THE GOLDEN BACHELOR S2. E3. | THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Maarten de Boer

Last week’s double episode did clear the field of women for tonight’s episode of The Golden Bachelor. We see the women getting to know one another more and we see the beginnings of the fall out with Nicholle being so overt. This week there will be a 1-on-1 date as well as a group date. Debbie gets a 1-on-1 date.

The group date is a roast and you know the women have a lot of material with Mel Owens providing a number of the information due to his podcasts prior to being on the show.

It’s always fun to see Jesse Palmer enjoy the various activities. Each of the women gave it their all for this particular date. Whoever makes the biggest impression is the winner and Nicolle will have a romantic dinner with him. She receives the date night rose.

Of course, now that the group date is over, we now have Debbie’s date. Prior to it the women talk about how long it takes to get ready and how they handle depuffing under their eyes. Michelin starred Chef Ludo Lefebvre is giving them a cooking lesson and will also make them an epic meal. Back at the house, Kathy and Susan from S1 of The Golden Bachelor swing by for a slumber party with the women! That’s definitely a great way to spend the night. They share tips, advice, and are even gifted vibrators. Back on the 1-on-1 date, Debbie gets a rose and we can see a connection between them.

The cocktail reception before the ceremony - the women have their game faces on. Each of them get time to speak with him and to share more information about who they are. Tonight, 4 women are going home! The Goldens are always tough because you only get an hour per episode and it seems like there are a larger cuts!

THEY RECEIVED ROSES | Carol, Cheryl, Cindy, Debbie, Gerri, Nicolle, Peg, Robin, and Roxanne.

THEY DIDN’T GET A ROSE | Amy, Monica B, Monica P, and Terri.

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

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HERE’S WHO WE THINK WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

CAROL

CHERYL

CINDY

GERRI

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THE GOLDEN BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

AMY

ANDRA

ALEXANDRA

CAROL

CARLA

CHERYL

CINDY

DEBBIE

DIANE

GERRI

LILY

LISA

MAIA

MONICA B

MONICA P

MYLENE

NICOLE

PEG

ROBIN

ROXEANNE

SUSIE

TERRI

TRACY

SONGS TO LIVE BY | ROB THOMAS

There are certain songs on our playlist that transcend just being songs. They’re moments, portals to place and time in our lives, and in many cases the sound is timeless no matter how many decades have passed. When we heard Push the 2nd single on Matchbox 20’s debut album in 1997, we were hooked not only to the sound, lyrics and visuals of the video - but we knew that vocalist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Rob Thomas had something to say that was relevant to where we were and where we’d be in the future!

This sentiment hasn’t changed with countless hits from his band as well as his solo career that has included Smooth with Carlos Santana, Lonely No More, and This is How A Heart Breaks which continues to connect with people at a visceral level.

As this month’s cover of Athleisure Mag, we talked with Rob while he is on tour for his 6th non-holiday solo album which drops on Sep 5th. We wanted to know more about the band, his creative process, All Night Days, his tour, and more!

ATHLEISURE MAG: You were in my hometown in Indy a few days ago and I know you’re traveling throughout the Midwest right now.

ROB THOMAS: We were just there. We were just through Indianapolis and then last night, we were outside of Detroit and today, we have a day off on the bus just chilling out in St. Louis!

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be an entertainer.

RT: I think when I exhausted all of the other options and I wasn’t good at anything else, you know? I think that when you’re lucky enough to find something that you feel like you’re good at and also – you know, when I was a kid growing up, I was in the South and I didn’t understand cars or sports and so trying to figure out where I fit in – it wasn’t until I found other people maybe in high school when I met the drama kids and the musical theater kids and they kind of spoke to me. Maybe it was the outcasts and the kids on the fringe. As I got a little older, it was musicians that were that way. It was like this fraternal group of the people that I felt like it just made sense to me.

So it was like at some point, maybe when I was like 19 or 20, it was like, I think that I want to do this as I was really writing songs. I thought, “I think that I want to do this.”

AM: Wow!

You’re so talented as a songwriter, a vocalist, and you play multiple instruments. Were you formally trained or did you just come across it all – how did all of this come together?

RT: Yeah, no – when I was a Freshman in high school, my buddies in my band were Seniors and then they all graduated and they went to Berklee College of Music and they would come back and they would bring me their music books. So I started to learn how to sight-read (Editor’s Note: It is the ability to read and perform a piece of musical notation you’ve never seen or played before, without any prior preparation or practice) chords and trying to understand relationship between notes and they would give me some of their books and I would kind of learn from that. So it’s pretty self taught and if you put me next to someone who is a really good player, it’s pretty obvious that I am self-taught.

I was alone with a guitar, I was alone with a keyboard, and I needed to learn how to write songs. I had melodies in my head, and I had songs in my head so I had to learn how to play just enough so that I could be able to write.

AM: Wow that’s interesting how you were able to access all of that as Berklee College of Music is a great school known for its jazz and popular music. My great uncle was Joe Henderson and I know that they have courses about him there.

Before we delve into your latest solo album, I can’t talk to you without talking about your band Matchbox 20. I remember when the debut CD came out, I was a Freshman in college when it came out. So for me, it was like all the things that I needed to learn about adulting and how to navigate emotions and scenarios that I hadn’t had to do before, it came from listening to your music and realizing that these things are normal! How did you come together as a band and did you think at the time that you would have this impact that resonates with so many people over all these decades?

RT: No. I mean, I think it’s funny. When you’re starting out, you have to have some sort of naïve suspension of disbelief that you’re going to make it – right? If you really thought about the odds, it would be so daunting that you would collapse under the weight of it. So I think that there was always this idea that we were going to be successful. I don’t think that we understood what that meant.

AM: Right.

RT: And I certainly don’t think that we had the ability to look forward 30 years later and realize the gift of being someone’s nostalgia. Like having this song like you said, that you went to college and this was your CD and that some people for one reason or another, at an event – someone’s wedding or their graduation and there was a song that was tied to it.

So I think that like, the gift of longevity and the ability to be around for awhile is bigger than like a level of success! It’s more of like being woven into the fabric of these fans and these people and I think that that’s a pretty special part of it.

AM: Is there going to be anything coming up that highlights the 30 year anniversary – that’s literally around the corner!

RT: Yeah, I mean, listen – we’re out on the road right now with the solo work and we’re still back and forth with Matchbox trying to plan out next year! Luckily, the end of next year marks when we put out our first record 30 years ago so we’re probably going to do some festivals next year to start gearing up for something really big at the end of the year and then touring 2027 around the world!

AM: Oh wow!

When it comes to creating music, where do you start in terms of the creative process and how is that different with you as a solo artist, you with your band, or when you’re collaborating with other artists?

RT: I mean, most of it is the same right? I write all the time. When I’m sitting down to work with someone – when I worked with Willie Nelson, we just sat down for 2 days and played each other’s songs. And then when I was done, he had written down 3 songs and he said, “I want to do these 3 songs.” If I’m writing with somebody else, maybe they come in with an idea and we can build on that. As far as if I am writing for someone or with someone, I’m just kind of drawing from this bucket of songs that I have worked on. If I go to Matchbox, I’m like, “do you guys like this song or how about this song?” I think that we all work that way so it’s never really like, gearing up for – well, I’m writing this song for this person so I need to get into this mindset. At some point, if someone wants to write with me, they probably want my point of view. So they will put their spin on my point of view.

AM: How would you define the Rob Thomas sound?

RT: Geez. I don’t know! I’ve been really fortunate that fans have allowed me to step outside and just do – I mean, if you listen to 3AM say 30 years ago, and you listen to Hard to Be Happy now, or if you listen to Lonely No More – those sound like different bands. They could be different artists. But I think that my voice is my voice and it ties them all together. So I don’t know that I have a certain – I write songs and I think about people and how people interact with each other. It’s just a very normal thing, right?

AM: Mmm.

RT: Like if I write about something going on in my life, it’s my job to write about how that thing makes me feel because you understand that – that has happened to you. You don’t need to know about me and my wife having a fight, you just need to know, “oh I know how you feel!”

AM: You’ve said that as a kid of the 80s, there are elements of that throughout your work. How do you add that aesthetic into your music while combining the various genres that you have been on and still making it sound current even if some of it is older?

RT: You know, I think part of it is that I have always went into this genreless. I think that that’s because when I grew up in the 80s, 80s radio was genreless. You would have MC Hammer played right after Van Halen and played right after Whitney Houston and then right after Bobby Brown and then Ozzy Osbourne.

AM: 100%.

RT: All of these things would play because MTV, that was our national radio!

AM: Oh yeah!

RT: It was all over the place. I think that growing up in the 80s made me more fearless where I didn’t have to be this kind of a writer and I’m a rock guy. Like, if in my whole career I had stayed 90s alt-rock like our first Matchbox 20 record, it would have been very limiting in all of the stuff that I could do later on.

AM: When I first heard Smooth, like many, I was blown away by so many things in the song and in the video! How was it for you to navigate the concept that you would be able to do both as a solo artist and then popping back in with your band?

RT: I mean, it took awhile! Looking back, Smooth happened between our 1st and 2nd record. Then we made 2 more records until I went solo. So it was 10 years into the Matchbox career before I made my 1st solo record! So it took me awhile even after Smooth! The thing about Smooth was that it opened the doors as a writer. So even when I was with Matchbox 20, I was doing a lot of outside writing for other things with Carlos, Seal, Marc Anthony, Willie Nelson, and Mick Jagger. I was getting a chance to be an anonymous writer for these other voices which was very very cool and then with Matchbox – we went from record to record to record and then on tour for like 10 years straight, so whenever we took that break, then it made sense and we all went out and made solo records.

AM: We were bummed that we were unable to catch your show at the Seaport earlier this month All Night Days is dropping Sep 5th and you’re currently on tour promoting the album. Why did you want to create this album and what can you tell us about it? We listened to Thrill Me which we really love and I enjoyed Hard to Be Happy and it has a fun video.

RT: Thank you! Thrill Me is my favorite. I think that there is almost an OCD to writing in that – like I said, I am writing all of the time. So if I don’t get some of these songs out, it’s a clutter in my head and I feel like there is no room for more material and other things. We were coming up on my 20th anniversary of my first solo record and I couldn’t think of a better way to commemorate it then to just let people know that I was still writing!

AM: I love that!

Since you’re on tour, you have the US portion and then you’re in Australia and New Zealand with a number of dates that takes place this Fall so you have quite an interesting schedule. How do you prepare for such a schedule, the performances, all the different cities, are there workouts that you like to do or must do’s before you hit the stage or after?

RT: Yeah, I mean, I think that I was much more careless about my body and my health when I was much younger. As you get older, you don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard right?

AM: Facts!

RT: You’re limited with your options out here. So I started with – there’s a Beach Body on Demand (Editor’s Note: aka BODi) that has a series of workouts like Insanity, P90X, Shift Shop and all of these things. Those are kind of great because a lot of those are bodyweight, calisthenics, so I don’t have an excuse. If I’m on the bus that day, I can do them on the bus. I can do a full hour long crushing workout! Sometimes they’re harder then just going to the gym with weights.

You know, I get a bonus workout every night. It’s 2 hours of just screaming and running back and forth you know? We love, the whole band – jokes about how we like a good hot night in the Summer! You feel like it’s part of the weight loss plan. It’s great to go out there and sweat off what we had for dinner.

I don’t do after show food. It used to be a big thing you know. After the show everybody orders some food because you’re really hungry and you’ve burned off a lot of that energy, but when I’m on the road, I find that I am probably on an 18 hour fast because I eat around 5:30pm and I don’t eat again until after I wake up and work out the next day. Keeping that, green juices, keeping vitamins – I think it’s your basic upkeep! I don’t think that you have to become obsessive about things, but I think that if you’re mindful, then you wind up – I have a different relationship with food. I have a different relationship with alcohol than I used to – well maybe only slightly!

AM: That’s fair!

RT: Well, every little bit helps!

AM: Your son is also on tour with you as your lead guitarist! What has that been like to have Maison with you?

RT: Well it’s great! He graduated from Berklee as well.

AM: Nice!

RT: Yeah. He went to Berklee and he has a band called The Lucky and they met there and as soon as they graduated, they all moved out to LA.

My guitar player from my solo band, he had just retired from live music. He’s been producing and writing for other people and killing it. It was his idea and he has been watching Maison on IG and sharing his shred videos and so I reached out and asked him if he wanted to do it. It has been the time of our lives! He fits right in although he brings the median age to the band down significantly! Having that energy has been really great. He’s known this band from when it was formed when he was 7. So when he was a little kid, he was on stage goofing with Al and Abe, my rhythm section. Now to see him as an active and integral section of the band, I have to stop sometimes because I almost forget that I’m performing because I will just stop and watch him.

AM: What do you want your legacy to be known as. You’ve had over 40M+ albums sold with the band, you have your 18M+ album sales with your solo career – what do you want people to feel about Rob Thomas?

RT: I mean, I don’t care! I think that I want the songs that I have written that have meant something to people – for them to carry on. If they ever forgot who wrote them, I don’t think that I would care. I like that those little pieces of music exist out there in the world and that they are out there for somebody if they want to use them for good times or for bad. It’s so selfish what I get to do – you know what I mean?

AM: Of course!

RT: I get to make a living doing the thing that I love. Most people, you spend most of your time working. Most people don’t get the ability to spend that time doing something that they really really enjoy. So it is a gift that is never lost on me. I get to do it and it is a sense of catharsis and therapy to write and be able to share it with people – like minded people. People seeing that you feel that way too and that they are not freaks! So, I think that just in general, I want the songs to kind of remain.

AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share that we can tell our community about?

RT: I’m in it right now! This is it right now! For me, every night we have to pretend that it is our first show!

AM: Right!

RT: For some people, it is the only one that they are going to come to. We don’t think too much farther then, we’re going to crush it tomorrow. That’s our mantra, “let’s just crush is tomorrow.”

IG @robthomas

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 16 - 23 + 32 - 37 Ashley Haer | PG 25 - 27 Andrew Angel | PG 28 - 31 Randall Slavin |

Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see SONGS TO LIVE BY | Rob Thomas in mag.

WELCOME TO US OPEN 2025

US OPEN LAVAZZA SUITES - MIXED DOUBLES

This time of year is one of our favorites as the US Open brings tennis’ best and brightes to play at Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadium for 3 weeks. In addition to the action that is on the court, there are a number of adjacent events that take place throughout the city! Although the month of Sept. will continue these festivities, we’re recapping what we participated this month.

We kicked off our US Open experience with the team at Lavazza who invited us to go to their suite to watch a series of mixed double matches with our favorites!

We kicked off the morning hitting the grounds to see where fans can get their coffee fix as they arrive and in between matches. In addition to having a large free standing booth that serves hot and cold coffees, you can also get cocktails there as well such as an Espresso martini. Throughout the complex, there are smaller areas to get a coffee as well as to engage with the brands whether it’s playing interactive games to win prizes, photo opportunities with a “stadium” as well as their mascot Luigi!

After taking the tour, we made our way to the suite where we were able to watch phenomenal matches as well as to meet members from the executive team of hear about where Lavazza is focusing its efforts in terms of where it sits in the marketplace, partnerships that are very interesting that will be announced soon, and their partnership with Jannik Sinner (20X ATP Tour Singles Titles, 2X Australian Champion, 2025 Wimbledon Champion, 2025 US Open Champion).

It was great to sit outside of the suite to catch our first match Gaël Monfils (13 ATP Tour Singles Titles)/Naomi Osaka (2X Australian Open Champion, 2X US Open Champion) - L vs Lorenzo Musetti (2 ATP Tour Singles Titles, Team Italy Tennis 2024 Paris Olympics Bronze Medalist)/Caty McNally (8X WTA Tour Doubles Titles Champion) - W and Iga Świątek (WTA No 2 in Women’s Singles, 24 WTA Tour Singles Titles, 4X French Open Champion, 2025 Wimbledon Champion, 2022 US Open Champion)/Casper Ruud (13 ATP Tour Singles Titles) - W vs Madison Keys (2025 Australian Open Champion)/Frances Tiafoe - L played during Round of 16 which led to the Quarter Final between Iga Świątek/Casper Ruud - W vs Caty McNally/Lorenzo Musetti - L. Ultimately, Iga Swiatek/Casper Ruud won this round and advanced in their mixed doubles.

In the other matches for Round of 16, we saw Jack Draper (3X ATP Tour Title Champion)/Jessica Pegula - W vs Emma Raducanu (2021 US Open Champion)/Carlos Alcaraz (22 ATP Tour Singles Titles, 2X French Open Champion, 2X Wimbeldon Champion, 2022 US Open Champion) - L and then the other match in that round was Novak Djokovic (100X Singles Title Winner, 10X Australian Open Champion, 3X French Open Champion, 7X Wimbledon Champion, 4X US Open Champion, Team Serbia Olympic Tennis 2024 Gold Medalist)/Olga Danilović (2X WTA Singles Titles + 2X WTA Doubles Titles) - L vs Mirra Andreeva (3X WTA Tour Singles TItles)/Daniil Medvedev (20X ATP Tour Singles Titles + 2021 US Open Champion) - W. The winners from this portion of Round of 16 played one another for the Wyarter Final Jack Draper/Jessica Pegula - W vs Daniil Medvedev/Mirra Andreeva - L.

It was a great day of matches and feeling all the magic that comes with seeing the US Open and being part of the action.

IG @lavazzausa

@usopen

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 43 - 44 Kimmie Smith

WTA CLUBHOUSE X GILLETTE VENUS

Later that week, we made our way to the WTA Clubhouse where we got to enjoy a number of activities while celebrating women in tennis. Whether you took in a workout with Tunde Oyeneyin (Peleton instructor, Nike athlete, and NY Times Best Selling Author), enjoyed an array of treats at their cafe, shopped the marketplace or listened to the panel that included Taylor Townsend (WTA world No. 1 in doubles, 8X WTA Tour Titles, 2024 Wimbledon Doubles Champion, 2025 Australian Open Doubles Champion), Tunde, and Nana Agyemang (CEO of Every Stylish Girl) as they talked about the importance of confidence and navigating their careers that was moderated by The Cut’s Tefi Pessoa.

The WTA is the principal organizing body and global leader for women’s professionall tennis which was founded in 1973 by Billie Jean King (39 Grand Slam Titles - 12X Singles, 16X Women’s Doubles, 11X Mixed Doubles - 4X Australian Open Champion in Singles/Doubles/Miced Doubles, 3X French Open Champion Singles/Doubles/Mixed Doubles, 20X Wimbledon Champion Singles/Doubles/Mixed Doubles, 13X US Open Champion Singles/Doubles/Mixed Doubles) to govern the WTA Tour and rank female players.

It was great to hear from these women and to also continue to celebrate their achievements as well as continuing to get excited about US Open.

IG @wta

@gillettevenus

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 46 - 49 Gillette Venus

TASTE OF TENNIS NEW YORK

As we mentioned in last month’s issue, Taste of Tennis is a yearly event that is known for bringing the world of tennis and culinary together. Guests who attend this event enjoy being able to eat a number of dishes throughout the night and this year’s hosting partner for this event was Aqua New York. In addition, they get to meet tennis greats past and present who continue to bring the good vibes. This year Sloane Stephens (8X WTA Tour level singles titles, 2017 US Open Champion), Chris Eubanks, and Genie Bouchard to name a few were in attendance.

IG @tasteoftennis

EVIAN BIG FOE X DANIEL DINNER

We were excited to make our way to evian’s dinner which was held at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. This sit down dinner brought Frances Tiafoe (along with his family and friends) and Chef Daniel Boulud together with the official water sponsor of the US Open, evian.

While taking in the stunning views, we enjoyed an array of appetizers, cocktails, chatting with Chef Daniel’s and taking a moment from all of the matches that we had watched during the week.

This sit down dinner was inspired by Frances’ favorite dishes that he grew up with. We were able to be among the first people to experience the evian Club’s limited edition menu. Each place setting had a glass evian bottle that had our names etched on it.

You can enjoy this meal exclusively at Chef Daniel’s flagship Michelin-starred Restaurant DANIEL from Sep 3-7th and can be booked now. For those that can’t make it here to NY, you can enjoy Chef Daniel’s Big Foe Treat Box at Goldbelly to enjoy from your home while watching the matches.

IG @evianwater

@bigfoe

@danielboulud

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 50 - 57 evian PG 58 + 59

Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see WELCOME TO US OPEN 2025 in mag.

THE GOLDEN BACHELOR S2. E1. + E2. | WELCOME TO THIS SEASON OF THE GOLDEN BACHELOR

PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Maarten de Boer

We’re settling in for another season of The Golden Bachelor as we watch Mel Owens find his way through his journey to find someone to love. This former NFL Rams’ player and Partner and Attorney at Law for Namanny, Byrne & Owens is on his quest for love and we can’t wait to see his season and how it unfolds. We have a bit of an expectation of how it will go as this is S2 but Bachelor Nation knows that each season tends to be its own snowflake of sorts!

It’s interesting that the episode started addressing when Mel talked about the fact that he wouldn’t want to date women of a certain age (over 60) - he even acknowledged it and we heard some of the contestants also weighing in. We’ll see who will go forward after the first elimination. The fact that he is fom Detroit and talked about his connection with Motown and being part of the community and how he came to football is an interesting nuance in terms of getting to know more about him. Hearing about his father passing as well as his wife asking for a divorce really lets us see where he’s at in life after raising his sons.

After getting his backstory, he’s finally about to meet the women and he takes a moment to chat with Jesse Palmer. The limos pull up and it’s great to see the women that we have heard about over the past few weeks.

We’re already excited about Carol (loved her look) and Diane definitely let it be knonwn that she heard the interview - he did say that he would like to chat with her more and to get the chance to know her. A number of women reference it and let him know that people over 60 are vital and worth knowing. Sandra from S1 of The Golden Bachelor, introduced Mel to her twin sister Andra who will be on this season! After seeing the women outside and spending time with him, the First Impression rose went to Gerri! The sun has literally come up as they are heading into the Rose Ceremony! 17 women will be going forward to the next phase - meaning that 6 are being cut.

THEY RECEIVED ROSES | Alexandra, Amy, Carla, Carol, Cheryl, Cindy, Debbie, Diane, Gerri, Monica B, Monica P, Mylene, Nicolle, Peg, Robin, Roxanne, and Terri.

THEY DIDN’T GET A ROSE | Andra, Lily, Lisa, Maia, Susie, and Tracy.

After a long night, the women are able to finally check out their rooms and settle in. Jessie lets them know that there will be 1 1-on-1 date as well as a group date. Cheryl gets to have solo time with him. Interestingly enough, we picked Cheryl as someone who would go to Hometowns before even seeing this episode and we think that we’re still on point with this prediction.

Cheryl is told that she needs to go to the other room where she is able to select a dress and diamond jewelry from Neil Lane Jewelry to complete her look for her date. Mel arrives in a tux and they make their way to the Rolls Royce he came to the house in.

They talk about her life, the fact that her ex-husband took her child for a period of time and how she forgave him. She received the Date Rose.

On the group date, they met at the original home of the LA Rams where Mel was in a Rams jersey and Paula Abdul appeared as the women will be cheerleaders. They are divided into 2 teams and one team will win and the other will go back to the house and not be able to have extra time with Mel.

The Blue Team ends up winning and they get more time with him. There amazing connections that you can see are being made and Cindy receives the Group Date Rose.

The next day, the women get to enjoy a pool party at the house which is important as there is a rose ceremony that will take place later that night. Nicolle continues to not only give him kisses in public, but in such a way that the other women are really starting to notice (versus when he and Cindy did so in a private moment).

THEY RECEIVED ROSES | Amy, Carol, Cheryl, Cindy, Debbie, Gerri, Monica B, Monica P, Nicolle, Peg, Robin, and Terri.

THEY DIDN’T GET A ROSE | Alexandra, Carla, Diane, and Mylene.

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

---

HERE’S WHO WE THINK WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

CAROL

CHERYL

CINDY

GERRI

---

THE GOLDEN BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

AMY

ANDRA

ALEXANDRA

CAROL

CARLA

CHERYL

CINDY

DEBBIE

DIANE

GERRI

LILY

LISA

MAIA

MONICA B

MONICA P

MYLENE

NICOLE

PEG

ROBIN

ROXEANNE

SUSIE

TERRI

TRACY

9PLAYLIST MULTI | ROB THOMAS

Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see 9PLAYLIST | Rob Thomas in mag.

THE BACHELORETTE S22 E0 | THE NEXT BACHELORETTE IS ...

PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Michael Kirchoff

The next ABC’s The Bachelorette is an interesting addition into Bachelor Nation’s mix! If Taylor Frankie Paul isn’t someone you’re familiar with, you should check out Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Morman Wives! In this series you find out about this community of Mormon wives in Utah who are also the creators of Mom-Tock. It’s filled with friendships, rifts, scandals, and more. Taylor has been the creator of this group and we have evolved seeing her through her 2 seasons and now, we will see more of here when she takes her position as the upcoming season of The Bachelorette.

We don’t know who will be competing for her heart at the moment, but we are looking forward to seeing how her season will go.

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE GOLDEN BACHELOR S2. E0. | MEET THE WOMEN

PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Maarten de Boer

On Sep 24th, we will join the rest of Bachelor Nation by watching S2 of The Golden Bachelor as we watch Mel Owens find his way through his journey to find someone to love. We know it will be an interesting season to watch the former NFL Rams’ player and Partner and Attorney at Law for Namanny, Byrne & Owens. We only have a few more days to go!

Now, we know who the contestants will be for this season and we’re sharing them below. In addition, we’re already looking at who could be going to Hometowns although night 1 will give us way more insight on this! Until then, enjoy getting to see the lovely women that we will see a lot more of!

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

---

HERE’S WHO WE THINK WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

CHERYL

MYLENE

NICOLE

TRACY

---

THE GOLDEN BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

AMY

ANDRA

ALEXANDRA

CAROL

CARLA

CHERYL

CINDY

DEBBIE

DIANE

GERRI

LILY

LISA

MAIA

MONICA B

MONICA P

MYLENE

NICOLE

PEG

ROBIN

ROXEANNE

SUSIE

TERRI

TRACY

AUTHENTICITY | CHEF MARC MURPHY

Early memories of our first fine dining experience includes Landmarc at Columbus Circle (although the location in Tribeca was the original, you could always find us dining at this uptown location). The ability to enjoy lunch or dinner with a great view of Central Park, flavorful dishes, and being able to do so in a way that didn't feel fussy always made us feel at home when we ate there countless times!

Chef Marc Murphy is a restaurateur that has opened a number of restaurants and has a passion for bringing people together through the power of food. He is also a frequent judge on such Food Network shows that include Chopped, Beat Bobby Flay, and Guy's Grocery Games.

