality of life and putting your body in the best position to combat age-related health conditions. Most Minicircle patients report an increase in lean mass, decrease in body fat percentage, lower epigenetic age, and overall improvement in general functioning and well-being. In particular, they’re excited about follistatin’s potential to support those with muscle-wasting conditions like muscular dystrophy, which could have a powerful impact on public health interventions for generations to come.

Thos interested in learning about Minicircle’s therapies and pricing can go to the website and fill out a form with their contact information. They will then be put in touch with one of their partner clinics, who will guide them through the process of getting necessary testing before traveling to the clinic to receive the therapy. The process itself is very quick. The injection takes just a few minutes, with a required 30 minute monitoring period after.

The life cycle of the therapy can vary depending on the individual’s biology and lifestyle habits, but the effects usually last up to a year - sometimes more, sometimes less. Most people who have received the therapy want to get it repeatedly to sustain the effects.

MINICIRCLE

Clinics are located in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Paradise Island, Bahamas; Roatan, Honduras; and Panama City, Panama.

minicircle.io

IG @minicircledna

PHOTOS COURTESY | Minicircle

Read the OCT ISSUE #118 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Minicircle in mag.

PAIN RECOVERY FOR ATHLETES & FANS

We caught Women’s Soccer Club Gotham FC X Washington Spirit at Sports Illustrated Stadium, NJ, to watch pre-game warm-ups and take in the game in the TYLENOL VIP Suite. It was a fun match to see, ending in a tie-score after some good scoring attempts and excellent defensive efforts.

We asked Jen Gow, US Head of Pain at Kenvue, and Dr. Chang, NWSL Chief Medical Officer, about TYLENOL’s multi-year collaboration with Gotham FC; supporting the team’s health, aid recovery and helping keep elite athletes at the top of their games.

We spoke about TYLENOL’s “Relief Zone,” where NWSL fans can receive branded

recovery kit giveaways, misting fans, and cool towels through the season. Also we explored activations they will have to support athletic trainers, celebrate recovery, and spotlight resilience of NWSL players and women’s sports.

ATHLEISURE MAG: TYLENOL has announced a multi-year collaboration with Women’s Soccer Club Gotham FC, how will it support the team’s elite athlete’s health, aid recovery and help keep them at the top of their game?

JEN GOW: As the Official Pain Reliever of the NWSL, TYLENOL® is so excited to support players throughout the season by equipping league trainers with the tools they need to aid recovery and help keep athletes in the game. We are stocking each trainer’s bag with TYLENOL® products for use with athletes on and off the field, pending their pain relief needs.

AM: Tell us more about the slogan “#TylenolPartner I can love the game without the pain,” and how it promotes pain relief goals for athletes and fans.

JG: We know a tackle can hurt, but also know those stadium seats can cause many aches. As a brand, we’re here for all types of minor aches and pains so that everyone can focus on cheering, supporting and playing the game.

Athletes are constantly undergoing stress on their body during training and performance, often resulting in minor aches and pains. TYLENOL® offers a portfolio of products that can meet each athletes’ individual pain needs, so the result is a personalized recovery routine to help them feel their best on and off the field.

AM: From the TYLENOL PRECISE™ Pain Relieving Patches and Nighttime Cream, to TYLENOL 8HR Muscle Aches and Pain Caplets, Extra Strength TYLENOL Rapid Release Gels, and more, how does TYLENOL provide fast, effective pain relief to athletes to ensure they can stay active and competitive?

JG: The brand is continuously innovating to meet consumer needs when it comes to pain relief. Most recently, we launched TYLENOL® PRECISE™ Pain Relieving Patches. This innovation has 12-hour flexible adhesion technology to stick with you—and they are transparent so you can place them wherever pain hits!

AM: What is TYLENOL Proactive Support for Muscles and Joints and how does it help overall health and well-being? How does this move into reactive and proactive supplements help athletes, fans and consumers with health and pain management support?

JG: Proactive Support from the Makers of TYLENOL® is a new drug-free supplement powered by a blend of turmeric and tamarind to deliver improvement in joint flexibility and comfort. We made this step into the supplement space in partnership with medical professionals to offer an effective supplement for consumers to take a proactive approach in improving their joint comfort.

AM: The TYLENOL® FAN PAIN POINTS Survey with Wakefield Research indicated some very interesting results, including the majority of sports fans (52%) believe they are more active when attending a live sporting event than on a typical day; 43% of fans regularly pack an OTC pain reliever when attending live sporting events; and 70% say going to live sporting events is physically taxing, with nearly 7 in 10 (69%) stating they would go to more games if the experience were less demanding. What are some products, tools and tips to help reduce painful activities for fans attending and cheering on teams in live events?

JG: It’s always a good idea to come prepared to a game – who knows how many stairs you may need to climb to get to your seat or if you’ll be standing longer during overtime cheering on your team. Keep TYLENOL® PRECISE™ in your car for post-game muscle aches or add a travel-sized pack of TYLENOL® Extra Strength to your gameday bag, so you can be prepared should a minor ache or pain occur.

AM: What activations will TYLENOL have at Sports Illustrated Stadium to support athletic trainers, celebrate recovery, and spotlight resilience of NWSL players? What is TYLENOL’s “Relief Zone,” and how have NWSL fans reacted to branded recovery kit giveaways, misting fans, cool towels through the season?

JG: Our multi-faceted collaboration with Gotham FC features comprehensive on-site activations, including equipping the trainers with products they need to aid player recovery and season-long representation at Gotham FC’s pregame Fan Fest. Our branded giveaways have been a huge hit with fans, and the continued growth of the NWSL alongside the amazing fandom at Sports Illustrated Stadium is incredible to see! I took my kiddos a few weeks ago...my 5 year old loved the ball pit and my 3 year old held the “Tylenol #1 Doc Recommended” foam finger the entire game!

AM: Beginning in 2026, what will Gotham FC match theme nights and community programs presented by TYLENOL entail?

JG: We’re actively collaborating with the Gotham FC team to determine how we can continue to meaningfully engage with the fans and support the team in even more ways next season!

AM: How does TYLENOL elevate opportunities in women’s sports and go beyond the medicine cabinet?

JG: Through our sponsorships with the NWSL and Gotham FC, alongside our commitment to the Women’s Sports Foundation with our Athlete Recovery and Care Commitment Grant, TYLENOL® is going beyond our product to meet women athletes with direct support and critical funding so they can continue the game they love.

AM: What are some products and tips for executives and business travelers to stay productive and at the top of their work on long days, commutes and big travel itineraries?

JG: It’s incredibly important to me to get outside and be active after work. I have recently embraced the Pickleball trend and wow, it can cause some pain! My wife and I both take a Proactive Support from the Makers of TYLENOL® supplement every day and it truly has helped our joint comfort after exercise.

AM: TYLENOL recognizes that pursuing greatness hurts. What is The Care Commitment by TYLENOL? How does this fund and $1M pledge with the Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF) help injured athletes and their painful physical and financial setbacks on the road to recovery?

JG: This grant was established by TYLENOL® in partnership with the Women’s Sports Foundation® (WSF®) to provide a much-needed recovery fund for injured women athletes who are on their road to recovery post-injury. To date, we’ve awarded grants to 20 deserving athletes, providing financial support as they rehab to get back into the game and continue their pursuit of greatness.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What does it mean for TYLENOL to have a strategic collaboration with Gotham FC, after being named Official Pain Relief multi-year sponsor of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) earlier this year?

DR. CHANG: After being named the Official Pain Reliver of the National Women’s Soccer League this year, TYLENOL® wanted to expand their support of the league and engage more directly with a local team and its fan base. This collaboration also includes on-site activations at Gotham FC’s pregame Fan Fest, where the brand will provide TYLENOL® product giveaways, merchandise and more to prepare fans as they head into the game. The fans have loved it!

AM: How is this collaboration meaningful for supporting player health and women’s sports?

DR. C: As a League, our top priority is protecting the health and well-being of our athletes. The growth of women’s professional soccer has brought greater demands on our Players’ bodies, making recovery resources and medical support more important than ever. Collaborations like this one with Tylenol provide additional support for our medical teams and athletes, and we value partners who share our commitment to Player care.

AM: How can equipping league trainers with TYLENOL products and tools help aid performance, recovery and keep athletes in the game?

DR. C: Athletic trainers are on the front lines of Player health, and having access to reliable tools that support their recovery including safe pain management helps them do their jobs more effectively. While no one product can replace the core fundamentals of injury prevention, training, and rehabilitation, we appreciate having a resource like Tylenol available as part of a broader toolkit for Player care.

AM: How does the partnership with TYLENOL help women athletes and fans embrace the love of the game?

DR. C: Our fan base is the heart of our league, and TYLENOL® recognizes that they deserve care just as much as the players do. By hosting product giveaways for fans during pre-game events and offering product discounts, TYLENOL® is helping ensure that our tremendous fans can be on the sidelines to cheer on the team, without any minor aches and pains slowing them down.

AM: What are the types and how often are there injuries in women’s soccer matches? Are there specific injuries that occur more frequently for female soccer players?

DR. C: In women’s professional soccer, we most often see lower extremity injuries such as ankle sprains, muscle strains, and knee joint injuries. Female soccer players, in particular, face a higher risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears compared with their male counterparts, and that remains an important area of ongoing research and prevention eborts. We also recognize that overuse injuries such as stress fractures, tendinopathies, and muscle strains can occur during our season especially with the competitive balance across our League. Our focus is always on prevention, early recognition and optimal management, and safe return to play.

AM: What are some tips for soccer players and fans for injury prevention in training and playing soccer; promoting resilience; and optimizing recovery?

DR. C: For elite soccer players, injury prevention starts with evidence-based programs that emphasize neuromuscular control and strength training, especially of the core/hips and lower extremities. Monitoring training loads can also help to prevent overuse injuries. Good sleep, adequate hydration, and proper nutrition are essential cornerstones to promote resilience and optimize recovery. Resilience also involves building strong support networks, such as a positive team environment and dedicated medical teams. Recovery also means listening to your body and recognizing early warning signs in order to seek timely professional medical care.

For recreational players or even fans inspired to learn how to play soccer (it’s never too late!), many of the same principles apply: warm up before activity, gradually progress the duration and intensity of play at the beginning of the season, and maintain a fitness routine during the week (especially if you only play one game a week). Injury prevention and recovery strategies are not limited to professional athletes—they can help anyone stay active and enjoy the game for years to come.

AM: We’ve now learned fans can exert themselves too by walking, sitting and intensely cheering on their favorite team and players at the game! Go Gotham FC! How can fans aim to reduce pain themselves before, during and after the big game?

DR. C: Attending an NWSL soccer match can be demanding—standing in lines, climbing stairs, and sitting and standing for long periods cheering. Fans can reduce discomfort by starting adequate hydration and food intake 24 hours before the game and getting a good night’s rest, and then staying hydrated and well fed, and wearing supportive footwear and appropriate clothing and headwear for the weather conditions. Even standing up and stretching and taking breaks to walk around the stadium is beneficial. If minor aches or soreness do occur, over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol’s topical relief or its traditional oral options can also help.

IG @tylenol

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 42 - 45, 49, 51 Gotham FC/Megan Santaniello | PG 46 Getty Images/Tylenol |

Read the SEP ISSUE #117 of Athleisure Mag and see PAIN RECOVERY FOR ATHLETES & FANS in mag.

GUMMIES & ZZZ | TYSON APOSTOL

We connected with Tyson Apostol, winner of Survivor Blood vs. Water; 4X Survivor competitor. He related to us that a main reason for winning was maintaining strength and endurance in life skills and needs. From endurance swimming in college, then professionally cycling, and later finding love in Pickleball, Tyson likes unbounded sports and activities.