We sat down and talked with him about his phenomenal culinary career, his creative approach to food, being a TV personality, participating in culinary events, and how he continues to lead the restaurant scene on his own terms. In addition to chatting with him, we also had a great time shooting with him for our Summer editorial shoot which was shot at MM Kitchen Studio in Tribeca.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first dish that made you realize you loved food?

CHEF MARC MURPHY: I had a magical raspberry soufflé at a restaurant in the South of France, and the experience of being in such a refined setting while tasting something like that completely blew me away.

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

CHEF MM: Not right away! I didn’t grow up saying, “I want to be a chef.” But after working in kitchens in my early twenties, I fell in love with the rhythm, the energy, and the creativity. I realized I could turn this into a career—and I haven’t looked back since.

AM: Where did you train, and what were some of your early kitchens?

CHEF MM: I trained at Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School (now the Institute of Culinary Education) and then worked in some incredible kitchens—Le Miraville in Paris, Le Louis XV in Monte Carlo under Executive Chef Alain Ducasse, Le Cirque, and La Fourchette.

AM: Did growing up all over the world inspire your passion for food?

CHEF MM: Absolutely. My dad was a diplomat, so I grew up in Milan, Rome, Paris, and Genoa. Every city had its own flavor—literally. I learned early on that food was a cultural connector. It gave me a global palate before I even knew what that meant.

AM: How was Prince Albert your babysitter in the ’70s?

CHEF MM: Ha, yep. Our families were friends, and when we lived in Monaco, he’d occasionally keep an eye on me. He went to Amherst and didn’t want to go home for the smaller holidays, so he’d stay with us—let’s just say my parents took full advantage of that and left him with us.

AM: How would you define your cooking style?

CHEF MM: Rooted in classic French and Italian technique, but driven by what’s fresh, seasonal, and fun. I want food to feel elevated, but approachable.

AM: What inspired you to launch Landmarc in Tribeca?

CHEF MM: I wanted a place where I could cook food I loved - well-executed, unfussy, and inviting. Tribeca felt like the perfect neighborhood for that kind of restaurant, and it became a real community spot. Also, I had always been cooking at high-end restaurants, but I wanted a place where my friends could come in 2-3 times a week, not just 2-3 times a year.

AM: Is it true you built the original Landmarc yourself?

CHEF MM: Pretty much, yeah. I was there with a hammer, laying tile and wiring fixtures. We were scrappy and passionate, and that energy was baked into the bones of the place.

AM: What do you look for when opening a new concept?

CHEF MM: It starts with, 'Would I want to eat here?' I look for a compelling location, a vibe that fits the food, and a team that believes in the concept as much as I do. I also try to find a spot where the neighborhood truly needs you- if the area already has five bistros, it probably doesn't.

AM: What was the inspiration behind Marc179?

CHEF MM: I hadn’t had a restaurant in a few years and was ‘hungry’ to open something. Given my availability and the events at MM Kitchen Studio, the three-day-a-month pop-up format has been the perfect solution. It’s a neighborhood spot where guests can always expect delicious, approachable food, and the flexibility of the pop-up model allows me to offer something unique while working with my schedule.

AM: How do you plan meals at Marc179?

CHEF MM: It always starts with seasonality and sourcing. We build the menu around what’s fresh and exciting, and sometimes I bring back inspiration from my global travels, nostalgia, and fun surprises. Sometimes I bring home inspirations from some of my travels.

AM: What happens at MM Kitchen Studio?

CHEF MM: It’s my culinary playground. We host everything from private dinners and cooking demos to food product launches and content shoots. It’s where the creativity happens.

AM: Tell us about Umbrian Gold Olive Oil.

CHEF MM: It’s a project I’m really proud of. My brother Paul and I produce organic extra virgin olive oil in Umbria—straight from our family groves. It’s bold, peppery, and the only oil I use at home.

AM: What’s the value of being on TV for chefs today?

CHEF MM: It’s a great platform. You get to share your personality, educate, and inspire people who might never visit your restaurant. I love the camaraderie on shows like Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay - it’s competitive, but it’s also about having fun.

AM: Why is food policy and advocacy important to you?

CHEF MM: If you care about food, you have to care about who grows it, prepares it, and serves it. I’ve always felt a responsibility to use my platform to advocate for the industry and its workers. That’s why I’ve been involved with everything from restaurant associations to culinary diplomacy.

AM: How do you recharge personally?

CHEF MM: A walk in Central Park. I work out. I cook for friends. I spend time with my family. And I’ll never say no to a good Negroni, the ballet, the opera, or a good live performance.

AM: What are 3 workouts you do to stay in shape?

CHEF MM: Spin - great for cardio, Ellipitcal - low impact but still intense, and Long Walks in New York - it's the original urban workout.

AM: What was it like assisting Jerome Robbins at NYC Ballet?

CHEF MM: It was wild. I was young, working as a rehearsal assistant. Watching Jerome’s creative process taught me how to trust instinct and embrace precision - lessons I still use in the kitchen.

IG @chefmarcmurphy

@marc179

We've all been navigating the heatwaves that continue to ebb and flow throughout the Summer. In our shoot with Chef Marc Murphy, we focused on easy looks that incorporated heritage pieces as well as sustainable tees to keep everything light and allowing you to stylishly flow throughout various parts of the day. We had the pleasure of shooting this at MM Kitchen Studio as well as out and about in his Tribeca neighborhood.

AUTHENTICITY EDITORIAL | TEAM CREDITS

PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas | FASHION STYLIST Kimmie Smith | GROOMER Ryann Carter |

IG @pvfarkas

@shes.kimmie

@ryann.carter

AUTHENTICITY EDITORIAL | STYLE CREDITS

WFH LOOK | PG 52 - 57 | TECOVAS Button Down Shirt | HIRO CLARK The Sleeveless Tee | JOHN VARVATOS Jeans | REVO Conrad |

LOUNGE LOOK | PG 58 - 61 | JOHN VARVATOS Lightweight Sweater + Jeans | REVO X LEXUS Spindle |

OUT + ABOUT LOOK | PG 64 - 76 | JOHN VARVATOS Leather Jacket + Jeans | CACIO PEPE Hemp Cotton Camisa Crew | REVO Harbor | TECOVAS Boots |

AUTHENTICITY | EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAHY CREDITS

SONY Alpha 7R IV, FE 50mm F1.2 GM Full-frame Standard Prime G Master Lens, FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Full-frame Standard Zoom G Master Lens, + FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS Full-frame Telephoto Zoom G Master Lens with Optical Steady Shot | SIRUI Dragon Series Bendable RGB Panel Light Set of 2 of B25R*2 Kit + DJ280 |

Read the JUL ISSUE #115 of Athleisure Mag and see AUTHENTICITY | Chef Marc Murphy in mag.

FANATICS FEST 2025

Fanatics Fest NYC was exhilarating in its second year, bringing top athletes and fans together like never before.

The festival presented a massive card and collectibles show, autograph meets, athlete and celeb photo opps, interactive experiences, panels, and shows, over three days, June 20 to 22, 2025, at the Javits Center in Midtown Manhattan.

We loved seeing the break area, as well as cards of of favorite players, 1of1s, signed logo patches, vintage HOF rookies, and so much more. Signed jerseys, sportswear, sneakers, hats, memorabilia sprawled throughout the room.

The Activations and Fanatics Fest debut “Fanatics Games,” were next level. The new skills-based sports competition this year for athletes and fans had $2 million in cash and prize for pros and fans to compete. A mix of pros and fans took the top 10, with the event won by Tom Brady. After winning the allaround, Brady went on to purchase the 3rd prize Lebron 2003-04 Topps Chrome LeBron James Rookie Gold Refractor card, that was such poetic justice making this year super special. He went on to drop knowledge on panels, throw balls to fans, coldplunge with Kevin Hart.

The highlight for us was the Panel and Special Surprise with Tom Brady, Travis Scott, & Michael Rubin, moderated by Oakley Global President, Caio Amato. Like hitting a major trifecta, it proved to be an insane microcosm of Fanatics Fest.

WHO RUNS NY PANEL: DEREK JETER, AROD & MORE DISH ON THE MAKING OF DYNASTIES

It was an honor to catch the end of the Only in New York: 27 Rings panel in the theater just before. Yankees legends, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, CC Sabathia, Jorge Posada, Andy Pettitte and special guest Spike Lee dove into what makes dynasties; the legacy of the NY Yankees; BTS stories, and more. It was hosted by CC Sabathia & AJ Andrews.

It was cool to hear about being on winning teams; having the discipline and grit to go train and go through the ups and downs; and anecdotes like Reggie Jackson strikeouts; city rivalries and more.

There were thousands of people, but the vibe in this room was family - well until someone asked a corny question and you might get sprayed by a super-soaker courtesy of Spilke Lee's call. It was pointed out that one guy who asked an awkward question was wearing two hats, so sometimes it's too easy.

LEGENDARY PANEL: BRADY, RUBIN & TRAVIS SCOTT TALK ABOUT ATHENTICITY & PARTNERSHIP COLLABS

Michael Rubin talking about The Art of Partnership & Collaboration is always a masterclass. Proud and exuberant, he navigated some follow-ups of Oakley Global President, Caio Amato's questions, which peppered the audience with nuggets on business strategy and whimsical anecdotes on style splurges and even quick destination travel just to lock it in.

Beyond bling, Rubin fondly volunteered that Travis gets a blank-slate for his creative genius to flow and that they put together a quick collab just six days before the show, from the vision, to making it, to the many layers and partners quickly getting on board by phone executing with joyful precision.

Brady acknowledged his genuine love for cards; elaborated on CardVault and nodded about the vision and working with Fanatics and Topps that it's a great way to have serious collectors, fans, kids and hobbyists of all ages involved.

Congratulations to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerburg, who recorded a short video that played celebrating the Oakley Meta HSTN Performance AI Glasses before what ensued, and Scott took the stage.

OAKLEY META HSTN EXPERIENCE AMPED THE SURPRISE TRAVIS SCOTT PERFORMANCE

[Smoke] Bang! We went from Panel to Performance! His DJ walked on. The crowd rushed the stage. It was on!

I slid on the Limited Edition Oakley Meta HSTNs Performance AI Glasses that I had been fitted for before the panel/show (thanks Meta). The HSTN (pronounced "HOW-stuhn") fit well and I felt that they were stylish and sporty, great for adventures, around town, and upscale special events to capture moments you may come by surprise hands-free.

I felt more front row with a refreshing phone-free flow, who wants to be chained down behind a chunky mobile device. Instead, hands-free means instantly transported and I was right up in concert-mode and enabled to take in Travis' energy and capture it in a more intimate way.

Livvy Dunne was a couple seats down, taking in the panel and show. We noticed she did some cool haggling buying a Paul Skenes card in some of the fest recap.

Seeing the content later, the video was supersharp (3K UHD), and boasted superb audio quality where you can enjoy those memories. The super stabilization scored with well-grounded video, in spite and revelry of the loyal bouncing crowd and being mosh-pit adjacent. It was easy to use in a noisy, crowded environment with short and longer press button on the frame (otherwise, you can use voice command).

Amazing to later see how the show looked from Travis' POV! As he laced across the stage we see overjoyed fans raging and soaking in some of our favorite hits. His pop by beyond the smoke was fierce as always. It's been ages since I'd seen him by Z's Pent.

It was great to be guests of Oakley Meta! You can see more first hand from Paul Farkas about this epic concert from his POV by checking out the videos on Athleisure's YouTube Channel or go directly here, here, and here.

IG @oakleymeta

@meta

@fanatics

@fanaticsfest

ON THE GROUND COVERAGE | Paul Farkas

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 38 - 42 Getty Images Assignment | PG 45 - 49 Matt Monath MetaXOakley | PG 50 Oakley Meta HSTN | PG 52 - 65 Paul Farkas |

Read the JUN ISSUE #114 of Athleisure Mag and see FANATICS FEST 2025 in mag.

GOVBALL 2025

Earlier this month, we made our way to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the home 3-Day home of of Governors Ball, a music festival that brings various genres of music together to Queens to kick off the Summer as well as a number of culinary vendors that are some of the favorite eats to enjoy across the boroughs. In addition, there are activations with beauty, alcohol and tech brands that people can enjoy!

We made our way to the festival grounds as we were fortunate that the 3 acts that we came to see would be taking place on one day. Our first stop was heading over to Gotham Burger Social Gotham Burger Social Club which is located on the LES as well as Greenpoint, BK. They're known for their collaborative hamburgers that they do! As we love a great burger and fries, we have no idea how we have never had the chance to check them out. We can report that their Gotham Smash burgers were juicy and their fries hit the spot - we can't wait to check them out soon as we're already planning another Gotham Smash Double, Frickles, Loaded Tots, and Limone Spritz.

In addition to staying properly hydrated thanks to having stations populated throughout the grounds, a great meal ensures that your energy will remain high at whatever festival you may be attending. Our press passes gave us access to the VIP viewing areas to catch the acts as the sets we watched were on the Kiehl's Stage and the Governors Ball stage. It allowed us to go back and forth between the stages and even had food and beverage vendors so that we could stay there while we waited for the next act!

We have enjoyed seeing Tyla for the past few months between hearing her music, videos, and her appearances on Awards Shows and red carpets. So we were excited to see her on stage and she didn't disappoint. In addition to enjoying her music, she had great dancers and choreography, and she kept the crowd going without a dull moment in between each song. We can't wait to see future performances as she puts on a great show!

While Tyla brought the sultry vibes on a warm Summer day with her amapiano X pop X R&B X Afro Beats, T-Pain brought all of the classics throughout his 45mins set! Seeing the crowd singing along to each song across generations and the energy that he gave made you see how much his songs have impacted us!

As the golden hour took place, we were really excited to see Benson Boone. Of course we knew that we had songs that were on our playlist and that he has a penchant for flipping. From the time he hit the stage he set the vibe as he went through a number of songs as well as performed those that are on his latest album that he dropped. Of course he showed us how many ways and things he could flip on and even had heartfelt moments that let us get to know more about him.

Although there are a number of festivals to enjoy around the globe, we really love the kinds of acts that come to this show. As we also had time sitting in the press lounge, whatever acts we didn't catch on their respective stages, we saw them there and it was great to see them before and after their sets. In addition, watching the crowds in general and seeing how they were taking in the activations, sets, and just enjoying the grounds - it was a great weekend to disconnect from our typical days and to link in with the love of music and discovery.

IG @govballnyc

@tyla

@tpain

@bensonboone

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 68 Charles Reagan | PG 71 Tylaby Deanie Chen | PG 72 - 73 Taylor Regulski | PG 74 Roger Ho | PG 75 Dusana Risovic

Read the JUN ISSUE #114 of Athleisure Mag and see GovBall 2025 in mag.

63MIX ROUTIN3S | KIT HOOVER

Read the JUN ISSUE #114 of Athleisure Mag and see 63MIX 63MIX ROUTIN3S | Kit Hoover in mag.

FOOD PHILOSOPHY | CHEF ESTHER CHOI

We're thrilled to kick off the Summer season with Chef Esther Choi who graces our cover. We have enjoyed seeing her on a number of shows on Food Network, whether she is participating in culinary competitions or hosting shows. We also enjoy having a great meal at her restaurants whch include Mokbar and GAHM that showcase Korean Cuisine that is filled with flavor and made with love. We wanted to know more about her; how she got into the culinary industry; how she embraced food entertainment; and upcoming projects that she is working on.

We also enjoyed spending time with her at our cover photoshoot at The Maybury in Hudson Yards to showcase some of our favorite must-haves to enjoy as we continue into the upcoming Summer season!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We had the pleasure of chatting with you last month when we first met and you spoke on how you came to falling in love with food. So, we’d like to know what was the first chef that you remember seeing that made you think that being a chef, could be a career?

CHEF ESTHER CHOI: Oh man, that’s a hard one!

AM: We know!

CHEF EC: You know what? I think for me, growing up not in NY which obviously, has a very strong obviously food culture – I grew up in a very, very small town in NJ and there was nothing like that where I grew up. So being in the food industry wasn’t very glamorous, but I grew up watching a lot of chefs on TV. So it was Jamie Oliver (The Great Cookbook Challenge, Jamie's One Pan Wonders, Jamie's Air Fryer Meaals), Bobby Flay (Beat Bobby Flay, Bobby's Triple Threat, BBQ Brawl), or Iron Chef Morimoto (Iron Chef Japan, Iron Chef America, Morimoto's Sushi Master) – these were the role models that I grew up with watching. Even as cheesy as it sounds, even chefs like Rachael Ray (Rachael Ray's Holidays, The Curse, Rachael Ray's Meals in Minutes) or Giada De Laurentiis (Giada in Italy, Giada Entertains, Giada at Home 2.0), these chefs on screen to me, were like real chefs! They were people teaching you how to cook on TV and to me, that was the chef world. I always imagined my career – I mean, back then I didn’t know that I wanted to be a chef. But, I always admired these people who were on TV and I could see a real career path in food. So, I think for someone like me in a small town and I think that this goes for a lot of people in America in general. You watch these screens and these chefs cook and compete and that makes a role model and a career path to have.

AM: Couldn’t agree with you more. Like you, growing up in an area that was not in the city and being able to enjoy the early days of Food Network, I remember countless episodes of watching Chef Morimoto who was our previous cover.

CHEF EC: Oh yeah – yay that’s right!

AM: Right and seeing all of these different chefs at that time, when those shows were on, I didn’t think of it as this career that I know it is now. When you think about culinary and what it can mean for a number of people who are navigating that, it’s a whole other level!

CHEF EC: Totally, exactly!

I mean, now that the food industry has become this idealistic, glamorous thing, for me and a lot of people now, they look up to people. That’s not to say that they didn’t do that back then as well! I feel like that’s what it was.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to go to Culinary School and where did you go?

CHEF EC: I went to Culinary School in Manhattan at the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE). When I first moved to NY, it was because I knew that I wanted to be in food. That was when I decided that I wanted to have a career in food and I felt that going to culinary school was the fastest track to do that. By that age, I had already graduated college and I felt that I was already late to the game. You hear all of these stories like chefs working in kitchens when they were 15 years old! You hear all of these crazy glamour stories of all these chefs working at such a young age. So for me at 21, I felt like I was late in the game and I felt very rushed to catch up to the rest of the world in culinary. When I went to Culinary School, I realized that it wasn’t like that at all! There were so many people of different age groups, career changes, and even young kids that had just graduated from high school. So it was a very big mix of people in culinary school and I think that it was great to see people from various walks of life decide that they want to pursue food. It seems like a glamorous and passionate kind of career to have. So, when I did go to culinary school, I did quickly realize that there was a whole different world here and everyone has their own different career path.

Culinary School was one of those things that’s like continuing education. You can go at any age and it’s a short program too especially in Manhattan. It’s not like a college, it’s more of a program. You can literally do a whole culinary program and get your degree in 6 months in Manhattan.

AM: Woah!

CHEF EC: Yeah. It was a really good opportunity for me. I did the fast pass program in 6 months of school and I did 6 months of internship.

Yeah and lots of chefs, they didn't even go to culinary school. I know a lot of chefs have opinions about that. For me, it was a great, great thing. I never regret one bit of culinary school. It fast track teaches you everything that you need to know about the careers that you want in culinary. You’re not going to learn all of the skills that you need to know in that short period of time. But you will learn, for me – I didn’t know anything about this industry when I got there. For me, when I first moved to NY and went to culinary school, it was kind of a fast track to figuring out what I wanted to do. You find different careers in food. There are so many different kinds of food careers that you can have an culinary school gives you that perspective and teaches you about what is out there.

AM: That’s really cool.

When did you realize that you wanted to open your own restaurant?

CHEF EC: That dream, I have had for a long time. I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur since I was a kid. I was kind of one of those weird quirky kids who would sell candy on the school bus and I started working at a very young age at 14. I’ve always wanted to have a job and I always liked the idea of making my own money and being very independent. I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur and both of my parents were small business owners. I grew up going to their dry cleaners with my parents every day, seeing them run their business and their shops. So for me, I think it was always in me to open my own business or to be an entrepreneur.

Obviously, that solidified when I went moved to NY and went to Culinary School. I knew that I definitely wanted to own my own restaurant one day. So it was a culmination of all of those different things. Not only did I have this ambition to have my own business – I didn’t know it would be my own rant. I think that through having a culinary career later, that’s when I put 2 and 2 together and I knew that that was what I wanted.

AM: For those who have yet to enjoy Korean cuisine, what are the spices and foods that are indicative of it?

CHEF EC: For Korean food, it’s a really special cuisine that is filled with a lot of flavors that are fermented. You’ll find a lot of fermented flavors in Korean food which creates a lot of depth and umami. Things like Kimchi and Gochujang which is a Korean fermented chili paste and there is Doenjang which is fermented bean paste. Of course there is soy sauce and a lot of umami and depth of flavor and I think that that is what makes Korean food so special because there is that aging process because of the fermentation. It’s unlike any other cuisine where it takes a lot of experience. It’s not just a recipe that you can follow, right?

AM: Right!

CHEF EC: Korean food is really about that family taste – in Korean there is a phrase called Son-mat. Son means hand and mat means taste and it literally translates to hand taste which means that every chef or every grandma or every mother has their own flavor in their hands. There is no recipe to it. A lot of Korean food is like that where it’s made with the love that you put into the dish. That’s how my grandma taught me about food.

Growing up with my grandmother in South Jersey, she was the most amazing cook that I know and obviously because my grandma has her special flavors and the way that she creates dishes with local ingredients we had no access to Korean food – she grew her own Korean vegetables. She would take America produce and make it into Korean food. She did crazy things like that and she was ultimately my biggest inspiration and that is what I grew up with. I always thought it was the coolest thing ever and she taught me the way to love food and to express your love through food. It’s not just a family recipe or that she taught me step by step on how to do it. She taught me the way, the culture, and the foundation of where these foods come from. That is the thing. She taught me the philosophy of food. I carry that with me through everything that I do – whether it’s my menus, my recipes, but also the way that I run my business and the way that I treat my family and my friends. It’s a very emotional thing for me to be in food and to share this with other people.

AM: What is that process like for you when it goes into you bringing new items onto your menu? Is that always a major process or do you look to continue tweak various iterations?

CHEF EC: I am always looking to create something new and something fresh. It’s kind of like the curse of being a chef. You can’t just be stagnant and that’s why we love it! It’s the passion and creativity and chefs are artists ultimately. It’s like, honestly the bane of my existence as a business owner, but without that side of me, I’d never even have a business! I love it so much, but it’s also really hard to find inspiration and to be original at the same time. It’s just hard, but I have to find it. I try to find it in my daily life. Whether it’s finding inspiration in the small things – just like going to the Farmer’s Market every week and looking up different produce and looking at what’s new, new trends, and collaborating with other chefs or other artists. They don’t necessarily have to be other chefs. Collaborating with you for example during our shoot on the looks and stuff – that’s part of that process and there is creativity and I try to find inspiration in everything that I do. I can’t just do the same thing every day. That would also be a whole other curse! I’m just cursed in that way – like, I have to create for myself – it’s the only way that I can find inspiration.

AM: What do you look for when it comes to opening a new concept or even locations. Obviously, you have a number of locations here in the city as well as in Vegas. Are you constantly thinking of how you expand that world of Chef Esther Choi?

CHEF EC: Yes! So, I am always looking for opportunities and I think as an entrepreneur and I think that it is a whole other side of things that is separate from being a creative chef. As a business owner, you can’t just be creative all the time or else you will go broke! So my entrepreneurial side is always looking for new opportunities. Saying yes to opportunities and taking risks – you can’t stop taking risks because then you just die as a business owner and your business becomes stagnant. I’m always looking for the next thing and as hard as it is, it’s just chasing every opportunity and seeing what hits. It’s almost a numbers game. I just have to say yes to everything and one of those outcomes will always be a hit. To be honest, as an entrepreneur in order to be successful, you have probably failed that many more times!

AM: That’s right!

CHEF EC: It’s so awful! To succeed once, you have to fail 10 times.

AM: Exactly!

CHEF EC: For me, it’s my life was a failure and then that 1 time, it hit and it put me on the map. It’s always been that way for me. I don’t take failure as a downfall, I take it as a moment to realize, learn and to grow from those mistakes or those failures. To fail, you still have to keep doing it which sucks and it can be so heart wrenching and awful, but what else am I going to do – not do anything?

AM: 100%!

We were talking a bit earlier about the culinary landscape and the nuances that are involved. In addition to being a restaurateur, when did you realize that you wanted to go into TV as well? You have done culinary competitions and it was great to see you on Netflix’s Iron Chef: Quest For An Iron Legend and then hosting Food Network’s 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing. When did you realize that that was something that you also wanted in your portfolio?

CHEF EC: So, before I opened my restaurant, I worked in culinary production. I worked in magazines. You hear about chefs staging in different restaurants all over the world in Europe etc. But for me, I staged in a lot of different production sites. I staged at Saveur Magazine, I was an intern at Food Network and that became a full time position and I actually worked in the test kitchens there for 2 years after my internship. I also worked on a number of TV shows.

AM: Oh wow!

CHEF EC: I did a lot of research before deciding what I ultimately wanted to do. I love the world of food, food styling, production, magazines, and all of that. I really did like it, but it was a little slow paced for me. I really loved actually working in restaurant kitchens and that is what I ultimately ended up choosing in opening up my own spot. The production world and entertainment was a big part of my early chef career and it was a big motivation factor for me as well. Because when you work at the Food Network behind the scenes, you watch these incredible chefs and insanely talented people whether they are on camera or off camera – they were so talented. You’re talking about the 2% of the best in the world in this business. That is what I saw every day and it was such a huge motivation factor for me. If they’re doing it, I can do it too. It wasn’t like admiration like being star stuck – it was more, how can I become that? How can I be Morimoto – how can I be an Iron Chef? Do I want to work with the Iron Chef? No, I want to be the Iron Chef. That was a big inspiration for me in my younger years and that is why I set forth in doing the work, opening my own business, doing my own food, to ultimately go in and be on screens and to inspire other people too. I think that that was the plan for me and the goal to be that one day. I just had to take the steps that I had to take. For me, I did think that I could do it as well. So I just did it. Being around that in my younger years of my career, it made me so ambitious to want that as well since I was around it all the time. I think that it has a big impact on me. So after I opened my own restaurants and all of that, it just came naturally. I was in the entertainment world, I knew the steps that I needed to take to go into that world a bit more and it just naturally happened.

Now, here I am, a host of multiple shows! It actually is really hard and very different being a chef, an entrepreneur, an owner of restaurants – being a host – it’s a whole new playing field for me and it’s a skill that I have to continue to develop. I practice every single day. I don’t think that people realize how tough it is.