For some sleep and ache and pain issues, he discovered cannabis gummies, and partnered with Trulieve as an ambassador. We ask him about when and how he integrates gummies into his routines; if he uses cannabis with training or playing Pickleballl; touring the Trulieve grow rooms and facility, and also ask about what he’s looking forward to seeing, with the upcoming season of Survivor 49.

ATHLEISURE MAG: So, so what led you to go to become a pro cyclist?

TYSON APOSTOL: Honestly, you know, I just was having a conversation recently about this, because everybody’s like oh that was your passion - I was like, no, it wasn’t, my passion was avoiding a cubicle. After college, I was good at cycling and enjoyed it but I don’t think it was a love of my life, but I found a way to avoid [the office]. I just was never like a work guy, just the feel and I know that people are going to read this and be lik, oh he’s so spoiled. No, I found a way to avoid that thing I didn’t like, which was going to college, getting a career afterwards. And so cycling for me was a way to continue playing, maybe longer than other adults were able to.

AM: Sure, but then with all the weather and the endurance I mean it sounds like it was brutal each leg of the race is tough right?

TA: Yeah, and it was brutal because I’m sitting out there pedaling in the rain convincing myself that the motivation for continuing to train in the rain and the snow and the sleet, the hail, whatever it is. It’s better than being in a cubicle, but now that I’m 46 I’m looking back, I’m like those guys in the cubicle we’re looking out the window at me riding my bike in the rain thinking I’m an idiot. So, we probably all found our thing.

AM: Yeah it’s a mixed bag now the cubicle people are riding too!

TA: That’s right even writing in the office these days right they are writing in the office with their pedal desk.

AM: And you swam in college?

TA: I swam in college. I swam through high school into college. And as soon as I decided that, I didn’t want to be there. I spent one year at college, so distance freestyle endurance was my thing, like that was the thing I was good at, so that didn’t really matter the sport as much as endurance, like I can run forever, I could ride forever, I could swim forever, you give me something long slog, and I’ll be able to do that.

AM: And then at some point you found and fell in love with pickleball?

TA: Yes, I’m the same way I saw it. And then when I went there and got to enjoy and experience it with just taking it all in, I was just like, this is, this is magic. This is a magical combination of excitement, skill and intensity.

AM: So how was your story with how you found it?

TA: I moved to Arizona to get away from the snow from Utah. And I was just like I’ve been grinding my whole life for physical activity, like riding a bike for hours on end, jogging for a few hours, going and swimming laps - like all of those are grinds, none of those are really that exciting.

And I just was like, I only want to do exercise now that I enjoy, because I’ve done so much unenjoyable exercise to me. And when I moved to Arizona in 2017, the neighborhood I moved into had some pickleball courts, and I was like I don’t know what those are, we googled it and did a little research. I took my 70 year-old neighbor who wasn’t working, and we would go over and figure out the game just by googling the rules in the middle of the day so we figured out how to play pickleball. And we both were immediately hooked.

So, we started, we joined the little neighborhood meetup on the mornings, and just kind of went from there. And, and then when COVID happened, I had to kind of readjust my business format of what I’d been doing, because I wasn’t able to go out and make appearances and this and that, and I was like I love pickleball. And now we’re kind of like in this little slow moment of time, let’s see if we can parlay my love for pickleball into being present in the community and in the sport and just the right timing, like it took off. Like if I could have had this timing with Bitcoin, I’d be like a trillionaire right now, maybe, maybe..

AM: Yeah, maybe.. because people go up, but they never say what they’d cash out, or that they lost their USB or keys, maybe that they sold at a low because they were desperate or whatever.. there’s lots of examples. People don’t factor if they’d sell on the upswings and cashed some out.

How is it working with the Pickleball leagues?

TA: I like it. The Carvana PPA Tour has had me do some interviews to get to know their players as people. Like that’s kind of been a little bit of a disconnect for them is getting the fan base to really know the players, rather than just see people playing pickleball on screen. So I’ve been fortunate to run some interviews with some of their players delving deeper into what makes them tick, who they are as people, and where they came from before pickleball. And so yeah, that has been fun and interesting.

AM: That’s super important. And so there’s so many stars and rising stars in the leagues. You know, what teams are you looking for? Who are some of your favorite players?

TA: I mean, I like the fiery ones. I don’t know if they’re my favorite people, but I like to watch them on the court the most because they get people amped and going and create a little controversy and stuff. But other than that, you know, I love, honestly, I’ve been working with Franklin pickleball now for six months, and they have a couple of my favorite players. Paris Todd. She’s comes from a tennis background. And and then Hayden Patrick Quinn, who’s like, yeah, he’s this young fire kid who’s like kind of getting under the skin of some of the older guys, which I love.

AM: Yeah, we just had a recent cover interview with Tyson McGuffin, who’s great on and off the court.

TA: Oh, yeah. Yeah, fiery.

AM: Right. But you have to you have to bring the receipts, at least -

TA: That’s right. You know, I mean, you don’t have to bring the receipts, but people respect you more if you do. Well, I mean, why I say that is like, if you stay fiery, I mean, you have to earn being fiery. Yes, I would hope. I think so. Unless it’s like, all right, we’ll leave it there. Yeah, no, I like Tyson, too. I told my daughters I was named after him, even though I’m probably 15 years older than. That’s good.

AM: Did they believe you?

TA: Just for half a second. Yeah, they were like, what? No.

AM: How many kids do you have?

TA: Two daughters. Ten and seven.

AM: So when did you first start using cannabis? Was it was it recreationally, medicinal, some combination or other?

TA: It was medicinal. I was having a lot of back pain. This is maybe 2000. Yeah, then in 2017/2018, kind of when I started playing pickleball. But it was mostly from picking up my kids so much, lifting them out of the crib. Like cribs are designed for you too, like, to hurt your back. It’s not like you can bend your legs and lift a kid out of a crib. You have to, like, hunch over the bar and then lift up. And so for some reason, I had this debilitating back pain, like bedridden. There were days I couldn’t walk. And I had, you know, taken handfuls of aspirin or whatever. And also I found some expired opioids from when my wife was pregnant going through her stuff after pregnancy, and tried those and was like, there’s a better way. I’ve only heard so many negatives about these medicines as bad for your liver bad and stomach lining, all of that stuff. And opioids are super addictive and terrible for you as well. And I said, I grew up raised Mormon.

And so it was like, you don’t do anything that is questionable in any capacity. But at 36/37, I was like, I have to try something better than what is available to me. And that’s the first time that I have tried cannabis. And it, for me, it worked so much better. It helped me sleep better, which is like the number one thing I needed was to be able to sleep well enough to recover and to heal. And so, yeah, big believer from there. It worked for me perfectly. And that’s what I mostly use it for still is sleep and recovery.

AM: And you’re working with Trulieve now as an ambassador?

TA: Yes, as an ambassador. They’re in the Pickleball game too. You know, I actually, Ethan Zahn, I don’t know if you know who he is. He won Survivor Africa, and he used cannabis products for during his fights with cancer. And so I knew that he had been working with Trulieve. So I heard of the name a lot, and they got into the Pickleball space, and reached out to me and were like, hey, we’d love to have you as a VIP, our guest at one of the Pickleball events. And I was like, oh, I already am in the pickleball space, but I would love to get to know you better because I already use your products to help me stay on top of my game in my life. That’s always the best scenario. Perfect. It was so cool.

AM: So what products were you using?

TA: I use their Sweet Talk gummies, and I’m mostly an edibles guy. And so I use those mostly for sleep. But once in a while, if I get invited to a real early game of Pickleball, a lot of these guys in Arizona, these old guys, they like to play like five in the morning before the heat kicks in.

And then I use some of their other stuff.

AM: So now for sleep, how long do you allow for when you take it before your target time to go to bed or do you look at it that way?

TA: Yeah, I do. I usually do half an hour to an hour, is when I like to be in bed after I take it and I’ll usually get home from Pickleball. I don’t take it every day. I don’t need it every day. But when I do, it’s definitely a much better option for me than anything else. And so when I do take it, it’s usually from late Pickleball and I’m too amped to fall asleep. So I take it as soon as I walk in the door, I take it, then I get my hydration, take a shower, go lay down and have a good night’s rest. When you take it, do you take it with the little fatty foods or substance or do you take it just by itself? I just take it plain by itself.

A lot of their products already have the CBD in it and stuff. So that’s terrific. Yeah. The CBD and seems to be a really nice effect with some products I’ve had.

AM: Yeah, I use cannabis actually in work and play and medicinal. So as a Celebrity Photographer, before every shoot, I smoke a little, get loose and to be creative. Yeah. I also have Gout and RA. So I use the products as I have some pain and imflamation and have to be very quick, flexible and steady.

What would you recommend for people who might not be so open minded towards cannabis use to think about? Are there some benefits or ways to think about it that might make some people reconsider it?

TA: I think you look at the side effects and the possible side effects of taking something else. That’s how I came to terms with it was when look[ing] at aspirin, all these over-the-counter medicines taken every day or multiple times a week, that’s going to take its toll on me, as well as opioids, which we know are highly addictive and very, very dangerous. And so for me, I was like, I don’t want to even have to deal with this, whether it’s months down the road, years down the road. All of that stuff adds up. And for me, I was like, a cannabis product that’s all natural for me is a much better solution.

And I went in and was like, if this works, this is what my path will be, because I already know that for me, this is better for my body.

AM: That’s terrific. And it seems like at least with edibles or gummies, there’s a way to take baby steps to see if you might like it comfortably at home. You could gradually increase your dose or the different things you use to maybe decide it without being overbearing, right?

TA: Yeah, exactly. And it tastes like candy. So it’s essentially, you know, you get like a little sweet treat, sweet top gummies, you get a little bit right before bed. It’s kind of a nice little taste and flavor. And yeah, like you said, like my wife uses them when she needs to fall asleep. She cuts them in half or in quarters. I take a whole 10mg gummy. And then if I go out early to play Pickleball, like I said, like in the mornings, my hamstrings or lower back will be really tight sometimes. And I take the Chilax. They’re only one milligram of THC and 20mg of CBD.

AM: Yeah, that’s a low dose. Yeah.

TA: So I’ll take two of those before I go play pickleball in the morning. And that kind of helps me loosen up so that I feel like I can move around normally.

AM: See, that’s great. Because we talked with some athletes that do incorporate cannabis use in their training, while they’re playing or competing, and then in their recovery. So it’s interesting to see the different persona types. You know, I think there’s some athletes that would not think to do that and have it just for recovery. And then other athletes would train with it and maybe participate with it. So have you found the game super enjoyable to or the competition a little more exciting? Or it’s just it’s such a low dose. It’s more just for aches and pains?

TA: It’s a low dose. It’s for aches and pains. I do notice that I play better Pickleball when I’m focused on playing Pickleball. And so I know when I take some cannabis, I kind of focus more on what I’m doing rather than let my mind wander off into like, did I get these bills paid? Do I have this meeting coming? And so I do naturally probably play a little bit better when I have done that, especially in the morning, for sure in the morning. Because I would be too tight and tired to get going at five or six in the morning when all these old guys like to play.

AM: Do you have any favorite strains, do you lean Indica or Sativa?