AM: It is a different beast. It’s about relatability in addition to having that domain expertise. I’ve done TV lifestyle segments as well as being on HSN selling collaborative designs and it’s a different hat.

CHEF EC: Totally different thing and skill set that has to be learned. Learning a new skill is always exciting for me whether I’m great at it or not – you can still learn! I’m learing.

AM: You never stop learning!

What are some upcoming projects that you have that you feel you can share with us that we can keep an eye out for?

CHEF EC: I think that people know me as a chef, a host, entrepreneur – one thing that I haven’t really succeeded yet on is the CPG world - Consumer Packaged Goods. I have been developing multiple products for years – I mean I try, fail, try, fail and it has been over 5 years since I have been trying to put out a product that is successful. That is a world that I am trying to navigate now. I have been working on an iced tea line.

AM: Refreshing!

CHEF EC: It’s a Korean iced teas all very organic, natural, naturally brewed and not using any chemicals or aspartame or anything like that. It’s very clean and low calorie. All from Jeje Island from Korea. I have been developing the iced tea line for quite awhile now – you can find it at my restaurants.

AM: Definitely want to check that out!

CHEF EC: I’m still not at a point where I can sell it from a big manufacturer. I am working on that.

I also have a sesame oil line that I have been working on it. Sesame Oil is a big part of Korean cuisine and I hope to create more awareness around Sesame Oil - to use it as a cooking oil much like olive oil. I want people to use it a lot more. I have been working on that and of course my Kimchi line – how can I not do that as it is a part of who I am! There are multiple different products that I have been working on and I hope I can get them on the shelves sooner than later.

AM: What do you want your legacy to be whether in general or in this space?

CHEF EC: Oh, that’s a tough one. I want to inspire the younger generation especially as an Asian-American female. I never had a role model to look up to that was like me. I had to kind of find it in myself. I want it to be a lot easier for the younger generation whether it is as a minority or as a female. I want to be a motivation to them to inspire them in their dreams and to be what ever it is that they aspire to be. I don’t want them to think can I do this because I'm not good enough or whatever? That should never be a factor in you accomplishing your dreams. I think I do have a lot of young fans that range from 8-13. That age range has been a big base for me and the amount of people that come up to me and let me know that their kid is a big fan of mine is really special because we are creating young minds. It’s about motivating them and inspiring them. They are the next generation. I really want to inspire them and to be inspired by them!

Every time a kid says that I inspire them and they watch me on TV, and they want to be what I am – that inspires me to want to work harder and to want to do better for myself. I just became a new mom and I want to be great for my little boy and I want him to be proud of me! I think that for me, that is my legacy. I want to inspire and be inspired by that!

IG @choibites

We had a great time having Chef Esther Choi on set with us for her cover shoot as well as finding out more about her world, her career, and upcoming projects. Our shoot includes looks that can be worn in Fitness, Out + About, WFH/Lounge, and Night Out.

FOOD PHILOSOPHY OVER EDITORIAL | TEAM CREDITS

PHOTOGRAPHER Paul Farkas | FASHION STYLIST + CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kimmie Smith | HMUA Felicia Graham + Toni Ann |

IG @pvfarkas

@shes.kimmie

@feliciagrahambeauty_

@muatoniann

FOOD PHILOSOPHY COVER EDITORIAL | STYLE CREDITS

FITNESS LOOK | PG 16-27 | NYON New York Yankees Moto Varsity Jacket | TRACKSMITH Van Cortland Singlet | WILSON Midtown Tennis Skirt | STELLA MCCARTNEY Sneak-Elyse Platform Sneakers | SMART GLASS JEWELRY Mosaic Stiletto Gold Filled Satellite Necklace |

OUT + ABOUT LOOK | PG 28-32, 36 | SHWETAMBARI Balloon Blouse + Neena Maxi Skirt | ANDRE ASSOUS Anouka Espadrille Wedges | AIR AND ANCHOR Here Comes The Sun Necklace Set | KIMMIE VINCENT Beaded Agate Bracelets | SMART GLASS JEWELRY | Cube Gold Ring |

WFH/LOUNGE LOOK | PG 34-35 | SPLITS59 Ashby Rib Tank | SHWETAMBARI Printed Sera Pant | SMART GLASS JEWELRY Mosaic Stiletto Gold Filled Satellite Necklace + Cube Gold Ring | BUDDHA MAMA Beaded Necklace | DELICACIES JEWELRY Momo Necklace | KIMMIE VINCENT Beaded Agate Bracelets | VONTELLE Ankara Aviators |

NIGHT OUT LOOK | PG 37-39 | SHWETAMBARI Beaded Top | LE LISI Ribbed Knit Dress | SMART GLASS JEWELRY Mosaic Stiletto Gold Filled Satellite Necklace + Cube Gold Ring | BUDDHA MAMA Beaded Necklace | DELICACIES JEWELRY Momo Necklace | KIMMIE VINCENT Beaded Agate Bracelets | LAGOS Caviar Ring | ALEX SOLDIER Tear Drop Silver Earrings | VIRGINS SAINTS & ANGELS Ring | ELLARIA Necklace |

FOOD PHILOSOPHY COVER EDITORIAL | PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS

SONY Alpha 7R IV, FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Full-frame Standard Zoom G Master Lens, FE 50mm F1.4 GM Full-frame Large-aperture G Master Lens, FE 70-200 mm F2.8 GM OSS II Full-frame Telephoto Zoom G Master Lens with Optical SteadyShot, FE 90 mm F2.8 Macro G OSS Full-frame Telephoto Macro Prime G Lens with Optical SteadyShot | SIRUI Dragon Series Bendable RGB Panel Lights Set of 2 of B25R*2 Kit + DJ280 |

Our cover editorial took place at The Maybury in Hudson Yards, which is a great neighborhood that is always filled with options in terms of galleries, eateries, workout centers and more. We took some time to chat with Phil Lavoie, COO of Gotham Organization. He talks with us about the firm, the building, its amenities and more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Before we delve into The Maybury, tell us about the Gotham Organization and the kinds of projects you’re typically involved in.

PHIL LAVOIE: Gotham Organization is a fifth-generation, family-owned real estate development firm with more than 112 years of experience shaping New York City’s skyline and neighborhoods. Driven by a deep-rooted commitment to quality, innovation, and community, we specialize in developing and managing mixed-use properties, encompassing residential, commercial, and institutional spaces.

AM: Hudson Yards is one of our favorite parts of the city, and it’s exciting to feature The Maybury on this cover shoot. What can you share about its design and the architects behind it?

PL: The Maybury makes a bold statement in the heart of Hudson Yards. Designed by the renowned Handel Architects, the building stands out with its sculpted brick-red metal façade and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, forming a dramatic and modern profile. Inside, the design strikes a more serene note, with high ceilings, luxury finishes, and an inviting palette of natural textures. The result is a harmonious blend of architectural sophistication and warm, understated elegance.

AM: Can you walk us through the amenities at The Maybury, including common areas, wellness spaces, terraces, and more?

PL: The Maybury features over 20,000 square feet of meticulously curated amenities designed to enhance everyday living. Highlights include a 45th-floor cocktail lounge with panoramic skyline views, opening onto sweeping outdoor terraces ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Wellness offerings include a cutting-edge indoor/outdoor fitness center and a yoga studio. Additional conveniences include a 24-hour attended lobby, a secure package room with and exclusive access to Gotham Living concierge services—all designed to deliver comfort, ease, and sophistication.

AM: What kind of community events do you offer for residents?

PL: We believe that true luxury extends beyond beautiful spaces—it's about fostering a sense of belonging. Our thoughtfully curated resident programming encourages meaningful connections through events like “Sip the Sunset,” a DJ-hosted terrace happy hour; “Cardio Power Hour,” an energizing group fitness session; and “Bloom & Brush,” a creative floral painting workshop. These experiences bring neighbors together and activate our spaces with energy and purpose.

AM: Tell us about the GothamCard Perks.

PL: The GothamCard is our exclusive perks program that connects residents with the best New York City has to offer. From priority reservations at top restaurants and discounts at boutique fitness studios to invitations to private events, GothamCard Perks extend the luxury lifestyle beyond the building itself. It’s all about giving residents insider access to curated experiences throughout the city.

AM: When did The Maybury open, and what types of residences are available?

PL: The Maybury opened its doors at the end of 2024 and offers 453 residences, including a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Among its offerings is “The Collection” — an exclusive suite of luxury residences spanning floors 35 through 45. These premium homes boast soaring ceilings, high-end condo-level finishes, and breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattan, tailored for those who appreciate exceptional design and elevated living. The building also features 28 Abode by Gotham units—efficiently designed micro-units ranging from 315 to 350 square feet. Each Abode includes built-in Murphy beds, integrated storage, luxury finishes, and generous ceiling heights, combining smart design with refined comfort.

AM: What in-unit features should potential residents know about?

PL: Each residence is designed to condominium-quality standards, featuring quartz countertops, premium panelized appliances, high ceilings, and stunning views of the city and river. Residents also enjoy full access to the building’s extensive amenity package and lifestyle programming.

AM: What services does the concierge offer?

PL: Our full-service concierge is dedicated to making daily life as seamless as possible. From move-in assistance to everyday needs like package management, dog walking, and home care coordination, the concierge is here to support every aspect of our residents’ lifestyles.

AM: Tell us about the Residents App.

PL: The Gotham Properties Residents App puts convenience at residents’ fingertips. It allows users to pay rent, book amenities, RSVP for events, request maintenance, and access exclusive GothamCard perks—all from one easy-to-use platform. It’s designed to enhance connection and simplify life at The Maybury.

AM: What are the benefits of living in Hudson Yards?

PL: Hudson Yards is one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in NYC. Living at The Maybury puts residents steps from world-class dining, luxury shopping, iconic cultural destinations, and green spaces like the High Line and Hudson River Park. The neighborhood is also a hub for leading employers and offers seamless transportation options—making it ideal for professionals.

AM: Can you tell us about the Covenant House partnership and their presence in The Maybury?

PL: Our collaboration with Covenant House—a nonprofit focused on supporting youth facing homelessness—is a vital part of The Maybury’s community mission. Their office that serves as an administrative hub for their international services is located within the building. We’re proud to host and support such an impactful organization and its work in the broader Hudson Yards area.

AM: Are there any upcoming Gotham Organization projects we should know about?

PL: Yes, we’re excited to move forward with Monitor Point, a mixed-use waterfront community in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. In partnership with the MTA, Greenpoint Monitor Museum, and the Department of City Planning, Monitor Point will generate significant civic and community benefits focusing on mixed-income housing, attractive public open space, sustainable design, energy efficiency, employment opportunities, and economic mobility. The development is poised to transform the Greenpoint waterfront into an intergenerational mixed-use income community.

IG @gothamorg

@themayburynyc

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see FOOD PHILOSOPHY | Chef Esther Choi in mag.

STARCHAT WITH ZURI HALL

We've all enjoyed a number of our favorite shows that recently wrapped from their fall premiers and we're now in the Summer portion of the season with an array of shows to watch. One of those shows is NBC's America Ninja Warriors which will kick off S17 on Jun 2nd at 8pm ET. Hosted by Zuri Hall, we wanted to catch up with her to talk about her career as a journalist and host. You can see her on the network's daily celebrity show Access Hollywood, E! Live From the Red Carpet as well as Miss USA and Miss Universe competition shows. We wanted to talk with her about her work, Awards Season, and how she navigates the balance between a career and mental health.

ATHLEISURE MAG: It is so great to chat with you again as we spoke a few years ago.

ZURI HALL: Oh I remember you!

AM: Great – well I love that we’re fellow Midwest girls, attended Big Ten universities -

ZH: Big Ten all day baby – let’s go!

AM: Exactly! It’s so phenomenal to see how you continue to navigate through your career and I always love your IG feed as the outfits are always on point. What you wore recently to the Met Gala, Bishme is a genius and we had the pleasure of attending his NYFW show a few seasons back – your look was truly a moment.

ZH: He’s so good, right? He is always the sweetest soul too. He is so humble but his talent!

AM: It’s next level without question and of course, you killed it again which is never a question.

ZH: I mean, he did take it to the next level!

AM: Without a doubt, but then there is also the Zuri factor – you know how to wear a look!

ZH: Thank you!

AM: I’m glad we’re able to connect again and to talk about all the things that you have going on.

ZH: Thank you and I’m glad we get to chat again.

AM: When you look back at your career and all of the things that you have been able to do at this point, did you think that you would be in this space that you are in right now?

ZH: Honestly, yeah – it was always kind of the vision! I mean, I know that some people are always tempted to demure and say that they don’t know how they got where they are. But I kind of meticulously planned and worked towards getting here since I was a kid. Honestly, I always knew that I wanted to be in Hollywood and in entertainment and I knew that at the age of 6 or 7. In Junior High, that is when I aggressively pursued it. Every choice that I made outside of academics was to kind of lay down the foundation for the future career. All the activities I chose from theater workshops, trying to get a commercial agent from Toledo, Ohio – so this was always the plan. But I think that this is what leaves me also humbled and in awe of what God can do. Because for better or for worse and with all of the ups and downs, being this little girl from Toledo to make it to where I am and to live this life that I have always dreamed of against all odds, I am very very blessed.

AM: I enjoy Access Hollywood and watching it when I’m traveling or prepping for a project. What do you enjoy about being part of this show?