TA: I mean indica for sure if I’m sleeping or need to chill at night, and sativa in the day and just in low doses. So to sleep, I take 10mg of Indica and I use mostly I use this slumber. Okay. You can see that. And then the Chillax one, which is Sativa, but it’s only, you know, 1mg. So, and I have others. They have a whole line of them, you know, Hybrids, everything else. I’m not a sensitive person though, like it doesn’t matter what it is. You give me racing bikes as a pro cyclist, people be like, oh, this frame is so stiff. I can’t hardly. And I was like, I can’t tell the difference. So if there’s big differences, I can tell. But if there’s smaller differences..

AM: I’m a super Indica guy. OK, even when I’m using it when out and socializing, or being creative and productive, I still would be Indica. And in the last couple of years, I’m experimenting with Sativa and kind of pushing myself, because I feel a little hazy tension cerebrally at first with Sativa, but then I get through it and I really like the energy and the bright buzz aspect of some strains and Hybrids.

TA: And I was invited and went to their grow operation here in Phoenix. And they had you see all of the rooms with all the different strains lined up.

AM: Yeah, it’s a science. Yeah. Yeah.

TA: It’s always fun to be in those big rooms.

AM: It’s just ridiculous. And, you know, it just feels like a Mecca. Right.

So every time everyone talks to you, I guess Survivor always comes up. So, you know, our community definitely knows you from there. And we’d love to hear any key takeaways you have, or thoughts you had on the different seasons, or what your biggest takeaway was overall.

TA: My biggest takeaway overall from Survivor? I mean, honestly, I think the thing that is I hear a lot from people, from fans is, oh, I could never do that. You know, people are like, oh, I love Survivor. I love seeing you on there. I love the show, but I could never do that. And that’s not true. Anybody, almost anybody could do it.

Like you get out there, you rely on a group, you’re put in this stressful situation that you have to figure out, you’ll figure it out. And it’s like I didn’t do any special training to be out there. A lot of these people didn’t. You see a lot of people that are kind of incompetent out there. Like if you truly want to be on Survivor and are thinking you can’t do it because it’s too difficult, that’s absolutely not true. You can get out there and do it. But is there something, training or skills you could build up before getting on there? Yeah, there is. I mean, the part that’s hardest to train for is the lack of sleep, the lack of food, the discomfort. Like you can’t train for that.

Otherwise, the game is primarily a social game. And if you can operate civilly while under the stresses of no sleep, no food, no cleanliness, extreme conditions, then you’ve got it. That’s the name of the game is keeping your wits when you have nothing else around you. But it’s also why the show’s been on so long because so many people can’t do that.

Like you get out there, you rely on a group, you’re put in this stressful situation that you have to figure out, you’ll figure it out. And it’s like, I didn’t do any special training to be out there. A lot of these people didn’t. You see a lot of people that are kind of incompetent out there. Like if you truly want to be on Survivor and are thinking you can’t do it because it’s too difficult, that’s absolutely not true. You can get out there and do it. But is there something, training or skills you could build up before getting on there? Yeah, there is. I mean, the part that’s hardest to train for is the lack of sleep, the lack of food, the discomfort. Like you can’t train for that.

Otherwise, the game is primarily a social game. And if you can operate civilly, while under the stresses of no sleep, no food, no cleanliness, extreme conditions, then you’ve got it. That’s the name of the game - keeping your wits when you have nothing else around you. But it’s also why the

show’s been on so long because so many people can’t do that. So they lose their minds. Like you watch the show and you’re like, that wasn’t very smart gameplay. And you’re like, yeah, that person’s not thinking clearly. They haven’t eaten in two weeks. So, yeah, preparation-wise, I think the best thing you can do is steer away from anything like real people, and quitting coffee because it’s like they want their coffee every single morning. You don’t get coffee every morning on Survivor. So something like that. And then building up your endurance and grip strength, work on puzzles, that type of thing. But in the end, it’s social and political. So whatever you can do to get in the right headspace to be chill, even when everything around you is maybe not, that’s where you got to be.

AM: What should we look for in the upcoming season? Are there things you’re looking out for?

TA: The things I’m looking out for most are there’s two players on season 49 that will be on season 50, the major all-star season after 2020. And so I’m watching those two players. Why did they get selected for 50? Why are they playing two times in a row? What did they do on season 49 that’s so impressive that they’re back again for another season without any of the fans’ reaction to them? The production just figured that those two would be good enough to come back for another season.

AM: So this time we’ll both be watching and maybe having a gummy and enjoying how it unfolds, huh?

TA: That’s right. I love it. Every season, it’s always different. That’s the beauty of it. I like to watch it for the strategy. Everyone has their own thing. My kids like to watch the challenges. They love the little games and stuff like that. I like how the strategy unfolds, thinking what I would do in that situation. If there’s something out of the box you could do that might be even stronger, that type of thing.

IG @tysonapostol

PHOTOGRAHY COURTESY | Tyson Apostol

Read the SEP ISSUE #117 of Athleisure Mag and see GUMMIES & ZZZ | Tyson Apostol in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | BIOGRAPH

We sat down with Dr. Michael Doney, Executive Medical Director of Biograph, the world’s most advanced preventive health and diagnostic clinic that is on a mission to drive meaningful advances in human healthspan and lifespan.

The flagship Biograph San Francisco Bay Area clinic opened to a small cohort of patients in 2020. The brand emerged from stealth this year, opening its second clinic location in New York City in early 2025.

This preventative health clinic was founded by John Hering and Dr. Peter Attia. It was founded after a cancer diagnosis of Hering’s best friend which sparked his deep belief that there should be an emphasis on preventative healthcare and with the proper application of advanced medical technology and early detection, more lives can be saved. With Dr. Attia and a team of experts aiming to address the gaps in traditional healthcare, the main goal was to create a clinic that focuses on prevention, precision, and performance rather than reactive care so you can live longer and better.

Their data driven approach provides a complete picture of your health across the 5 pillars most critical to long term health: cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, cancer, and quality of life.

In a single day they deliver over 30 assessments and collect and collate 1,000+ data points. By curating the most advanced technologies, they provide a complete health picture.

Ultimately, a preventive health clinic is about partnership. It’s not just a single appointment but a continuous journey where they help you translate data into meaningful, actionable insights and create a personalized plan designed to maximize your healthspan and vitality.

Biograph offers up to 30+ advanced assessments, providing a comprehensive picture of your health through cutting-edge diagnostics. The specific assessments included depend on your membership tier. Core Membership includes essential diagnostics such as Whole-Body MRI, VO2 Max testing, Genetic Testing, and DEXA Body Composition Analysis. The Black Membership adds advanced screenings like CT Coronary Angiography, Multi-Cancer Early Detection Testing, and Multi-Modal Brain Health Assessments.”

They have private suites to serve as sanctuaries where members can disconnect from external pressures and immerse fully in their personalized health experience. Each suite is thoughtfully appointed to create a restorative, stress-free environment tailored to the needs of high-performing individuals who often arrive with very little downtime.

BIOGRAPH

NYC

27 Park Row

NY, NY 10038

San Francisco Bay Area

2850 S Delaware St Ste 100

San Mateo, CA 94403

biograph.com

PHOTO CREDITS | Adam Rouse

Read the SEP ISSUE #117 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Biograph in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | AESCAPE

Aescape officially launched in 2024 after 7 years in stealth. People choose Aescape because it delivers intelligent massage for every body—giving you total control over pressure, duration, music, and focus areas, all personalized in real time. It’s consistent, private, convenient, and designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Aescape is a nod to everyone’s need for time away from the grind of daily life, a personal moment to recharge, and restore. “Aes” carries deeper inspiration: It’s drawn from Aesculapius, the Roman name for Asclepius—the Greek god of medicine and healing. His mastery of restoring health and balance has long symbolized the power of care and recovery. That lineage connects directly to their focus on intelligent and restorative massage experiences designed for every body.

You can experience Aescape at more than 100 partner locations across the U.S.—from fitness clubs to spas, hotels, and wellness studios. This includes Equinox clubs, select Hand & Stone and Life Time Fitness locations, Ritz-Carlton resorts, and more. You don’t need to be a member to book, and the full list of locations with booking links is available on the site.

The Aescape experience starts with light compression apparel that helps the system deliver precision and consistency. Once you’re set, the table begins with a full-body scan, capturing over 1.2 million data points to map your body in detail, and tailor every stroke to you.

Their award-winning massage table has been engineered from the ground up for comfort and performance. Integrated into the table are advanced robotic arms that move in sync—delivering consistent pressure, heated touch points, and thorough body area coverage.

Before your session begins, you’ll use their app or website to choose your desired massage length and areas of focus. Once you’re on the table, control stays with you through an tablet, designed to fit seamlessly below the face cradle. From there you can adjust pressure in real time, skip to another region or pause entirely, select music or immersive visual environments, and favorite parts of the massage for the next time.

Aescape offers a full range of sessions—15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes. You can choose to focus on specific areas like shoulders, glutes, hamstrings, or calves, or opt for a complete full-body experience. Some massages are designed to deeply relax you, while others are built to energize and power you up.

Aescape One, is their first-ever home model available for pre-order. It’s the same advanced table you’ll find at their partner locations, designed for in-home use with an evolving massage library, regular software updates, and dedicated concierge support. A refundable deposit secures your spot for the Founder’s Edition, with delivery targeted for 2026.

AESCAPE

aescape.com

IG @letsaescape

PHOTO CREDITS | Aescape

Read Athleisure Mag’s SEP ISSUE #117 and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Aescape in mag.

BAKE CLUB RULES (NO RULES!) | CHRISTINA TOSI

There is nothing like ending your meal with the perfect treat or even giving your self something special while you’re out and about! Milk Bar is the perfect treat that in addition to being innovative in the way that flavors come together, it’s also the nostalgia of it all! Whether you’re popping into one of their bakeries (5 locations in NYC, Chicago, LA, Las Vegas, and DC), or shopping online – there is something about enjoying their cookies, cakes, milks etc that is utterly satisfying. Chef Christina Tosi (Netflix’s Bake Squad and With Love, Meghan and FX’s The Bear) is the creator of Milk Bar which is spin-off from David Chang’s Momofuku restaurant group.

We had the pleasure of sitting down talking with this founder, entrepreneur, baker, and TV personality/host to talk about how she came into the industry, her iconic Milk Bar, and her recent collaboration with Premier Protein which is available through the end of August where you can enjoy treats made within this collaboration - Blueberry Pancake Super Cookie! It’s made with Premier Protein Vanilla 100% Whey Powder and you are obtaining 10g of Protein in this chewy cookie along with tangy blueberries and decadent maple notes which is satisfying.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first baked good that you fell in love with?

CHEF CHRISTINA TOSI: Well technically it wasn’t a baked good- it was my grandma’s oatmeal cookie DOUGH! She didn’t realize I was sneaking punches of it as a kid every time she looked away. I love the act of mixing and baking and giving away cookies, but I REALLY loved that dough.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be a chef and to work in pastry?

CHEF CT: When it was time to enter the workforce, the thought of taking a desk job terrified me. When I asked myself what I wanted to do for a living every day for the rest of my life- I only had one answer: “make cookies.”

AM: How did you come to the Momofuku world initially?

CHEF CT: I met Dave through a chef friend when Dave needed help writing a HACCP plan for the health department. We got along royally and it was clear he needed some help building his restaurant empire, so I started working with him in a non-party chef capacity to start. But bakers gonna bake and eventually I found myself working ops by day and moonlighting as Momo’s first and only pastry chef.

AM: What led to the creation of Milk Bar?

CHEF CT: I wanted to bridge my fine dining, formally trained pastry chef background with my home baker upbringing.

AM: You have done a number of collaborations and your latest one is taking place this month with Premier Protein! Can you tell us more about why you partnered with them and tell us more about this partnership?