ZH: Ooo Access Hollywood what I can say that I love and appreciate most is that they are family now! I love my co-hosts, I love our team, our Executive Producer Mike is incredible, and there is a team of Supervising Producers. Everyone is just on board with the vision and we all work together not to just make the show work, but to support one another in each person’s personal endeavors and our personal ventures, as well as professionally. It feels like an environment where everyone wants to see everyone win. It feels good to wake up every day and to go to work and I know that everyone doesn’t always get that lucky and I haven’t always worked in places where I could say that. That’s a big blessing and I take a lot of pride in the fact that we center around celebrity news and entertainment news, but we very much so pride ourselves on being seen as friends to people that we speak to – so it’s very welcoming and warm – a safe space.

AM: That’s what I love about it!

ZH: That’s what I love about it too! I couldn’t do it otherwise.

AM: What is your process in terms of preparing for interviews like this? How do you make sure that you are getting out those conversations that you are looking to achieve?

ZH: You know when I am going in to do interviews like this, we have incredible producers that do research on the front end. I’m talking about that we have so many people on any given week and it’s a lot to keep up with. Our producers, they cover us. They give us the help that we need to have.

What I most pride myself on is really prioritizing thoughtful questions and thoughtful conversations. I want people to feel safe in talking with me. I said this on a podcast recently with a dear friend of mine who has a podcast called Why Not Me with Mike Jackson from Get Lifted Productions. I was saying that I have always prided myself on not being a gotcha journalist and after 10 years in Hollywood – 10 years at NBC Universal, I’ve started to feel the dividends. I have a rapport with all of these incredible actors and musicians. They know me and they see me. They come and they want to talk because they know it's a safe place where they will be able to say what they need to say and they can trust that it won’t be taken out of context. They are comfortable and funny enough, they may even share more because they are comfortable to share. Joining Live from E! as the Red Carpet host, from my first season ever, one of the biggest things has been the way that I have asked the question around fashion. Everyone has said, “oh, we notice that you ask how do you feel in this look or how are you feeling in this look,“ and I think that that just speaks to my approach. I think fashion can be feelings and it can be hard to get in touch with my feelings over the years, so I try to bring that to my interviews. That is what I try to bring in – the emotions, the heart, and I hope that whoever is speaking with me that they feel the connection with me and I trust that it will allow the viewer to connect with them so much more. I just look at myself as hopefully a safe platform or vessel as a way for them to be able to share their message or their story.

AM: I mean watching you there is always warmth and authenticity, and a genuine curiosity to your style as a journalist. Regardless of whether you’re on the red carpet doing an interview, or being on Access Hollywood, and then you have American Ninja Warrior which I love that show! It’s back for another season – how did you get attached to it and what was it about this show that you wanted to take this on within your portfolio?

ZH: I can’t believe – you know I’m getting up there when I have to say, what year is this for me on this show? We had the regular seasons and then we had the COVID years and so it throws it off because we batched 2 seasons. There was a lot going on then, okay?

AM: You made it work!

ZH: Right? I will never forget my first season, my rookie year I was over at E! News. I think that I had just turned 30 and it was a new chapter in my life. This was the biggest show that I had ever gotten to this point. When I got the call that I got the position, I knew that my life was going to change and I don’t say that to be dramatic – I just felt it and it absolutely has. The reason that I was most excited to sign on to American Ninja Warrior, the show is just fun, it’s awesome, it’s big, and it’s buzzy. These athletes are incredible with what they do and I have always watched in awe. So to now realize that I was going to be part of it, it was just really humbling and exciting. Then, when I got into the show, I fell in love with the community of ninjas so quickly and I really prioritized building friendship with them on the sidelines even when the cameras were not rolling. Interacting with them on social and on IG all year around and not just when we are filming. We built that trust with one another so quickly. The biggest compliment that any one of the ninjas can give me is when they get to the sideline and they say, “Oh my gosh, I have been dreaming of getting to the sideline when I finally get to interview you,” because it just means that they finally got to run through the course. So for me to be part of the ninja experience and for them to be just a kid at one time and now they’re old enough to compete and finally they get to compete, and then they get what they say is their “Zuri interview” that really means something to me. I’m usually the first person that they talk to after they hit a buzzer and they’re excited or go down early or their run ends in a way that they hadn’t hoped for and they’re devastated. Sometimes, there are a lot of tears. I take a lot of pride and responsibility in being able to show up for them emotionally or in whatever way they need – whether it’s a hug or a, “I hope I see you next year” so they have that encouragement and don’t quit or give up. Sometimes it’s let bring the family in ASAP because you need your mama right now. I just take pride in being that emotional support on the sideline for the ninjas. That’s my favorite part.

AM: It’s crazy because we had Jessie Graff as a cover a few years back for our AUG ISSUE #20 in 2017 and to have her styled in couture gowns and doing stunts – it’s not something that I will forget for a very long time. I mean what is life and that’s why I love this show as she was doing things I could never do, but you can see the training, athleticism, art, creativity, and pride!

ZH: Yeah! That’s incredible! I love Jessie. She’s the OG for real – for real!

AM: Exactly!

ZH: What’s so cool about the show is how it is a springboard for people’s careers! People have Ninja Gyms across the country. Jessie is in Hollywood doing all of these incredible stunts and stunt work on Wonder Woman and other big blockbuster films! Ninja really does launch people into the next chapter of their careers.

AM: It truly is special!

What can we expect from this season?

ZH: This season is S17! It’s super special because it’s premiering on my birthday! So if you want to celebrate with me, you guys need to tune in on Mon Jun 2nd on 8pm Eastern on NBC of course and you can see it the next day streaming on Peacock. I think that the biggest thing that I am excited about for this year, it’s all taking place in Vegas. Normally, you would see us in different cities across the country which is really special. But for the first time ever, we’re doing qualifiers, semi-finals and national finals all in Vegas which I

think is really interesting too because it allowed for the Ninjas to have this adult summer camp! We all descended upon Las Vegas to create this magic in this chunk of time. For all of the Ninjas, the production team, us as the hosts – we were all there together for all of that. It was really fun and beautiful and allowed us to buid this sort of momentum and spirit. We didn’t have this starting/stopping and new city cycle as in previous seasons. So that was really cool and also, the finals are nuts! We’re doing the side-by-side races and the head-to-head races and there is a new bracket style tournament for this season as well. That’s what’s going to determine the Ninja Warrior Champion right? So I think that the bracket style is really kind of like raising the stakes. It’s feeling very – Ninja Warrior is a sport and as each season progresses, you can see it coming together in a way that you could see where this has come to head to the 2028 Summer Games [Editor’s Note: For LA28, a Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course will be part of the Summer Games making their debut in the Modern Pentathlon portion of the program]. It’s true athleticism and it’s going to be fun to watch. It’s going to be a different viewing experience then what fans have seen before. The stakes are crazy high and to think that some of our Ninjas could be winning gold medals someday because of the Olympics play, it’s bigger than ever!

AM: That is amazing and then once again, you have such a medley of things that you do. I have enjoyed seeing you at the pageants as a host. That is such an amazing world and I started to know more about it when I had the opportunity to style Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin as well as Miss Ecuador Universe 2018 Virginia Limongis for projects. Seeing you on that platform was yet another level. What do you like about being involved in those shows?

ZH: That is such a great question! What do I love about being part of those shows? I love the pageantry, the poise, I love glam of it all. I love a little glam moment. I am so night and day as the Gemini that I am. What’s great, is that I can only fully appreciate hosting a show like Miss Universe of Miss USA because I get to pull up in my sneakers and my jeans and host a show like America Ninja Warrior. I need both. Because I very much so live in sneakers and jeans, but in that 15%, I’m going to give you glam ok?

Miss USA and Miss Universe has been a great opportunity for me to be able to do that! The women are just so brilliant and just so beautiful – the least beautiful thing about them is how they look which is saying a lot because those women are stunning. They are so smart, they have incredible human interests, from philanthropy, to non-profit causes, to raising awareness on Mental Health or children living in poverty. I am just so inspired by them and that competition is not easy – those competitions are a grind! I have so much respect for the pageant world and that is something that I have come to after hosting this show. I didn’t grow up in pageants and now I have such an appreciation and respect for it. So it’s really fun and it’s really fun to play dress up on a superficial level too! It’s just wearing those gowns, those sequins, more, is more and nothing is too much in a space like that. It’s a lot of fun.

AM: When you’re doing the red carpets, we just came off of Awards Season, it’s a big run and this year it was compounded with the LA fires – I can’t even imagine the navigation around that. How do you approach that hectic time of the year?

ZH: Ooo Awards Season! I approach Awards Season with a lot of intention and a lot of calm before the storm. I intentionally carve out a lot of calm leading up to Awards Season because I know after the clock hits midnight, it’s a New Year and we’re hitting the ground running with the Golden Globes and it’s not going to stop running until after the Academy Awards. That is 3 months of grind for me.

This year as I mentioned, stepping into this new position – in the main position for Live from the Red Carpet on E! and the carpet specials, I took it all the more seriously! I have always taken it seriously. It’s really about the holidays for me being about rest, it’s research, I’m celebrating Christmas, I’m celebrating New Years Eve, but I have a research packet as thick as a Bible with all of the films, the nominees, the categories, the storylines we’re following throughout the season and doing that research ahead of time allows me to step into the New Year locked and loaded - I'm ready. I make time for meditation and prayer every show day, all week long, all Awards Season. It’s important for me to have those moments so that I can recharge and I can fill my cup because you give a lot on those show days. You’re live sometimes 3 hours – 3 and a half hours straight! It’s non-stop so just taking care of my mental, spiritual, and physical health before the in between time is how I get through a season like that!

AM: Oh wow! Well you always do it so well as you always look great on the carpet and the questions and engagement that you have makes those conversations enjoyable to watch.

ZH: Thank you – I’m trying!

AM: Going back to Met Gala, I loved your outfit, Bishme is always taking it to the next level and what he created for you was something to see. What was that process like in terms of getting dressed? Were you working weeks or months in advance?

ZH: No! You know what was so crazy? He is so talented that we met probably a couple of weeks out from Met Gala.

AM: Oh wow!

ZH: Yes for the first time. I’m so busy, he is so busy, everyone just has so many things going on. I couldn’t even mentally pivot to Met Gala until the last thing was done. If Grammys is coming up, I’m like, don’t ask me about the Oscars until after I get through Grammys. Don’t ask me about Grammys until after I get through Globes. I literally have to take it a step at a time or I would go crazy.

AM: Oh yeah!

ZH: So Met Gala, I couldn’t think about mentally from a fashion perspective until probably Aprilish because I had to get through Oscars and I had a few things going on in the office. So I meet with him and he shows me these sketches and pulls out these fabric swatches and I am immediately blown away. He is crazy talented. We landed on a sketch that felt right. For me, I just can’t think about the fashion statement which I absolutely want to make, but it also has to be practical because I’m working. I’m not just going in hanging around and partying. I have to stand on a red carpet in a really tight space for up to 4 hours. For the Met Gala, I was in that dress and in those heels standing for the most part for 6 hours. We have to get there so early before the gridlock so it has to be practical and it also has to be fashionable because I love a moment.

It was kind of funny because Bishme, we had our first fitting a week and a half out. Then it was probably 2 or 3 days ahead of the Met Gala that we had a fitting and he literally brought some fabric and I was like, “ok, let’s see how this goes.” He made a dress out of thin air with a piece of fabric – I think it is called muslin.

By the end of that 15-20 mins fitting, I was low key wearing a dress. Him and my stylist were laughing because he is used to that Project Runway life. He was not stressed and we were like, Met Gala is in 2 days” and he was like, “I got this. Say less.” We had that final fitting and he finished the gown within 3 or 4 days. It was a perfect fit. It was better than anything ever and people loved it.

It was a total hit. He works so well under pressure. It was a super fast process and extremely efficient and only someone as talented as him could pull something off like that. I was just grateful to wear his design because he had great vision.

AM: This year's theme was amazing. What were 3 looks that you enjoyed seeing on the carpet?

ZH: The theme was incredible Super Fine Tailoring Black Style and I loved that it was a celebration of Black Dandyism because I am really big on joy and I think that the Met Gala night really exemplified that. My 3 favorite looks – I loved Diana Ross’ (The Wiz, Mahogany, Lady Sings the Blues) entrance. To be there watching that happen and for her making us remember what it is like to have one of those divas in the best way possible entrance – it was like yesss – you are giving the people what they need right now!

Her look was incredible and I loved her daughter’s look – Tracee Ellis Ross (Girlfriends, Black-ish, American Fiction). She is such a style maven and she gets it from her momma.

AM: Yup.

ZH: I love that she raids her mom’s closet and she calls it shopping. Tracee’s look was fun.

Zendaya (Euphoria, Dune franchise, Challengers) always gets it right. I loved the tailored suit and sort of the minimalist silhouette with that beautiful gorgeous fedora – that hat that she wore.

The fellas brought it too – A$AP Rocky as a Co-Chair was incredible and he has always had such awesome style and of course with Rihanna to pull up and with the baby bump as the final arrival on the Met Gala Red Carpet! She said that A$AP brought the umbrellas and she brought the +1 – the baby to the party. She looked great!

I loved Ciara, her in LaQuan Smith looked gorgeous. Her and Russell Wilson being able to walk this Red Carpet for the first time ever because he’s usually occupied at that time. So to see them walk that for the first time together was special especially since he is playing for the Giants now. There were so many really fun looks that was enjoyable to see.