CHEF CT: I love the fact that Milk Bar and Premier Protein both see the world in the same way - we both love to show up and make people’s lives more positive, more fulfilling, more full of brightness and life. And we believe that flavor is at the heart of that (no sacrificing when it comes to living life to its fullest or most nutritious!). I also LOVED the challenge of creating baked goods that not only satisfied the sweet tooth in us but also kept us feeling satisfied and powerful through the day. I’ve become a protein hound myself off the clock and was really inspired to work with my incredible team to create baked goods that look as good as they taste and deliver on every promise - taste at the tippy top!

AM: What is your creative process when it comes to adding items to this menu?

CHEF CT: We like to define a flavor story first - is it a time, a food memory, a dish, a season that we’re trying to deconstruct and reconstruct into a cookie, cake, pie, ice cream, latte, etc., then we got at it with all our might trading notes, building spreadsheets of formulas and revisions as we tinker and taste, tinker and taste. When we think something is ready for prime time, we hold a larger tasting with the team to get as much feedback as possible across different pallets. It’s really fun work, but sometimes really harrowing. It took us 2 whole years to get our Birthday Cake just right before we put it on the menu. If we’re not obsessed with it, we can’t expect you to be and so we keep working.

AM: Why do you think Milk Bar resonates with so many people?

CHEF CT: We exist to democratize dessert - to make people happy with dessert and we spend a lot of time thinking, seating, creating and tinkering to find the bullseye of food that makes people feel seen and known and loved, but also new and full of potential and excited about what’s to come in life. I know, that’s a lot for answering soft serve or a fudgy centered cookie or layer cake to hold, but I think we do a pretty good job of it and the proof is in the proverbial pudding.

AM: We loved seeing Bake Club during the pandemic in our IG feeds and you recently released a cookbook of the same name last Fall. Why did you want to write this cookbook and what are you excited for readers and bakers to know about it?

CHEF CT: I love demystifying baking - love letting folks in behind the curtain, give them the best recipes, great tips that unlock their creativity and potential, and above all else create a community of fun. So from homemade sprinkles to soft pretzels, chocolate mirror cake and creme brûlée to the best ever chocolate chip cookies ice cream cones and pb s’mores bars, I got you. All you have to do is show up to a world full of must-have kitchen moves. I’ll be your guide!

AM: We always enjoy seeing your projects whether they are your collabs, limited edition launches, seeing you host/judging or appearing on S3 of The Bear – are there any upcoming projects that you want to share with us that we can keep an eye out for?

CHEF CT: We have some really fun Bake Clubs we’ll drop in the coming weeks, and there’s some fun places we’ll show up in your lives when you least expect it this fall and winter - but mum’s the word beyond that :)

IG @milkbarstore

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Milk Bar

Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see BAKE CLUB RULES (NO RULES!) | Christina Tosi in mag.

DRINKS WITH BENEFITS | DAN ABRAMS + AMANDA PAUL-GARNIER

We caught up with The Daily Pour (formerly Bottle Raiders) Founder/Publisher, Dan Abrams, and VP Marketing, Amanda Paul-Garnier, to chat about the exciting Drinks With Benefits, the first Zero Proof Festival, coming to New York (Altman Building, September 27, 2025).

At Drinks With Benefits Festival guests will discover 50+ Non-Alc brands to sip and savor. Taste innovative and sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages, botanical spirits and functional elixirs in the Tasting Gallery, and meet and connect with industry innovators. Stroll through the Non-Alcoholic Beer Garden and Hemp Beverages with music. Experiment in the interactive Mixology Lab, with non-alcoholic cocktail mixing demos. Take in the immersive experience in the Drink Rhythms Lounge DJ Sets, Podcasting Lounge, and mindful experiences in the Meditation Tent. Pair your drinking journey with 3 Omakase-style courses by top chefs for VIP Ticket-holders. In the Cipriani Cafe, their Chef will serve up complimentary pasta tastings. Reknowned for pioneering the Bellini, Cipriani will pair these dishes with their Bellini Zero Cipriani! The Drinks With Benefits Festival will also feature the Zero Proof Choice Awards, crowning the best winners in Non-Alc and Functional beverages.

ATHLEISURE MAG: So what led you to start the first Zero Proof Festival in NYC?

DAN ABRAMS: We had started a spirits media company that was initially focused on whiskey. And we were planning on expanding, and we did, to gin and rum and tequila. And as we were building out the business, we realized that functional beverages are becoming just an enormous part of spirits. And we can't really create a forward-thinking spirits business without making functional beverages a serious part of what we're doing.

And so as we came to that realization, we started talking about and thinking about events, in addition to doing content. Because we had acquired a company that was doing at the time 12 events around the country for whiskey and tequila. We've now expanded that to 15, so events were in the DNA of the business.

But now we were thinking, let's go big! We were stunned considering how significant a business non-alcohol and functional beverages have become, that there hasn't been a major awards in New York. There hasn't been a major event in conjunction with wellness in New York, almost anywhere. And so we thought, what a great opportunity to be on the forefront of this. And those were the seeds behind Drinks With Benefits.

AM: So what types of non-alcoholic or functional beverages would be showcased at this specific event?

AMANDA PAUL-GARNIER: So we have over 60 brands covering non-alcoholic wines, non-alcoholic beers, functional hemp and functional non-hemp products. Brands, probably, you know, like Ghia, Kin Euphorics, Athletic Brewing Company, Bero, But also brands you probably don't know that are very high quality, like Opius Elixirs, which is probably one of the best brands out there.

AM: Yeah, I would say on a personal note, I was diagnosed with gout in the middle of college. Beer is my kryptonite. So I've had to drink clear alcohol spirits or non-alcoholic beverages personally. So when I tried Ghia, for example, I couldn't believe the complexities that they put into a beverage like that.

So the space is growing. But in addition to growing, the formulations are getting better and better. Isn't that true?

APG: Yeah, I would definitely agree with that. We actually just talked with Melanie Masarin, from Ghia. And she was talking about her inspiration for starting the product. But just her integrity in terms of the quality of the ingredients she uses, she's very inspired from the Mediterranean, but she's also French and Italian. So nothing in Ghia is fake or superficial. But she also teases the whole concept that, you know, of like fake ingredients or say, people concerned about the sugar content with non-alcoholic beverages. But she was like, there's a difference between synthetic sugar and actual real sugar. And, you know, what she's trying to create and she believes the next forefront of the frontier for non-alcoholic beverage will be with people seeing those quality ingredients, real ingredients over anything processed. And I think that's one of the driving forces behind this, is that we're seeing in the non-alcoholic spirits industry that people are clamoring for an evaluation of quality. And they're basically the industry folks are saying we care about quality.

DA: This isn't just non-alcoholic wine. We want people to be thinking about what are our ingredients? How are we doing this? How are we distilling this? The same way people do with spirits. And I think that's why both our awards and Drinks With Benefits are really resonating.

AM: And, you know, in preparing for discussing the event, so I came up with the notion of things need to be tasty, but also things need to be useful or new and exciting also. So what kind of categories or different types of vendors or drinks are there available at this Drinks With Benefits Festival as this is new to a lot of communities.

APG: The festival is tiered as far as different categories with the space laid out exactly to respond to that, as for a lot of consumers, this is new and we wanted to kind of guide them through the experience.

So upon arrival, they'll get a consumer discovery map where all the non-alcoholic wines are in one area, all the non-alcoholic spirits and bitters are in one area. And then as you go downstairs, you will find the alcohol-free beer garden and then the hemp and functional space. So we've set this up so that they can discover it by category.

AM: That's great. And then there's also immersive wellness experiences as well, right?

APG: Yes. So we partnered with Sage and Sound, whose Upper East Side wellness studio has a meditation experience. And that will be led by Dara Hart, who's a Reiki master and spiritual guide. So we wanted to have, you know, something wellness adjacent within the experience to really bring to life that, you know, drinking less but better is about overall wellness. It's not just about drinks, even though they're a huge part. It's an overarching thing.

And additionally, we will have live podcasting with Samantha Feher from the podcast Caps Lock, who will be covering different topics on wellness; helping educate the consumer on different aspects of wellness; and transparency and ingredients.

AM: And what types of attendees do you foresee coming?

DA: You know, we see it being a mix. This is not an industry event, but we certainly expect some industry folks will be there. But this is primarily a consumer event. We're targeting a bit of a younger demographic. I mean, that's part of it. We just did a big redesign for our website and our app, now called The Daily Pour. And part of the reason for that is our doubling down in the Non-Alc space, but also the fact that we really are trying to target the 25 to 40 year old demo of people, who have expendable income but who care about health and wellness.

And by the way, it doesn't mean that they don't drink alcohol. Right. It just means that for a lot of them, they do drink alcohol. They just are trying to drink less.

AM: That actually leads me into my next question about Gen Z and millennials in particular and whether they're seeing this as a specific intentional choice versus a substitute. So as people are looking to what to imbibe or include in their lifestyle routines, how do you see the difference if there are between different types of consumers that some are just looking for this and others maybe are moderating alcohol consumption?

DA: So we think the targeting is the same. Which is, it's about quality beverages. Whether you are trying to drink less; whether you don't drink at all; whether you are moving from alcohol to hemp; whatever the case may be - we think that the piece that's been missing is focusing on the quality. And that's how we started this business.

We started this as a consumer facing business to say to people, we're going to help you drink whiskey and tequila and rum smarter and better. All we're doing is applying that same philosophy to non-alcohol and functional beverages. So it applies to all of them with regard to and again, that's why I think it's so important that I keep emphasizing that we're doing these awards in conjunction with the event. Because it's the same focus, which is quality. What is the quality? What are the ingredients? Because that's what drinking fine spirits is all about.

AM: And you guys are having a Omakase Food Hall at the event, which I think would get us to go to most events. What's involved with that?

APG: So we wanted to recreate experiences for consumers where they would normally have alcohol, but really show them they could have fun with non-alcoholic and alternative beverages. So we created a pairing experience with well-known restaurants in New York, including the Butcher's Daughter, Ado Lei, and Seatopia. Basically with that VIP ticket, consumers will get to go to two different counters and have a pairing experience where they have a light bite paired with an alternative beverage.

AM: There's also a mixology area for the Drinks With Benefit Festival. What kinds of things would guests be able to mix?

APG: So yes, we have the mixology lab. And we really wanted to bring to life, have a space within the event that made education fun. So The Pathfinder, For Bitter For Worse, FLUÈRE, those are some of the brands that have taken over the space. And they'll be doing education, cocktail making sessions, guided tastings.

The Alchemist Kitchen, which is in Soho, they will do a lot of elixirs, and a guided education with how to make cocktails with different plants and herbs and things like that. It'll be a really fun space for consumers to have a hands-on education or edutainment experience.

AM: For non-alcoholic consumers, are they generally narrow-minded towards the areas they're focused on? Or are they very open-minded, where they would like to try the different categories from beer, to a CBD, to maybe a sparkling spritz or something?

DA: So look, yeah, obviously, it completely depends on the person. There are some people who simply don't want anything that is in any way mind-altering, right? So they don't want functional alternatives. They don't want alcohol. That's one. And that's probably a much smaller base of consumers. There's still people we're appealing to, but they are a much smaller group. The much larger group are the people who drink a little.

They also try functional beverages. They try non-alcohol. They're interested in different areas. There are some folks who only want functional beverages and not alcohol. So it really depends. But what we're finding, based on the studies, is that most of the people who drink these non-alcohol and functional beverages also drink alcohol.