AM: With all the worlds that you’re involved in – how do you make sure that you don’t have burnout? We love what we do, we’re immersed in what we do, but I mean – you need a breath. How do you get that balance?

ZH: For me, it’s something that we have heard before, but I have only recently appreciated it in the last few years in what it means and taking it to heart. My no’s are just as important if not more important than my yeses. I used to say yes to everything. You kind of have to have that chapter of grinding it out and saying yes to everything as you never know what opportunity is going to open that next door. But then you get to a point in your life hopefully where you look up and say, there is a lot going on and I need to get more intentional with my yeses. If I can’t show up with a full cup at max capacity for the things that I have said yes to, do I want to show up? I want to show up fully and I deserve to experience this thing fully and also the people who have asked me to be part of it, they deserve the best of me if I say yes. So it is less yeses but they are hell yeses! So, the ones I am really excited about that I can show up for fully means that there were no’s that had to be said. I have to be ok with potentially disappointing some one who would have hoped that I could do a thing. But I can say next time – it’s not no forever it’s just I can’t right now and I am honoring where I am at my max capacity bucket.

I think carving out slow moments is really important on the day-to-day. I like counting down to a vacation. I have been counting down by the way to a non existent vacation in my head since Jan 1st! There is no trip booked, no flights, but I’m like, “I can’t wait to get to that beach,” and my dog is looking at me like what beach?

AM: You mean beach at home haha!

ZH: Haha – the living room, basement – what are we talking about?

But, having those slow moments to look forward to on any even given day – even if I have a 20mins coffee break that I carved out for myself with my favorite Lavender Latte at 3 o’clock. That is a slow moment. It’s a gift to myself. A massage that I booked for myself after a long day. That’s a moment and that’s a gift to myself. I think it is important to give ourselves small little gifts so that we have earned small wins. It doesn’t have to be a big thing or a long weekend away. It can be 10mins to yourself with the lights off and if you have kids, your spouse is like – I got them. I will take them upstairs and lock them away for 15mins. You just sit in the dark if that is what you need.

AM: What do you want your legacy to be? You have done so much and such a beacon for people. I think about when I was growing up, I didn’t have a lot of people I could think of except for Oprah – there weren’t other people like that out there. But we live in a time where those coming up have Zuri’s and others that they can look towards.

ZH: Wow, oh man. Well first of all, thank you for saying that. To hear, we have the Zuri’s is kind of a moment. I haven’t been able to wrap my mind around fully – you kind of left me speechless with that one. That means a lot just because, what do I want my legacy to be? I want for people to feel good and I want people to be unapologetic about prioritizing feeling good. I want people to feel good at work, I want people to feel good in their home and personal lives. I think why I bring that into the legacy conversation is because I work really hard and for a long time, all I did was work. My career was everything and to be quite frank, that wasn’t healthy. I realized I needed to build up the other pillars of my life because if 1 pillar shook and it was the career and that’s the only pillar – my world was shaking, my home was shaking – there was no foundation. A part of my legacy is that I want other people to say when I watched her I felt inspired and I felt entertained. I also felt that I was given permission or really encouragement to feel good in my life to take time and to prioritize myself. Even if it is just because they see me having the career that I have and then seeing me have the kinds of conversations that I have around mental health and spiritual wellness and how important it is to make rest, to avoid burnout it’s important. Seeing me crush it in my career maybe that is what someone came to see, but then realizing how I am doing it – I very much so want to make sure that that is part of my legacy.

If I can inspire even one little girl, little boy or one kid – who looks at me and sees a trajectory that they would like to follow, that is really special. I have a mom who DM’d me a couple of months ago and I have had moms reach out to me in the last few years. She let me know that she named her daughter after me. I thought it was incredible and it was so nice to hear. But then I was like, “how old is your daughter?” She’s like 6 and I’m like, “dang, I haven’t been around that long!” I’m old now! How do I have a 6 year old Zuri running around? It’s special and at the end of the day, I hope that my legacy and the biggest part of it is that people can look and see that I really enjoyed this life that I lived and that I rode it until the wheels fell off. She wasn’t just having a career that was incredible, but I get the sneaking suspicion that she really enjoyed it fully!

IG @zurihall

PHOTOS COURTESY | PG 76 - 79 Matt Sayles | PG 80 IG/Zuri Hall |

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see STARCHAT WITH Zuri Hall in mag.

63MIX ROUTIN3S | JOJO FLETCHER

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see 63MIX ROUTIN3S | JoJo Fletcher in mag.

9LIST STORI3S | CHEF ESTHER CHOI

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S | Chef Esther Choi in mag.

9PLAYLIST | SABRINA CARPENTER

Read the MAY ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see 9PLAYLIST | Sabrina Carpenter in mag.

LEGACY AND BEYOND | TITUS WELLIVER

For over a decade, we have enjoyed the BOSCH universe from the flagship series to its spin-off BOSCH: LEGACY. We've loved getting to know more about Harry Bosch; his focus on helping victims; and finding those that have hurt them to bring them to justice. The series finale will close this chapter of the BOSCH universe, but we are also looking forward to the spin-off of this series with Ballard which stars Maggie Q (Nikita, The Protégé, Designated Survivor)!

We had the pleasure of talking with Titus Welliver (The Town, Deadwood, Sons of Anarchy) who plays the title character ahead of the premiere of BOSCH: LEGACY, and it is only fitting that we chat with him again! We talked about how he became part of both series, what he has enjoyed about playing this character, as well as digging into Harry Bosch.

ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s so great to connect with you again. I had the pleasure of interviewing you ahead of the premier of BOSCH: LEGACY for the first season. In addition to loving this series, I’m a fan of the flagship series BOSCH. What initially drew you to the BOSCH universe?

TITUS WELLIVER: Well the script, I had read one of the BOSCH books many, many years before and it certainly did land on me. But it had been several years before the script for the pilot was put in front of me and I was immediately drawn to the character, I understood the character, I thought about how I would play that character, what was important and what wasn’t important etc., etc.

Through a series of mishaps in trying to get me in the room with Michael Connelly, the other producers, and the other creators of the show, the meetings kept not happening. Several months went by and I was shooting one of the Transformers films which took me all over the United States as well as to Hong Kong and I had a little window that was open and I was back in the States and my manager called me and said, you’re going to meet with Michael Connelly in 2 days or something like that.

I said, “what do you mean? I thought that that boat sailed a long time ago.” My initial reaction when I read it was that I loved this character, but I had been doing it long enough to know that you never know what is going to happen. I thought that of course, they would go out to every single star name and what actor wouldn’t want to play this character?

AM: Right!

TW: So I met with them and as fate had it, I was gifted the role of Harry Bosch which had the continuing gift of 10 years, almost 11 years, of playing this character and realizing him.

AM: I mean, I love this character and I love his complexities and that he loves jazz. My great-uncle was the late Joe Henderson –

TW: Stop it!

AM: Yeah!

TW: Wow! That’s very cool! Wow!

AM: Yeah, so every time he’s playing his music, I love that because I’m always listening to jazz to settle my mind and I love his interactions with the other characters in his world.

What is it that you love about bringing this character to life?

TW: Well, he is a quintessential anti-hero and I tend to gravitate towards anti-heroes because I think that there is a different level of reality and humanity to anti-heroes. Bosch is a character that is capable of incredible heroic deeds, he is a very very good cop, he’s relentless. If a person is a victim of a crime, you would want him working the case, but you know, he’s a strong flavor. He doesn’t suffer fools, he does not subscribe to the societal norms that we might. He does not enter a room and try to win people over.

AM: There’s no tucking in there!

TW: Right! He doesn’t navigate bureaucracy with standard operating procedures. He does a workaround. Bosch is – because of all of that, he is all elbows. He’s not the status quo cat. So command – he pisses people off. He irritates people. But people can’t really – people don’t want to really push him too much because he’s the guy that has got the highest closure rate in Hollywood Homicide. Hence that relationship which was forged between the late great Lance Riddick (The Wire, Fringe, John Wick franchise), my brother, who I miss every day. And when Irving’s son is killed, he enlists Bosch to help him. And that speaks volumes about it because he is such a stone in Irving’s shoe, but Irving knows the fabric of his character and that is one of the many beautiful things about Bosch.

Then you have his beautiful relationship with his daughter. I didn’t have to put my elbows out with the writers when I said, “look, let this be a relationship that gestates.” They don’t know each other and let’s allow this through a natural process and have them get to know each other. That relationship is the dynamic that allowed us to – without being contrived, peel away a little bit of the layers of Bosch that he could express vulnerability, which is not something that he is comfortable with in any shape or form in expressing vulnerability. He’s just not, but he does with his child because she is the most important person in his life.

But also within that, there are times when he conceals things that he doesn’t want her to know about.

AM: Yeah! Which is so interesting to see when you’re watching him with each character as it’s different elements of him that you can tell it’s the same man, but it’s really interesting. Via the screeners, we have gotten up to episode 8 at this point. I want to know what’s going to happen, but what I love about him is how he is measured and with all of these elements at play, this one man holds all of that in the balance which is interesting and obviously, you play him so well.

TW: Well thank you! He carries a tremendous amount of weight as a character. That is another reason why I love playing him. Look, all of that is demonstrated or exhibited in the process of reading all of Michael’s books. Because the narrative tells you what Bosch is thinking and what he is doing. Thankfully, I had a conversation with Eric Overmyer (Homicide: Life on the Street, Law & Order, The Wire) and Michael Connelly very early on and I said, “look, this stuff where we find Harry in the books alone, doing his work – he’s listening and has Coltrane going, he’s having a Fat Tire and he’s drinking a whisky and is going through a murder book, that is expressed in the narrative, but he is not saying anything.” That is an integral part of who this character is. Now any executive who looks at that and says, “wait a minute, you’re actually going to go and put this character sitting alone in his house with just music playing and him flipping through pages, and he’s not saying anything?” – what? Are you kidding, people will turn it off. Well, it in fact became a hallmark of the show where the audience and for me as an actor honestly, those are some of the most challenging scenes to play because there’s so much said, but unsaid.

You don’t have the luxury of dialog to express that which I think is more interesting.

AM: 100%.

TW: You give the audience the benefit of their intelligence. You don’t need to go, “this is what you should feel, this is what you need to think right now.” They extrapolate from what they are seeing that’s occurring in front of them and they form their own ideas of what that should be. But there is a consistency with that when people see that stuff, where they go, “Harry’s working right now.” Through the beauty and the eye of our incredibly gifted cinematographers and directors as well, the way that they would shoot those things kept a level of ambiguity, but also said – you know that he is working, but we’re not going to tell you specifically what it is which for me is fun to watch too afterwards!

AM: Oh yeah, it just draws you in and it has such a fun pacing to it and it’s nice to have things where you need to connect the dots and see how it all happens. You don’t always need to have words to push everything forward.

So what are your feelings with the finale coming up of the series. I’m so sad that it is not continuing on. What are your takeaways from this?

TT: Well I look at it really as – I mean I agree and I feel sad about it. One can’t help, but make a connection with a character and an emotional bond. I’m not an actor who takes their work home or the character, I don’t carry his weight. But the joy of playing that character and the gift for me – opening those scripts as they came was like Christmas. It was like an advent calendar. Where is Harry going here? What do I get to explore? That has been for a decade of my life and it has been dedicated to that and to the relationships that I have with Michael Connelly, Eric Overmyer as well as Thomas Bernardo (BOSCH, The Lincoln Lawyer, BOSCH: LEGACY), the crew and the other actors that’s the hardest part of it. Look, you don’t see – there’s no closure. As Harry Bosch would say, closure is a myth. You don’t see Harry riding off into the sunset. We don’t close on Harry sitting alone in his house looking out the window while we’ve got some grand music playing in the background. So it doesn’t have that, it doesn’t have a sense of finality and yet, there is for us, there is that sense of finality.

AM: Well I appreciate you taking the time, I love the series, and the whole universe of it, and I love seeing you in any role that you’re in because if your name is on it, I know it’s going to be a great show as you’re one of the coolest people.

TW: Well bless you! That is a very kind thing to say and it’s been a pleasure talking to you and I hope that you enjoy the finale!

IG @boschamazon

@tituswelliverofficial

PHOTOS COURTESY | Prime Video/BOSCH: LEGACY

Read the APR ISSUE #113 of Athleisure Mag and see LEGACY AND BEYOND | Titus Welliver in mag.

MGM+ GODFATHER OF HARLEM | RETURN TO HARLEM

We have been fans of Godfather of Harlem since the first episode premiered in 2019. This historical fiction brings an array of iconic figures in the 60s from Ellsworth "Bumpy" Jackson (Forest Whitaker), Malcolm X (Nigél Thatch/Jason Alan Carvell), Vincent "Chin" Gigante (Vincent D'Onofrio), Rev Adam Clayton Powell Jr (Giancarlo Esposito), Joeseph Colombo (Michael Raymond-James), and more. We get to see Harlem during a pivotal time in American history while also understanding how communities navigated various topics of the time.

We sat down with Creator, Executive Prodducer and writer Chris Brancato (Narcos, Narcos: Mexico, Hotel Cocaine) to talk about the show, its intracicies, and what to expect from S4 launching April 13th on MGM+.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Chris it is so good to see you again! I had the pleasure of interviewing you a few months back for Hotel Cocaine which I loved and I told you then that I love Godfather of Harlem as well. So it’s so great to connect with you again!