AM: That's super interesting. The space is definitely booming as consumers are finding multiple winners, in multiple categories, as open-minded in trying new things. And there might even be new categories that come out in the future. What are some untapped areas you could see now? Or do you think pretty much we're hitting where we would be for several years to come?

DA: I'd say the untapped is really the increase in the quality and the focus on ingredients. In a way that’s 10 years, 15 years ago, it was, ‘oh it's just a non-alcoholic wine.’ Or hey, I mean, ‘you probably know this from it as a non-alcoholic beer or whatever it is.’ And it's like, ‘OK, is it good? What is it made from?’ So that's the difference.

And I think that's the future in terms of where people are going, which is why we're trying to ride that wave of particularly younger people who have been brought up, focused on quality in a world where the evaluation of quality hasn't been so focused on non-alcoholic spirits.

AM: Sure. And do you see that a lot of these consumers are somewhat sophisticated where the benefits will be worth the price points?

DA: They're becoming more sophisticated. And I think that is the whole philosophy behind what we're doing, is that we're trying to help them become more sophisticated. We're the place that can say to them, we know you want to be more sophisticated. Now let us help you get there in a really accessible way.

AM: Yeah. Master edutainer, Dan. I see that totally. I learn stuff from all your other groundbreaking shows, I just know a couple of things what to do, not to do now because of you.

DA: My strengths are condensing complicated information into a pretty simple and accessible way to say it. We're kind of doing the same thing here with drinks. We are taking a confusing world of drinks and trying to make it a lot more understandable and to help them make choices.

And that's not completely dissimilar from what I do in my TV world. Sure. And then also some humor here and there.

AM: Totally. So and then after New York, are there other cities you're looking to take this festival to?

DA: Yeah, we haven't figured it out. I mean, we definitely are thinking about doing more. We want to first get this one under our belts before we start actively planning the next one. We want to see what went right, what went wrong, where could we improve? And that will help us determine, should we do another one in New York? Should we think about one in a different city? Our whiskey and tequila events, we're seeing great success recently in launches in some smaller cities like Scottsdale, Arizona or Austin, Texas and places like that. And so would that be our next? I don't know yet.

New York is a big swing. You know, and honestly, if we weren't kind of first to market on this, we probably wouldn't have started in New York. But I think that's why we felt comfortable starting in New York, because we were stunned that this hasn't existed yet.

AM: Tell us more about The Daily Pour, the organizers of the Drinks With Benefits Festival.

DA: Yeah, it's a consumer guide to drinking better. And so it has what we do - we have an app that aggregates reviews and ratings, some of which we do, some of which is from other places. But it allows it to be a kind of one stop shop to tell you, is this any good? I mean, I use it all the time when I'm thinking about buying a whiskey or something, because it allows me to see numerous aggregated reviews. And a lot of these are enthusiasts who've done reviews who might not have put a number on it. And we translate it into a number.

So the app is very useful. The website covers different issues in the spirits industry. We've recently been focusing on one particular beverage in a particular week or a particular month, which is another new thing we've done.

But, you know, the Daily Pour literally went live two days ago (formerly Bottle Raiders). And it's just a fundamentally different vibe. Bottle Raiders was initially designed based on a whiskey drinker.. And now you're in a much brighter, more vibrant place because we want it to be more inclusive of the non-alcoholic and wellness community as well.

APG: I think The Daily Pour is meeting the consumer where they are today, covering cross categories. So it's covering ‘I do still want to drink, but I want to drink better.’ So it's covering spirits. Also, it’s ‘I want to have that great margarita, but I don't want to have that during the week.’ Additionally it’s covering functional beverages, ‘and I want to learn about Non-Alc.” So I think that a lot of the other websites treat Non-Alc and alternative beverages like a footnote. Like it's really hard to find them. If you go to certain websites, they have it hidden under culture. I'm like, I don't know how anyone would find that. So we don't want to treat it like that.

I think about the scoring. I think that's extremely helpful to have this kind of meta score, our signature rating system that aggregates everyone's point of view and just gives space that is sometimes hard to understand.

AM: And the app is free. Are there premium plans to it or features?

APG: Yes, and then if you get the premium subscription, that's like $5 a month. And what are the benefits of that, so it saves your taste list. You get access to certain events and kind of discounts on certain things that we offer, exclusive content, things like that.

AM: That's terrific. And I also wanted to ask about Ev & Em Vineyards, Dan.

DA: So Ev & Em is a winery that I acquired in early 2021. It was right in the heart of COVID and the winery owners had kind of given up in COVID. And I had a friend who is one of the pioneers of the North Fork wine scene who called me and said, hey, you mentioned that you were interested in buying a winery. Were you serious? And I said, yeah, I was serious. Because I told you if I ever saw something really interesting that I would let you know.

And this is really interesting. It has one of the oldest planted vineyards on the North Fork. It has a beautiful location. It just needs some love. It needs some new thoughts about how to do the winemaking. And you could have an A-list vineyard.

And he was right. Even by the ‘22 Vintage, which was released in some of it in ‘23, some of it only now for the Reds, we're creating luxury wines in Long Island. So these are wines that we think can compete with California, Oregon, Washington, et cetera, in really all varietals. And so that's been super exciting!

AM: And there are multiple offerings. There's a Reserve, correct?

DA: There is. Yeah, we're making everything from Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris. I mean, we've got a whole range of offerings.

And in some of those, we have a Reserve. So depending on the year, for example in ‘22, we had a number of Reserve wines on the Reds, some of which actually haven't even been released yet. But our Reserve Red ‘22, super proud of that.

‘23 was a tougher year for us, but ‘24 was amazing. So we're very confident about that ‘24 Vintage that's coming out. And ‘25 looks great as well.

 You can find out more about Drinks with Benefits Festival and get your ticket (General Admission is still available as VIP is sold out) by visiting their site. In our SEP ISSUE #117 which drops on Sep 30th, we will also recap this event as well.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

POCONO MAPLE WATER

We enjoyed a Press Trip earlier this month at Pocono Mountain Farms in the Pocono Mountains this month.

It was an honor to learn about the process of sourcing and making Pocono Maple Water and Pocono Mountain Maple Syrup. Tapped each Spring from organic maple trees, the Maple Water was refreshingly, lightly sweet straight from tapped trees from the mountain. It is only sourced briefly for a window of a few weeks each year.

It is inspiring that Maple Sap is a single-ingredient that serves a subtly sweet taste as a clear, hydrating water before it is syrup, as intended and provided by nature and time straight from Maple Trees.

We toured the farm to learn about how trees are tapped; chewed lines are replaced and see the vast sections of carefully nurtured and maintained maple trees.

Entering their property store, we sampled an array of fresh syrups including classic, Elderberry, Bourbon Barrel Aged (non-alcoholic), and Cinnamon Vanilla. We especially liked the Bourbon Syrup added to some roasted coffee, a nice combination we will continue to incorporate from time to time. An experimental Jalapeno Maple Syrup hit nicely and we look forward to cooking with it to bring out even more heat.

We chatted with owner Nicole Bentler, who oversees/manages the serene 450-acre property with her team.

The backdrop of the water and syrup was the remarkable landscape. We were taken aback with the trees and foliage, sunrays and natural foliage. As fortune would have it, our time synced up with a rare shooting star event, where we gazed at a bright moon that dovetailed into a midnight starry show.

The next afternoon, their on-premises Captain took us around the lake prior to an evening supper event at the Lakehouse. Maple ingredients were interwoven with a beautifully prepared meal by Chef Kate Woehrle from neighboring The Lodge at Woodloch.

We connected with others through conversation, games and activities, to share and continue realizing our intentions.

From our soothing sound bath, Yurt experience to sharing unique memories over an oversized twilight S’more fire pit, we expanded our minds and our spirits, in addition to our culinary journey.

Ultimately, it was clear that this Maple Water should be appreciated for it’s taste and hydration features, as well as how sparingly and where it naturally is sourced, and how it’s offered and mindfully consumed. We’re back, the office stocked with ample supplies of Pocono Maple Water, an array of Pocono Maple Syrups and assorted hats, hoodies, and goodies. We look forward to cooking with and adding to some favorite dishes and snacks. We know that we’ll smile and resonate about the Farm, the Boathouse on the Lake, and Orchard.

IG @poconomountainmaple

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Paul Farkas

Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see POCONO MAPLE WATER in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | DESIERTO AZUL

We sat down with Fabrizio Cavallo, founder of Desierto Azul located in Baja California Sur in Mexico. This resort focuses on the conscious traveler - someone who moves through the world with intention. They choose destinations, accommodations, and experiences that align with their values. It’s about curiosity and connection, but also about impact. They seek places that honor nature, support local communities, and encourage deeper presence. At Desierto Azul, they see their guests as people who aren’t just looking to escape, but to return to themselves, to the earth, and to a slower, more thoughtful rhythm of life.

There's something about Baja California Sur. It's raw and rugged, yet deeply serene, where the desert meets the sea making for a unique atmosphere. The Baja Vibe is unhurried, soulful, and grounded in simplicity. Todos Santos, embodies this energy: a creative enclave that blends surf culture with a rich artistic spirit and a strong sense of community. It’s a place where the beaches are still untouched, dirt roads give way to beautiful boutique hotels, and giant cacti rule the desert.

Desierto Azul is rooted in a 360° approach to conscious living, one that nurtures the body, respects the earth, and creates space for inner quiet. Every element here, from our toxin-free design to our plant-based culinary experiences, invites a gentle reset.

The founders merge acrchitecture, natural materials, and healing through food for their guests to enjoy in an effort of conscious, sustainable living. This petite hotel is designed with care, authenticity, and reverence for nature.

This hotel has 4 rooms which allows for an intimate experience. They are desugned with natural materials, organic textures, and calming tones that mirror the Baja landscape. All rooms have private terraces that include hammocks, desert and pool views, organic cotton bedding, pour-over coffee sets, and organic snacks in the mini fridge.

There is an onsite gluten free and dairy free bakery called PanVero that features a variety of baked goods such as muffins, cookies, and focaccia, all made using whole flours like chickpea, almond, oat, brown rice, and sorghum as well as elixirs, smoothies, and fresh juices, ensuring your wellness experience starts from what you put into your body.

Their open-air Plant-Based Cooking Studio, is the heart of our nourishment philosophy. It offers an immersive, hands-on workshops centered around whole, nutrient-dense foods. It's not just about learning recipes it's about reconnecting with the way we feed ourselves. You'll come away with a new understanding of plant-based living, rooted in flavor, intention, and joy.

DESIERTO AZUL

Camino a, Las Playitas

Las Tunas, 23300 Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, Mexico

desiertoazulbaja.com

IG @desierto.azul.baja

PHOTO CREDIT | Ricardo Farias Arauzo

Read the JUL ISSUE #115 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Desierto Azul in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | OLADA YOGA

When we're traveling, we enjoy dropping into a class and if you happen to be in the beach town of Carpinteria, CA, we suggest Olada Yoga at Linden Square, which opened this month. Casey Glassman earned a BS from Cornell University and a Master's Degree and is a licensed mental health therapist. Through her work, she found the impact that yoga has as a means for balance and well-being in a demanding profession. She saw the connection between mental health and yoga and became a certified yoga teacher and completed her 500-hour training under Meghan Currie in Bali. She trained in mat and reformer Pilates at the Pilates Sports Center in LA.

She created Olada Yoga where Ola is Hawaiian for life, health, vitality, and wellness Lada is the Baltic goddess of love, beauty, and harmony. Olada revolves around mindfulness, connection and holistic well-being. They emphasise the importance of fostering a deep connection between the mind, body and spirit through the practice of yoga and Pilates.