What drew you to create Godfather of Harlem. It’s incredible prestige TV, it’s always great to see the depth of characters, dynamics, and interactions!

CB: First of all, that’s entirely due to my friend Paul Eckstein (First Wave, Narcos, Law & Order: Criminal Intent) who passed last year. He was my best friend and Paul told me about Bumpy Johnson who put his grandmother through secretarial school. He told me that Bumpy was this gangster/philanthropist in Harlem and over the course of time, we developed several projects – the movie Hoodlum in the 90s with Laurence Fishburne (What's Love Got To Do With It, The Matrix franchise, John Wick franchise) playing Bumpy in the 1930s and then 20 years later, Markuann Smith (King of Paper Chasin', The Hit Boys Redemption, The Realtor) and Jim Acheson (Numb3rs, For the People, By Whatever Means Necessary: The Times of Godfather of Harlem) producers came to me and Paul and said are you interested in doing Bumpy in the 60's?

Ultimately we decided yes – let’s do it. They were bringing Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland, Southpaw, Black Panther) to the table. So lo and behold, we develop the show Paul and I and there you have it! Godfather of Harlem which we wanted to make it different in the way that we sought to do that was that Bumpy and Malcolm X were friends. So the friendship and the ability to explore both gangsterism and also the Civil Rights Movement was something that we felt was going to give us a fresh angle.

AM: It’s amazing because as you’re watching it, it’s like you have 80 onions that are all unlayering. You have these iconic people from so many sociodemographic areas layered in – it’s truly amazing. The styling of the show, the setting – what do you love most about it?

CB: I think that I love most about it is the actors that we have brought to the table. In other words, when you have Forest Whitaker playing the lead role, that’s when you can get a Vincent D’Onofrio (Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Daredevil series, Daredevil: Born Again series), a Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad, The Mandalorian, The Residence) etc. etc. Watching these people – obviously writing this show, is difficult to blend all of these historical characters into this story, but then watching the actors make it come to life is my greatest pleasure!

So I love editing the episodes because I’m looking at the footage of the actors and the work that they have done.

AM: What should we keep an eye out for in S4?

CB: S4 is explosive if I do say so myself! We’ve got Frank Lucas coming to town straight off the bus to basically challenge Bumpy Johnson before they end up becoming pals. Then, Bumpy’s daughter Elise (Antoinette Crow-Legacy) joins the Black Panther movement in the wake of Malcom’s death and Bumpy isn’t too cool with that! He supports what the Panthers are doing, but not so much his daughter doing it!

AM: Right!

CB: So that’s going to create some friction! So we feel like we have 2 driving story lines this year. The introduction of Frank Lucas and Bumpy’s continued fight against the Italians and then on the Civil Rights side, we have Elise joining the Panthers and participating in their actions!

AM: We truly appreciate you taking the time! It’s an incredible show and anytime your name is on a project, it’s going to be amazing!

CB: Thank you! I appreciate that!

IG @cbrancato86

@godfatherofharlem

@mgmplus

After chatting with Chris Brancato, we wanted to speak with the cast. We started by talking with Rome Flynn (How To Get Away with Murder, Grey's Anatomy, Chicago Fire) who is joining the cast as Frank Lucas. We wanted to know what he enjoys about this series, what it's like to play this notable figure, and what he hopes fans will walk away with after seeing this season.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We have been fans of yours since How To Get Away with Murder so it’s so nice to talk with you today!

ROME FLYNN: It’s nice to talk with you.

AM: What drew you to Godfather or Harlem?

RF: I mean, I couldn’t find a reason not to! It was a lot of positives you know - working with Forest Whitaker was at the top of the list and then working with Chris Brancato because I knew his work from Narcos and also just being a fan of the show in general. I was like, to be on a show like this would be a dream as an actor.

AM: You’re playing Frank Lucas which is amazing and exciting. How did you approach playing him?

RF: Yeah, it’s a different process to playing someone who lived and breathed on this Earth and left an impact whether it’s good or bad. There was a heavy sense of responsibility, care, and just an attention to detail on discovering who Frank was and trying not to necessarily imitate who he was but finding his essence and bringing that which was extremely important to me because I don’t think that we have seen a version of him like this.

I was afforded an amazing opportunity to play a character that people know, good or bad – we’ll see.

AM: What did you enjoy about playing him, bringing him to life, making him your own especially because regardless of what you know about him, if you think about American Gangster for example – there is that version of Frank Lucas. So it’s exciting to see it and what did you like about doing that?

RF: Yeah, I got to step into the shoes of a man who was equally charming, but also cutthroat and also unpredictable and dangerous. He was also troubled too. As an actor, you want to play a character who is fully dimensional and is carrying a lot of baggage, trauma, and who is still struggling with their purpose and why they are where they are in life. That’s just really fun and rich to play.

It wasn’t just about being a gangster or playing someone who is put in those situations. It was about playing a man who is navigating his life who is in these situations and trying to find the commonalities with a person like this.

AM: What do you want fans to walk away from after seeing S4 and getting to see Frank Lucas and his interactions and dynamics with everyone else this season?

RF: I just hope that the moment that the season is done that the people are clamoring for another one! That’s how I felt just being a fan of the show too! But yeah, I think that there is still so much story to be told. You guys when you love this show, you should talk about it and share it! There is no other show on TV like it that has this sort of historical precedence and is really honoring the details and honoring people during that time. We’ve got to keep this show going! We have to make sure that people see this show because it’s important.

IG @romeflynn

We were excited to sit down with Lucy Fry (Wolf Creek, Mr. Church, Bright) and Michael Raymond James (True Blood, Jack Reacher, See) who plays Stella Gigante and Joseph Colombo respectfully. Lucy has been in the world of Godfather of Harlem since the inaugural season and Michael came into this series during S3. As they have a number of scenes together, we wanted to know more about how they came to the show, what they love about it and more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s so great to connect with you guys as I’m a fan of your work as well as the show!

What drew you guys to want to be part of Godfather of Harlem?

LF: When I first read the script, I guess I really wanted to get into the world of the 60s, gangsters in NY, I thought it was really cool. I'm a fan of Forest Whitaker, so I was really excited to be able to work with him. Yeah that was about 6 yars ago when I first joined. My reasons for loving it have continued to evolve over the seasons, but that was the initial impulse.

MRJ: Yeah, for me, when I got the offer, and when I heard that Forest had asked for me, you know when Forest Whitaker says that he wants to work with you, run you don’t walk. For me, it was kind of a no-brainer.

and when I heard that Forest had asked for me, you know when Forest Whitaker says that he wants to work with you, run you don’t walk. For me, it was kind of a no-brainer.

AM: Obviously you guys play Stella Gigante and Joseph Colombo. How do you approach playing these characters?

LF: I guess there is a mixture of reality and fiction for me anyway with both of us as the story is inspired by real events, but it’s fiction and Stella is a fictional character. So I approached it by looking at the context of the time and the world of NY in the 60s and the gangs and reading the Chin’s – one of his kids actual autobiographies. But then finding the things that are personal to me to fill the fictional world with.

MRJ: You know, Joe Colombo, was a real person and there is an element of – you want to be sort of respectful of that and stay honest to some of that. But, we are doing a show that is historical fiction as Lucy talked about and so it really is all about the material. As an actor, you get the material, you break down that material as opposed to me having to do an impersonation of Joe Colombo. We’re creating a whole new Joe Colombo and Stella Gigante based on the pages that we get.

AM: What have you loved about playing these characters and bringing them to life?

LF: I’ve really loved Stella’s journey over the 4 seasons. She’s really come into herself and grown into a woman that is hungry for power and manipulating the men around her and playing the game that she has learned from her father (Chin Gigante played by Vincent D’Onofrio). It’s been really fun to go from pushing her father away and having all of these romance things to someone who is taking power for herself.

I think that her relationship with Colombo is very informative in that development.

MRJ: Playing the game as Lucy said is really fun and there’s so much nuance and so much in between the lines where it’s not really just the words that you say. It’s the 4 moves ahead that you’re kind of playing. It’s like 3-Dimensional chess with every script. So that’s always fun to play things where there is a lot of nuance and subtext to kind of put your shoulder behind.

LF: I think that the gang world, it kind of gives you a lot more subtext than most genres.

AM: Right.

MRJ: Right.

LF: Because it’s like are they going to kill me? Aren’t they going to kill me? It’s kind of like a constant subtext ha!

MRJ: Ha – but also the people man! Lucy and I show up on set and it’s giggles immediately and sometimes it’s hard to break free from that, but what’s always fun is that the giggles are always just underneath.

LF: Right

MRJ: And you see it come out a little bit in the work. Just a little bit – like holding back laughs and it’s a very serious scene where we’re talking about murder.

LF: It’s quite fun and you can tell that our characters really enjoy the game!

IG @lstowell

@gabehonig

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | MGM+/The Godfather of Harlem

Read the MAR ISSUE #111 of Athleisure Mag and see MGM+ GODFATHER OF HARLEM | Return to Harlem in mag.

THE GOLDEN BACHELOR S2. E0. | MEET MEL OWENS

S2 of ABC’s The Golden Bachelor has been greenlit and is slated to film from Jun - Aug with the premiere being sometime this fall. We don’t have all the details yet, but we do know that Mel Owens (NFL veteran, formerly the founder of Evolution Wear and is currently a sports injury lawyer) will be the lead. He has not previously competed on the show. When we find out about who will be competing in his season, we’ll let you know!

As we do each season, we have shared these images (we’ll update their ABC gallery images) and we’ll begin to make the best guess on who will be going to Hometowns! We can’t wait to see how Grant and Jesse Palmer will vibe as he continues through the season and what surprises will be along the way.

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelorette and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE BACHELOR S29. E9. | WELCOME TO THE BACHELOR FINALE

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC/The Bachelor Key Art

PHOTO CREDIT FOR THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS | Disney/Matt Sayles

It’s the finale! We will see how it all goes down as well as getting a recap once the show transitions into After the Rose! Jesse Palmer welcomes us and lets us know that we’re definitely in for a ride here and we’ll have to wait until the very end to see how it all plays out on tonight’s ABC’s The Bachelor!

We’re ready to see what happens with Julianna and Litia and up first is that each of the women get to meet Grant’s family. First up is Litia. She meets his mom, sister, and his father. It’s the first time in 10 years that apparently, his mom and dad have been in the same room! You can tell that she gets along well with his parents and even his sister says that she liked her from the beginning. The family likes her, they both let each know that they love one another which is the first time that she has ever said that to anyone. Their date seems like it went well.

In Julianna’s date you can see that her and Grant are quite a match. She lets his mom know that she has not said that she is in love with him and is hesitant and has been holding back a bit. His mom sees that she may not be there yet. She tells him that if she doesn’t say that she loves him, he needs to walk away. Interestingly enough, she does tell him that she loves him so now it’s interesting to see how everything will play out.

We come back to the stage and see Charity, Gerry, and Clayton who provide their opinions on what it’s like to make those decisions. They give their thoughts and even Joan gets to weigh in as well!

Now that both women have met his family, they will not have their last individual dates. Julianna and Grant are in Punta Cana getting time together as they sail around the island. You can see that they have a great bond with one another. During their night date, he asks her if she will break his heart as an engagement is coming up. She acknowledges that she has held back, but that she doesn’t want to hurt him. She lets him know that through this process, she knows that she can commit to him and that she feels that they can handle the road ahead and she says that she is ready.

Litia’s date includes riding horse and there was a bit of rain that allowed them to talk and connect again. Later on they talk as they try to figure out how they would navigate their life as he wants time to travel and she wants have children. She let him know that when you are with someone, it’s about compromise and she is ready for that.

As he decides who he will pick, his father comes by and tells him that he will make the right decision. We’re back with Neil Lane as he selects a ring for the woman that he intends to ask.

As we finally arrive to the venue which is raining, Grant has to let Jesse know who he will see first. He seems that he is still undecided and he lets him know that he has gone back and forth with his decision.

The first one out of the limo is Litia who makes her way to Grant. Although he said sweet things to her, he opted to not get engaged to her. He definitely let her feel that things were going in a certain direction throughout their time together and to change it up at the end after promising her that it would be them - is shocking. We hear more about what he promised her when she chatted with Jesse and it’s such a shame to see that how he presented himself and what happened is so far apart. Grant makes his way on the stage and Litia tells him that she thinks he started out with great intentions, but along the way he continued to say things to her where she had no way of thinking that he wasn’t sure.

We’re back in Punta Cana and we had to remember that we still have to wait to hear what happens with Julianna! He tells us that he wants to be with her. We know that she wants to be with him as well and ultimately, he does ask to marry her. We can see how happy they look while they are in the Dominican Republic. She receives the final rose.

Grant is back on stage chatting with Jesse after being engaged to Julianna. We find out that they are still together, the families are excited to be together now that it’s public. We also learn that Grant will move to Boston. Jesse gives them a trip to Italy where they can learn more about their pizza making.

RECEIVED A ROSE AT THE FINALE | Juliana.

DIDN’T RECEIVE A ROSE | Litia

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelorette and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

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GRANT GAVE THE FINAL ROSE TO

JULIANA

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THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS

ALEXE

ALLI JO

ALLYSHIA

BAILEY

BEVERLY

CAROLINA

CHLOIE

CHRISTINA

DINA

ELLA

J'NAE

JULIANA

KELSEY

KYLEIGH

LITIA

NATALIE

NEICEY

PARISA

RADHIKA

REBEKAH

ROSE

SARAFIENA

SAVANNAH

VICKY

ZOE