The studio space is one that evokes calm, serenity, warmth, and inspiration. It is an airy, inviting space, where natural light pours in. You can look forward to an experience that looks and feels more like a luxury wellness spa or home, than a fitness studio.

You can enjoy taking Reformer Pilates and yoga in 2 spaces that are separated by a movable wall that can be opened to creaye a large space for immersive wellness workshops and events. One studio is fully equipped with Allegro 2 Reformers by Balanced Body, supporting dynamic, athletic-style Pilates classes. The adjacent studio hosts a variety of yoga styles, including vinyasa, power, and sculpt, providing something for every level and preference.

There is also a beautifully curated retail space that reflects its holistic approach to wellness. Guests can shop a selection of curated stylish activewear, and premium skincare products.

OLADA YOGA

5010 7th St,

Carpinteria, CA 9301

oladalife.com

IG @oladalife

PHOTO CREDITS | Olada Life

Read the JUN ISSUE #114 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Olada Yoga in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | NORDIC STRONG

We're always looking for our next studio fitness to try out. Nordic Strong started in Copenhagan and this Summer will have a pop up in Sag Harbor from Memorial Day - Labor Day before opening a new location in the Flatiron District of NYC this Fall! Nicoline Roth is the Founder/CEO of this studio. She was born and raised in Copenhagen where she enjoyed hiking in the mountains in the Summer and cross-country skiing in the winter. Her workouts were rooted in nature, connection, and simplicity.

Nordic Strong's flagship studio opened in Copenhagen in November 2022. Every part of the brand - from the design to the name - reflects a deep connection to the Nordic “way of life.” Nordic speaks to the founder's roots in nature, movement, and a culture that prioritizes wellness, simplicity, and balance. It's about a mindset as opposed to a geographical reference. Strong refers to both the physical and mental elements. In addition to building physical strength in these classes, it's important to have inner strength, presence, confidence, and community that their training style and physical space help to cultivate.

There are 3 class formats which are different in style and intensity, but are centered around their patented fitness machine inspired by cross-country skiing.

Nordic Strong is their signature class that fuses strength with high energy, offering a full-body workout that combines intervals on the machine with floor-based work using dumbbells.

Nordic Cardio turns up the pace and is rooted in endurance-style training and focuses on getting your heart rate up through fast-paced intervals. You move between the machine and dynamic bodyweight exercises, and it’s all about boosting cardiovascular fitness and stamina.

Nordic Sculpt shifts into a slower, more controlled gear. It focuses on precision, balance, and deep muscle activation. The movements are inspired by Pilates and are designed to strengthen the muscles you don’t always target in high-intensity workouts. Every session ends with breathwork to help reset and ground you before heading back into your day.

The studio is intentional by design. The lounge and reception area are light, calm, and welcoming, furnished with Scandanavian design pieces that make it feel elevated but still cozy. Once you step into the training room, it’s darker, more focused, and designed to help you lock into your workout.

The lighting is inspired by the Northern Lights and changes throughout the class in intensity and color, emulating the parallel physical journey throughout a session.

NORDIC STRONG POP-UP

11 Bridge St

Sag Harbor, NY 11963

nordicstrong.com

IG @nordicstrong

PHOTO CREDITS | Nordic Strong

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Nordic Strong in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | PARK HYATT MARRAKECH

There are all kinds of vacations that we can take and Park Hyatt Marrakech in Morocco which is 3 hours outside from Paris is definitely on our list as it sits on the Al Maaden Estate. This is an exotic getaway which is sunny year around. Coming here means having serenity and authentic experiences that are truly immersive.

WIth outdoor swimming pools, a 2,200 m² spa with hammam, sauna and signature treatments, an 18-hole golf course by Kyle Phillips, not to mention a generous and inspired gastronomic offerings.

Created by Executive Chef Issam Rhachi, guests can enjoy the Pavillon Terrace & Pool, an elegant Mediterranean table with sunny accents, which offers creative and daring cuisine, with a Nikkei twist. You can enjoy dishes by the pergolas, outdoor swimming pools, with the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop.

On the other hand, TFAYA - Arabesque Brasserie pays tribute to the richness of Morocco's culinary heritage. In a bright and refined décor, each dish celebrates the treasures of the local terroir between the intersection of tradition and modernity.

On Friday and Saturday nights, TFAYA is known for its Arabesque Evenings which is a festive and sensory event. Guests can enjoy a generous Moroccan buffet, live show cooking and a live band with Moroccan and Andalusian influences.

These offerings truly allow for a luxurious experience every time you are enjoying a meal! When you are looking for activities to partake in, you can hit the links on the Al Maaden Golf Course.

When we stay at a resort, the rooms are always an essential component of our stay. A numbr of their rooms have outdoor furnished terraces so you can take in the amazing views surrounding this property. It's worth noting that their Duplex Suite in addition to having views of the mountains with a terrace - there is also a private pool for this unit as well as an en-suite hammam. Staying in this portion of the resort is truly a luxurious and serene experience that you will remember for a long time.

Atlhough staying in that unit has a number of spa amenities there, you can still step into the Le Spa Park Hyatt Marrakech which is focused on well-being and rejuvenation. It is designed with minimalist aesthetics and embraces Morocco’s rich culture of hammam rituals, holistic therapies and legendary hospitality.

PARK HYATT MARRAKECH

Al Maaden

Marrakech, Morocco

400000

hyatt.com

IG @parkhyatt_marrakech

PHOTO CREDIT | Park Hyatt Marrakech

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Park Hyatt Marrakech in mag.

RUN THE COURT | TAYLOR TOWNSEND

The tennis season is always filled with a number of stories that reaches around the globe! We sat down with WTA Taylor Townsend who is ranked #2 in doubles. She has won 2 major double titles at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships and the 2025 Australian Open - both of them won with her partner, Kateřina Siniaková. She has won 7 WTA Tour Titles and has reached 2 other major finals for the 2022 US Open (with Caty McNally) and the 2023 French Open (with Leylah Fernandez). We enjoy watching her play singles and doubles throughout the season.

We sat down with Taylor Townsend to find out about her love of being on the court with the sport; how she stays in shape; how she approaches playing singles and doubles; as well as her partnership with Gillette Venus; and her legacy.

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you fall in love with tennis?

TAYLOR TOWNSEND: Ooo I fell in love with tennis probably from the first time that I started playing, but I probably really started loving to play it when my parents were going through their separation and tennis was my thing that no one could bother me on the court, I wouldn’t get in trouble, I would just be out there and it was just my peace! I could say whatever I wanted and not get into trouble so that is when I really fell in love with the sport. I realized that it was my release. It was a way to let go and it was a judgement free zone and a worry free zone. My old coach used to tell me that when you step into the gates and you close it, everything else stays on the outside! I really embodied that and I re-fell in love with that in the game. It’s been in and out and I have found that love since coming back from having my son.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to go pro? There is a huge difference in enjoying something that you love and then deciding that that is the thing that you will do all day every day!

TT: I always wanted to go pro. My sister and I grew up playing together and I always wanted to, but I never saw it as a reality. I didn’t think that it was possible you know? It was just like a dream, a kid’s dream! I’ve always been that person where you have to see it in order to believe it. It doesn’t mean that you have to do it yet, but I am the person that needs to be able to do it in order to know that it was possible. I honestly didn’t think that I would able to go pro until I made #1 in the Junior World Champions. When I became #1 in the Juniors, I didn’t quite feel ready and when I turned pro, I said it again that I wasn’t ready. But I did it anyway and at that time, I was the adult decider and I wrestled with that.

Obviously, I felt that this what what I was supposed to be doing! Regardless of the journey, I do feel that this is the domain that I am supposed to be in and that I can tap into all of my competitiveness as I am very competitive. Now at this point, I am just trying to relearn how I can play the game my way.

AM: Right!

We love that you play Singles and Doubles! What do you love about playing one vs the other?

TT: For singles, I really enjoy the me vs you! Tennis – there is nothing like it and even with the teams as a team sport when you are playing doubles, you still have to operate highly within yourself. Even though we’re a team, there is only 2 of us. It’s not like we’re 11 players. We are literally responsible for ourselves as well as uplifting each other! I have always done really well in team environments. I’m a natural leader, so I enjoy playing doubles as it’s a way to be able to still have that competitiveness and it’s a different kind of game. It’s very strategic in a different way as well as being tactical in a different way. Obviously, you have half the court and you have to go around another person, so you have to be tactical in what you do in that sense versus when you are playing Singles. For singles, it’s a lot easier to create openings on the court and you can hit into the open space knowing that the person is going to have to run there as there isn’t someone that is already standing there!

They both present different challenges that I enjoy and that it taps into different parts of me. They’re both really fun for me and now I am just finding my flow and my rhythm in singles the way that I have done in doubles.

AM: We have been a fan of yours for years and whether you’re playing singles or doubles, it’s always a vibe!

TT: Aww thank you so much!

AM: So you recently partnered with Gillette Venus. Why did you want to be involved in this partnership and what does it look like?

TT: I was really excited to partner with them! I’m really excited that beauty and wellness companies are starting to get into tennis and to partner with us as players and when we’re on our tours. So when they asked me to partner, I was really excited because I already use the products. So that was a no-brainer for me, but now getting into more of the storytelling, and the nitty gritty of it, it excites me more because I can see the opportunity for growth and elevation based on the storytelling. The things that they have chosen, we all have different paths and we have all done different things and we’re all are doing different things and it’s really cool because we are all current players. It’s really fun to be able to have a partnership like this where we can kind of expound as the season goes and as the tournament goes. To be able to do activations and events that we haven’t been able to do in the past, I've really enjoyed the partnership thus far and I'm super happy with the content that has come out. More than anything, we love partnerships because we get great things! Now I have the Gillette Pubic Hair and Skin Razor. For me, I have been able to add that to my pre-match and pre-gameday which I call my everything shower now. It’s part of the things that I do anytime that is before a match – before I play in any match of the first tournament. So I have that razor and I hit all of those areas that may show when I am wearing those little skirts and dresses knowing that I have no irritation, no razor bumps, or any of that which is honestly why I stopped shaving in the first place because it was just so annoying. So for me to be able to have this razor at my disposal at all times is amazing!

AM: Obviously, tennis is a great workout! But what are 3 workouts that you can do that we can share with our community here that they can include in their workouts?

TT: You don’t want to know what I have to do!

For me, I would say focusing on mobility. My coach says I’m built like metal or wood – it goes between the 2. It just depends on the volume. I had to really focus on mobility especially, after having AJ and a C-Section – I had to really focus on my hip area and hip mobility and all of that stuff. I don’t like saying flexibility because everyone has different levels of that. But being able to be mobile and to be able to do certain kinds of movements with ease and something that you can do at all times, that’s important.

Being able to build up your core – crunches, planks and all of that, I would say that really holds you up and stops you from having hip and back problems.

A lot of people think that you have to do all of these crazy workouts, but honestly, calisthenics. I do push-ups, sit-ups, planks, squats. All of those things are the fundamental movements for exercise and work that they actually build up the things that you are doing in real life. Calisthenics if you’re starting or looking for a change, that is the easiest way to go.

You’re never going to get good at it which is the annoying part.

AM: So true, but you have to show up and do it.

TT: And when you get into it, there is always going to be a challenge!

AM: You have so many accolades, so many things that you have won, placements in finals etc. What do you want your legacy to be known as in the sport?

TT: Ooo I love this question! I love that you used that word because when I was at Wimbledon 2 years ago, I was sitting in a café by myself and I was like, “what am I doing this for?” I was a year and a half into my comeback and I asked myself what I wanted out of this. I told myself that I wanted to create a legacy and so I want my legacy to be something that is long lasting and goes beyond trophies and accolades or anything like that. I want to have a lasting impression and to have something that is tangible as well as something that people can remember and that they can get a feeling. When they think about me being on the court or playing, they can feel me.

For me, the tangible thing is my big goals. I want to build sport complexes all around the world. My lane is tennis, but through tennis, I have crossed paths with a lot of amazing athletes and business people that can help expand that. For me, that is my tangible thing and I look at it like even where I live, I am creating a place where my son can go to after school, where he can get his training and all of the things with the sport that he wants to play because that is what I had growing up and it was a safeplace. It was a place where we were all working towards the same place, we worked hard, and it was a safe environment. That kept us out of trouble, it kept us away from things, and it kept us busy, occupied, and focused on positive things. So even with that, reaching into the community and building people up. I want to create that again where that is a safe place for kids to go and to be. For adults to be able to come and have that great time and they feel like they can be a kid again as well!

So when I think of a legacy, that is what I am thinking of and being able to use the sport in that way – that is what I see!

IG @gillettevenus

@tay_taytownsend

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Gillette Venus

Read the APR ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see RUN THE COURT | Taylor Townsend in mag.

APRES SPICY | CHEF ESTHER CHOI

We've enjoyed a number of dishes at Mokbar, Chef Esther Choi's restaurant which has phenomenal Korean dishes that are full of flavor. In addition, we always enjoy seeing her whether she is judging or in the midst of a cooking competition on Food Network or other networks.

We were invited to hang out with her as well as to enjoy an immersive experience at a pop-up with Listerine for their Clinical Solutions Sensitive Teeth which allow those who suffer with teeth sensitivities to have a moutwash that they can use. At this event, we enjoyed a number of dishes curated by her as well as to talk with her a bit about what led her to being a chef, why she loves Korean cuisine and S2 of 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We are so excited to be able to chat with you as we have been fans of yours between your restaurants as well as the shows you have been on.

CHEF ESTHER CHOI: I’m so thankful for your support! We have to support each other!

AM: Absolutely!

What was the first dish that made you remember why you fell in love with food?

CHEF EC: I think for me, it might not be a specific dish, but an ingredient and it's kimchi.

AM: I love kimchi.

CHEF EC: Yeah, awesome! You'll have some tonight.

AM: I was so hoping.

CHEF EC: I mean, I love kimchi. I grew up eating kimchi, and it reminds me of not only like my family, but like my grandmother specifically. She taught me how to make it, and kimchi is something that you kind of - there's not like a real recipe for it.

AM: Right.

CHEF EC: It's really more about, like, the true nature of like cooking. So, I think, for me, it always kind of gave me those feelings, which is why, I'm so obsessed with it. It's pretty much on every item on my menu, and it's something that, I, you know, treasure. It's not only like a food item, but also like a culture. I like to say that kimchi, it's a way of life.

AM: Yeah.

CHEF EC: So, I'd say, that's my dish - forever.

AM: When did you realize you wanted to be a chef?

CHEF EC: I loved food, always like my whole life. I grew up cooking with my Grandmother. Food was such an important part of my family and growing up. When I was thinking about what I wanted to do with my life, I knew that it had to be food related. I didn't know if I wanted to be a chef specifically at the time, but I think the path of like going into food led me to want to be the closest to it, which is the chef.

AM: You have amazing restaurants.

CHEF EC: Thank you!

AM: Can you tell us a little bit about each of your restaurants?

CHEF EC: Yeah, of course.

So, the first restaurant I started when I was 28 was Mokbar, and that is in Chelsea Market, and it's a tiny little noodle shop in, one of the busiest markets in New York City. So, like, I wanted to bring something that's totally unique, but also being true to who I am and my heritage. So I chose this concept of doing Korean style Ramen, which you'll actually have some tonight.

AM: Very excited about this!

CHEF EC: Yeah, it's not your traditional Ramen, but like, it's Ramen infused with a lot of Korean ingredients, so it's kind of like your first step into trying Korean food, and so that has kind of been my philosophy and motto throughout, like my entire career and all my restaurants kind of go by that, where it's like, I want people to fall in love with Korean food and make it into their repertoire. So, like if you're ordering Chinese every week and Sushi, why can't you order at Korean?

AM: I’ve been known to have it 3 or 4 times a week. It is one of my favorite cuisines!

CHEF EC: Really! Oh my God! I love it. I love it. So, what’s your favorite Korean dish?

AM: So tough! I love Korean Fried Chicken, of course kimchi and I’m always down for kimpbap!

CHEF EC: In addition to kimchi, we're doing Korean Fried Chicken tonight.

AM: Yum! With kimchi, I literally will have it multiple times a day.

CHEF EC: I love all of this! You should be Korean!

And it's so healthy, too!

All of my restaurants are inspired by like Korean cuisine heritage, but they're done in more modern ways. So I do have a sit-down restaurant called GAHM in Brooklyn, and that one is definitely like full service.

The one that I started in Chelsea Market Mokbar, we have now several locations, and it's more of a fast casual. So, grab and go. We just opened our 5th location in Vegas a few months ago. We're very excited definitely my food concept is always going to be Korean forward.

AM: Why did you want to partner with Listerine?

CHEF EC: I would say this partnership is really special for me because I mean, there's a few reasons. First is because Korean food is, like, we're very into temperatures like the hot food has to be very very hot. You can see, you know, when you order a Korean dish, it always comes out like piping piping hot, almost like boiling at the table.

And then cool. Things are like, super cool, so you know lots of people who come to eat food, I want them to experience it fully without being disrupted by like having sensitive teeth, which is a big thing. So partnering with Listerine, it was like the perfect marriage. So, curating a menu that, can you know, kind of, let you think about all those sensitivities, it's like a perfect match.

Korean food also is very garlicky and very, you know, kimchi is very pungent.

AM: Everyone needs to have it!

CHEF EC: Yeah, exactly. So, there needs to be like Listerine always around after eating Korean food, so I just felt like, I'm like, what a perfect partnership.

AM: I love that!

You're back hosting S2 of 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing, how excited are you?

CHEF EC: It's crazy - I thought S1 was crazy, but S2 is even crazier! Which I don't even know how that's possible. But, um, yeah, this season's gonna be super exciting, especially because of the lineup of chefs that are competing. It's insane with the list. There's a lot of drama around it, Lots of emotions, so it's like, real, true, I'd say the closest to reality as opening up a restaurant as it can be!

IG @listerine

@choibites

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 36 Patrick Wymore/Netflix | PG 39 LISTERINE

Read the APR ISSUE #112 of Athleisure Mag and see APRES SPICY | Chef Esther Choi in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | ARIA RETREAT & SPA

ARIA Retreat & SPA opened its doors in Summer 2021 and is in the hills above Lake Lugano, within Parco San Marco Resort, which spans over 23 hectares of subtropical parkland. It is 15 minutes from Lugano and a short drive from Lake Como, ARIA is a sanctuary of tranquility between lake and mountain, designed exclusively for guests aged 16 and above. The retreat is the perfect blend of Italian elegance, Swiss precision, and unspoiled natural beauty—offering breathtaking lake views, refined design, and the utmost privacy.

With only 15 luxurious suites, each with panoramic lake views, private Loggia or gardens, and expansive living areas starting from 60 square meters. Designed with a minimalist, contemporary flair, they’re appointed with natural materials, soft textures, and curated Italian furnishings that reflect the elegance of the surrounding landscape.

Guests can enjoy high-end amenities including marble bathrooms with bathtubs, exclusive Acqua di Parma courtesy products, complimentary minibar, and tailor-made Italian bedding—ensuring a serene and restorative stay.

Gastronomy at ARIA Retreat & SPA is an integral part of the guest experience, blending creativity, elegance and a deep connection to the surrounding region.

At La Musa Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace, fine dining meets the essence of Mediterranean flair. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Michele Pili, each dish is a tribute to the seasons, featuring local ingredients.

The Dolce Vita Lounge & Terrace, with its sophisticated ambiance and panoramic views, invites guests to indulge in a refined afternoon delight, a golden-hour aperitivo, or a late-night digestif.

The SPA CEò is a true wellness sanctuary, offering a private and immersive experience for both mind and body. It features five individual treatment cabins and a spectacular Panorama Private SPA, complete with its own sauna/sanarium and a saltwater whirlpool on a secluded terrace overlooking Lake Lugano.

Signature treatments are inspired by natural elements and local traditions, combining essential oils, healing techniques, and mindfulness to create a deeply immersive journey of renewal and balance.

For deep relaxation and privacy, book the Panorama Private SPA, a secluded oasis with its own sauna, sanarium, and saltwater whirlpool. Guests seeking more active pursuits can take part in the resort’s Water Club activities, which include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding —all surrounded by the serene beauty of Lake Lugano.

ARIA RETREAT + SPA

Via del Ciclamino,

5, 22018

Cima CO, Italy

parco-san-marco.com

IG @aria_retreat_and_spa

PHOTO CREDIT | The Class

Read the MAR ISSUE #111 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Aria Retreat & Spa in mag.

THE LEGACY OF 101 | FLOYD MAYWEATHER JR.

This month, we took a moment with the GOAT , boxing great, promoter, and entrepreneur Floyd Mayweather Jr! When he boxed professionally from 1996 - 2017, he won 15 major championships, was undefeated with a 50-0 record, fought in 5 separate weight classes and has a number of records that are still unbroken!

Even after he retired professionally, he still boxes in exhibition fights; continues to train; and has an amazing portfolio that includes: The Money Team, Mayweather Promotions, Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Gyms, his real estate investment firm VADA Properties and most recently 1 of 1 his supplement brand. He continues to extend his brand across verticals! We wanted to know more about how he came to boxing, his approach to his fights, his legacy, and how he looks at adding to his projects and portfolio.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is it about boxing that drew you in and why do you love it?

FLOYD MAYWEATHER JR: Boxing has been a part of my life since day one. My father and my uncle were fighters, so I grew up in the gym, watching and learning. What drew me in was the challenge—the mental and physical battle of proving you are the best. I love the strategy, the discipline, and the hard work it takes to stay at the top. Boxing is not just about throwing punches; it’s about skill, precision, and intelligence. That’s why I dominated the sport for decades.

AM: On Feb 12th, you launched 101. Why did you want to create a supplement brand?

FM JR: During my training sessions through the years, everyone was always asking which supplements kept me at the top of my game. That curiosity sparked the decision to eventually create my own line, a clean brand that is science backed and delivers on its promise. There are too many brands out there in the marketplace that still contain unsafe ingredients, so I set out to create 101 to give consumers a trusted product they can feel working. When a trusted product they can feel working. When it comes to my fitness and nutrition, I refuse to settle for less, and I want the same for athletes of all levels.

AM: What was the process like for you in creating this brand and what was the most important part of the formulation to you?

FM JR: In collaboration with industry leader Magnum Nutraceuticals, we worked hand in hand to ensure products contained only the best ingredients and have met the highest standards. Products went through rigorous testing, are backed by science, innovation, and are truly determined to be safe and effective. Simply put, athletes will feel the difference and see the results with the supplements which is why I created the One of One brand.

AM: Tell us about the initial supplements that you started with and when do you take them?

FM JR: The line of products from 101 helps any athlete’s journey, from energy and endurance to recovery and hydration. There are some products that I take daily. Whey Protein delivers high-quality protein and prebiotic fiber, and digestive enzymes for smooth digestion and muscle recovery. Greens + Gut Health helps supercharge my daily nutrients. It is packed with superfoods, prebiotic fiber, and essential vitamins to promote gut health and digestion. Peptide Builder is scientifically proven to enhance muscle growth and recovery. I reach for our Hydration to keep hydrated and to help with muscle cramping.

There are 3 products that are best used as part of your training regime. Sport Pre-Workout is meant for more moderate energy and endurance and includes caffeine for an additional boost in energy and strength. Loaded Pre-Workout is what I take before looking for high-intensity, extreme focus and maximum blood flow to carry more oxygen to my muscles. Creatine Monohydrate I also take before working out, to help with performance and cognitive function.

Together all these products provide a complete toolset to fuel performance, enhance endurance, and accelerate recovery.

AM: Are there plans to include additional products within this assortment?

FM JR: Yes, we definitely have plans to launch several new innovative supplements, several are in development and testing currently. We will be continuously looking to bring new innovative products to meet the needs of our One of One community on their fitness journey. Watch this space to see what innovations 101 will be bringing consumers next to stay ahead of the game.

AM: In your career you have fought in 5 weight classes. When you make that decision to navigate those classes what are the things that you have to do in order to prepare for that class?

FM JR: Moving through weight classes is all about preparation and making the right adjustments. It is not just about gaining or losing weight—it is about maintaining speed, power, and endurance while adapting to different styles of opponents. I worked closely with my team to ensure I was always in peak condition, no matter the division. We focused on nutrition, strength training, and the right fight strategy for each weight class. Every move I made was calculated, and that is why I remained undefeated.

AM: You have had a number of memorable fights, what are 3 fights or moments that are a favorite in your career?

FM JR: I have had so many great moments, but three fights stand out:

Oscar De La Hoya (2007) – This was a turning point in my career. It was the biggest fight in boxing at the time, and when I won, I became the face of the sport.

Manny Pacquiao (2015) – The world waited for this fight for years, and when it finally happened, I showed why I was the best. It was a masterclass in skill and strategy.

Emanuel Augustus (2000) – Not the biggest name, but one of the toughest fights I ever had. He was unpredictable, but I adapted and proved I could handle any style.

AM: You do exhibition bouts after retiring from professional boxing - why is this important to you to continue to engage in the sport in this way and for you, is the training different?

FM JR: Exhibitions allow me to keep doing what I love while giving fans around the world a show. I accomplished everything I needed to in professional boxing, so now it is about enjoying the sport on my own terms. The training is different. I do not have to prepare for 12-round wars, but I still stay sharp, stay in shape, and put on great performances. It is about continuing to entertain and inspire.

AM: Tell us what a week is like with you in the gym and your wellness game. What are 3 exercises that we can do if we want to train like Floyd Mayweather Jr?

FM JR: I train every day because staying in shape is a lifestyle for me. My workouts focus on endurance, speed, and skill. Three exercises I recommend for anyone who wants to train like me:

Jump Rope – It builds endurance, improves footwork, and sharpens coordination.

Pad Work – Essential for speed, accuracy, and defensive reflexes.

Core Training – A strong core gives you power, balance, and control in the ring.

AM: You retired with an undefeated record 50-0, won 15 major World Championships across 5 weight classes, 3X BWAA Fighter of the Year, 6X Best Fighter ESPY Award, inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2021, and you are known as one of the best defensive boxers in history, and as the most accurate puncher, and one of the most lucrative pay-per-view attractions across any sport - what does it mean to you to have all of these accolades?

FM JR: It means I did exactly what I set out to do. I dominated the sport for over two decades, stayed undefeated, and broke records that may never be touched. People will always debate who the greatest is, but my record speaks for itself. I mastered the sport, changed the business of boxing, and walked away on top.

AM: I've been a fan of boxing since I was 3 years old so I grew up watching Mike Tyson, George Foreman, Lennox Lewis, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Evander Holyfield, Manny Pacquiao, Marvin Hagler, and you. What do you want your legacy to be known as in this sport?

FM JR: I want my legacy to be simple: The Best Ever. Not just because of my record, but because of how I changed the game. I showed that boxing is about intelligence, strategy, and discipline. I controlled my career, I made the biggest fights happen, and I made sure I was paid what I deserved. That is the blueprint I want future generations to follow.

AM: Tell us about TMT.

FM: JR: The Money Team is about hard work, dedication, and smart decision-making. People see the success, the cars, the watches, but what they don’t see is the discipline that got me here. TMT represents a mindset - believing in yourself, staying focused, and never settling for less than what you are worth.

AM: Why did you create Mayweather Promotions and what are some upcoming events that we should keep an eye out for?

FM JR: I created Mayweather Promotions because I wanted to take control of my career and help other fighters do the same. Too many athletes let other people hand their business, and they end up with nothing. I made sure I controlled my own destiny. Now, Mayweather Promotions is one of the biggest brands in boxing. We have exciting events coming up, and we are always looking for the next superstar.

AM: You have been in the fitness and wellness space for some time with the Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Gyms. What does it mean to you to offer boxing fitness in a studio format?

FM JR: It is about making boxing training accessible to everyone. You do not have to be a professional fighter to train like one. Boxing is one of the best workouts in the world, and with Mayweather Boxing + Fitness, people can experience my training style in a fun, high-energy environment. It is about building confidence, discipline, and physical strength.

AM: We shoot a number of our editorials in luxury residences here in NY and your diversified portfolio also includes real estate where you founded VADA which has properties here in NY including 410 Tenth Ave Hudson Yards, The Copper, Two Sutton as well as properties in Jersey City, Chicago and The Villa Casa Casuarina at the former Versace Mansion in Miami - it's quite an assortment. Why is having this in your portfolio important to you?

FM JR: Real estate is about building wealth for the future. I made my money in boxing, but I invested it wisely. I own properties across the country because I understand that money has to work for you. The goal is to create generational wealth, and real estate is a major part of that strategy.

AM: We can't talk about you without talking about your style from your luxury brands, diamond necklaces, insane bags, and more. Why do you love fashion?

FM JR: Fashion is about expressing success. When you work hard, you should be able to enjoy the rewards. I take pride in my style, whether it's a custom suit, a designer bag, or a one-of-a-kind watch. Everything I wear is a reflection of my success

IG @floydmayweather

@youare_1of1

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 16 - 20 Floyd Mayweather Jr. | PG 23 + 24 Floyd Mayweather Jr./IG | PG 26 + 32 Gene Blevins Zuma Press/Icon Sportswire | PG 28 Jeff Gritchen/ZUMApress.com/Icon Sportswire | PG 30 Chris Farina/Zuma Press/Icon Sportswire |

Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see THE LEGACY OF 101 | Floyd Mayweather Jr. in mag.

A REFORMER'S BEST ACCESSORY!

In the last few years, the team at Athleisure Mag has been a fan of the reformer. We enjoyed taking the classes and when we were sent a Lagree Micro Reformer, it’s been great to enjoy this within the comfort of our space. There are a number of accessories that we couldn’t imagine using when we are on this fitness equipment. Socks with grip is an essential. For years, we have shared Sticky Be Socks in our roundups and have used them. We took a moment to sit down with the founder, Nancy Giftos to know more about her background, the brand, and more!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Prior to coming to Sticky Be Socks, can you tell me about your background?

NANCY GIFTOS: I was on the other side of the fitness world: I taught yoga and pilates, mainly doing privates, and also teaching at Tracy Anderson in LA for a bit. Originally, I stumbled upon yoga after college, and getting into breathing and the mind-body connection…I had never done anything like that, which was so important. Then, I had an accident, and that led me to Pilates. I couldn’t do any workout other than Pilates, but I was able to heal my body through it. It changed my life, and I was able to rehab myself. From teaching, I moved into sales and marketing for several activewear companies including Chill by Will, Cory Vines, Lole.

AM: What led you to Sticky Be Socks?

NG: I was consulting for several brands, and an opportunity to fully launch Sticky Be Socks into a higher level came up. It was in my wheelhouse, and in a way, it was a no-brainer. Eventually, I ended up buying it. The other part of my business doing consulting wasn’t truly what I wanted, so I took this chance instead. It was small at the beginning so I knew I wanted to grow it based on my own vision.

AM: When you became the CEO, what was the vision that you had to continue to grow this brand?

NG: I knew from the start I wanted to change the color palette, add new styles and designs, expand into other categories, and generally optimize and elevate the brand. Additionally, through timing and circumstances involving my own personal life and the birth of my daughter, I knew I wanted my company to engage in giving back to the community. I was able to be at the hospital and then leave knowing how lucky I was to have everything I needed. But that’s not the case for everyone. That’s what led to the Be Giving program, which includes initiatives including Baby2Baby, bundles of important items for new moms in need, including Sticky Be Socks.

AM: Why are Sticky Be Socks a great component to your workout whether it's pilates, yoga, etc?

NG: They are cute, comfortable, and you can also wear them with shoes. They’re supportive, and the grips help keep you from sliding. We have everything from shorter crew length to mid calf, to Mary-Jane styles or options with cute pom poms. So anything you’re doing, there’s a Sticky Be Sock that’s right for it.

AM: Tell us about the sayings that you have and why is this such an important part of the brand?

NG: I always say the mantras on the socks are what differentiates us from our competitors. The "be" sayings are small, subliminal messages that help you in your everyday life. I know for me, when I'm in a tough workout class holding a plank wanting to come out of it, I look down at my socks and "Be Strong" keeps me motivated. Or, if you’re feeling stressed out and you look down to see “Be Calm,” it can help soothe you. It’s a little thing, but it can really change your mood, and you can wear the socks of the energy you want to embody.

AM: Have you done collaborations with Sticky Be Socks?

NG: We haven’t done collaborations yet, but it is something we are currently looking into. I would love to partner with a bigger name in the fitness world to do a sock collaboration where they help create the sock, and then we give a percentage to their favorite charity.

AM: What can we expect for the holiday season as well as looking ahead to the New Year for this brand?

NG: For the holidays, we have an exciting partnership with our baby boxes that will be announced soon. We also have our Mantra Gift Box set, as well as our Winter Box Set, which are very popular for the holidays. I love these options, because I always think of the holiday as a time for family, being grateful, giving and not receiving, and all of our holiday offerings reflect that.

AM: You are also a co-owner of the BodyBurn Studio. Tell us more about this studio, as well as why you wanted to be involved?

NG: BodyBurn is a megaformer, Lagree-based studio, and I was a client at first. Coming from a classical Pilates background, Lagree challenges me differently, and they’re both important. I still practice traditional Pilates, and it rehabbed me. But I like to mix it up, and Lagree is effective and intense in another way: I’ve been doing it for 10 years, and it never gets easy. So, owning BodyBurn Studio is a way for me to reconnect and continue with my Pilates obsession, and also expand on it. I really believe that Pilates is for everyone, and everyone can find the style and approach that works for them, whether it’s traditional or a more contemporary option.

AM: When did you first connect with the fitness/wellness industry and why is it so important to you personally?

NG: From a young age, I craved the outlet that physical activity provided. I loved gymnastics, ice-skating, and competitive tennis. While at college in Colorado, I added hiking, kayaking and mountain sports to my roster. Clearly, I used to be a huge adventurer, even jumping out of planes! Then, I came to a point in my life when I realized I wanted to understand the mind/body connection more. It’s very important for overall health and wellbeing…for feeling good. Whatever the activity is, though, moving my body is so important for me, and something that is crucial in my life.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

63MIX ROUTIN3S | NASTIA LIUKIN

Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see 63MIX ROUTIN3S Nastia Liukin in mag.